On a stroll down Elm Street, there are many things you will hear and see: a local band warming up with a late-night set, a bartender preparing a craft cocktail, or the smells of dozens of restaurants preparing for a dinner rush, but you might miss the cozy boutique hostel that is nestled in the middle of Elm Street offering a refuge to both national and global travelers. 

Collin Ballard and his team are responsible for the renovation and revitalization of a decades old building to establish Deep Ellum’s first hostel and the finest across the metroplex. The Deep Ellum Hostel opened their doors in summer of 2018 and since then, Collin has spent many days and nights in Deep Ellum as a business owner, resident, and patron. With his wealth of experience traversing the district, he outlined his ideal itinerary for a Day in Deep Ellum. 

To kick off the day, Collin knows you can never go wrong with a hearty breakfast at AllGood Cafe or a quick coffee run to Merit Coffee. After a full morning of work and running the hostel, Collin is ready for a lunch stop at Oni Ramen or Revolver Taco so he doesn’t have to stray too far from the Hostel. After a filling lunch, Collin likes to slip over to Jade & Clover to grab a candle, plants, cards, or gifts for some friends. Before a busy evening in Deep Ellum, Collin also likes to walk his dog over to the Bark Park to get out some play and enjoy the neighborhood’s environs. 

 After a full day of work and neighborhood exploration, Collin likes to hit up Nori Handroll Bar for a fresh dinner of sake and temaki rolls in a gorgeous setting. As nighttime sets, Collin likes to seek out some live music at Ruins’s Limbo Room. Ruin’s agave-based cocktails are a perfect pairing with music from a local favorite or touring group. After enjoying a full night of music and entertainment, Booty’s Street Food at the Deep Ellum Hostel is Collin’s favorite spot to finish out the night and gra a nightcap before heading upstairs to hit the hay in a beautiful room at the Hostel. 

Enjoy summer days and nights in Deep Ellum by following Collin’s Day in Deep Ellum Itinerary or by forging your own adventure across the district!