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Arlington, Texas sits between Dallas and Fort Worth, offering visitors a unique blend of world-class sports venues, thrilling amusement parks, and rich Texas heritage. As one of the largest cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, Arlington draws millions of visitors each year to its renowned entertainment complexes and family-friendly attractions. The city’s convenient location along Interstate 30 makes it an easy day trip from either Dallas or Fort Worth, yet it offers attractions and experiences that stand firmly on their own merit.
The city’s major league sports presence sets it apart from other North Texas communities. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, ranks among the NFL’s most iconic stadiums and has hosted multiple Super Bowls, NCAA football playoffs, and major concerts. The massive retractable roof and colossal video screens create an atmosphere that sports fans describe as unlike anywhere else in professional football. Adjacent to the stadium, Globe Life Park has served as the home ballpark for the Texas Rangers baseball team and continues to host community sporting events and live entertainment throughout the year.
Sports fans will find no shortage of action in Arlington. Catching a Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium is a bucket-list experience for many football enthusiasts, with the stadium’s design allowing for unobstructed views from every seat. The venue also offers stadium tours on non-event days, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the locker rooms, field, and luxury suites. Baseball games at Globe Life Park provide a more intimate setting where fans can get close to the action while enjoying the Texas sunshine.
For family thrills, Six Flags Over Texas has entertained visitors for generations with its collection of roller coasters, water rides, and seasonal events. The park’s Texas Giant coaster and the spinning Justice League ride rank among the most popular attractions. When the Texas heat becomes unbearable, Hurricane Harbor offers refreshing relief with its collection of water slides, wave pools, and lazy river experiences.
Beyond the major venues, Arlington offers cultural attractions worth exploring. The Arlington Museum of Art showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary American art, often featuring works by regional and nationally recognized artists. The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame celebrates the history and champions of bowling, a sport deeply rooted in Arlington’s identity. Sports memorabilia enthusiasts will appreciate the Legends of the Game Museum, which chronicles the history of the Dallas Cowboys through interactive exhibits and rare artifacts.
Outdoor recreation can be found at Lake Arlington, where hikers, joggers, and cyclists take advantage of the maintained trail system that circles the reservoir. The River Legacy Nature Park provides a more natural setting with its forest trails and wildlife viewing areas, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle without leaving city limits.
Arlington’s roots trace back to the 1840s when settlers established farms along the Trinity River. The city was officially incorporated in 1920 and grew steadily as a regional agricultural center. The establishment of Arlington State College (now the University of Texas at Arlington) in 1895 planted the seed for the city’s transformation into a college town and research hub.
The city’s modern identity took shape in the 1950s and 1960s when Six Flags Over Texas opened and attracted families from across the region. The construction of AT&T Stadium in 2009 cemented Arlington’s status as a sports destination, bringing national attention and millions of dollars in economic activity to the city. Today, Arlington continues to grow and evolve while maintaining the independent spirit that has defined it since its founding.
Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather to Arlington, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions and attending sporting events without the oppressive summer heat. These shoulder seasons also tend to have more affordable hotel rates compared to the peak summer months when families descend on the theme parks. Many visitors plan their trips around specific sporting events, as tickets to Cowboys games and Rangers matchups can be hard to secure during peak season.
Summer draws crowds for theme park visits and water park getaways, though visitors should prepare for Texas temperatures that regularly exceed 95 degrees. Early morning park visits are recommended during the summer months to maximize comfort and minimize sun exposure. Winter remains mild in Arlington, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s, making it a pleasant time to catch a football game or explore indoor attractions without the crowds.
Here are some of our recommended things to do near Arlington. Take your pick!
The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum , located adjacent to Globe Life Park in Arlington, celebrates the rich history and legacy of the Texas Rangers—one of the most storied law enforcement organizations in American history. The museum serves as…