Irving, Texas Travel Guide

Discover Irving, Texas: A vibrant blend of culture, nature, and history, perfectly located between Dallas and Fort Worth. Ideal for family trips, romantic getaways, or solo adventures.

Nestled between the bustling cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Irving, Texas offers a unique blend of urban excitement and suburban tranquility. This city is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse culinary scene and vibrant arts community. Visitors will find an array of attractions, from the expansive Mandalay Canal Walk at Las Colinas to the historic Mustangs of Las Colinas sculpture, which is one of the largest equestrian sculptures in the world. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the many parks and green spaces, including the scenic Campión Trails, perfect for hiking and biking. For those interested in history, the Irving Archives and Museum offers a deep dive into the city's rich past and its role in the development of the region. The Irving Arts Center hosts a variety of performances and exhibitions, making it a cultural hub for the area. Shopping and dining options are plentiful, with everything from high-end boutiques to charming local eateries. Whether you're looking to relax by the lake at Lake Carolyn or catch a thrilling sports event at the nearby AT&T Stadium, Irving has something for everyone. Its central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, offering easy access to numerous attractions and activities.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Irving.

Visit the Mustangs of Las Colinas early in the morning for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Take a gondola ride on the Mandalay Canal for a unique perspective of the city.
Check the schedule at the Irving Arts Center for special events and exhibitions during your stay.
Use the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) to easily access nearby Dallas and Fort Worth.
Explore the Campión Trails early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Neighbourhoods in Irving

Valley Ranch

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Explore Irving: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Irving

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AT&T Stadium

Discover AT&T Stadium, a stunning architectural feat and the heart of sports and entertainment in Arlington, Texas, promising unforgettable experiences for all.

4.7

Six Flags Over Texas

Experience the thrill of Six Flags Over Texas, a top amusement park featuring roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment for all ages.

4.3

The Dallas World Aquarium

Explore the Dallas World Aquarium: A captivating blend of marine life, rainforest wonders, and unique dining experiences in the heart of Dallas.

4.4

Fort Worth Stockyards

Explore the Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic district offering a taste of Texas cowboy culture with live rodeos, unique shopping, and delicious dining.

4.7

Best landmarks in Irving

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Irving Mall

Explore Irving Mall in Texas for an unmatched shopping experience with diverse stores, delicious dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

3.8

Toyota Music Factory

Discover the Toyota Music Factory - a vibrant entertainment complex in Irving, TX, offering live music, diverse dining, and unforgettable experiences.

4.5

Clay Cooley Nissan Irving

Discover the premier Nissan dealership in Irving, Texas, where exceptional service meets a vast selection of vehicles, ensuring a memorable automotive experience.

4.4

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

Explore the serene John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza in Dallas, a powerful tribute to the 35th President, set in a beautiful park-like environment.

4.5

Best restaurants in Irving

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The Ranch at Las Colinas

Discover authentic Southwestern flavors at The Ranch at Las Colinas - where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Whiskey Cake Las Colinas

Discover delicious farm-to-table American cuisine at Whiskey Cake Las Colinas – where every bite tells a story.

4.5

Aspen Creek Grill

Discover irresistible steak and barbecue flavors at Aspen Creek Grill in Irving - where culinary excellence meets Texan hospitality.

4.5

Mexican Sugar

Experience vibrant flavors and handcrafted cocktails at Mexican Sugar in Las Colinas - where authentic cuisine meets modern flair.

4.5

Best bars in Irving

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Twin Peaks

Discover Twin Peaks, where sports, delicious American cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere converge for an unforgettable experience in Irving, Texas.

4.6

Yard House

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Yard House in Las Colinas, where craft beer meets New American cuisine.

4.4

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill

Discover the vibrant flavors of Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill, a must-visit dining destination in Las Colinas, Texas, blending pub classics with global cuisines.

4.4

Bar Louie - Music Factory

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Bar Louie - Music Factory, your go-to grill and bar in Irving, Texas.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Irving

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Bar Louie - Music Factory

Experience the vibrant nightlife and diverse American cuisine at Bar Louie - Music Factory in Irving, Texas, a must-visit for food and music lovers.

4.1

Hangout Restaurant & Sports Club

Experience the excitement of sports, live music, and delicious dining at Hangout Restaurant & Sports Club in Irving, TX.

3.9

Southern Junction Texas

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Southern Junction Texas, a premier venue for live music, dancing, and delicious dining in Irving, Texas.

4.1

OUTLAW Taproom

Discover OUTLAW Taproom, a lively cocktail bar in Irving, TX, offering creative drinks and delicious American cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Best shops in Irving

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Grapevine Mills

Discover Grapevine Mills, Texas' premier shopping destination featuring over 180 stores, diverse dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.5

Galleria Dallas

Discover luxury shopping and dining at Galleria Dallas, featuring over 400 stores and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Texas.

4.5

NorthPark Center

Explore NorthPark Center: A Luxurious Shopping Haven Merging Retail, Art, and Culinary Delights in Dallas.

4.6

Grand Prairie Premium Outlets

Experience unbeatable shopping at Grand Prairie Premium Outlets, Texas's top destination for discounted designer and brand-name fashion.

4.4

Explore Irving on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Irving, mapped for you.

Irving Essentials

Irving is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest airport is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which is just about 10 miles away and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights. Dallas Love Field (DAL) is another nearby airport, located approximately 15 miles from Irving. Both airports offer various ground transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. If you prefer traveling by train, you can take an Amtrak service to Dallas Union Station and then take a short taxi or ride-sharing trip to Irving. Major highways, such as Interstate 35 and State Highway 183, also provide easy access for those traveling by car.
Irving offers a variety of transportation options to help you get around the city. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system provides extensive bus and light rail services, including the Orange Line, which connects Irving to downtown Dallas and DFW Airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and convenient for short trips. Car rentals are also an option and can be arranged at the airports or various rental locations throughout the city. For those who prefer cycling, Irving has numerous bike-friendly routes and trails. Additionally, the Las Colinas Area Personal Transit System (APT) provides a unique way to travel around the Las Colinas Urban Center.
The official currency in Irving, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can find them at banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers. While cash is less commonly used, it is still handy to have some for smaller purchases or tips. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also increasingly accepted.
Irving is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Some areas, such as parts of South Irving, may experience higher crime rates, so it is advisable to exercise caution, particularly at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone after dark. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded places. Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to contact local law enforcement.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Irving has several medical facilities, including Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and Medical City Las Colinas, which provide comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent matters, you can visit urgent care centers located throughout the city.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, which can be hot in the summer. Casual wear is widely accepted, but if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants, business casual attire is recommended. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t eat or drink on DART trains and buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine, including Tex-Mex and barbecue. Don’t forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Irving like a local, visit the Mustangs of Las Colinas, a stunning sculpture and water feature in the heart of the Las Colinas Urban Center. Explore the Mandalay Canal Walk at Las Colinas for a peaceful stroll or gondola ride. For shopping and dining, check out the Toyota Music Factory, which offers a variety of entertainment options. Engage with locals at the Irving Arts Center, which hosts numerous cultural and artistic events throughout the year. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Irving Heritage District to learn about the city’s history and heritage.

When is the best time to visit Irving?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Irving

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Irving. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-ter]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-kyooz mee/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can eye chek out the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [I'd like to set-tle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Get outta here!
  [get out-ta here!]
- Call the Police!Call the 5-0!
  [call the 5-0!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [I'm fixin' to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much does it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [that's too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you cut the price?
  [can you cut the price?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nahyn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Irving

Irving, Texas, was officially founded on December 19, 1903, by Otis Brown and J.O. Schulze. The town's name is believed to be inspired by Washington Irving, a favorite author of Otis Brown's wife, Netta Barcus Brown. The early development of Irving was driven by its strategic location along the Texas and Pacific Railway, which attracted settlers and businesses to the area.
In the 1970s, Irving saw the development of one of its most iconic areas, Las Colinas. This master-planned community was the brainchild of Ben H. Carpenter, who envisioned a mixed-use development combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Las Colinas quickly became a symbol of modern urban planning and is home to the famous Mustangs of Las Colinas sculpture, one of the largest equestrian sculptures in the world.
Irving's strategic location near Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and major highways contributed to its growth as a corporate hub. In the 1980s and 1990s, several major corporations, including ExxonMobil, Kimberly-Clark, and Fluor Corporation, established their headquarters or significant operations in Irving, boosting the city's economy and transforming its skyline.
In 1956, the University of Dallas was founded in Irving. As a private Catholic university, it has since played a significant role in the cultural and educational landscape of the city. The university is known for its rigorous academic programs, particularly in the fields of liberal arts and business, and it attracts students from all over the world.
The Irving Arts Center, opened in 1990, is a testament to the city's commitment to cultural development. This multi-purpose arts complex features two theaters, four galleries, and an outdoor sculpture garden. It hosts a variety of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs year-round, making it a central hub for arts and culture in Irving.
From 1971 to 2008, Texas Stadium in Irving was the home of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic teams in the NFL. The stadium, with its distinctive hole-in-the-roof design, became a landmark in the city and hosted numerous memorable sports events and concerts. Although the stadium was demolished in 2010, its legacy continues to be an integral part of Irving's cultural history.
Built in 1912, the Heritage House is one of Irving's oldest homes and serves as a museum showcasing the early 20th-century lifestyle of the city's residents. The house was preserved and restored by the Irving Heritage Society and stands as a symbol of the city's dedication to preserving its history and educating future generations about its past.