When the new plaza opened Nov. 1 in the heart of Sundance Square, it was anticipated to be a great concept. But, Sundance Square prez/CEO Johnny Campbell (another speaker at our Fort Worth State of the Market) says no one expected the buzz it would create. The plaza lured people (including families) downtown and enhanced commercial leasing, he says. In the recent past, the entertainment attracted adults for late night fun. Now, children play in the fountain and romp to the music while parents shop and enjoy the environment. (We needed more romping when we were growing up.)

Since opening, there has been some sort of special event going on every weekend ranging from Van Cliburn winners performing piano concerts to the Main Streets Arts Fest coming up after ESPN clears out April 8. (Not nearly enough mimes though.) Johnny says the public spaces energize people and has worked commercially, as well. The Westbrook and Commerce buildings also opened in November are 92% and 91% leased, respectively. Sundance Square will open a third office project, The Cassidy, this summer.

Even the most fickle foodies can find something to sink their teeth into in the 35-block entertainment and shopping district, with more than 80 locally owned restaurants and bars scattered across the downtown area. Arts options include the 2,056-seat Bass Performance Hall, the Circle Theatre, and the city's longest-running show, Four Day Weekend. (No wonder Livability.com named Fort Worth its No. 1 best downtown for 2014.)