Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Arlington, TX

  • Published 2021/10/01

Home to the University of Texas, Arlington, Texas, is more than just a college town.

The city is more vibrant than you could ever imagine.

Being the home ground to some of the American football legends, Arlington invites you all to come and have a taste of its best theme parks and music fests.

Let us have a look at all the 15 best things to do in Arlington:

Watch the UTA Mavericks Play at College Park Center

Basketball Playeres at College Park Center

Mark Fann / Shutterstock.com

College Park Center is the University of Texas at Arlington – Arlington’s first events venue.

It’s the perfect place to show your support for the UTA Mavericks men’s basketball team while preparing for their games.

Not only do regular volleyball and basketball games take place here but also lectures, concerts, commencements, and a variety of other noteworthy events.

Basketball Playeres at College Park Center

Mark Fann / Shutterstock.com

Concerts can seat up to 6,750 people at the Center, while court-based sports events may host up to 7,000 people.

A computer lab, study hall, and offices for students and academic advisers are available in the Center’s study area.

A 20-acre district comprises the Center, the College Park building, the Dan Dipert University Welcome Center, and The Green at College Park.

Go Wood Skating at Arlington Skatium

Roller skating on a wooden floor may not seem as romantic as ice skating; however, the Arlington Skatium is the perfect spot to give it a try.

The Arlington Skatium is Texas’ biggest roller rink.

A newly refurbished, state-of-the-art facility, it serves Dallas as well as Fort Worth.

You will enjoy skating with its Constellation Lighting that offers an enhanced lighting system with a rainbow spectrum of colors, event-themed lighting, and dimming options.

There’s also black lighting to make sure you sparkle in neon.

The Skatium also caters to parties, group lessons, and public free skating sessions.

For further information about programs and fees, visit Skatium’s website.

Have a Great Day at Six Flags

Six Flags in Arlington

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The iconic Six Flags amusement park is the first thing that comes in fun-seeking people’s minds whenever Texas or, rather, Arlington is mentioned.

So we decided not to let down those passionate people, and here we are kick-starting our journey at the legendary Six Flags amusement park.

For those of you who don’t know, Six Flags is an extremely fun amusement park found in very few locations – Texas being one of them.

What’s more, there is a Six Flags right here in Arlington.

So let’s get started.

This amusement park is one of the wildest parks in the history of amusement parks.

With two Batman-and-Superman-themed water rides, Six Flags is truly the best.

There are also a lot of fast-food chains inside.

If you get hungry after the rides, you can stop by them.

Go See the Lake Arlington

Jet Fly Board at Lake Arlington

W. Scott McGill / Shutterstock.com

Let’s see a beautiful water body right now.

By now, you must have understood that this lake right here is the main one in Arlington.

Let us tell you a bit now about this gorgeous lake.

The lake is mainly known for being home to many fishes, which are magnets for fishers.

The prominent bass of this lake is well renowned. Here, you can do kayaking, swimming, and so on.

Want to dip your feet in the freshwater for a bit? Try out paddling here.

Test Your Limits at Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center

A fantastic spot to try indoor rock climbing in Arlington is the Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center.

A variety of climbing walls are available at Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center, ranging in complexity from completely inexperienced to outrageously challenging.

Anyone who’s never gone to Dyno Rock before is entitled to a free 15-minute briefing.

Take note that you must sign a safety waiver before being allowed to participate if this is your first visit to the gym (or your first visit in the current calendar year).

There are classes available for an additional fee if you’d like to learn how to do lead climbing.

In case hunger kicks in during your workout, there are picnic tables located at one part of the gym.

Don’t hesitate to bring food and drinks with you!

Please notify the facility two weeks earlier if you want to bring a large party (10 or more climbers).

If not, feel free to drop by whenever you like!

Catch a Game at AT&T Stadium

AT&T Stadium

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Are you a sportsperson? Do you live and breathe American football?

It doesn’t matter even if you don’t, for this is one of the most popular attractions in Arlington, and it will be a shame if you miss out on this.

Homeground of the iconic Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is the pride of Arlington, Texas.

It might be immensely difficult to get a ticket and watch a game live here.

But we encourage you to visit this place once and look around.

It also happens to be the world’s biggest dome-shaped building to have been ever built.

Even Beyonce performed a show here.

Witness the Musical Performances of Symphony Arlington

Arlington’s music scene continues to thrive with local talents, such as the Symphony Arlington.

Maestro Robert Carter Austin has led the Symphony Arlington since its first season in 2000.

Ninety-three professional players from 19 nations make up the orchestra, which also features several well-regarded soloists.

In 2010, the orchestra moved from the Tarrant County College Roberson Theatre, which seats 200 people, to its permanent home in the historic and opulent Arlington Music Hall.

The music hall has been refurbished and outfitted with the most up-to-date audio and lighting technology.

The interior is decorated in a stylish and traditional style.

You can catch its weekly performances every Thursday, featuring different musicians.

For more information about upcoming events, check out Symphony’s website.

Check Out River Legacy Park

River Legacy Park

aphotostory / Shutterstock.com

Done with the rides? Let’s head to the city now to check out the scenic beauties for a bit.

The River Legacy Park is one of the most beautiful parks beside the Trinity River in Arlington.

Encompassing an area of more than 1031 acres of land, River Legacy Park is a great way to enjoy a summer afternoon.

Filled with different shades of green, the park is the epitome of tranquility.

Though there are a lot of enthusiasts who come to this park in search of trails, the object of affection here has to be nature itself.

There are some hiking trails of more than 10 miles that you can try out, such as sitting under a tree and having a picnic.

There is also an area for your kids to play and have some fun.

Be Amazed at the Planetarium

The planetarium is not an old attraction in Arlington.

It did not even exist before 1975, and we have a very wise man to thank for making this exist now.

Professor Ulrich Herrmann was the one who said that the University of Texas at Arlington should have a planetarium.

And, fortunately, there was a building with a global round top that fit the role of being a planetarium.

It features a Digistar 5 DLP Projection system and is rightfully known as one of the most advanced ones in all of the state.

Also, the projections you get to see feel the most real compared to any other planetarium.

Get to Know More About Bowling at the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame

Bowling Museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

We have stated earlier hoe Arlington is quite a sporty place, and the presence of AT&T Stadium proves that.

However, that is not the end. There’s more!

Bowling Museum did not initially use to be in Arlington.

The original one was in Missouri but was shifted later on.

Now, you can enjoy this sight here in Arlington.

If you are into bowling, this is the perfect excuse for you!

Did you know that bowling has a history that dates back to more than 5000 years?

Yes! Get to know everything about that rich history right here in the Bowling Museum.

There is also a Hall of Fame along with it, so don’t forget to check that out either.

Visit a Bit of Vegas in Top O’ Hill Terrace

Welcome to what was once known as Vegas of Texas. But it all happened even before Vegas became a hotshot!

Top O’Hill is one of the earliest casinos in all of Texas or America.

Whenever people want to gamble or enjoy a good time, they head over to the Top O’Hill.

But all of this was illegal!

There was even a brothel along with the underground casino.

While all of those can no longer be found, you can still see the structure standing tall.

Do check out this place as it is now just a historic site.

Get Energized at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts

Orchestra at Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Do you like concerts? Are you into substantial musical events and parties?

We have another surprise for you: the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts.

It is a known fact that the Arlington people love their music!

Also, for this love, there is something loud going on in the downtown area.

Yes, we are serious!

You will never find a quiet, lifeless Arlington, for they are always involved in some festivals.

Here at Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, they are always organizing something.

Also, it is completely a non-profit organization that does all of these for free.

Many artists are also known for performing here.

Explore the Arlington Museum of Art

Arlington Museum of Art

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want to look at some art now? We have something for you!

Let’s get back into the city center and check out a few aesthetic places.

If you want to have a quiet afternoon appreciating and looking at different art styles, then we have the Arlington Museum of Art for you!

The object of the focus of the Arlington Museum of Art is mainly the different contemporary arts of Texas.

However, in the middle of all the local and rising artists, you can also find some famous international names.

It has one of the most extensive collections of art in Texas.

All art lovers need to go and appreciate this gorgeous art destination.

Go Bowling at Alley Cats Entertainment

Did we catch your attention with the Bowling Museum? Does it make you want to go bowling now?

Okay, we hear you!

Even if you are an amateur and want to try out your hand at something interesting, you have to head over to the Alley Cats.

Let’s introduce you to Alley Cats a bit now.

Apart from providing first-class bowling services, Alley Cats also happens to be the solution to your hunger problems after an evening of bowling.

Did you know there is also a bar within Alley Cats?

Head over to grab a beer after you are done bowling.

Do a Little Shopping at The Parks Mall at Arlington

The Parks Mall

Jafer Al haboubi / Shutterstock.com

Are you done with all the sightseeing in Arlington?

Feeling a bit disappointed on the shopping part?

Don’t worry, we have the perfect next place for you to check out.

Let’s head over to The Parks Mall.

This mall is one of the most prominent shopping destinations in Texas.

It has gone through many renovations, and now it is the object of the prime attraction among shoppers.

Since its establishment in 1988, The Parks has been highly appreciated among the locals and tourists for housing some of the best-branded shops.

Also, it has some of the best boutiques in all of Texas.

Play Some Golf at Tierra Verde Golf Club

Want to play some golf amid nature? How will you feel if we tell you that this course even had won several awards?

Welcome to the Tierra Verde Golf Club.

This is one of the most premium golf courses in all of Texas.

It has a ground that extends all around for almost 250 acres.

Also, the piece of land is isolated.

So, the area is quiet, and you will finally get to see some alone time.

Away from the chaotic city life, Tierra Verde Golf Club provides one of the best ways to spend an afternoon.

Also, if you are a noob in golf, you can even get some lessons right here.

Catch Another Game at Globe Life Park

Globe Life Park

Katherine Welles / Shutterstock.com

Didn’t you get to catch a game at the AT&T Stadium?

Don’t worry, we still have something left for you in the sports division.

Being the home ground of the iconic Texas Rangers, Globe Life Park seats more than 48,114 people.

The game nights tend to get quite loud here, and you are bound to enjoy yourselves.

Also, the whole complex sits on a land of almost 360 acres, so there is also a lot of other stuff to check out here.

Did you know that there is a vast lake right inside the stadium?

Check everything out when you visit!

Check Out Some Local Beers

Texas means steak and beer. Such is the case with Arlington, Texas.

If you are done with the entire sightseeing of Arlington, it is time to check out some of the good breweries or beers in town.

There are many breweries in Arlington where you can head over to taste some of the local flavors.

If you want to check out the source of how it all started, you should visit The Division Brewery.

This happens is one of the first ones that led Arlington into being one of the beer towns.

Some of the local flavors are also shipped internationally.

Check Out the University of Texas at Arlington

University of Texas

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Now, you might be asking us what is so unique about a university campus?

But you already saw the planetarium there, and there’s more from where that came from!

Let’s check out the campus of one of the most prestigious universities in America: The University of Texas at Arlington.

Let us give you some details on what to see.

Here, you’ll see the majestic gallery located within the campus.

Also, it has the Masters of Fine Art exhibition, which is like a dream for all the art students.

Final Thoughts

With our list of the best things to do in Arlington, you’ll never run out of choices whether you’re a sports fan, an outdoor enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie!

After all, it is North Texas’ professional sports and entertainment destination.

But coming here, you’ll realize there’s more to Arlington than this.

Experience the Texas spirit and check out Arlington!

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