Things to do in Garland, TX
As a regular feature on MyDFWMommy, we are going to put the spotlight on the suburbs of our great Metroplex! We’ll take one city and break down all it has to offer!
For this installment, we will talk about things to do in Garland, TX. During 2014 the city was ranked the 6th “Best City for Working Parents” and is consistently named one of the safest cities in America. Also in 2015, Garland was ranked the 8th “Best Run City in America”. Here’s a summary of our must see places and activities that happen in this fun, family friendly town!
Annual Festivals
Christmas on the Square- one of Garland’s biggest community celebrations. Every year, Garland citizens go to the Square for a tree lighting ceremony, and many other exciting things. Several special attractions will be available for families and guests to participate free of charge including tubing down real snow hills, ice carving demonstrations, visits with Santa and a Children’s Craft Area.
Cinco de Mayo– Bring the family and all your friends to this exciting event in May each year. There’ll be bounce houses for the children, Ballet Folklorico performances, great food, music and fun for the entire family.
MLK Parade– The NAACP Garland unit hosts its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. parade each January in Downtown Garland. The celebration continues with an MLK Commemorative Program and the following day, youth groups from area churches showcase their spiritual talents in praise dance, step routines and military style drills.
Autumn Fest– takes place in Historic Downtown Square Garland, Texas every October and features fun for the whole family with vendors, games, activities for the kids, entertainment and a whole lot more.
Parks & Museums
Duck Creek Greenbelt– This local dog walking park covers 3.5 square miles and features over 5 miles of concrete, mostly shaded walking paths. There’s a huge duck pond for taking your little ones to feed the ducks and if you want, play a round of frisbee golf!
Landmark Museum– This cute little train museum is housed in the former Santa Fe depot. It displays some early settlers artifacts, old newspapers, farm tools and quilts.
Plaza Theatre – Since the 1940s, the elegant building has been a landmark and focal point for Garland. Now, in its finest hour, the Plaza has been completely refurbished in the art deco style to reflect that bygone era. The 350-seat Plaza Theater plays host to the Garland Opry, the nation’s longest-running opry west of the Mississippi River.
Unique Restaurants (found only in Garland)
Main Street Deli– a definite local favorite, this family owned and operated Deli is located on the square in downtown Garland. Try their delicious Reuben or even a Philly cheesesteak that rivals the original!
Flying Saucer– Right on Lake Ray Hubbard, this is the place to go for a good local beer! And while you are enjoying a cold brew, be sure to try out their Loaded Rocket-Tots… think spicy tater tots with bacon and a fried egg on top.
MeShack’s- some think this is the best BBQ in the MetroPlex. The ribs are very meaty and smoked all the way and they often run out by 1:00pm. You order through a window and all food is to go- just the way an authentic BBQ shack should be!
