Nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, the vibrant city of Arlington is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. With its unique blend of world-class attractions and thrilling theme parks, this city has something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a weekend getaway, Arlington’s diverse range of activities and top attractions make it an ideal choice. From professional sports venues to exciting entertainment options, you’ll find that this great place is full of surprises.
As you explore the city’s many offerings, you’ll discover why Arlington has become a favorite among visitors from across the country.
Discovering Arlington’s Charm
As a city, Arlington is known for its big sports franchises, wild theme parks, and lively music scene. If you’re looking for a city with a Texan-sized attitude, Arlington is the place to be, offering a unique blend of entertainment options.
Arlington sits perfectly positioned between Dallas and Fort Worth, giving you the best of both worlds with its own unique personality. The city boasts an impressive array of attractions that cater to all interests, from adrenaline-pumping theme parks to serene outdoor spaces.
- You can explore multiple attractions in a single visit, thanks to the city’s manageable size.
- You’ll find plenty of Texas pride throughout the city, evident in everything from massive sports stadiums to the local dining scene.
- Arlington’s central location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
With its ability to offer big-city entertainment with a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Arlington is a great city to visit at any time.
Major Attractions in Arlington
When visiting Arlington, Texas, you’ll find a variety of major attractions that cater to different interests. The city is renowned for its entertainment options, making it a perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Six Flags Over Texas
Six Flags Over Texas is a must-visit theme park in Arlington, offering an adrenaline-packed experience with its diverse range of roller coasters and other attractions. You can enjoy the park’s many rides, including those themed around popular franchises.
Hurricane Harbor
If you’re looking to cool off, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is the perfect destination. The water park features a variety of attractions, including the Banzai Boggan and Tsunami Surge, which offer unique experiences. You can enjoy lazy rivers, wave pools, and extreme water slides, ensuring a fun day for all ages.
- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor provides the perfect escape from the Texas heat with its extensive collection of water attractions designed for all ages.
- The water park features everything from gentle lazy rivers and wave pools to extreme water slides that will test even the most adventurous visitors.
- Hurricane Harbor’s proximity to Six Flags Over Texas makes it easy to combine both parks in a weekend visit for the ultimate Arlington entertainment experience.
Sports Fan Paradise
If you’re a sports enthusiast, Arlington, Texas, is a paradise that offers an unforgettable experience. The city is home to two major sports venues: AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field.
AT&T Stadium – Home of the Dallas Cowboys
You can experience the thrill of NFL football at AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Take a guided tour of the stadium to explore its grandeur.
Globe Life Field – Texas Rangers Baseball
Globe Life Field is the home stadium of the Texas Rangers baseball team. This state-of-the-art facility features a retractable roof, allowing for baseball games to be played year-round.
Some of the key features of Globe Life Field include:
- A retractable roof that allows natural light and protects fans from extreme heat
- Excellent sightlines from every seat, providing an intimate baseball experience
- A capacity of approximately 40,300, making it an electric atmosphere
- The opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes tour, accessing areas like the dugout, batting cages, and press box
Both AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field offer an unparalleled sports experience, making Arlington a must-visit destination for sports fans.
Outdoor Adventures
From ziplining to exploring parks, Arlington offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, you’ll find something that suits your interests in this vibrant Texas city.
River Legacy Park
Discover the natural beauty of River Legacy Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This park offers a unique blend of adventure and education, with trails to explore and opportunities to connect with nature.
Go Ape Zipline Adventures
Experience the thrill of Go Ape Zipline Adventures within River Legacy Park. You’ll navigate through obstacle courses and ziplines, including one that crosses the Trinity River, offering breathtaking views of Arlington’s landscape.
- Enjoy an exhilarating treetop experience with challenging obstacle courses and ziplines.
- Take in unique aerial views of the Trinity River and Arlington’s natural landscape.
- Test your balance and courage on suspended obstacles like rope ladders and Tarzan swings.
Cultural Experiences
Cultural enthusiasts will find Arlington to be a treasure trove of experiences, from art museums to historic music venues. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone.
Arlington Museum of Art
The Arlington Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. With a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the country’s artistic heritage. You can plan your visit and purchase Arlington Museum of Art tickets online.
Arlington Music Hall
The Arlington Music Hall is a historic venue that has been hosting events since 1950, including performances by legendary musicians like Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn. Today, it continues to be a premier live music venue in the city, featuring a diverse lineup of acts. Be sure to check out the iconic marquee and plan your visit to see a show. You can find out what’s playing by checking the schedule for Arlington Music Hall shows.
Both the Arlington Museum of Art and the Arlington Music Hall are significant cultural attractions that contribute to Arlington’s rich cultural landscape.
Educational Fun
Educational fun is a big part of what Arlington has to offer, with several unique attractions. Visitors can explore a range of educational experiences that are both informative and entertaining.
UTA Planetarium
The UTA Planetarium offers stunning shows that take you through the cosmos, exploring the wonders of the universe. With its state-of-the-art technology, the planetarium provides an immersive experience that is both educational and entertaining.
International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame
The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame is a unique attraction that explores the 5,000-year history of bowling. With interactive exhibits, you can compare your bowling form to professionals and experience virtual bowling. The museum honors the sport’s greatest players and innovators, showcasing their achievements and contributions to bowling’s development. It’s a fascinating look at how this simple game has influenced culture, technology, and social interaction throughout history.
Entertainment Venues
If you’re looking for a fun night out or a family-friendly activity, Arlington’s entertainment venues have got you covered. The city offers a diverse range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Texas Live! Entertainment Complex
Texas Live! is a premier entertainment destination in Arlington, offering a variety of dining, drinking, and entertainment options under one roof. You can enjoy live music, sports, and other events in a vibrant atmosphere.
Levitt Pavilion for Free Concerts
Levitt Pavilion Arlington stands out as one of the city’s most beloved cultural treasures, offering more than 50 free outdoor concerts annually. The pavilion’s programming spans diverse musical genres, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
- Free Concerts: Enjoy live music under the Texas stars without any admission fees.
- Family-Friendly: The venue encourages picnicking, making it a great spot for families.
- Diverse Programming: From jazz to rock, and country to classical, there’s a wide range of genres to enjoy.
Arlington, Texas: Best Things to Do for History Buffs
For history enthusiasts, Arlington, Texas, offers a plethora of intriguing sites to explore. One such place is Top O’Hill Terrace, a historical site with a rich past.
Top O’Hill Terrace
Top O’Hill Terrace was known as Vegas before Vegas after the land was bought and a casino was opened here. The structures still stand today, and tours are available by appointment. No group is too small, but each person must donate at least $5.
Some of the key features of Top O’Hill Terrace include:
- Operating as an illegal gambling den and speakeasy during Prohibition.
- Disguised as a respectable tea room and restaurant with secret passages and escape routes.
- Original structures including the tea garden, escape tunnels, and gambling rooms.
- Famous visitors like Bonnie and Clyde, Clark Gable, and John Wayne.
- Now owned by Arlington Baptist University, offering guided tours.
- A glimpse into Arlington’s colorful past, contrasting with its current family-friendly image.
Visiting Top O’Hill Terrace is a step back in time to the Roaring Twenties and Depression era, making it a unique historical place to explore.
Shopping Destinations
Arlington offers a diverse range of shopping destinations that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a modern, open-air shopping experience or a traditional indoor mall, Arlington has something for everyone.
The Parks Mall at Arlington
The Parks Mall at Arlington is a premier shopping destination, featuring a wide range of stores and dining options. With its convenient location near major highways, it’s easily accessible for shoppers from across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Arlington Highlands
Arlington Highlands is a lifestyle center that offers an open-air shopping experience, complete with pedestrian-friendly walkways and landscaped common areas. This mixed-use development spans over 80 acres, combining retail, dining, and entertainment options in a cohesive environment designed for extended visits.
Indoor Activities for All Ages
Arlington is a city that understands the importance of having fun indoors, with a range of activities designed for all ages. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, adventure, or just a way to spend time with family, Arlington’s indoor attractions have got you covered.
Alley Cats Entertainment
Alley Cats Entertainment is a great place to visit for some fun and games. It’s an ideal spot for families or groups of friends looking for some indoor entertainment.
Dyno-Rock Indoor Climbing Center
Dyno-Rock Indoor Climbing Center offers a challenging physical activity in a controlled environment, featuring over 16,000 square feet of climbing surfaces. The facility includes top-rope climbing walls, bouldering areas, and auto-belay systems, making it an exciting part of Arlington’s indoor recreation scene.
- Top-rope climbing walls reaching up to 35 feet
- Bouldering areas with crash pads for safe climbing
- Auto-belay systems for solo climbers
- Climbing classes and youth teams available
Local Food Scene
From traditional BBQ joints to innovative eateries, Arlington’s food scene is a must-explore. You’ll find a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes, reflecting the city’s cultural richness.
Best BBQ Spots
Texas takes its BBQ seriously, and Arlington has some of the best around. You can savor smoked brisket, birria tacos, and delicious sides at Hurtado BBQ. For a unique twist, Smoke’N Ash BBQ offers an award-winning Texas-Ethiopian fusion that’s a must-try. If you’re craving old-school ribs, Roy Hutchins BBQ is coming soon to satisfy your cravings.
Unique Dining Experiences
Beyond traditional restaurants, Arlington offers several unique dining experiences that combine food with entertainment, ambiance, or interactive elements. These distinctive dining destinations create memorable meals through themed environments, tableside preparations, or unexpected culinary combinations. You can enjoy a meal with a spectacular view or an unusual setting, adding another dimension to Arlington’s food scene.
Arlington’s proximity to both Dallas and Fort Worth has influenced its dining scene, blending big-city sophistication with accessible Texas hospitality. Many of these unique dining experiences are located near major attractions, making them convenient options for visitors looking to enhance their trip with a special meal.
Craft Beer and Nightlife
From craft breweries to tiki lounges, Arlington’s nightlife has something for everyone. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or looking for a unique night out, Arlington’s got you covered.
Division Brewing
Division Brewing is a standout in Arlington’s craft beer scene, offering a wide range of beers and a welcoming atmosphere. You can enjoy a cold pint in their spacious taproom or take some beer to go.
4 Kahunas Tiki Lounge
4 Kahunas Tiki Lounge transports you to the tropics with its immersive Polynesian-themed environment and meticulously crafted cocktails. This unique bar specializes in traditional tiki drinks made with fresh-squeezed juices, house-made syrups, and premium spirits, often served in elaborate ceramic vessels. You’ll feel that Hawaiian daze with hand-crafted cocktails at this fantastic bar.
Family-Friendly Activities
From outdoor adventures to creative pursuits, Arlington has something for every family member to enjoy. You can explore various attractions that cater to different interests and age groups, making it an ideal destination for families.
Free Play Arlington
Free Play Arlington is an entertainment center where kids can have a blast playing various arcade games while parents unwind in a relaxed environment.
Catalyst Creative Arts
Catalyst Creative Arts offers hands-on art experiences for all skill levels, providing guided workshops where participants create personalized art pieces to take home. You can book a workshop to create a unique silk scarf or acrylic painting as a memento.
The studio specializes in accessible art forms, including silk scarf dyeing, acrylic pouring, and jewelry making. Professional artists lead each session, encouraging personal expression and creativity throughout the process.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Experience the best of Arlington’s community spirit through its numerous seasonal events and festivals, each offering a unique blend of entertainment and local flavor. Arlington’s calendar is filled with exciting events that showcase the city’s vibrant culture and community values.
The city’s strategic location between Dallas and Fort Worth allows it to participate in regional festivals while maintaining its own unique celebrations. Major annual events include Light Up Arlington for Independence Day and the Arlington Holiday Lights Parade in December.
Many of Arlington’s festivals highlight specific cultural traditions, reflecting the diverse communities that call the city home. For instance, Six Flags Over Texas hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including Fright Fest in October and Holiday in the Park during winter months.
These community celebrations provide visitors with opportunities to experience Arlington’s local culture and interact with residents in festive settings. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or cultural experiences, Arlington’s seasonal events have something for everyone.
Day Trips from Arlington
You can easily take day trips from Arlington to discover the best of Texas. Arlington’s central location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
Within a one-hour drive, you can visit world-class museums, natural wonders, and historic sites in the Dallas-Fort Worth city area.
These day trips offer a change of pace from Arlington’s entertainment-focused attractions, showcasing different aspects of Texas culture and landscape.
Travel Tips for Visiting Arlington
Arlington, Texas, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, but visitors should be aware of the city’s car-centric design. You can plan your trip according to the season, with spring and fall offering mild temperatures. Arlington provides plenty of visitor services to make your visit comfortable.
Conclusion
As you explore Arlington, Texas, you’ll discover a city that seamlessly blends entertainment, culture, and adventure. With attractions like Texas Live! and more, Arlington offers a diverse range of experiences. You’ll enjoy the city’s friendly atmosphere and Texas hospitality, making it a must-visit destination.
