Changing Face of Arlington: New Places to Visit in Arlington

Think Arlington is nothing but ball games and bumper cars? Actually this once-called suburb is literally in the middle of it all. Here’s our guide to some of our favorite Must-Go Places to Go in Arlington. 

This is part of a #mamachallenge sponsored series to show that class, convenience and community come together perfectly at Park Place Motorcars Arlington.

When I moved to Arlington over 15 years ago I had only two things on my mind: how close was it to the airport and that a drive down Green Oaks faintly reminded me of the hill country. So I got a apartment as a temporary plan until I figured out where I wanted to live for real. 

And then I never left. 

I admit Arlington has undergone some serious changes. I always loved that the Ballpark was here and Six Flags Over Texas was just out my front door (literally), but the times have changed. What used to seem like an escape from the big cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, we now have some of the coolest spots in DFW to go…and right here in A-Town. So now when people come to town or even those Arlingtonians that haven’t had a chance to try them out, I feel like I have to give them a run down of where to go. 

Disclaimer: this list isn’t the full run down of everything you need to go when you’re Arlington, Texas. Consider it your starter list of what’s in North and Downtown Arlington…And there are more popping up everyday and many that will open their doors soon. So until you get to chow down on Hurtado BBQ at Urban Union next spring or lay by the pool at the new ultra-luxe Live! by Loews hotel this summer, get ready for fun in Arlington. 

New Must-Go Places to Go in Arlington

Texas Live! 

Head to the Entertainment District and you can’t miss this one! Right in the middle of AT&T Stadium (aka Dallas Cowboys home turf/Jerry World/The Death Star) and Texas Rangers Globe Life Park (and the new Globe Life Field in 2020) is Texas Live! Y’all 200,000 sq. ft. of food, entertainment, live music, games and more, all parties begin and end here. With 10 concepts, including a huge PBR Cowboy Bar, Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint, and two different eateries from legendary sports stars Dallas Cowboys Troy Aikman (Troy’s – known for it’s big ass burgers and margaritas) and Texas Rangers Pudge Rodriguez (Pudge’s Pizza.) 

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Candlelite Inn Restaurant

Since 1957 the Candlelite Inn Restaurant has been a mainstay in Arlington. Serving pizza, Tex-Mex and steak, this “eclectic” destination has many other claims to fame including its Guacamole Salad. So close to AT&T Stadium this gem should never be overlooked to host your own small party any day of the week especially with its schedule of live music. 

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Arlington Museum of Art 

Yes, we have an art museum in Arlington. While it does house some cool exhibits, it’s also the site to some rather cool events like yoga and kids’ art camps. Plus you can rent space for your own event including a rooftop deck that looks over Arlington (yes, it’s pretty cool.) And don’t forget to catch the artwork on the outside too – including one of the cool “The Star of Texas” installations and this mural completed by KABOO.

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Actually there are several murals throughout Downtown Arlington, so take your town when you ’round the corner because you’ll never know where you’ll find them (like this one at Urban Union!) 

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Urban Union 

While Urban Union is technically at development, I like to call it a neighborhood of unique businesses all geared to making your life better and more enjoyable. There’s food (lots of food), there’s drink (there’s lots of drink), there’s art, there’s business, and there’s exercise – all in an renovated, pedestrian-friendly space found between Division and Abram. 

Legal Draft 

Anchored by Legal Draft Beer Co., if you officially are trying to find where the locals hangout when the tourists come to town, this is it. A true, working craft brewery by a former lawyer and a former medical logistics pro, Legal Draft has become the home of city events, family reunions, art projects, and everything in between. Not to mention the beer is legitimately really good, with several on tap and available seasonally. And the little ones (or DDs) can enjoy the mootbeer (one of several puns you’ll find inside this legal-industry space.) 

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The Tipsy Oak 

Just as the name implies, there are trees here. And upon occasion, you may find yourself celebrating with a few adult refreshments while trying to land a respectable score of cornhole. I gotta admit, I somehow always find myself here. If the short rib grilled cheese isn’t enough to drive you to this “little cabin in the woods,” the bloody mary will. It’s actually not a bloody mary, but more of a cocktail and a meal in one with a thick slice of chicken fried bacon. MMM. Go for the poutine, too. Just remember if you do enjoy yourself, Uber is just a short click away. 

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Inspirations Catering and Gourmet Food Shop

Can you say CHARCUTERIE? Don’t worry, you don’t have to in order to enjoy the amazing cheese, meats, and other board accoutrements. Inspirations Catering and Gourmet Food Shop hosts some of the coolest (and most delicious) events in town with monthly pairing parties and cheese board parties to show you how to make yours look as good as it taste. Hosting your own party soon? Let Kristene, literally the hostess with the mostess, and her team put together the menu for the most beautiful presentation (all sizes need apply.) No events on your calendar – just hungry?  Head in Wednesday – Saturday to pick up a grab and go box with all the best tastes of meat, cheeses and more for lunch or snack. (My favorite? They’re all good.) 

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Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery 

This sweet spot may sound familiar as it was featured on the Cooking Channel. And one time inside this bakery and breakfast spot will help you see why you can never say no. Everything is almost too beautiful to eat, but one small nibble and you won’t be able to stop. From beautiful multi-tiered wedding cakes to cookies, cupcakes, scones, and more, Sugar Bees will keep that sweet tooth full. Thankfully they serve coffee too so you break between treats. 

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4 Kahunas Tiki Bar 

Ever been to a tiki bar? It’s an experience in itself. This nationally recognized lounge is full of fun and surprises as these just aren’t drinks, but entertainment each time you order one with fire, flowers, fruit and more taking the limelight as its crafted by the mixologists that make them. Want to fire up a party – this is it. Need to get the flame burning? One or two of these will do it for you with juices, exotic flavors and liquors. (Remember, there’s a reason they call it a “Painkiller.”) But remember to keep the kids at home because this is a 21 year old and up. (And you can head next door to Cartel Taco Bar for some great tacos and queso before or after a stop here.) 

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Other new places not to miss in Arlington:

• Urban Alchemy Coffee and Wine Bar 
• Truth Vinyl 
• Free Play
• Cane Russo (coming soon) 
• Lonestar Axe Throwing (coming soon)
• Hurtado BBQ (coming soon) 

Places you should always visit in Arlington: 

• Entertainment District (Six Flags Over Texas, Globe Life Park / Field, and AT&T Stadium) 
• Levitt Pavilion 
• Park Place Motorcars Arlington 

Ready to ride around Arlington in style? Then buy a car the smart way with these #mamachallenge tips.

Park Place Motorcars Arlington 
4201 Beltway Pl
Arlington, TX 76018
(877) 560-1743