Arlington, Texas, which is home to the University of Texas, is more than simply a college town; it is more alive than you could possibly imagine. The city is also home to a wide variety of exciting activities and attractions, from theme parks and the Dallas Cowboys Stadium to lively nightlife and exquisite dining options. Join ViewCation as we curate a list of the best things to do in Arlington, Texas.
Visit the Planetarium at the University of Texas
The planetarium’s family-friendly space-themed public shows and educational activities are a great way to introduce kids of all ages to the wonders of the universe. Powerful telescopes are used during public events to allow viewers to observe the stars and planets up close. During the show, it’s possible that certain planets will be visible to the unaided eye.
The planetarium’s main building is a stunning cylinder that can’t be missed. A show at the planetarium costs $7 for adults and $5 for children and students, and it’s conveniently located in the Chemistry and Physics Building on campus. Even if you’re not interested in astronomy, you can still enjoy a visit to the planetarium because they occasionally host musical experiences in the dome. In addition, the facility’s high-powered surround-sound system will make your visit to faraway galaxies and black holes feel like an out-of-this-world experience.
Test Your Limits at Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center
You can’t go wrong with Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center if you’re looking for a great place to go rock climbing in Arlington. At Dyno Rock Indoor Climbing Center, you may choose from a wide range of climbing walls, from those designed for absolute beginners to those that will test even the most experienced climbers to their limits. All first-time visitors to Dyno Rock are offered a complimentary 15-minute orientation. If this is your first time at the gym or within a calendar year, you must sign a waiver to ensure your safety. If you want to learn how to lead climb, you can take lessons for a price.
In case you get hungry while you’re working out, there are picnic tables set up in one area of the facility, and also, feel free to bring whatever refreshments you’d like.
Catch a game at AT&T Stadium.
Attending a football game at the AT&T Stadium is one of the best things to do in Arlington, since its one of the country’s most popular pastimes. Fans travel from all around Texas to watch a home game for the Dallas Cowboys, who are among the most dominant franchises in NFL history.
AT&T Stadium (aka Jerry World) is where you can catch a Cowboys game. The stadium is one of the largest in the NFL, with a capacity of more than 100,000 fans. However, you don’t have to be a major football fan to enjoy a Cowboys game; everyone can enjoy the atmosphere and cheers of a Cowboys game.
Come to the parking lot early and tailgate with the NFL’s most rabid fans for the full experience. To those unaware, tailgating is the pre-game practice of eating, drinking, and socializing in the back of a car or truck in the parking lot. There is a party vibe because many individuals bring grills and speakers. So get pumped up for the game with some fantastic snacks and company before the Cowboys game.
Splash at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
Arlington is known to have one of the best waterparks in Texas, and that’s the Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark. This waterpark is open all year, so whether it’s hot or chilly outside, you can always have a day of fun here. That’s because it’s enclosed in a glass atrium, enabling you to bask in the sun and swim regardless of the weather. The waterpark offers surfing and bodyboarding training in addition to a massive wave pool and water slides. The Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is relatively new to the Arlington area, but it has rapidly become a favourite among the residents. Renting a cabana for the day comes with a couple of cool VIP treatments, including reserved seats. And if you don’t feel like leaving your cabana all day, you can always order some snacks and refreshments from the poolside snack bar.
Explore the River Legacy Park
River Legacy Park is a massive 1,300-acre park along the Trinity River, excellent for a day of hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits. The park is a great spot to get some exercise because of the abundance of routes for walking and riding bicycles. The Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association (DORBA) keeps the trails in top shape, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The ride is pleasant because the landscape is flat, with only a few modest hills.
If you are feeling incredibly daring, you may even rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the river. This is a more strenuous outing, but it’s also an exciting alternative to the typical park visit. There are trails and a river to explore at River Legacy Park, but there’s also a nature centre there that hosts wildlife-related workshops. A visit to the butterfly garden at the nature centre is a must for any fan of the winged creatures.
River Legacy Park is the perfect spot to enjoy some fresh air and exercise, discover something new about the natural world, or simply unwind.
Catch a baseball game at Globe Life Park
The open-air ballpark Globe Life Park is a marvel of modern architecture. Home to the Texas Rangers, this baseball-only stadium seats 48,114 fans and is part of a 270-acre complex that also features an office building, a 12-acre lake, and other parks and recreational areas. The batting cages, dugout, press box, and the City of Arlington Suite, as well as other hidden gems of the ballpark, are all accessible to the public during tours of the stadium.
When you book a pre-game tour, you’ll get to see the home team warm up and hit some balls from the Commissioner’s Box before the game starts. In addition to public tours, they also provide private tours and school field trips. The First Base Box Office can be found on the southern side of Globe Life Park and serves as the starting point for all tours.
Enjoy a hearty meal at Mariano’s Hacienda.
Every day at Mariano’s Hacienda is busy, but on days when there is a significant sporting event at Globe Life Park, it is so crowded that it is on the verge of exploding. Everyone’s in a good mood thanks to the restaurant’s vibrant Mexican decor, spacious communal tables, and the tantalizing scent of grilling meat and Mexican spices. All of the dishes are tasty and served in substantial servings, making this a great place to enjoy some traditional fare.
Visit the Arlington Museum of Art
For every art lover, the Arlington Museum of Art is a must-see. The museum may be modest in size, but it packs a powerful punch with its ever-changing array of displays.
Previous shows have showcased the work of Arlington residents and international names, including Andy Warhol and Diego Rivera. One of the best things about visiting the Arlington Museum of Art is that the staff is always happy to help you out with any art-related queries you may have.
The museum provides workshops and classes for visitors of all ages who are interested in learning via participation. The Summer Art Camp provides young people with instruction in a variety of artistic mediums and practices during the summer break.
Strike! at the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame.
Bowling is a popular choice of sport for Arlington locals, especially when the weather outside is gloomy.
If you are a fan of the sport of bowling, the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame is the ideal destination for you to visit. In addition to a look back at the sport’s rich past, the museum also features hands-on displays that teach visitors about the science behind the sport.
Head to the on-site cafe for some hearty American fare after you’ve worked up an appetite. If you’re in need of some new bowling equipment, the museum’s pro store has you covered.
Bowling enthusiasts should also check out Alley Cat’s Fun Center. They provide bowling, laser tag, an arcade, as well as a ropes course and other fun activities.
Enjoy lunch at Top O’Hill Terrace.
Like the rest of Texas, Arlington places a high value on its cuisine. Since the 1920s, diners have been able to enjoy the comfort food at Top O’ Hill Terrace.
Top O’ Hill Terrace has seen it all, from illegal gaming in a hidden casino room to FBI raids. This eatery, known as “Vegas before Vegas,” has witnessed its share of action.
In its current incarnation as a museum, Top O’ Hill is open to the public by appointment only. If you like doing some retail therapy after lunch, The Parks Mall is conveniently located close by, and it has many retailers to choose from. More than 150 shops and a food court full of popular eateries can be found inside this massive shopping centre. The Parks Mall is home to numerous popular retailers such as H&M, Forever 21, Zara, and Sephora.
After a long day of shopping, relax in the Parks Mall’s movie theatre and see the latest box office hit. The Parks Mall, found on Cooper Street South, is convenient and offers free parking to its customers.
There you have it. It is now time for us to hear from you. Let us know in the comments which fun activity piqued your interest the most. And, for those who have vacationed in Arlington, Texas, what was the most memorable aspect of your experience? Remember to show your support by liking this video and subscribing to the channel. Enabling post notifications will ensure that you don’t miss any of our daily uploads. Catch you in the next one.