Howdy Partner! Unleash Your Inner Texan in Arlington (and Maybe Avoid a Rattlesnake or Two)
So you're headed to Arlington, Texas, land of cowboys (sort of), football fanatics (definitely), and some of the biggest thrills this side of the Mississippi (or maybe the Pecos River, if you're feeling geographically specific). But hold your horses (or maybe your ten-gallon hat), there's more to Arlington than meets the eye (unless your eye is glued to a giant Jerry Jones bobblehead).
Thrill Seeker? Buckle Up!
- Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor: Need I say more? This amusement park combo is a one-stop shop for heart-pounding roller coasters, refreshing water slides, and enough funnel cake to send your dentist into hiding. Just remember, if you see a coyote wearing a tiny cowboy hat, that's probably just your funnel cake talking.
- K1 Speed: If your idea of fun involves high speeds and questionable life choices, then K1 Speed is your jam. Race electric go-karts around a track, pretend you're in the Indy 500 (with way less danger... hopefully) and unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton (minus the fancy car and the questionable tax haven).
Calling All Culture Vultures (Without the Vultures)
- Arlington Museum of Art: Brush shoulders with Picassos and Toulouse-Lautrecs (don't worry, they won't mind) at this surprisingly swanky museum. It's a great place to escape the Texas heat and contemplate the finer things in life, like why cowboys wore such uncomfortable-looking hats.
- International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame: Did you know bowling has a hall of fame? You do now! This quirky museum is a must-see for fans of the sport (or those who just enjoy watching people fling giant balls down an alley). Plus, it's a guaranteed conversation starter: "Hey, did you know there's a bowling hall of fame in Arlington?"
The Great Outdoors (Because Texas Ain't All About Malls)
- River Legacy Parks: Lace up your walking shoes and explore over 1,000 acres of trails, forests, and wetlands. Just keep an eye out for the occasional armadillo or be prepared to explain to your city-slicker friends why those armadillo-shaped souvenirs are a terrible idea.
- Levitt Pavilion: Catch a free concert under the stars at this outdoor venue. From jazz to indie rock, there's something for everyone (except maybe rattlesnakes, they probably don't dig the music). Bring a picnic basket, a blanket, and your dancing shoes (or two-stepping boots, if you're feeling fancy).
Bonus: Feed Your Inner Cowboy (Without Actually Wrangling Any Cattle)
- Texas Live!: Catch a rodeo, a concert, or just grab some grub at this entertainment complex. It's the perfect place to soak up the Texas atmosphere without having to learn how to ride a bull (although, they might offer lessons. I wouldn't recommend it).
- Downtown Arlington: Stroll down the historic streets and pretend you're a lone ranger moseying into town (minus the six-shooters and the tumbleweeds). There's plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars to keep you entertained, all within walking distance (so you can save your horse... or Uber account).
So there you have it, partner! A heaping helping of fun things to do in Arlington, Texas. Just remember, the most important thing is to relax, have fun, and maybe learn a little bit about Texan culture (even if it just involves learning how to say "y'all" without sounding like a tourist). Now git out there and explore!
