Top Attractions for First-Time Visitors
Sports and Entertainment
Arlington is perhaps best known as the home of major sports franchises and entertainment venues. Sports fans won’t want to miss catching a Texas Rangers baseball game at beautiful Globe Life Field or watching the Dallas Cowboys play at the massive AT&T Stadium. The state-of-the-art Esports Stadium Arlington also hosts video game tournaments and events. And music lovers can catch major concerts and shows at venues like Theatre Arlington and Levitt Pavilion.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
From fascinating museums to beautiful gardens, Arlington has lots of cultural attractions to explore. Learn about Arlington’s history at the Arlington Museum of Art or see incredible artworks at the Gallery at Midtown. The Arlington Museum of History offers an interactive look at the city’s past. And the beautiful Sanford House Museum and Gardens combines history and nature. You can also visit the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame to learn all about the sport’s history.
Amusement Parks
Amusement park lovers will have a blast in Arlington! Take the family to Six Flags Over Texas for thrills on roller coasters and other rides. Younger kids will enjoy Safari Springs Waterpark with splash areas, slides, and more wet fun. For indoor amusement, visit the FreePlay Arcade to play classic and modern arcade games and ride simulated thrill rides.
Outdoor Activities
Arlington has lots of opportunities to enjoy the sunny Texas weather. Walk or bike on the many trails at River Legacy Parks, try rock climbing at Summit Arlington, hit the links at Tierra Verde Golf Club, or go bowling outdoors at The Bowlero. You can also go kayaking on Lake Arlington or do some stand up paddle boarding on the Trinity River.
Shopping Areas
Shopaholics will be in heaven with Arlington’s variety of shopping malls and centers. Find major high-end retailers at The Parks Mall, eclectic boutiques in the Downtown Arlington Entertainment District, and big box stores at Arlington Highlands. You can also browse art galleries and antiques shops in the Cultural District and find funky vintage wares in Entertainment District antique stores.
Local Flavor
When hunger strikes, Arlington has no shortage of fantastic local restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Savor Texas BBQ at old school joints like Angelos or try creative tacos and margaritas at places like Tacos and Avocados and Los Vaqueros. For a fun night out, hit up lively spots like Social House and J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill. And be sure to treat yourself to desserts from Sweet Sammies or Big Mama’s Chicken & Waffles.
Historic Downtown
Take a stroll through charming historic downtown Arlington to see beautiful preserved architecture dating back to the late 1800s. Popular sights include Levitt Pavilion, Arlington Masonic Temple, and the 1902 Arlington Courthouse.
Parks and Nature Areas
In addition to River Legacy Parks, Arlington has numerous other green spaces to enjoy nature. Visit Richard Greene Linear Park for hiking and biking trails or Veterans Park with lakeside views and a memorial plaza. Pioneer Plaza in downtown also offers fountains and gardens.
Food Tours
A fun way to dive into Arlington’s dining scene is by taking a guided food tour. Companies like Blue Plate Tours offer walking tours to several restaurants where you can try local specialties and learn about the city’s culinary history.
Performing Arts
Catch outstanding theater, dance, and music shows at venues like Arlington Music Hall, Creative Arts Theater & School, and Arlington Improv Comedy Club. You can also see opera, ballet, and concerts from the Arlington Symphony Orchestra.
Trampoline Parks
Bounce the day away at massive indoor trampoline parks like Skybound Trampoline Park or Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, which also have zip lines, rock climbing, and ninja obstacle courses.
Pantego Pictures Cinema Grill
For a fun night at the movies, visit this theater where you can watch new releases while dining on burgers, pizzas, and other American fare that gets delivered right to your seat.
Escape Rooms
Team up for an exciting real-life adventure at immersive escape room attractions like Epic Escape Game Rooms and The Great Escape Game Arlington.
AT&T Stadium Tours
Football fans can go behind the scenes of the Dallas Cowboys’ home turf on a guided AT&T Stadium Tour. Explore the field, locker rooms, post-game interview room, luxury suites, and more.
College Park Center
Catch fast-paced sporting events and concerts at this modern indoor arena on the University of Texas at Arlington campus. It hosts UTA’s basketball and volleyball teams along with major touring acts.
How to Get Around Arlington
Public Transportation
Arlington does have public bus routes through the city and to neighboring Fort Worth, operated by Trinity Metro. These can be handy for getting between major sights like Six Flags, Globe Life Field, and The Parks Mall. The buses generally run from early morning to late evenings 7 days a week.
Taxis and Rideshares
Another transportation option is booking a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. These work well for shorter point-to-point trips within the city. Prices vary based on distance traveled and demand.
Charter Buses
For effortless transportation around Arlington for medium or large groups, chartering a private bus is the way to go. You’ll have the convenience of traveling together in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle while a professional team handles navigating the city. Charter buses allow you to customize routes and schedules to fit your group’s needs. Call us at 682-226-7100 to learn more about our Arlington charter bus rentals.
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this beginner’s guide gets you excited to start planning your upcoming Arlington getaway! With world-famous attractions, hidden local gems, and convenient transportation options, you’re sure to have an amazing time no matter what brings you here. Let us know if you need any help arranging reliable charter bus transportation for your group’s Arlington adventure!