Don’t Miss Out! 20 Amazing Things to Do in Arlington, TX

Arlington is the smallest of the three major cities in the Dallas – Fort Worth – Arlington Metroplex, yet it still ranks as the seventh-largest city in Texas on its own. With the Metroplex being the largest urban area in the state and fourth-largest in the U.S., it can sometimes feel like all of the municipalities merge into one. Dallas is the heart of the Metroplex and attracts the most visitors, so the surrounding areas like Arlington often get overlooked, despite its immense size and population. However, Arlington has plenty to offer, as you might expect from one of the largest cities in the largest state in the contiguous U.S. So, start with these 20 things to do in Arlington and discover all the amazing things this vibrant city has to offer.

Arlington, Texas

How to Explore

• A fun way to explore this city at your own pace is to download the Arlington Scavenger Hunt: What Dreams Are Made Of

• Rent a Polaris Slingshot and explore Arlington like a local.

20 Things To Do In Arlington Tx

1- Watch The Dallas Cowboys Play At AT&T Stadium

One of the things to do in Arlington Tx is to go to a concert in the AT&T Stadium. The stadium is part of the vibrant Arlington entertainment district, which includes a variety of attractions such as professional sports venues, high-end shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.

AT&T Stadium has an impressive retractable roof, a seated capacity of 82,000 and a maximum capacity of 108,000 people, making it one of the largest stadiums in the country.

Home to “America’s Team”, the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL, it is also the 4th largest venue on the professional football calendar.

The stadium is a great spot to watch a game and soak up the electric atmosphere.

Beyond just football, though, AT&T Stadium hosts many of the most significant events in the city, such as boxing, concerts, rodeos, speaking events, supercross, wrestling, and other sporting and entertainment events.

With so much going on in the programme, there is sure to be something that will let you experience this incredible venue for yourself, so check the schedule before you arrive.

AT&T Stadium is at 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

2- Go Hiking In Crystal Canyon Natural Area

The Crystal Canyon Natural Area covers 40 acres (16 ha) in central Arlington and has been designated to preserve the region’s natural landscape, which boasts a variety of hills, forests, and rocks.

With a half-mile (0.8 km) hiking trail weaving throughout the area, dotted with interpretative signs detailing both the landscape and wildlife, it is a fabulous place to learn more about the natural side of Arlington.

Crystal Canyon Natural Area is at 1000 Brown Boulevard, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

3- See The Area’s Best Musicians At The Arlington Music Hall

If you’re visiting Dallas and wondering whether there are any things to do in Arlington, you’ve come to the right place.

When it first opened in 1950, it was a movie theatre, however, the Arlington Music Hall quickly developed into an intimate venue for hosting some of the finest musical and theatrical performances in the city.

Mainly used for country music concerts in modern times, it is also the primary home of Symphony Arlington.

This makes it an absolute must-visit location for anyone hoping to hear the best classical or country music the city has to offer.

Arlington Music Hall is at 224 North Center Street, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

4- Appreciate The Works In The Arlington Museum Of Art

Established in 1989, the Arlington Museum Of Art hosts travelling art exhibitions, rather than collecting its own, to ensure it can always offer a fresh experience.

While primarily dedicated to contemporary Texan art, it has also hosted works by legendary artists, as well as exhibits such as ceramics, edible sculptures, photography, woodblock prints and movie paraphernalia.

Their displays appeal to a wide range of interests.

Arlington Museum Of Art is at 201 West Main Street, Arlington, Texas, 76010.

5- Enjoy The Exhibits At CR Smith Museum

Named after the very first CEO of American Airlines, Cyrus Rowlett Smith, the CR Smith Museum’s aim is to preserve the history of the company and the air transportation industry. DFW International Airport is conveniently located nearby, making it easily accessible for visitors.

With a collection of artefacts, archive materials, exhibitions, hands-on displays, and flight workshop programs, it is a fun yet informative destination that is not to be missed for anyone interested in American Airlines or commercial aviation.

CR Smith Museum is at 4601 Highway 360, Fort Worth, Texas, 76155.

6- Explore Cedar Hill State Park

Located on the city’s outskirts, Cedar Hill State Park is a 1,826-acre (738 ha) natural area on the eastern shore of Joe Pool Lake.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love exploring its varied ecosystems and the roughly 300 different species of birds, fish, and mammals they are home to.

With 12 miles of mountain biking trails, miles of hiking trails, two campsites, two fishing piers, a history centre, a boat ramp, a picnic area, and an abundance of beautiful swimming spots, there will be plenty to enjoy about Cedar Hill State Park for everyone else as well.

Cedar Hill State Park is at 1570 Farm To Market Road 1382, Cedar Hill, Texas, 75104.

7- Discover The History Of Farming In Texas

Learning a bit about agriculture is one of the interesting things to do in Arlington, Texas.

Located in Cedar Hill State Park, the Penn Farm Agricultural Center is a history museum dedicated to teaching people about traditional farming methods in Texas.

With both historic and recreated farm buildings and exhibits, it provides an opportunity to look back in time and see how farms once operated in the region and how the people who ran them would have lived.

Penn Farm Agricultural Center is in Cedar Hill State Park, 1570 Farm To Market Road 1382, Cedar Hill, Texas, 75104.

8- Visit The International Bowling Museum & Hall Of Fame

The International Bowling Museum & Hall Of Fame is a unique attraction that opened here in 2010, after relocating from St. Louis, Missouri.

The museum itself is dedicated to detailing the entire history of the sport, from its founding in ancient Egypt to its place in modern society.

The International Bowling Hall Of Fame is operated by the World Bowling Writers (WBW) association and features plaques, photos, and artefacts dedicated to all men and women who have been inducted since its founding in 1993.

International Bowling Museum & Hall Of Fame is at 621 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

9- Examine The Historic Sites In Knapp Heritage Park

Looking for things to do in Arlington Tx? Although it’s not far from central Dallas, there are plenty of activities here too.

Knapp Heritage Park is an outdoor history museum dedicated to teaching people about the settling of Texas.

The park boasts a variety of historic buildings, including cabins, a general store, and a pioneer schoolhouse, as well as various artefacts and informative displays.

Regularly hosting a range of events and festivals, it is a fabulous way to learn about early Texan history.

Knapp Heritage Park is at 201 West Front Street, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

10- Combine Education And Entertainment At Country Critters Farm

Getting up close to the animals is one of the things to do in Arlington Texas.

Country Critters Farm is a functioning farm on the outskirts of the city that gives families an opportunity to pat and interact with farm animals.

With pony rides, a petting zoo and seasonal activities like hayrides and a pumpkin patch, it is a fun way to experience the more rural side of Texan life.

Country Critters Farm is at 3709 Country Road 617, Alvarado, Texas, 76009.

11- Embrace The Great Outdoors In River Legacy Parks

River Legacy Parks is a 1,300-acre (526 ha) city park on the south bank of the West Fork Trinity River.

Boasting miles of biking and hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, and the River Legacy Nature Center, with its sustainably designed nature exhibits, education programs, and trails, it allows you to embrace the region’s natural side, without ever having to leave the city.

River Legacy Parks is at 701 Northwest Green Oaks Boulevard, Arlington, Texas, 76006.

12- Walk Along The Banks Of The West Fork Trinity River

West Fork is one of the four branches of the Trinity River, the longest river located entirely within the state of Texas.

The interconnected River Legacy Trail and Viridian Trail run alongside the river the whole way across the northern section of Arlington.

The trails provide the opportunity to travel the entire breadth of the city and soak in its natural beauty, discover its wildlife, and make the most of the stunning river views.

Viridian Trail Connection To River Legacy Trail, 4297 Euless South Main Street, Arlington, TX, 76007.

13- See A Texas Rangers Game At Globe Life Field

Globe Life Field is a state-of-the-art, 40,000-seater, retractable roof stadium that opened in 2020 and is the home stadium of the Texas Rangers.

Its primary use is for the Major League Baseball team’s games, making it the ideal location for anyone who fancies catching a ballgame while in town.

Globe Life Field also hosts other events, such as collegiate sports, concerts, and rodeos.

That means there are plenty of opportunities to stop by and enjoy a show during your trip, even if you aren’t a baseball fan.

Globe Life Field is at 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

14- Relax On The Beach At Lake Viridian

The Beach At Lake Viridian is a beautiful stretch of sand that is perhaps the nicest beach in Arlington.

Located on the north shore of Lake Viridian and surrounded by gardens and events centres, it is a perfect spot to relax, sail, swim, sunbathe, or simply soak up your scenic surroundings.

The Beach At Lake Viridian is at 1210 Viridian Park Lane, Arlington, Texas, 76005.

15- Examine The Stars At The UTA Planetarium

The UTA Planetarium is on the University Of Texas At Arlington campus and is an absolute must for anyone interested in astronomy. UT Arlington is a cultural hub, featuring attractions like The Gallery at UT Arlington and the University of Texas at Arlington Planetarium, which cater to art lovers and those seeking educational experiences.

With its incredible displays of the stars and solar system for a more than reasonable price, it is a truly out-of-this-world experience.

The UTA Planetarium is in the Chemistry And Physics Building, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, Texas, 76019.

16- Spend A Day At Six Flags Over Texas

One of the fun things to do in Arlington is to ride the roller coasters of Six Flags Over Texas.

Six Flags Over Texas is a 212-acre (85 ha) amusement park that is one of the most popular theme parks in Texas.

The original Six Flags park opened in 1961 and boasts a collection of 45 different rides, many of which hold records, and includes 13 rollercoasters and three water rides.

Also featuring various eateries, stores, and venues for family-oriented shows and live music, as well as several innovative attractions and features, Six Flags Over Texas is the perfect place for people of all ages to spend a day relaxing, letting loose, and having some fun.

Six Flags Over Texas is at 2201 East Road To Six Flags Street, Arlington, Texas, 76011.

17- Catch A Performance At The Theatre Arlington

Watching a show at a local theatre is another fun thing to do in Arlington Texas.

Theatre Arlington is a community performing arts centre that hosts acting classes and camps and has been used to host musicals and plays by both adults and youths alike for years.

It is a good place to see the best local performers doing their thing for a nominal fee while helping to support the Arlington performing arts scene.

Theatre Arlington is at 305 West Main Street, Arlington, Texas, 76010.

18- Learn How To Line Dance At The Western Kountry Klub

Learning line dancing is one of the cultural and fun things to do in Arlington Texas.

There may be nothing more Texan than line dancing, and the number one destination for that pastime in Arlington is the Western Kountry Klub.

In a dance hall that hosts both classes and dance nights, you can learn a new skill and get in on the fun, whether it is your 1st time or 101st time.

Western Kountry Klub is at 5728 Lake View Road, Midlothian, Texas, 76065.

19- Support Local Artists At The Gallery At UTA

The Gallery At UTA is an art gallery that showcases the best works of art by current students and the alumni of the University Of Texas At Arlington.

With the exhibits constantly changing, there will always be something new for art fans to see, while you may even discover the next star in the making during your visit.

Gallery At UTA is at 502 South Cooper Street, Arlington, Texas, 76010.

20- Sample The Best Local Beers At Division Brewing

One of the fun things to do in Arlington TX is to try the local beer.

Division Brewing is the oldest locally owned and operated brewery in Arlington, having been in operation for more than 20 years.

With a fabulous range of beers to sample, comprehensive brewery tours, regular live music events, and a gift shop selling branded souvenirs, there may not be a better place for beer fans to get their fix during their visit in all of Arlington than right here.

Division Brewing is at 506 East Main Street, Arlington, Texas, 76010.

Explore Downtown Arlington

Downtown Arlington is a vibrant and eclectic area that offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and community. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, which features a mix of old and new buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants. The area is also home to the Arlington Museum of Art, which showcases a diverse collection of art from local and international artists.

One of the main attractions in downtown Arlington is the Levitt Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue that hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. The pavilion is surrounded by a beautiful park, which offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Downtown Arlington is also a great place to grab a bite to eat, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Visitors can also explore the local shops and boutiques, which offer a unique selection of gifts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Shopaholic’s Paradise

Arlington is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of shopping centers and districts to explore. The Arlington Highlands is a popular destination, featuring over 50 stores and restaurants, including a movie theater and an improv comedy club.

Another popular shopping destination is The Parks at Arlington, which offers over 200 stores, a movie theater, and an ice-skating rink. Visitors can also explore the Lincoln Square Shopping Center, which features a mix of local boutiques and national chain stores.

For those looking for a more unique shopping experience, downtown Arlington is home to a variety of boutique shops and specialty stores. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing, making it a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts or souvenirs.

What’s Happening in Arlington

Arlington is a city that is always on the go, with a variety of events and activities happening throughout the year. Visitors can catch a game at AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, or Globe Life Park, home of the Texas Rangers.

The city is also home to a variety of festivals and events, including the Arlington Music Festival, the Texas Rangers Baseball Festival, and the Arlington Food and Wine Festival. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, which features a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Arlington has a variety of parks and nature preserves to explore, including River Legacy Park and Lake Arlington. Visitors can also take a stroll along the Trinity River, which offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Overall, Arlington is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in sports, culture, shopping, or outdoor activities. With its vibrant downtown area, variety of shopping centers, and wide range of events and activities, Arlington is a great place to visit or live.