25 Best Things to Do in Arlington, Texas

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River Legacy Park is a magnificent lush and green urban oasis along the banks of the Trinity River in Arlington. It is a 1031-acre forest park where animals live with little disruption from those who come for bird watching, jogging, biking, or picnicking. The park has over 10 miles of biking and hiking trails that go through the hardwood forest, which is home to 28 kinds of trees, 400 species of animals, and 193 species of native birds.

A huge playground for kids features a life-size skeleton of the T-Rex dinosaur. River Legacy Living Science Center boasts an aquarium and terrariums with native animals, nature trails, an exhibit hall, and several exploration stations. If you are wondering what to do in Arlington, Texas today, the park organizes a range of events and activities for the public.

703 N.W. Green Oaks Blvd. (at Cooper Street), Arlington, TX, Phone: 817-860-6752

© Planetarium at the University of Texas at Arlington

It all started in 1975 when physics Professor Ulrich Herrmann suggested that a quirky little round building close to the Library should be converted into the first Planetarium at the University of Texas at Arlington. Today, with its 60-foot diameter dome and the latest Digistar 5 DLP Projection system, The Planetarium is one of the biggest and the most advanced in Texas.

The Digistar 5 system projects stars, galaxies, planets and virtually anything else you can see in the sky onto the dome. The facility uses a powerful surround-sound system, turning your trip to see black holes and distant galaxies into the adventure of a lifetime. The Planetarium is a unique space for teaching and learning, and it is a space open to the public for shows, field trips, stargazing and all sorts of interesting private functions. The Dome auditorium can seat about 150 people.

Chemistry Physics Building, 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, TX, Phone: 817-272-1183

© Six Flags Over Texas

You will be the most popular parent on the block when you take the family for a fun day out at the Six Flags Over Texas amusement park. The park offers a whole host of amazing activities for all ages including family rides, thrill rides, kid’s rides, live shows and much, much more. The facility boasts no fewer than 18 family-friendly rides which include the very popular Roaring Rapids water ride, a classic carousel and Speedway Go Karts. Daredevils will want to head straight to the thrill rides which include the Batman inverted roller-coaster, Cat-woman Whip and the Judge Roy classic wooden roller-coaster. If you live nearby you can buy a Season Ticket to enjoy the fun all season long.

Six Flags Over Texas, 2201 East Road, Arlington, TX 76011, 817 640 8900

© Arlington Museum of Art

The Arlington Museum of Art is located in the remodeled JC Penney building that first opened its doors in 1989. It is a non-collecting museum that focuses on presenting exceptional quality exhibitions and shows that will inspire, challenge, and inform all visitors, both local inhabitants and tourists. Originally focused on Texas Contemporary Art, the Museum has broadened its vision to include other culturally important and historically significant exhibitions.

The Museum organizes educational programs for children and adults and offers practical learning opportunities related to art. The Museum also supports local schools, universities, and other learning centers in areas of art education. The Museum facilities can be rented for various special events.

201 West Main Street, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-275-4600

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Globe Life Park is a magnificent state-of-the-art open-air ballpark. This 48,114-seat baseball-only facility is home to the Texas Rangers and a 270-acre complex that includes an office building, a 12-acre lake, and many parks and spaces for recreation around the stadium. Public tours of the stadium will allow you to see the behind-the-scenes features of the ballpark, including batting cages, the dugout, the press box, and the City of Arlington Suite.

Pre-game tours will give you access to the ballpark during the team’s batting practice and warm ups, which you can view from the Commissioner's Box. There are also private tours and field trips for schools. All tours start at the First Base Box Office on the south side of Globe Life Park.

1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-273-5099

© International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame

If you like bowling, you will enjoy a trip to the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame. Located in the International Bowling Campus, the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame has a superb collection of unique artifacts that will let you travel through the 5,000-year long history of bowling. Originally an activity of the ancient Egyptians, bowling was and still is a popular among people of all classes, including British monarchs.

The museum follows the sport’s history through various archeological digs, American quintessential taverns, and contemporary cutting-edge computer programmed bowling training centers. The Bowling Hall of Fame shows rare photos and old film clips that present the stories and lives of the greatest legends of bowling.

621 Six Flags Dr., Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-385-8215

© Mariano's Hacienda

Mariano’s Hacienda is packed on most days, but when there is a big game at the Globe Life Park, it nearly bursts at the seams. The restaurant’s cheerful Mexican décor, large communal tables, the aroma of succulent grilled meat and Mexican spices get everyone’s juices flowing. The menu features classic favorites whose portions are generous, and everything is delicious.

You will find tamales, fajitas, and enchiladas filled with succulent beef or chicken. The margaritas at Mariano’s are legendary. If you are coming with a group of friends, you might want to try the Whole Enchilada, an enormous 20” platter of a beef enchilada, spicy chicken enchilada, cheese enchilada, beef taco, soft cheese taco, guac tostada, and a chicken taco, all served with rice and beans.

2614 Majesty Dr, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-640-5118

© Top O'Hill Terrace

Top O’Hill Terrace was a popular casino long before Las Vegas became a popular gambling destination. The building started its life as a tearoom in 1920 and was converted into a restaurant in 1926. It had a hidden basement for the casino and a brothel, and the typical restaurant visitor was typically unaware of the establishment’s illegal activities. During the 30’s and 40’s, Terrace attracted famous gamblers like Clark Gable, John Wayne, and many other celebrities.

Since gambling was illegal, the casino had several escape tunnels and a secret room where the gambling paraphernalia was hidden during police raids. Gamblers could escape through hidden trapdoors and passageways, false walls, and two-way mirrors. The building is now used by the Arlington Baptist College, but many of the casino’s original structures can be seen during the tour.

Arlington Baptist College, 3001 West Division, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-987-1716

© Twisted Root Burger Co.

Twisted Root Burger is located near the Ballpark and close to historic downtown, but people would be lining up for their burgers even if they were not as centrally located. If you have never tried a gourmet burger, you can discover it at the Twisted Root. They have beef, turkey, or veggie burgers, but the toppings make these burgers totally unique.

The restaurant has a wide variety of cheese, from Danish blue to goat, many kinds of salsa like guacamole or pineapple, mushrooms, chilis, prosciutto, and, of course bacon. Be ready to eat your fill, and do not be ashamed if you cannot finish your meal. Be sure to leave some room for their famous adult shakes made with Baileys or Amaretto.

The food is only half the fun; the other half comes from the fabulous décor that consists of a vintage Winnebago that serves as a bar, cooler benches, and various cars and motor parts.

310 E Abram St #100, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-201-9669

© Tierra Verde Golf Club

Tierra Verde Golf Club is one of those rare places where golf and nature live and work in harmony. This award-winning golf course was the first in Texas to be certified as an Audubon Sanctuary. The course opened its doors in 1998, and it consists of 250 acres of lush, secluded land. Its unique layout includes a range of natural settings, offering an exceptional golf experience.

Each hole features five sets of tees, strategically placed sand bunkers, sculpted fairways, and challenging water hazards. The area also features beautiful mature trees and verdant native grasses. Tierra Verde Golf Club includes a state-of-the-art learning center, a driving range that is lighted for night playing, a practice course with three holes, and a large putting and chipping green complex.

You can take advantage of the club’s clinics, which are taught by certified PGA/LPGA professionals. After the game, celebrate your successes in the renowned Ventana Grille.

7005 Golf Club Drive, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-478-8500

© Mimi's

Mimi’s cozy French Bistro style décor creates a inviting and pleasant whether you are taking out your new client or your mother-in-law. The food is new American with noticeable French touches, especially in the sauces. The sandwiches are excellent, and they are served on fresh croissants or brioches.

Mimi’s has imaginative and flavorful salads, but their grilled chicken, steaks, salmon, and mussels are probably the most popular menu features. Served with their house-made butters with French spices and the choice cut of potatoes, these dishes are a wonderful combination of American and French cuisine.

301 E. Interstate 20 HWY, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-466-3212

© College Park Center

College Park Center is the first events arena at the University of Texas at Arlington. It is a spectacular space where you can come and cheer on your Mavericks. This modern facility hosts not only regular volleyball and basketball games, but also lectures, concerts, commencements, and many other exciting events. The Center can fit up to 6,750 guests for concerts and about 7,000 for court-based sport events.

The Center also has a study area with a spacious study hall, group study room, computer lab, and offices for meetings between students and their academic advisors. The Center is just one part of the 20-acre College Park District that includes The Green at College Park, the College Park building, and the Dan Dipert University Welcome Center.

600 S. Center Street, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-272-5584

© Symphony Arlington

Since its debut season in 2000 under the guidance of Maestro Robert Carter Austin, the Symphony Arlington has moved from the 200-seat Tarrant County College Roberson Theatre to its permanent home in the historic, elegant Arlington Music Hall in 2010. The grand old dame has been renovated and equipped with the latest sound and lighting equipment.

The interior features sophisticated and classic décor. The orchestra is comprised of 93 talented professional musicians from 19 countries and a number of internationally acclaimed soloists. Check the symphony website to see what exciting events they have prepared for this season.

Arlington Music Hall, 224 N. Center St., Arlington, Texas, Phone: 817-385-0484

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AT&T Stadium is the home of the Dallas Cowboys, but it is also a fascinating architectural masterpiece and an enormous art gallery. Whether you are a Dallas Cowboy fan or not, a tour of the stadium is an exciting and fun way to visit this extravagant, gigantic temple to football.

The most popular way of exploring the stadium is through a self-guided tour. You can go to the field, run around, throw some passes, and take a few photos to show your friends. You can also get a glimpse of the Cowboys’ locker room and even the cheerleaders’ locker room, while they are empty, of course. The interview room and the Miller Lite Club are also open to public when not in use.

While strolling through the stadium, you can see enormous paintings that are part of the AT&T art collection and were selected or commissioned by the Jones Family. There are 56 pieces of art displayed all over the stadium, offering the public a unique way to encounter contemporary art. A guided Art Tour of the Stadium offers more in-depth explanation of the various pieces.

One AT&T Way, Arlington, Texas, Phone: 800-745-3000

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Downtown Arlington features a free yearlong music festival that showcases some of the best musicians in the country and some of the newest musicians just beginning their paths to musical stardom. The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts is a non-profit organization that produces about 50 free music events on the lawn of the Founders Plaza, a beautiful city park in downtown Arlington.

There is something for everyone, from jazz to world music and from Texas country to hot Indie. Many of the artists are Grammy Award winners. The Children’s Concerts have fun, interactive shows in which artists teach their young audiences about creativity, self-esteem, the world around them, and even concepts like good manners. Each concert also provides an opportunity to meet neighbors and friends or to have a picnic and enjoy an evening under the stars.

100 W Abram St, Arlington, TX, Phone: 817-459-5474

© Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a seasonal water park which will provide hours and hours of family fun for all ages. The park offers a variety of open and closed tube-style water slides suitable for adults and older children. For younger visitors there is the ever-popular Lazy River float and Splashwater Beach. When you need a break from all the thrilling rides and slides you can chill out at the Suntan Lagoon where you can relax on a lounger and catch some rays. Even the most die-hard thrill seekers will find something to love at Hurricane Harbor – get prepared to enjoy the action at Hydra Maniac and Bonzai Boggins, 2 of the most popular rides.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, 1800 E. Lamar Boulevard, Arlington, TX 76006, 817 640 8900

© Division Brewing

Division Brewing is a must-visit Arlington attraction for all craft beer enthusiasts. Having quickly established a loyal following of craft-beer lovers, Division Brewing strives to constantly offer a range of new flavor sensations. The range of beers includes easy-drinking ales and IPA’s, ambers, porters and stouts. The brewery has a great tap room where you can try any of the current brews on tap – if you are unsure of what to choose the friendly bar tenders can assist. There is usually a great food truck in attendance and they often host live musicians and bands – you can check their website to see what’s on.

506 East Main Street, Arlington, TX 76010, 682 276 1276

© Blue Ops Mission

If you happen to be looking for something really different to entertain your family, guests or work team you need look no further than Blue Ops Mission. This fun and mobile version of the traditional escape room can be booked to come right to your door, party, office or school. Unlike some other escape rooms, Blue Ops Mission does not rely on scare tactics or science-fiction themes – Blue Ops Missions are based on true-to-life government agency scenarios which need to be solved in order to save the day. Promoting team work and co-operation, each of the escape missions has been carefully designed to test your creativity and perseverance. You can visit their website to book your engaging mission right now.

Blue Ops Mission, Arlington, TX 76010, 817 438 7693

© Alley Cat’s Entertainment

Offering way more than just a great bowling experience, Alley Cat’s Entertainment offers hours of fun for every member of the family. The complex includes 24 state-of-the-art bowling lanes equipped with lights, smart-size bowling balls, ramps and bumpers, so that younger children can join in the fun. To ensure there is something for everyone, Alley Cat’s also offers a brilliant modern Laser Tag Arena as well as arcade games, outdoor Putt-Putt, batting cages and a climbing wall. When you have worked up an appetite you can make your way to the snack and dine-in kitchen for delicious snacks, meals and drinks.

Alley Cat’s Entertainment, 2008 W. Pleasant Ridge Rd, Arlington, TX 76015, 817 784 2695

© Golf Center of Arlington

Whether you are looking to improve your golfing prowess or just want to enjoy a few hours of fun outdoor entertainment, the Golf Center of Arlington is waiting to welcome you. The center is located close to the Arlington Entertainment District and offers a range of golf-related activities for the whole family. These start with a 36-hole mini-golf experience which winds around a landscaped outdoor track, passing several waterfalls along the way. More serious golfers who would like to improve their game can visit the driving range which offers modern technological advances like ball tracking and Trackman, which records your golf swing. You can also sign up for golf lessons on site.

Golf Center of Arlington, 1301 NE Green Oaks Boulevard, Arlington, TX 76006, 817 469 9005

© K1 Speed Arlington

Providing hours and hours of entertainment all year round, KI Speed is an indoor, fully air-conditioned Go Karting race center, conveniently located just opposite Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. The center boasts a professionally-designed racing track, clean, all-electric high-performance racing karts and advanced timing systems to accurately record your laps. If you like to compete with other racers you can join the Arrive and Drive Competitions which will pit your skills against other racers. When hunger strikes you can visit he Pit Café to refuel. The venue is ideal for parties of all kinds and offers race packages for larger groups, including catering.

K1 Speed Arlington, 1801 East Lamar Blvd, Arlington TX 76006, 855 906 5711

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A local legend since their inception in 1999, Oldwest Café in Arlington arguably serves the best breakfast in the West. The café is so popular that there will often be a line of people waiting patiently for their turn to enjoy some great food and friendly service. The portions are generous, the choices are varied and the reviews are excellent. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is their Almond French Toast, but other delightful specialties you can look forward to enjoying include a variety of sausage, egg, bacon and biscuit combinations, benedicts, pancakes and more. Oldwest Café is open daily for breakfast, brunch and lunch.

Oldwest Café of Arlington, 4650 Little Rd, Arlington, TV 76017, 817 563 4778

© Piccolo Mondo

Piccolo Mondo has been a popular restaurant and meeting place for Arlington residents and visitors for 30 years. The elegant white-linen table settings and refined music from the Piano Bar create a pleasant ambiance which is suitable for most occasions including romantic date nights. The menu is extensive and features all your favorite Italian specialties including a varied selection of appetizers, salads, entrees, sides and desserts. A few of their most popular entrees include the Beef Tenderloin with Crushed Peppercorns and any of the fresh fish and seafood dishes. All the food is beautifully presented and there is an excellent wine list. Regulars will advise you to always leave some space for a dessert – cannolis and tiramisu come highly recommended.

Piccolo Mondo, 829 E. Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76011, 817 265 9174

© The Perfect Escape

Presenting the ideal way to escape the daily grind, The Perfect Escape will transport you to distant lands where you will have to use your ingenuity to escape a range of tricky situations. The escape experiences provide ideal entertainment for a variety of occasions including birthday parties, corporate team building events, stag nights or fun-filled family outings. Each member of the team will have to bring their particular talents to the party so that the complex puzzles can be solved. The Perfect Escape offers three experiences namely O’Bannion’s Safe, The Pharaoh’s Tomb and Wong’s Chinese. You can book your favorite escape in advance.

The Perfect Escape, 2501 Avenue J, Suite 104, Arlington, TX 76006, 817 962 0042