The 2024 3-Day will take you on an unforgettable journey through Dallas/Fort Worth’s most iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems. Jump into those cowboy boots and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and captivating sights of the Lone Star State!
Day 1
After an inspiring Opening Ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Dallas you’ll head out on the route, which takes you past the Giant Eyeball, an unexpected and quirky art installation that is sure to leave you amazed. This incredible work of art will stare back at you as you make your way through the city! Measuring about 30-feet in height, the massive structure of fiberglass and stainless steel embodies the city’s eclectic art scene.
Venture toward the T. Boone Pickens Cancer Center and take a glimpse into the groundbreaking medical advancements achieved at this prominent cancer treatment and research facility. You’ll also be greeted by the Baylor University Medical Center where breast cancer detection, treatment and clinical trials occur each day. Next, we’ll bring the Pink Bubble over a few miles to the Swiss Avenue Historic District, a residential neighborhood in East Dallas. Its eclectic mix of homes, spanning a 2.5-mile stretch, represents virtually every popular residential design style of the day, including Mediterranean, Spanish, Spanish Revival, Georgian, Mission, Prairie, Craftsman, Neoclassical, Italian Renaissance, Tudor and Colonial Revival. Originally ideated by Robert S. Munger in the late 19th century, this area has evolved from one man’s unique experiment in planned urban development to a living testament to America’s architectural diversity. Snap a photo in front of The Langford and Aldredge Houses, which are both significant homes known for their architectural beauty and rich historical value. Built in 1930 and 1917, these are beloved and well-preserved pieces of architecture boasting Colonial Revival and Georgian Revival styles.
With cheering stations to keep you motivated, spend a few miles walking along White Rock Lake, a popular urban park and reservoir located northeast of downtown Dallas. Witness The Pump Station, originally built in the 20th century, that has since been decommissioned as a functioning water facility and now stands proudly as a preserved structure that is part of the scenic attractions around the lake. Snap a photo in front of the man-made White Rock Lake waterfall and enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water before passing through the Willis C. Winters Park Trailhead, a well-known access point of the lake area.
After connecting with nature surrounding the lake and nearby areas such as the Historic Deep Ellum District, you’ll return to Downtown Dallas where 49 bronze longhorn steers and three cowboys sit on horseback in a 4.2-acre green space known as the beautiful Cattle Drive Sculptures. Created by artist Robert Summers, these sculptures celebrate the cattle drives that were crucial to the city’s economic history in the 19th century. Before returning to camp, you’ll pass by one more symbolic sculpture called The Pegasus, which has been part of the city’s skyline for nearly 100 years. Return to camp at the Hyatt Regency Dallas for an exciting Celebration of Champions and rest those feet for Day 2!
Day 2
On the second day, a bus ride will take you into Fort Worth to dive into the city’s western heritage and cowboy culture. Established as an army outpost in the mid-19th century, this metropolis boasts a wealth of history and architecture at every corner. Shortly after starting out on the route, you’ll pass by the UT Southwestern Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at Moncrief Cancer Institute where Isaac Chan, M.D., Ph.D. accompanied by graduate student Isabella Terrazas, was awarded the 2024-2025 Susan G. Komen ASPIRE Grant to promote inclusion in research. They are investigating the role of a type of immune cells called natural killer cells during immunotherapy treatment. Furthering our understanding of natural killer cells may pave the way for developing new breast cancer immunotherapies that target natural killer cells.
Continue by walking through the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a stunning urban oasis with serene pools and cascading waterfalls. Feeling refreshed? Head to Sundance Square, a vibrant entertainment district buzzing with restaurants, shops, and cultural events for visitors and locals alike. For a taste of the Wild West, venture toward the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame where the spirit of the cowgirl mirrors that of the Pink Bubble. This renowned museum is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the achievements of women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, resilience, and trailblazing spirit. Continue your journey through Fort Worth feeling enriched and empowered by the courage of these pioneer women. Mosey on over to the Cultural District, where you’ll encounter a dazzling display of urban artistry like the playful Raining Tacos Mural which will undoubtedly add a splash of color to your day.
Pass through Veteran’s Memorial Park, established in 1923 to honor U.S. military veterans, before strolling past Texas Christian University. This campus not only has a nationally recognized football team but a strong school spirit and a supportive community that is perfect for the 3-Day! Finally, wrap up Day 2 in the Fairmount-Southside Historic District where you’ll see the M.A. Benton House, one of the oldest homes in Fort Worth. Built in 1898, this Victorian-style cottage embodies southern values as it remains well-preserved and proudly owned by descendants of the Benton family. From here, a bus will take you back to our 3-Day camp at the Hyatt Regency Dallas for a touching Honor Ceremony before resting up for the last leg of the 3-Day.
Day 3
Begin your final day by leaving our hotel campsite for Dealey Plaza, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993 as part of the Dealey Plaza Historic District. Known as the “birthplace of Dallas,” this unassuming brick-paved square has borne witness to many pivotal moments in Dallas and American history. As you walk by, you may notice an “X” painted on Elm Street denoting where John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, a permanent memorial to the 35th President. As you honor the lost president, continue toward the House of Blues, a well-known live music venue and restaurant located in the heart of downtown. Part of the larger House of Blues chain, which is recognized for hosting a variety of music genres, with a focus on blues, rock, and soul, this location also incorporates elements of Southern culture and cuisine. With music running through your veins, continue toward Turtle Creek Park, home of the Kalita Humphreys Theater, a historically preserved theater that has been hosting performances since its opening in 1959.
Don’t miss the vibrant Oak Lawn Rainbow Road, home to the Pay It No Mind mural, a powerful tribute to the LGBTQ+ community. In true Pink Bubble spirit, the message of inclusivity and acceptance radiates from this colorful art installation. Walk with pride as you continue toward Southern Methodist University where you’ll walk past Gerald J. Ford Stadium and Turpin Stadium, home of the Mustangs. With a hearty helping of Texas sports culture, you’ll soon approach Cole Park which offers a serene green space perfect for relaxation and fresh air. Make your way toward the Dallas Museum of Art before you wrap up your day in the heart of downtown Dallas at the AT&T Discovery District. Covering several blocks near the AT&T headquarters, the company created this immersive entertainment and retail destination to showcase their latest technology, products, and services. Take out that smartphone and capture a few photos before making your way to the Finish Line Festival.
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, Reunion Tower, will be the backdrop for our Closing Ceremony. “The Ball,” as it is affectionately known by locals, has been a staple of the Dallas skyline since 1978. With 259 exterior LED lights, there is truly no better location for you to shine after completing the Dallas/Fort Worth 3-Day.
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