This 1978 pictorial advertising map of Dallas presents a colorful and detailed depiction of the city, combining architectural landmarks, commercial establishments, and cultural icons in a lively, illustrated style.
The downtown skyline is prominently featured, with well-known high-rises such as the Republic National Bank Building and the Southland Life Building standing among the city's tallest structures. The map highlights the Dallas Convention Center as a key venue for events and conventions, while the distinctive inverted pyramid design of Dallas City Hall is clearly illustrated nearby.
Reunion Tower, with its unmistakable sphere, appears prominently in the lower-left section, anchoring the city's growing skyline. The map also includes the Cotton Bowl, located within Fair Park, which is depicted with its surrounding fairgrounds, emphasizing its role as a hub for sporting and entertainment events. Big Tex, the towering cowboy figure synonymous with the State Fair of Texas, greets visitors at the fairgrounds, reinforcing Dallas’s connection to its annual celebration.
Transportation and infrastructure are key themes, with the Dallas/Fort Worth Regional Airport (now DFW International Airport) shown in the upper-left portion, complete with airplanes in motion. The map also illustrates major highways, bridges, and roads weaving through the city, connecting neighborhoods and business districts. The presence of the Dallas Times Herald Building reflects the role of print media in the city’s landscape at the time.
Throughout the illustration, numerous commercial establishments, theaters, and restaurants contribute to the vibrant urban scene. The inclusion of parks, waterways, and residential areas offers a broader view of Dallas beyond its commercial center. The artistic style of the map, with its bright colors and exaggerated perspectives, captures the energy of the city in the late 1970s, serving both as an engaging visual representation and an advertising tool that showcases Dallas as a thriving metropolitan area.