Nestled near the vibrant city of Dallas, a thriving community awaits your arrival. With its rich blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions, this city is a treasure trove of exciting things to see and do.
As you plan your trip, you’ll find that this hidden gem offers a diverse range of activities, from serene nature preserves to refreshing water parks and historical landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, you’ll discover why locals and visitors alike cherish this city for its authentic Texas experiences and welcoming atmosphere.
Discovering Garland: A Hidden Gem in North Texas
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Dallas, Garland is a hidden gem worth visiting. This charming city offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences that make it an ideal place to explore.
When you visit Garland, you’ll discover a world of opportunities to shop, dine, and enjoy the great outdoors. With over 2,000 acres of park land, you can connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
- A welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Dallas, offering a tranquil atmosphere.
- A rich diversity that combines manufacturing heritage with beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor recreation.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Resistol Hat Plant | Buy your very own cowboy hat as a souvenir. |
| Water Parks | Two different water parks to choose from during the Texas summer. |
| Park Land | Over 2,000 acres of park land for outdoor recreation. |
Garland’s unique blend of Texan culture, outdoor recreation, and modern amenities creates an authentic experience that you won’t find in more touristy destinations. Whether you’re looking to explore the broader North Texas region or simply enjoy the city’s attractions, Garland is a great choice.
Explore Historic Downtown Garland
Step into the charming world of Historic Downtown Garland, where the pace of life slows down and the charm of yesteryear comes alive. You’ll feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of the big city as you stroll through the peaceful streets.
Shopping and Dining Options
During the day, browse through unique boutiques and antique shops that line the streets, offering everything from vintage treasures to locally crafted goods. The dining scene in downtown Garland features a variety of locally-owned restaurants where you can savor authentic Texan flavors and international cuisine.
Live Music and Entertainment
As night falls, downtown Garland transforms into an entertainment hotspot with live music performances in the square every Saturday night, creating the perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening out at this popular spot.
Spring Creek Preserve: Nature at Its Finest
Escape to the Spring Creek Preserve, where ancient forests and diverse wildlife await. This nature lover’s paradise is home to a relic forest of 100 to 300-year-old Chinquapin, Bur, and Shumard oaks, and over 650 species of plants and animals.
Ancient Forest and Wildlife
The preserve boasts magnificent 100-300 year-old trees that tower up to 100 feet high, creating a majestic canopy. You’ll be amazed by the biodiversity, which supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities
The well-maintained hiking trails offer options for all experience levels, from paved paths for casual strolls to more challenging unpaved interpretive nature trails. You can enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, photography, and peaceful contemplation in this serene setting.
Bass Pro Shops: A Sportsman’s Paradise
Located on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, Bass Pro Shops offers an unparalleled shopping experience. You can deck yourself out with all the gear you need for a great day on the lake at this one-stop-shop for all things hunting and fishing.
The Garland location sits right on the lake’s shores, featuring boat docks, an arcade shooting range, and a variety of animals – both live and stuffed. Anglers can pull their boats right up to the dock while grabbing all the fishing gear they need.
Lakeside Location and Amenities
The store’s lakeside location creates a unique shopping environment where you can browse for fishing gear while enjoying panoramic views of the water. The facility houses everything an outdoor enthusiast could need, from fishing and hunting equipment to camping gear and outdoor apparel.
Special amenities include a 13,000-gallon aquarium filled with saltwater fish and an arcade shooting range. The ability to dock your boat directly at the store makes it convenient for anglers to stock up on supplies.
Firewheel Town Center: Shopping Extravaganza
Firewheel Town Center is a shopper’s paradise, offering an open-air shopping experience like no other. As part of the Simon group of retail locations, it provides a unique blend of convenience and atmosphere.
Popular Stores and Restaurants
The center boasts over 100 stores, ranging from major national retailers to unique boutiques. You’ll find popular brands like White House Black Market, American Eagle, and Victoria’s Secret. When it comes to dining, the range of restaurants is impressive, with options serving Latin, Mediterranean, American, Japanese, and Cajun cuisine.
In this vibrant shopping area, you can enjoy a diverse range of activities, from shopping and dining to entertainment options like a large cinema. With its thoughtful layout and design, Firewheel Town Center creates a pleasant shopping environment that’s easy to navigate.
Hawaiian Falls Waterpark: Splash Into Fun
Garland’s Hawaiian Falls Waterpark offers an unforgettable experience with its variety of water attractions. Open from late May to around Labor Day, it’s the perfect place to cool off during the summer months. You can enjoy thrilling water slides and towering rides that will satisfy adventure-seekers. For a more relaxed experience, drift serenely down the Kona Kooler Lazy River.
The waterpark is designed to entertain visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families. You can savor authentic Texas barbecue on the weekends at the Surf Side Barbecue or grab pizza and burgers at Sharkey’s Cafe, making it a great way to spend a day out.
Water Attractions for All Ages
The park features a range of water attractions, including the Keiki Kove Fortress, an interactive water playground with a thousand-gallon dump bucket. For younger visitors, there are splash areas designed to provide fun and safety. The variety of activities ensures that everyone has a memorable experience at this park garland.
Garland, Texas: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Food Lovers
Garland, Texas, is a culinary haven, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes. You can indulge in the rich flavors of Texas cuisine at one of the many local eateries or breweries.
Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery
Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery is a must-visit restaurant in Downtown Garland, serving up succulent smoked meats and handcrafted beers. You can enjoy juicy brisket and racks of ribs, paired with a selection of in-house brews and homemade sodas. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday, Intrinsic is the perfect place to experience the best of Texas hospitality.
Lakewood Brewing Company
Lakewood Brewing Company has been a local favorite since 2012, offering tours and tastings of their award-winning craft beers. You can sample their famous “The Temptress” in all four “Seduction Series” variations, each offering a unique twist on their signature imperial milk stout. This is a great way to spend an afternoon, enjoying good food and great drinks in a fun atmosphere.
In Garland, you’ll find that the local food scene is thriving, with many top picks for dining and drinking. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Texas barbecue or innovative craft beverages, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. You can make the most of your visit by exploring the various culinary options and enjoying the best things to do in Garland.
Granville Arts Center: Cultural Hub
You can experience the rich cultural landscape of Garland at the Granville Arts Center. This complex is made up of two stately theaters, the elegant Atrium banquet hall, and the art-deco Plaza Theatre, offering a diverse range of performances and events that enrich the city’s artistic landscape.
Performances and Events
The Granville Arts Center hosts various performances, including stage productions, concerts, and business meetings. You can enjoy performances by local groups like the Garland Summer Musicals, the Garland Symphony Orchestra, and the Garland Civic Theatre throughout the year. The Plaza Theatre, with its refurbished 1940’s-era art-deco design, offers an atmospheric setting for live music, theater productions, and free classic movie screenings, making it a hub for entertainment in the community.
Beyond entertainment, the Granville Arts Center plays a significant role in city life, hosting weddings and other events in its versatile spaces. Taking a tour of this cultural hub gives you insight into Garland’s commitment to the arts and provides a glimpse of the architectural gems preserved as part of the park garland heritage.
Rowlett Creek Preserve: Outdoor Adventure
Escape to Rowlett Creek Preserve, a 97-acre haven in Garland that boasts 16 miles of biking trails and serene picnic areas. This preserve is a gem in Garland’s parks system, offering a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
Biking Trails and Picnic Areas
The preserve features 16 miles of biking trails with 14 stacked loops, catering to mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. After a ride, relax in the shaded picnic areas or under the pavilion, enjoying the surrounding scenery. The trail system is designed to be flexible, allowing you to customize your route based on your energy level and time.
Strike + Reel: Entertainment for Everyone
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at Strike + Reel, Garland’s premier entertainment destination. This 50,000 square feet venue is packed with fun activities for all ages, making it the perfect spot for family outings or corporate events, regardless of the weather or season, including hot summer days.
Strike + Reel offers a wide range of entertainment options, including a state-of-the-art bowling facility with 22 lanes, a private bowling area, and lane-side food and beverage service. Adventure seekers can challenge themselves on the 24-foot high indoor rock climbing wall, while kids and adults alike can enjoy bumper cars.
Bowling, Movies, and More
The entertainment complex is a one-stop destination for various activities. Enjoy modern American cuisine at the restaurant or experience luxury Dine-In Movies with comfortable seating and table service.
Resistol Hat Plant: Authentic Texas Experience
Experience the authentic Texas spirit by visiting the Resistol Hat Plant in Garland. As the world’s largest manufacturer of straw, felt, leather, and cloth hats, Resistol has been a part of the city’s identity since 1938.
Factory Tours and Cowboy Hat Shopping
The Resistol Hat Plant offers a fascinating glimpse into an authentic piece of Texas heritage. You can take an informative factory tour lasting just over an hour, revealing the meticulous process behind creating these iconic cowboy hats.
- The tour guides you through each step of the hat-making process.
- After the tour, visit the onsite outlet store to purchase your own authentic cowboy hat.
By owning a genuine Resistol cowboy hat from its birthplace in Garland, you’ll not only get a stylish accessory but also a tangible piece of Texas life and culture.
Lake Ray Hubbard: Water Recreation Paradise
Escape to Lake Ray Hubbard, a 21,000-acre aquatic paradise just minutes from Garland. This magnificent lake is a haven for those seeking relaxation and adventure amidst nature.
Fishing, Boating, and Waterfront Relaxation
Lake Ray Hubbard offers a wide range of activities, including fishing for catfish, striped bass, and white bass. You can also enjoy boating, jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, and windsurfing. With several marinas around the lake, equipment rentals are readily available.
The lake’s expansive shoreline features numerous parks and access points, perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, or simply relaxing while taking in the beautiful waterfront views.
Some of the top activities to enjoy at Lake Ray Hubbard include:
- Lake Ray Hubbard offers a magnificent 21,000-acre aquatic playground just minutes from Garland, providing endless opportunities for water recreation and relaxation.
- Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake’s abundant populations of catfish, striped bass, and white bass, making it one of the premier fishing destinations in the North Texas region.
- You can enjoy a wide range of water activities including boating, jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, and windsurfing, with several marinas around the lake offering equipment rentals if you don’t have your own.
- The lake’s expansive shoreline features numerous parks and access points where you can enjoy picnicking, sunbathing, or simply relaxing while taking in the beautiful waterfront views.
- Sunset cruises and dinner boats operate on Lake Ray Hubbard, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape and the Garland skyline as the sun dips below the horizon.
- The lake serves as a natural habitat for various bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when you might spot herons, egrets, and even bald eagles.
Landmark Museum: Journey Through Garland’s History
Step into the Landmark Museum, housed in a historic 1901 Santa Fe train depot, and uncover Garland’s fascinating history. This charming museum is a hidden gem that offers a unique tour of the city’s heritage. When you visit, you’ll discover one of the largest collections of Garland-related artifacts and period memorabilia.
Historical Exhibits and Artifacts
The museum features diverse items, including vintage newspapers, antique farm tools, and beautifully preserved textiles like handmade quilts, many dating back to the 1800s. These exhibits provide a glimpse into Garland’s past, showcasing the city’s evolution over time. While exploring the museum, you’ll appreciate the city‘s rich history and the role it plays in shaping the community.
Though the museum is only open on Saturdays in the early afternoon, it’s worth planning your visit to explore this cultural resource. The surrounding nature and historic downtown area make it an ideal day trip, allowing you to combine your visit with a broader exploration of Garland.
Duck Creek Park: Family-Friendly Fun
If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot in Garland, Duck Creek Park is an excellent choice, featuring a range of activities and scenic views. The park is centered around the picturesque Duck Creek, offering a serene atmosphere amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Duck Creek Park stands out with its diverse recreational facilities and natural beauty. The park features multiple modern playgrounds designed for different age groups, ensuring that children can find age-appropriate equipment for hours of active fun.
Playgrounds and Walking Trails
The park boasts well-maintained walking trails that wind through lush greenery, offering paved paths perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual walkers. You’ll appreciate the scenic views of the creek and the surrounding landscape.
The disc golf course at Duck Creek Park is another highlight, providing a challenging yet accessible experience for both beginners and seasoned players. With abundant picnic areas complete with tables and benches in shaded locations, the park is ideal for family gatherings or simple afternoon outings.
Firewheel Golf Park: Tee Off in Style
Golfers looking for a unique experience will love Firewheel Golf Park, which features three diverse courses on 600 acres of beautifully maintained grounds. With 63 holes of play, this golf park is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. The park offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience, with scenic views and well-manicured fairways.
The golf park is spread over a vast area, providing a serene environment for players to enjoy their game. You can choose from three distinct courses, each offering a unique golfing experience.
Three Distinct Courses
The Bridges Course is ideal for beginners, with forgiving fairways and fewer hazards. In contrast, the Lakes and Old Courses offer a challenge with their bunkers, water hazards, and densely wooded sections. Each course is designed to provide a unique golfing experience, set amidst beautiful scenery.
During the summer months, the courses are in peak condition, making it an ideal time to visit.
Planning Your Perfect Visit to Garland
With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and exciting recreational activities, Garland is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As you plan your visit, consider the seasonal attractions that make each time of year special, from summer water activities to year-round cultural experiences and nature exploration.
To make the most of your trip, allocate at least 2-3 days to discover Garland’s diverse attractions, including kid-friendly destinations like Hawaiian Falls Waterpark and Duck Creek Park, as well as scenic parks and cultural venues.
