Things To Do In Garland, TX
Garland, Texas, located northeast of Dallas, blends suburban comfort with cultural vibrancy. Founded in 1891 along Spring Creek, Garland has grown into a dynamic city offering diverse attractions, green spaces, and community events. Visitors can explore historic museums, nature preserves, and family-friendly parks within its city limits. Shopping enthusiasts enjoy outdoor malls and local boutiques, while art lovers attend performances and gallery exhibitions. With a warm climate and welcoming spirit, Garland invites travelers and residents alike to discover its unique mix of history, recreation, and modern amenities.
Garland Landmark Museum
393 N 6th St, Garland, TX 75040, United States
Garland Landmark Museum in Garland, TX occupies a restored 1905 building in the heart of historic downtown. The museum features interactive exhibits that trace the city’s evolution from its agricultural origins to its industrial rise. Expert guides lead engaging tours highlighting original artifacts and vintage photographs. Rotating displays showcase community stories and key events, while an outdoor courtyard offers a reflective space amid historic façades. Open Thursday through Saturday, this intimate museum is perfect for those wishing to immerse themselves in Garland’s local heritage.
Spring Creek Forest Preserve
1770 Holford Rd, Garland, TX 75044, United States
Spring Creek Forest Preserve in Garland, TX spans over 900 acres of hardwood forest and bottomland prairie. Well-maintained trails wind among centuries-old oaks and elms, offering beginner-friendly hikes and excellent bird-watching opportunities for species like owls and woodpeckers. Interpretive signage along the creek educates visitors about local ecosystems, and elevated boardwalks lead to serene overlooks. Managed for conservation, the preserve opens at dawn and closes at dusk, providing a natural oasis that connects visitors to Garland’s ecological diversity.
Duck Creek Park
Duck Creek Dr, Garland, TX 75043, United States
Duck Creek Park in Garland, TX covers 34 acres along Duck Creek Drive, combining green lawns with paved walking and running paths. A nine-hole disc golf course weaves through open meadows and groves, challenging players of all skill levels. Picnic tables and benches create inviting spots for family gatherings or casual meetups, while a night workout circuit with illuminated exercise stations encourages evening fitness. With ample parking and restroom facilities, Duck Creek Park is ideal for scenic strolls, sports activities, and relaxed afternoons.
Hawaiian Falls Garland
4550 N Garland Ave, Garland, TX 75040, United States
Hawaiian Falls Garland in Garland, TX is a tropical-themed waterpark featuring thrilling slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool perfect for cooling off. The kid-friendly Splash Island play area offers interactive water features for little ones, while tube rides and body slides excite thrill-seekers. Private cabanas provide shade and comfort, and on-site concessions serve Tex-Mex favorites and frozen treats. Special events—such as Dive-In Movies and Water Wars—add extra fun during summer weekends. Open on weekends through early September, Hawaiian Falls Garland delivers memorable family adventures.
Firewheel Town Center
245 Cedar Sage Dr, Garland, TX 75040, United States
Firewheel Town Center in Garland, TX is an open-air shopping destination featuring over 120 stores, including Dillard’s, Macy’s, and Barnes & Noble. Pedestrian-friendly “main street” promenades invite leisurely strolls among fashion boutiques, home décor shops, and specialty stores. An 18-screen AMC theater offers the latest films, while outdoor dining ranges from barbecue to international cuisine. Seasonal events like free concerts and fireworks displays enliven the plaza year-round. With plentiful parking and accessible design, Firewheel Town Center is a popular hub for retail, dining, and community gatherings.
Plaza Garland
3161 Broadway Blvd, Garland, TX 75043, United States
Plaza Garland in Garland, TX is an indoor shopping mall on Broadway Boulevard celebrating the city’s cultural diversity. Its food court offers over 20 options, including Mexican street tacos, gourmet ice cream, and Asian specialties. Retail vendors sell clothing, electronics, and regional crafts in spacious, climate-controlled corridors. An arcade and children’s entertainment zone provide fun for all ages. Throughout the year, Plaza Garland hosts themed festivals, live performances, and artisan fairs. With easy access and abundant parking, it’s a go-to destination for shopping and family-friendly indoor activities.
Granville Arts Center
300 N 5th St, Garland, TX 75040, United States
Granville Arts Center in Garland, TX serves as the city’s premier performing and visual arts complex. The facility houses a 450-seat theater, art galleries, rehearsal studios, and classrooms for workshops. Its schedule includes Broadway-style musicals, comedy shows, contemporary dance, and community theater productions. Rotating exhibitions spotlight painting, sculpture, and photography by local and regional artists. Educational programs for youth and adults foster creativity and skill development. With high-quality acoustics and an intimate atmosphere, the Granville Arts Center offers memorable cultural experiences throughout the year.
Windsurf Bay Park
5556 Locust Grove Rd, Garland, TX 75043, United States
Windsurf Bay Park in Garland, TX sits on the western shore of Lake Ray Hubbard, offering a variety of water sports. A sandy beach area invites sunbathers, while the marina rents paddleboards, kayaks, and sailboats. Picnic tables with grills make it easy to host family gatherings, and boardwalks provide scenic bird-watching and sunset views. Seasonal sailing lessons introduce beginners to the sport, and a fishing pier attracts anglers seeking bass and catfish. Open from dawn to dusk, Windsurf Bay Park is a versatile outdoor destination for adventure and relaxation by the lake.
John Paul Jones Park
4099 Zion Rd, Garland, TX 75043, United States
John Paul Jones Park in Garland, TX features a three-acre lake surrounded by paved trails and shaded picnic shelters. A 0.8-mile loop path is perfect for jogging, cycling, or stroller-friendly walks. Designated fishing docks allow anglers to cast for bass and catfish, while outdoor fitness stations support open-air workouts. A children’s playground and open lawns encourage spontaneous games and family gatherings. With ample parking and restroom facilities, John Paul Jones Park blends active and passive recreation, offering a peaceful retreat near Garland’s urban core.
Duck Creek Greenbelt
4917 Duck Creek Dr, Garland, TX 75043, United States
Duck Creek Greenbelt in Garland, TX encompasses a 350-acre linear park along Duck Creek, featuring riparian habitats, wetlands, and native vegetation. Multi-use trails support hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching, with informational panels on local flora and fauna. Benches and overlooks along the creek offer tranquil spots to observe herons, turtles, and migratory waterfowl. The greenbelt connects to neighboring parks and neighborhoods, forming a continuous recreational corridor. Open from sunrise to sunset, Duck Creek Greenbelt promotes conservation and brings visitors closer to Garland’s natural landscapes.