Things to do in Arlington
Explore things to do in Arlington, from sports and family attractions to parks, indoor entertainment, shopping, dining, and weekend activities.
Arlington combines major-league sports, live entertainment, varied dining, and family attractions in a city that is easy to explore over a day or weekend. Its best-known entertainment district brings stadium events and lively gathering spots together, while downtown offers a more local setting for restaurants, nightlife, and community activities. Shopping areas across the city add everything from familiar retailers to international markets.
Things to do in Arlington also extend beyond ticketed events. Public parks and neighborhood recreation areas offer room to walk, play, and spend time outdoors, while water attractions are especially appealing during hot Texas summers. Families can find arcades, bowling, and other all-weather activities, and adults have a broad choice of casual restaurants and sports-focused venues. Because game days and concerts can affect traffic and parking, it helps to check event schedules before heading out. Whether the plan centers on a stadium experience, an indoor afternoon, or a relaxed meal, Arlington supports flexible itineraries for different ages, interests, and budgets.
Frequently asked questions about Arlington
What are the best things to do in Arlington?▾
Start with Arlington’s sports and entertainment district, where you can see AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, then explore local shopping areas or spend time in the city’s parks. Checking event calendars before you go can help shape the day.
What can families with kids do in Arlington?▾
Families can cool off on slides and water attractions at Hurricane Harbor Arlington or choose bowling, arcade games, and other activities at Alley Cats Entertainment. Age and height requirements may apply, so review current details before visiting.
Are there free or budget-friendly things to do in Arlington?▾
A budget-friendly day can include walking around downtown, visiting public parks, and browsing Ben Thanh Plaza and Central Market. Free community events may also be available, depending on the date.
What are the best indoor things to do in Arlington?▾
For a rainy day, browse The Parks Mall at Arlington or play arcade games at Tokyo Station by Free Play. Indoor entertainment venues and shopping centers provide alternatives when outdoor plans change.
Where should I eat during a weekend in Arlington?▾
Arlington’s dining scene ranges from casual sports-viewing venues to international cooking. Prince Lebanese Grill offers Lebanese fare, while J. Gilligan's Bar & Grill is a longstanding option for relaxed bar-and-grill dining.
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Things to do in Arlington

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BoomerJack's Grill
Branch of a local chain known for beer, burgers & other pub grub, with a patio & sports on many TVs.

Colaw Fitness

Globe Life Field
Choctaw Stadium
Home to the Texas Rangers, this baseball stadium with a granite & brick facade seats 48,000+ fans.
WinCo Foods
Employee-owned 24/7 supermarket chain with discounted groceries & bulk foods, plus a deli & bakery.
Lincoln Square
Shopping mall with stores & a range of dining options, plus bars & live entertainment.

Hurricane Harbor Arlington
North Texas' largest water park features 50 acres of rides & slides & a 1-million-gallon wave pool.
Dave & Buster's Arlington
Family-friendly chain offering a sports-bar-style setting for American food & arcade games.

Arlington Highlands
Retail market & office park with stores, restaurants & entertainment facilities.
Ojos Locos Sports Cantina - Arlington
Mini-chain of sports bars featuring TV soccer games, Mexican-inspired pub grub & ice-cold beer.

Six Flags Over Texas
200-acre amusement/theme park with more than 50 rides, plus live bands & family-oriented shows.
Fitness Connection
Bardin Place Center
Basic outdoor shopping center with a supermarket, diverse retailers, casual eateries & recreation.
The Parks Mall at Arlington
Popular mall with brand-name retailers, department stores, an ice rink & a multiplex movie theater.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
Relaxed, lodge-chic chain serving global comfort fare, including stir-fries, pot roast, and pastas.

Texas Live!
Vibrant entertainment center featuring a variety of restaurants, cocktail bars & giant sports TVs.
New York Eats (Arlington)
Bright pit stop serving halal Mediterranean fare, including gyros, falafel & meat platters.


River Legacy Parks
1,300-acre park housing miles of hiking & biking trails, picnic areas & a hands-on science center.
Fiesta Mart #60
Supermarket chain with an extensive Latin foods section, plus housewares & apparel.

AT&T Stadium
Home stadium of the Dallas Cowboys football team & host to big-name concert acts, events & tours.
