A Lengthy Weekend in Arlington, Texas


My husband and I went on a 4-day getaway to Arlington, Texas, the place we explored the town, loved good meals, and skilled the joys of a Dallas Cowboys recreation at AT&T Stadium. It was an unforgettable lengthy weekend, to say the least.

Arlington, Texas, sits conveniently between Dallas and Fort Value, forming a part of the Dallas/Fort Value space. Nonetheless, it’s value noting that Arlington is its personal impartial, mid-sized metropolis with loads of enjoyable actions, lodging, and eating choices. 

We spent 4 days within the metropolis and barely scratched the floor, nevertheless it was sufficient time for an pleasurable expertise. Our itinerary was relaxed, so we by no means felt rushed.

Right here’s a recap of our expertise and journey ideas that will help you profit from your trip or enterprise journey to Arlington, Texas.

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Beneficial Lodge: Stay! By Loews – Arlington, TX

Live! by Loews Arlington, Texas
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Throughout our journey, we stayed at Stay! By Loews – Arlington, TX. When you plan to go to a Dallas Cowboys or Rangers recreation, that is the place you wish to be. Each stadiums are inside strolling distance, and we have been so glad we didn’t must cope with visitors after the Monday Evening Soccer (MNF) recreation.

This was our first expertise staying at a Loews Lodge, and it was luxurious! We cherished the placement, the service, and the consolation of Stay! By Loews – Arlington, TX and plan to expertise extra Loews Accommodations sooner or later! Right here’s what to anticipate.

Live! by Loews Arlington, Texas Bar BourbonLive! by Loews Arlington, Texas Bar Bourbon
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Facilities: Once you stroll in, trendy decor and open areas please the attention. The women on the entrance desk have been very pleasant. They informed us about their facilities: heated infinity pool with a bar, Lower & Bourbon steakhouse, Clover Membership outside lounge, River Market (espresso and fast bites), health heart, a Children’ membership, and free web. As well as, you simply can’t beat the placement proper subsequent to Texas! Stay Leisure complicated and the power to stroll to video games.

Luxurious King Room: We stayed in one of many luxurious rooms with a king mattress and views of AT&T Stadium. The room was measurement for 2 individuals, trendy and clear, and the view was gorgeous. You’ve received all of your fundamental facilities, too, similar to a mini fridge, espresso bar, and many others. We didn’t, nonetheless, have a microwave, however that was by no means a necessity for us.

General, the room was an extremely comfy keep and retreat after a protracted day exploring the town.

Arlington, TX Restaurant Suggestions

I’d like to begin by saying that we ate very properly in Arlington. 

Whereas Texas-style barbecue was on the prime of our checklist, we have been blown away by all the choices Arlington needed to provide us. We tried Tex-Mex BBQ, Tex-Ethiopian BBQ, genuine Lebanese, Cajun-style seafood, and Nepalese. Fairly the range, proper?!

Hurtado “Mexicue”

El Jefe Platter at Hurtando in Arlington, TexasEl Jefe Platter at Hurtando in Arlington, Texas
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

The official barbecue of the Texas Rangers, Hurtado, will be described as a Texas barbecue with the daring flavors of Mexican delicacies. This location was counter service, so we ordered our meals first, discovered a desk, and so they introduced it to us. 

Whereas there was seating inside, it was minimal. Nonetheless, they share an outdoor patio with the bar subsequent door, so in the event you’re on the lookout for a beer or cocktail to enhance your meal, that’s the place you wish to be. If the climate isn’t so good, you may sit within the bar, and they’ll ship your meals there. It’s a terrific partnership!

Now for the great half! We wished to attempt all the pieces, so we went with the El Jefe Platter, which included brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, turkey, burnt ends, sausage, and two sides; we selected the tater tot casserole and Mexican avenue corn. Additionally, the Birria tacos caught my husband’s eye, so we ordered that, too! 

Mexicue Mural at Hurtando in Arlington, TexasMexicue Mural at Hurtando in Arlington, Texas
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

The platter has ⅓ lb of every meat, so evidently, it was a really beneficiant portion that would have been shared with greater than two individuals. The flavors are daring, smoky, and comforting, and we savored each chunk!

Bonus! My husband is within the pork manufacturing business and likewise loves smoking meat at dwelling on our Recteq. Whereas standing in line, we struck up a dialog with one of many employees who supplied to offer us a tour of the smokehouse as soon as we have been accomplished with our meal! My husband was like a child in a sweet store, trying out the place all of the magic occurs and chatting with the Pitmaster! Beloved that!

Tex-Ethiopian at Smoke ‘N Ash BBQ

Smoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, TexasSmoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, Texas
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Smoke‘N Ash BBQ is a one-of-a-kind Tex-Ethiopian restaurant that has not solely earned Michelin recognition but additionally landed the husband-and-wife homeowners a spot as James Beard Awards semi-finalists this 12 months.

Homeowners Patrick and Fasicka Hicks mixed their culinary roots—his in Texas barbecue, hers in Ethiopian delicacies—to create Smoke‘N Ash BBQ.

Smoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, Texas dining areaSmoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, Texas dining area
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Fusing the daring and smoky flavors of Texas barbecue with the wealthy, spiced traditions of Ethiopian dishes. In addition they provide genuine Ehiopian plates like Awaze Brisket and smoked Doro Wat, together with basic Texas-style meats.

Smoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, Texas group photoSmoke'N Ash BBQ in Arlington, Texas group photo
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

We tried quite a lot of dishes and enojoyed each considered one of them. It was such a pleasure to have the ability to meet Fasicka throughout our go to and we want them continued success!

Taipo – Behind the Door Nepalese-Model Speakeasy

Tapio might look like a easy Nepalese takeout spot, however hidden behind its ornate Newar-style temple doorways is an intimate speakeasy the place genuine Kathmandu flavors are served in North Texas.

Taipo - Behind the Door in Arlington, TXTaipo - Behind the Door in Arlington, TX
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

As soon as we entered Tapio – Behind the Door, the towering gold Buddha statue sit behind the bar instantly caught our eye. Framed by intricate golden arches set in opposition to a black wall, the art work was merely gorgeous.

We tried many alternative issues from the menu like pillowy steamed momo, keema noodles, and rooster chow mein. Our grop couldn’t get sufficient! Fantasic service made our already wonderful expertise ever higher.

I extremely suggest a night right here with pals or a cherished one.

Prince Lebanese Grill

Prince Lebanese Grill in Arlington, TX platterPrince Lebanese Grill in Arlington, TX platter
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

A beloved staple locally for over 36 years, Prince Lebanese Grill is a family-owned restaurant identified for its genuine Mediterranean dishes.

Whereas its full-service restaurant gained nationwide recognition on Man Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, its attain extends to AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Area, the place in addition they serve sports activities followers.

Our go to to the restaurant was a feast! We loved rooster shawarma, spicy hummus, completely grilled lamb chops, katfa, and stuffed grape leaves. The restaurant could be very family-friendly, and it appeared like a preferred spot for take out too.

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Pappadeaux in Arlington, TX mealPappadeaux in Arlington, TX meal
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

We had our first Pappadeaux expertise whereas on the town on the advice of my Uncle, whom we met for dinner. This location is barely a 4-minute drive from the Leisure District and had a number of seating, together with a coated space outdoors.

After we arrived, the restuarant was packed, however we have been seated pretty shortly. You possibly can nonetheless, make a reservation prematurely if you want to be aware of the time.

Pappadeaux in Arlington, TXPappadeaux in Arlington, TX
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

We shared the cheesey shrimp and crawfish dip and it was fairly good. I loved the Mississippi Catfish Opelousas which was blackened catfish, shrimp, jumbo lump crab, shrimp and cajun rice. Evidently I used to be stuffed and happy!

Issues to Do in Arlington, TX

Arlington, Texas, is a sports activities lover’s dream vacation spot, providing high-profile video games, iconic stadium excursions, and an electrical environment. When the arenas go quiet, they arrive alive with concert events and festivals, so there’s at all times one thing thrilling occurring.

Past sports activities museums, amusement parks, and water parks present the proper leisure for households. Right here’s what we loved throughout our go to, adopted by a listing of alternate choices.

AT&T Stadium (House of the Dallas Cowboys)

Alexandrea and Nick Groves at AT&T Stadium TourAlexandrea and Nick Groves at AT&T Stadium Tour
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Touring AT&T Stadium is an unforgettable expertise for any Cowboys fan, providing a behind-the-scenes have a look at one of the crucial spectacular sports activities venues. First I have to say, remember to request Roger as your tour information. He’s very anitmated in his story telling and it made the expertise distinctive.

We walked by the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders locker room, noticed VIP suites, witnessed the sector being prepped, and even stepped into the Jerry Jones “Conflict Room.”

Earlier than you allow, don’t neglect to cease by the NFL retailer to your official gear!

A couple of days later, we had the superb alternative to attend the Monday Evening Soccer recreation in opposition to the Cincinatti Bengals. Our first flooring VIP suite had all the pieces we may ask for from cocktails to snacks and a catered meal. The angle from the suite was aboslutely superb, and evidently, we had a beautiful time.

High O’ Hill Terrace Tour

Top O'Hill Terrace in Arlington, TX muralTop O'Hill Terrace in Arlington, TX mural
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

As soon as a hangout spot for gangsters, gamblers, and Hollywood elites, High O’Hill Terrace was a secret underground on line casino lengthy earlier than Las Vegas case to fame. The infamous duo Bonnie and Clyde have been even identified to go to for leisure.

Top O'Hill Terrace in Arlington, TX story signTop O'Hill Terrace in Arlington, TX story sign
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

At present the highest attraction in Arlingont, Texas, based on TripAdvisor, this landmark operated illegally for many years till a decided preacher helped shut it down.

Right this moment, the location belongs to Arlington Baptist College (ABU), the place the President’s spouse Vickie Bryant has spent over 30 years uncovering its hidden previous—escape tunnels, artifacts, and intriguing tales.

Her partaking tour, “Poker to Preachers,” brings historical past to life, and he or she believes much more secret tunnels stay undiscovered beneath the property.

Texas Stay! Leisure and Eating District

Texas Live! Entertainment DistrictTexas Live! Entertainment District
Texas Stay! and Arlington Conference & Guests Bureau

Texas Stay! Leisure and Eating District is a full of life complicated that simply so occurs to be subsequent door to Stay! by Loews. We stopped by this complicated twice and it was at all times full of individuals.

Texas Live! Entertainment DistrictTexas Live! Entertainment District
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Listed below are a number of the choices for eating and leisure:

  • Lockhart Smokehouse: Genuine Texas barbecue.
  • Sports activities & Social Arlington: A sports activities bar and gaming lounge.
  • PBR Texas: Nation-themed bar with dwell music and mechanical bull rides.
  • Man Fieri’s Taco Joint: Signature tacos and margaritas.
  • Miller Tavern: Gastro-pub with a terrific choice of beers and meals.
  • Troy’s: Troy Aikman’s restaurant and bar.
  • Revolver Brewhouse & Beer Backyard: Craft beers in a laid again setting.
  • Pudge’s Pizza: Corridor of Famer Pudge Rodríguez’s pizza restaurant.
  • Rangers Republic: Clubhouse for Texas Rangers followers.
  • CBD Kratom Yard: An out of doors live performance and occasion venue.

Arlington Museum of Artwork Revolving Displays

Arlington Museum of Art Hocus PocusArlington Museum of Art Hocus Pocus
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

The Arlington Museum of Artwork at all times has recent and thrilling reveals, starting from Disney’s iconic costumes and Broadway’s Depraved wardrobe to uncommon, intimate images of Princess Diana.

Throughout our go to, we loved the Walt Disney Archives: Heroes & Villians and The Crown Jewels reveals. It was a pleasure with the ability to see the unique costumes from our favourite Disney motion pictures like Hocus Pocus and Pirates of the Caribbean.

The Crown Jewels exhibit was equally thrilling with gems just like the evolution of Cinderella’s shoe to the rings worn by the Sons of Anarchy.

It is a nice possibility for households on the lookout for one thing to do whereas on the town.

Extra Sights for Your Itinerary

The issues to do in Arlington, Texas are on no account restricted to the above. Take a look at these different choices to create your good itienrary.

  • Six Flags Over Texas
  • Hurricane Harbor Water Park
  • Globe Life Area (Texas Rangers)
  • Arlington Music Corridor
  • Symphony Arlington
  • River Legacy Parks
  • Crystal Canyon Pure Space
  • Texas Rangers Golf Membership
  • Worldwide Bowling Museum & Corridor of Fame
  • Choctaw Stadium
  • Esports Stadium Arlington

Once more, this checklist isn’t exhaustive, nevertheless it’s a terrific begin!

Climate, Transportation, and Journey Ideas

Front Street Mural in Arlington, TexasFront Street Mural in Arlington, Texas
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Climate: To offer you some context, we visited Arlington, Texas, in mid-December. Daytime temperatures have been within the mid-50s, with nighttime lows within the mid-40s—a refreshing break from the winter climate we have been experiencing again dwelling in Virginia.

When you’re planning a visit forward of time and are curious in regards to the climate, take a look at the Farmer’s Almanac. I do know I’m old fashioned, however if you’re a planner like me, you’ll not less than have some concept in regards to the circumstances earlier than getting the precise forecast.

Airport Expertise: We flew into the realm from Norfolk Worldwide Airport (ORF), with an hour layover in Charlotte Douglas Worldwide Airport (CLT), earlier than touchdown at Dallas Fort Value Worldwide (DFW). 

On the best way dwelling, we lucked out with a continuous flight, bringing the entire journey time to below 4 hours. We must always have arrived two hours earlier than your departure, however we have been operating behind and solely gave ourselves about 90 minutes. 

We have been a bit nervous, however our driver assured us that 90 minutes was greater than sufficient time to get by safety for a home flight, and he was proper! One factor I simply cherished about this airport was its structure and effectivity. Nonetheless, don’t be like us. Give your self loads of time so that you just don’t have to fret or stress out about lacking your flight. 

Automotive Rental vs Rideshare: As soon as we arrived in Dallas from the airport, it took about quarter-hour to get to our resort within the Leisure District. Sometimes, we’d use our Nationwide Automotive Rental Emerald Membership account, however we had many of the transportation for our journey organized beforehand, so we solely took an Uber to/from the airport.

How do you identify whether or not to hire a automotive or go for rideshares and taxis? It relies upon, however right here’s some useful info. East to West Arlington is about 15 miles, whereas North to South is about 20 miles. When you’re staying in both the Leisure District or Downtown Arlington, the place many of the sights are, these two areas are 3-5 miles from one another (10-15 minute automotive trip).

Remember the fact that we explored past the Leisure District and Downtown Arlington. If you will do the identical, save your self some cash and hire a automotive. Rideshare will get costly within the metropolis, particularly throughout massive occasions.

4-Day Weekend Getaway to Arlington, Texas

view of AT&T Satdium in Arlington, TXview of AT&T Satdium in Arlington, TX
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Our four-day getaway to Arlington, Texas, was a lot enjoyable! Our itinerary had slightly little bit of all the pieces from worldwide flavors and sports activities to tradition and historical past.

Whereas we barely scratched the floor, our journey was filled with unforgettable experiences. The town’s combine sights makes it a improbable vacation spot for nearly anybody.


Travel Journalist Alexandrea Sumuel GrovesTravel Journalist Alexandrea Sumuel Groves

Journey Journalist & Digital Creator

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated journey author. Her work has appeared on MSN, Yahoo!, euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC associates throughout america. She is a member of the Society of American Journey Writers and a digital creator on a number of main on-line information web sites. She is the founding father of Wander With Alex and Virginia Journey Information!

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