Things To Do
in Garland

Garland, Texas, is a vibrant suburb of Dallas known for its diverse community and rich history. The city boasts beautiful parks, a variety of dining options, and numerous cultural attractions. With its close proximity to Dallas, Garland offers a unique mix of suburban charm and urban convenience.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities from shopping and dining to outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown Garland
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Garland Landmark Museum to learn about the city's history.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the downtown area, exploring local shops, and enjoy lunch at a popular eatery.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dinner at a family-owned restaurant followed by a live performance at the Plaza Theatre.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Fun and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a morning hike at the nearby Spring Creek Forest Preserve, enjoying the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the Hawaiian Falls Waterpark for some fun in the sun and grab a quick bite at the park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a barbecue joint, then check out local breweries for a taste of Garland's craft beer scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-25
🍕Pizza for delivery$10-20
Coffee$3-5
🚌Public transport fare$2
🏨Hotel night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Close proximity to Dallas for additional attractions
  • Family-friendly activities and parks
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Garland

Visit one of these nice places.

Garland Civic Plaza

A beautifully landscaped area perfect for capturing the city's skyline and vibrant community events.

Spring Creek Forest Preserve

A scenic nature area with trails and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature photography.

Historic Downtown Garland

Charming historic buildings and unique storefronts provide a picturesque backdrop for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Garland

Garland offers a rich culinary scene that reflects its diverse culture, with a variety of local dishes that are a must-try.

Garland Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tex-Mex Tacos

Indulge in flavorful tacos filled with meats, beans, and fresh toppings, a staple in Garland's dining scene.

Must-Try!

Barbecue Brisket

Savor the smoky, tender brisket that Texas is known for, often served with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Garland Farmers Market

A great spot to find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Garland has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can soar above 90°F (32°C), while winters are usually mild, with average lows around 30°F (-1°C). Rainfall is common, especially in spring and early summer, providing a lush environment.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly smile and a simple 'hello' go a long way in establishing rapport with locals.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Respect for Personal Space

While Texans are friendly, it's important to respect personal space, especially in public settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Garland is generally safe for visitors, but like any urban area, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables out of sight and use well-lit paths when walking. Emergency services are readily available, and the local police department is responsive.

Tipping in Garland

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% in restaurants and for services like taxis.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's good to have some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather; perfect for water parks and cooling off at local swimming spots.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a lovely atmosphere for outdoor events and hikes.

Winter

Winters are mild but can occasionally drop below freezing; it's a good time for indoor activities and holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Garland at Night

Garland's nightlife offers a mix of options from relaxed pubs to lively music venues. You can enjoy live music at local bars, karaoke nights, or even trivia contests. The Plaza Theatre often hosts shows, making it a cultural hub for evening entertainment.

Hiking in Garland

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rowlett Creek Preserve Trail

A scenic 5.5-mile trail perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Lake Ray Hubbard Trail

This trail offers beautiful views of the lake and is great for walking, running, and cycling.

Airports

How to reach Garland by plane.

Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)

Located about 30 minutes from Garland, this airport serves domestic flights and is a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Garland offers a moderate level of walkability, especially in its downtown area. Sidewalks are available in most neighborhoods, and parks are accessible for walking. However, some areas may require a car to reach key destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic Community

A significant portion of Garland's population is Hispanic, contributing richly to the local culture and cuisine.

African American Community

The African American community plays a vital role in the city’s cultural landscape, with various events and organizations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are immensely popular, with local games drawing large crowds.

Basketball

With several local teams, basketball enjoys a strong following, especially during the NBA season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Garland can be heavy during rush hours, particularly on major thoroughfares. Public transportation includes buses operated by DART, which provides a reliable option for navigating the city and connecting to Dallas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Garland.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Garland offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that all dietary needs can be met.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Garland is facilitated by several hospitals and clinics, including the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center. Emergency services are efficient, and numerous specialized clinics cater to various health needs, ensuring residents and visitors can obtain necessary medical care.

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