Things To Do
in Irving

Irving, Texas, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Known for its diverse culture and rich history, Irving offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city is home to several major corporations and hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year.

With its convenient access to major highways and proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth, Irving is a hub for business and leisure travelers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Irving
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Irving Arts Center, where you can explore various art exhibits and enjoy the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Head to the Las Colinas area for lunch at a local café, then take a stroll around the Mandalay Canal Walk for picturesque views.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a Tex-Mex restaurant and catch a live performance at the Toyota Music Factory.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the beautiful Campion Trail for a morning hike or bike ride, enjoying the natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the National Scouting Museum to learn about the history of scouting and its impact on youth development.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local steakhouse and enjoy a nightcap at one of the nearby bars or lounges.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍕Pizza (Medium)$15
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel Night (Mid-range)$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity with numerous dining options.
  • Easy access to major highways and nearby cities.
  • Pleasant weather in spring and fall.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Irving

Visit one of these nice places.

Mandalay Canal Walk

A picturesque area lined with beautiful canals, perfect for capturing scenic views.

Irving Arts Center

Featuring stunning architecture and vibrant art displays, ideal for artistic photography.

Las Colinas Flower Mound

A beautiful area with landscaped gardens, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Irving

Irving boasts a diverse culinary scene influenced by its multicultural population, offering a variety of delicious local dishes and international cuisines.

Irving Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Brisket Tacos

Tender smoked brisket served in soft corn tortillas, topped with fresh salsa and onions.

Must-Try!

Chicken-Fried Steak

A Texas classic, this breaded beef steak is fried and served with creamy gravy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Irving Farmers Market

A local market offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and seasonal specialties.

Street Tacos

Food trucks around the city serve delicious street tacos filled with various meats and toppings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Irving has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach the upper 90s°F, while winter temperatures typically range from the mid-30s to low 60s°F. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple handshake and a smile are standard ways to greet someone.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; Texans value their personal boundaries.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social events is highly regarded.

Safety Guide

Safety

Irving is generally considered a safe city for residents and visitors. However, it's recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are readily available, and local law enforcement is proactive in maintaining safety.

Tipping in Irving

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F; stay hydrated and seek shade.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; a perfect season for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; prepare for sudden temperature changes.

Nightlife Guide

Irving at Night

Irving's nightlife scene is vibrant, featuring a mix of bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. The Toyota Music Factory is a central hub for entertainment, hosting concerts and events. You'll find a variety of lounges and pubs offering craft cocktails, local brews, and a lively atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Irving

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cedar Ridge Preserve

Located about 20 minutes from Irving, this preserve features several hiking trails with beautiful views of the area's natural landscape.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland

About an hour's drive from Irving, this area offers expansive trails for hiking and exploring the unique grassland ecosystem.

Airports

How to reach Irving by plane.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Located approximately 10 miles from Irving, DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Irving is moderately walkable, with some neighborhoods featuring pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and parks. However, some areas may require a vehicle for easier access to attractions and amenities. The Las Colinas area, in particular, offers a scenic environment for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic Community

A significant portion of Irving's population identifies as Hispanic, contributing to the city's cultural richness.

Asian Community

Irving has a growing Asian community, which adds to the diversity of local cuisine and cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American Football

Football is incredibly popular in Texas, with local high school games drawing significant crowds.

Baseball

The Texas Rangers, based in nearby Arlington, are a major league baseball team followed passionately by locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Irving can become congested, especially during rush hours. Major highways like I-635 and I-35E serve the area, and it's advisable to plan trips outside peak times when possible. Public transportation options include buses, but many residents prefer driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Irving.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Irving offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus for options.

Gluten-Free Options

A number of eateries provide gluten-free alternatives; consider calling ahead to confirm.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Irving has multiple healthcare facilities, including the Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and the Las Colinas Medical Center. Emergency services are readily available, and many pharmacies operate around the clock. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance for medical emergencies.

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Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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