Things To Do
in Arlington
Arlington, Texas sits between Dallas and Fort Worth, offering world-class sports and entertainment along with family-friendly parks and lakes. It is home to Six Flags Over Texas, AT&T Stadium, and Globe Life Field, making it a hub for big events and weekend getaways. The city blends modern developments in the Entertainment District with quiet neighborhoods around Lake Arlington and River Legacy Park.
With easy access to the broader Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Arlington serves as a convenient base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Afterward, stroll through the serene grounds and take in the breathtaking views of Washington, D.C. from the cemetery’s elevated locations. Make sure to visit the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame, a poignant tribute to the late president.
Head over to the nearby Pentagon Memorial to reflect on the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11th. The memorial's unique design and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful setting for contemplation. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Crystal City, sampling the diverse culinary offerings of this vibrant neighborhood.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Arlington Riverfront, where stunning views of the Potomac River and the D.C. skyline await. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the boats glide by. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, soaking in the beautiful city lights.
Start your morning at the Arlington Arts Center, where you can explore contemporary art exhibitions featuring local and regional artists. Participate in a guided tour to gain insight into the artworks and the stories behind them. Following the tour, enjoy a coffee at the on-site café while discussing your favorite pieces.
Next, visit the nearby Signature Theatre to catch a matinee performance or take a backstage tour to learn about the inner workings of this acclaimed venue. After the show, grab lunch at a local food truck, sampling some of Arlington's best street food. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local galleries in the Clarendon area, discovering hidden artistic gems.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a renowned restaurant that showcases the region’s seasonal ingredients. After your meal, attend a live music event at a local venue, where you can enjoy performances from up-and-coming artists. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the vibrant nightlife of Clarendon, filled with bars and lounges.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-75 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic sports venues and major entertainment options within easy reach
- Family-friendly attractions and events
- Mix of outdoor spaces and urban amenities
- Hot summers can be intense for outdoor activities
- Traffic can be heavy around events; car dependence is common
Places to Visit in Arlington
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic architecture and dramatic lighting at dusk, ideal for structural shots and large-scale sports photography.
Waterfront views with city silhouettes, especially during golden hour and sunset.
Lush woodlands, creeks, and scenic trails offering nature photography opportunities and wildlife shots.
An open-air venue with a distinctive stage and plaza—great for candid concert photography and event imagery.
Food in Arlington
Arlington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a flavorful bark; best found at local BBQ joints in the Entertainment District.
Must-Try!
A Texas staple—breaded and fried beef steak served with gravy, typically found in classic diners and steakhouses.
Tender, smoky ribs glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce; common at BBQ-focused spots around town.
Short tortillas filled with seasoned meat, onions, cilantro, and salsa; widely available across casual Tex-Mex eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in nearby Dallas offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local specialties; a good place to sample regional snacks and vendors.
A lively collection of eateries in the Entertainment District near AT&T Stadium, with a variety of Tex-Mex, BBQ, burgers, and more.
Seasonal clusters of food trucks around the Entertainment District and lakefront areas; great for quick bites like street corn, quesadillas, and other portable favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Texas hospitality is friendly and direct—greet people with a smile, say please and thank you, and respect personal space. When attending sports or events, lines and queues are common; wait your turn and be patient during busy periods.
Safety
Tipping in Arlington
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a tip of 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for good service. Cash tips are always welcomed but most cards are used with electronic tipping options.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still fine at smaller venues and markets. Rideshares and many attractions support digital payments as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with highs often in the 90s–100s °F (30s–40s °C); thunderstorms are common. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours.
Mild and comfortable temperatures with pleasant falls; good for outdoor exploring and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Mild to cool conditions; daytime temperatures often range from the 40s to 60s °F (4–15 °C). Occasional cold snaps can occur, but snow is rare.
Warm and increasingly lush; chance of spring storms; great for outdoor activities and festival atmospheres.
Arlington at Night
Hiking in Arlington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban nature trails through woodlands along streams, offering wildlife viewing and scenic overlooks.
Forested trails and lakeside paths a short drive from Arlington for relaxed hikes.
Hilly, rocky trails with scenic overlooks in the Dallas area, suitable for more ambitious hikes.
Airports
How to reach Arlington by plane.
Major international hub about 15–25 miles from central Arlington; accessible by car, rideshare, or rental car.
Smaller, domestic-focused airport about 20–25 miles from Arlington; convenient for quick trips and short-haul flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large families and multi-generational households, a common pattern in the metroplex.
University of Texas at Arlington students and staff contribute to a youthful, diverse demographic.
A significant presence with Spanish widely heard in many areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dallas Cowboys play at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
Texas Rangers play at Globe Life Field in Arlington.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arlington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Arlington restaurants offer veggie burgers, salads, and vegetable mains; if in doubt, ask for meat-free options and sauces on the side.
Occasional vegan options are available; look for beans, rice bowls, and veggie-focused dishes, and confirm dairy-free preparations when ordering.
Gluten-free options exist in many spots; inform staff of gluten sensitivity and look for dedicated menu notes or cross-contamination precautions.