10 Best Things To Do Near Arlington, Texas for Visitors

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Arlington, Texas (Tarrant County)

If you’re looking for a Texas trip that mixes big-time sports, family fun, and local flavor, Arlington, Texas should be on your list. Nestled in Tarrant County, right between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington is packed with things to do—whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through on a road trip along I-20 or I-30. Below are 10 fun things to do in and near Arlington, TX that locals actually enjoy and visitors remember long after they leave.

1. Catch a Game or Concert at AT&T Stadium

You can’t talk about Arlington without mentioning AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. Even if you’re not a huge football fan, this place is jaw-dropping.
  • What to do: Watch an NFL game, catch a major concert, or take a guided tour.
  • Why go: It’s like a small city under one roof, with massive video screens and artwork everywhere.
  • Tip: If you’re on a budget, the stadium tour is usually cheaper than game day tickets and still gives you that “wow” moment.
On a tour, you can often stand right on the field, check out the locker rooms, and see parts of the stadium regular fans never experience. It’s a great “bucket list” stop for any sports lover visiting Arlington, Texas.

2. Feel the Thrill at Six Flags Over Texas

Just a short drive from AT&T Stadium sits Six Flags Over Texas, one of the classic amusement parks in the country.
  • Heart-pounding roller coasters for thrill seekers.
  • Gentler rides and shows for kids and families.
  • Seasonal events like Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park.
If you love theme parks, this is a must-do near Arlington. Wear comfy shoes, pack sunscreen, and plan to spend most of the day there. Lines can be long in the summer, so consider going on a weekday or arriving early.

3. Make a Splash at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Texas heat is no joke, especially in July and August. Luckily, Hurricane Harbor Arlington is right next door.
  • Huge water slides and a wave pool.
  • Lazy river for when you just want to float and relax.
  • Kids’ play areas with shallow water and mini slides.
If you’re visiting Arlington in the summer, pairing Six Flags Over Texas one day and Hurricane Harbor the next can turn your trip into a mini vacation. Pro tip: Check for combo tickets or season passes if you have a bigger group—it can save quite a bit of money.

4. See a Texas Rangers Game at Globe Life Field

Baseball fans will love Globe Life Field, the home of the Texas Rangers. It’s a modern stadium with a retractable roof, which means you can enjoy the game without melting in the summer sun.
  • Comfortable seating and air-conditioned concourses.
  • Local food options like BBQ and Tex-Mex.
  • Great spot for families, date night, or a friends’ outing.
Even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, there’s something special about hanging out at the ballpark with a hot dog in hand and watching a game as the sun goes down.

5. Stroll and Dine in Downtown Arlington & Urban Union

Looking for something a little more laid-back? Head into Downtown Arlington and the nearby Urban Union area. Here you’ll find:
  • Locally owned restaurants and coffee shops.
  • Craft breweries and relaxed bars.
  • Colorful street art, murals, and public art pieces.
  • Occasional live music and community events.
It’s a great place to park the car, walk around, grab a burger or tacos, and just soak in the local vibe. If you like discovering spots that feel more “local” than touristy, this is for you.

6. Explore Art and Theater at the Arlington Museum of Art & Levitt Pavilion

If you enjoy a little culture with your travel, Arlington has that covered too. Arlington Museum of Art often features rotating exhibits—everything from photography and pop culture themes to more traditional art. It’s a small, friendly museum, so you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Levitt Pavilion, an outdoor venue that hosts tons of free concerts throughout much of the year.
  • Bring a blanket or lawn chairs.
  • Pack a picnic or grab food from nearby restaurants.
  • Relax under the stars while listening to live music.
It’s one of those experiences that makes you feel like you’re part of the community, even if you’re just visiting.

7. Relax in Nature at River Legacy Parks

Need a break from stadiums and roller coasters? Head to River Legacy Parks in North Arlington along the Trinity River. This huge, green space offers:
  • Miles of walking and biking trails.
  • Shady picnic areas and playgrounds.
  • A nature center with educational exhibits and live animals.
It’s peaceful, easy to access, and perfect for a morning walk or an afternoon picnic. If you like to stay active on vacation, this is a great place to jog, bike, or just stroll and unwind.

8. Visit the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) Campus

College campuses can be surprisingly fun places to explore, and UT Arlington is no exception.
  • Walk through the tree-lined campus and check out the architecture.
  • Look for public art pieces and student murals.
  • Catch a Mavericks game, play, or performance if one lines up with your visit.
If you’re traveling with teens who are starting to think about college, touring UTA can turn your Arlington trip into an easy and low-pressure campus visit. Even if you’re not college shopping, it’s a nice place to stretch your legs and grab a coffee.

9. Take a Day Trip to Fort Worth’s Stockyards

While this list focuses on things to do near Arlington, Texas, one of the best perks of staying here is how close you are to other great spots in Tarrant County—especially Fort Worth, only about 20–25 minutes away. At the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can:
  • Watch a real Texas cattle drive down the street.
  • Walk on old brick roads and explore western-style shops.
  • Visit honky-tonk bars and listen to live country music.
It feels like stepping back in time, but with plenty of modern dining and nightlife. If you want a taste of “Old West” Texas without driving hours into the countryside, this is the place.

10. Shop, Eat, and Play at Lincoln Square & Local Shopping Areas

Sometimes, you just want a relaxed day of shopping and snacking. Arlington offers several convenient shopping areas, especially around the entertainment district. Lincoln Square and nearby centers feature:
  • National chains and local boutiques.
  • Plenty of casual restaurants—perfect before or after a game.
  • Easy access to hotels and main roads.
This is also a good area to base yourself if you’re staying overnight. You’ll be close to AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, Six Flags, and plenty of food options.

Planning Your Arlington, Texas Trip

Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit to Arlington in Tarrant County:
  • Getting around: A car makes life much easier. Distances aren’t huge, but spots are spread out.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall are comfortable. Summers are hot, but perfect for water parks and indoor stadiums.
  • Where to stay: Look near the Entertainment District if you want to be close to stadiums and Six Flags.
Arlington blends big-league sports, theme parks, local parks, and art in a way that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re coming for a Cowboys game, a family vacation, or just exploring North Texas, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Arlington Spots!

Have you visited Arlington, Texas or anywhere else in Tarrant County?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Do you have a go-to restaurant, bar, or park in the area?
  • Any tips for first-time visitors that we didn’t mention?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—your experience might help someone else plan their perfect Arlington trip. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a visit to North Texas. The more local tips we trade, the better our travels get.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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