Where to go after Super Bowl XLV in Arlington

Super Bowl weekend is about more than just the game. When the NFL's best come to Arlington, Texas, the fun doesn't end when the game does. The night is still young, and there are plenty of places to go in north Texas to keep the good times rolling. Having lived in Dallas most of my life, I've learned popular nightspots are less important than finding a place where someone can have a good time with family and friends. Here are a five places in the Metroplex that can provide the perfect nightcap to attending Super Bowl XLV.

Sundance Square, Main Street and Third Street, downtown Ft. Worth 76102

www.sundancesquare.com

After the Super Bowl, Sundance Square should be at the top of your list for places to go. The area in downtown Ft. Worth covers several city blocks and will serve as the broadcast headquarters for ESPN. After the game is over, fans will be able to watch the post-game wrap-up and probably see some of the NFL players and legends who will no doubt participate in the sportschannel's broadcasts.

Main Street and Third Street will put you in the middle of the action, and there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance, including Frankie's Sports Bar (421 W. Third), Billy Miner's Saloon (150 W. Third), Riscky's Barbeque (300 Main St.), and the Mercury Chop House (301 Main St.).

Billy Bob's Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Ft. Worth 76164

Billy Bob's Texas, the world's biggest honky-tonk, is on the "must visit" list of just about every visitor to north Texas. You don't even need to be a country fan to enjoy Billy Bob's; there is plenty to do, the atmosphere is family friendly, and the on-site Roadhouse Cafe serves up some great food. Billy Bob's will be open until 2 a.m. on Super Bowl Sunday, but don't be surprised if the party goes on long past that.

McKinney Avenue/West Village, McKinney Avenue and Lemmon, Dallas 75204

www.westvil.com

The McKinney Avenue/West Village area of Dallas is just north of downtown and is home to upscale urban housing, restaurants, shopping, and bars. Rather than settling down in one place, I recommend you explore the area and visit several locales, including the McKinney Avenue Tavern (2822 McKinney), Jake's Burgers (2702 McKinney #101), and Primo's Bar and Grill (3309 McKinney).

P. Diddy's Super Bowl Grand Finale Party, Palladium Ballroom, 1135 S. Lamar, Dallas 75215

(214) 373-8000, www.thepalladiumballroom.com

Tickets to P. Diddy's concert party will set you back over $100, but considering the A-list celebrities that will probably attend, it may be worth it just to see some famous faces. Then again, you could save money on admission and just hang out on the red carpet outside.

Victory Park, N. Houston and Olive St., Dallas 75219

The entertainment development around the American Airlines Center has become a center of activity in downtown Dallas. It is the site of the city's annual New Year's celebration, as well as the local ABC affiliate, where visitors can see the news studio from a picture window. Area restaurants like Medina Oven and Bar (2304 Victory Park Lane) and Nove Italiano (3090 Olive #103) are nice choices.

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