This suburban city, located 15-miles northeast of Dallas, grew from a farming community that was incorporated in 1891. Several industries were established in World War II. The Firewheel at Garland provides 63 challenging holes in the largest municipal golf facility in Texas.
Things to do in Garland
African-American Museum
This museum was founded in 1974 as part of the Bishop College Library. The museum houses one of the largest collections of African-American folk art in the nation. The 38,000 square foot facility is dedicated to the preservation and display of African-American artistic, cultural and historical materials, plus it includes the African-American women's archives. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 1pm - 5pm. Located at 3536 Grand Avenue at the Fair Park entrance. Best Western Garland lodging is nearby. Call 214-565-9026 for more information.
Age of Steam Railroad Museum
This museum offers a nostalgic look at the heyday of railroading. Visitors can stroll through the luxurious dining cars, lounge cars and Pullman sleeping cars with beds prepared for a night's rest. The museum also exhibits four massive steam locomotives, including "Big Boy," the world's largest. Open Wednesday - Sunday from 10am - 5pm. Best Western Garland lodging is nearby. Call 214-428-0101 for more information.
American Airlines Center
This is a beautiful 20,000 seat downtown venue that's home to the D214-222-3687allas Stars and the Dallas Mavericks. The Center also hosts top-name concerts and events. Located at 2500 Victory Avenue. Call 214-222-3687 for more information.
American Museum of the Miniature Arts
This museum features collections of dollhouses, miniature room boxes and vignettes. The dollhouses are of various designs dating back to the 18th Century. Other exhibits include a Texas farmhouse with exact scale model furniture, a five-story New York townhouse and an 1885 Victorian home furnished by 12 interior designers. Visitors can also see a miniature sterling silver collection. Located at 3939 Grand Avenue. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Call 214-969-5502 for more information.
Biblical Arts Center
Enjoy this splendid nondenominational showcase of biblical arts accented by soaring arched ceilings, massive stone columns, and atrium courtyard; galleries with great religious art from around the world. Paintings, sculptures, icons, clerical artifacts. A replica of the tomb of Christ and St. Paul's "Gate at Damascus". The highlight of the center is an enormous oil painting that is 124 feet long by 20 feet high which depicts the Miracle at Pentecost. Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Closed major holidays. Located at 7500 Park Lane at Boedeker. Call 214-691-4661 for more information.
Bryan Cabin
This cabin is located in the Dallas County Historical Plaza. It is the reconstructed log cabin of John Neely Bryan who, in 1841, was the area's first settler. Located north of Kennedy Plaza and Main Street and Record Street.
Carrollton Historic Black Cemetery
This cabin is located in the Dallas County Historical Plaza. It is the reconstructed log cabin of John Neely Bryan who, in 1841, was the area's first settler. Located north of Kennedy Plaza and Main Street and Record Street.
Carrollton Historic Black Cemetery
This cemetery dates back to the 1800s and holds the remains of black pioneers from Carrollton. The last marked gravesite dates 1913. Located at Belt Line Road and Luna Road. Call 972-417-1945 for more information.
Cathedral Guadalupe Church
Founded as a parish in 1869, the present Cathedral building was designed by Victorian Gothic architect, Nicholas J. Clayton and completed in 1902. Located at 2215 Ross Avenue. Call 214-871-1362 for more information.
Cedar Crest Park Golf Course
1800 Southerland Avenue, Garland, TX
Central Library (J. Erik Jonsson)
Dallas' largest library with 8 floors offers a comprehensive array of informational documents. Stop in and see the art gallery and the actual Declaration of Independence. Located at 1515 Young Street. Call 214-670-1400 for more information.
Cotton Bowl Stadium
The Cotton Bowl is home to the Southwestern Cotton Bowl Classic, as well as the annual Texas-OU football game. Stadium seats 71,456 for major events. Located at 1300 Robert B. Cullum Boulevard.
Crow Collection of Asian Art
This private collection of Asian Art has some 500 works from China, Japan, India and Southeast Asia dating from 3500 BC to the early 20th century. Highlights of the collection includes precious jade ornaments from China, delicate Japanese scrolls and the second largest crystal ball in the world. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm; Thursday 10am - 9pm; Closed on Mondays. Located at 2010 Flora Street in the Trammell Crow Center. Call 214-979-6430 for more information.
Dallas Aquarium at Fair Park
This aquarium is home to a varied collection of more than 5000 aquatic animals, including marine and freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. A 10,500-gallon, nine-foot-tall Amazon Flooded Forest Exhibit showcases some 25 species of fish found in the Amazon River of South America. The exhibit also includes an educational video of the importance of the flooded forest ecosystem. Open daily 9am - 4:30 pm. Call 214-670-8443 for more information.
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
This garden is a 66-acre haven of natural beauty that is only minutes away from downtown Dallas. The headquarters is in the Camp Estate, designed by Texas' most famous architect, John Staub, and was completed in 1939. Also on the grounds is the historic DeGolyer House, a magnificent Spanish Colonial-style mansion built in 1940 by Texas oilman Everett DeGolyer. Open daily 10am - 5pm. Call 214-515-6500 for more information.
Dallas Family Golf Center
8787 Park Lane, Garland, TX
Dallas Firefighters Museum
This museum is housed in the old 2-story fire station, circa 1907. It features more than 100 years of Dallas fire-fighting history, including 1884 horse-drawn steamer. Also included is a 1936 Texas Centennial ladder truck and other fire memorabilia. Located across from Fair Park at 3801 Parry Avenue. Open Wednesday - Saturday 9am - 3pm. Call 214-821-1500 for more information.
Dallas Horticulture Center
One of the most notable horticulture centers in the US. Included are a 500-seat auditorium, botanical collections, and a seven-acre Southwestern garden. Garden for the Blind features raised beds of herbs and other plants noted for scents and textures. Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm.
Dallas Memorial Center for holocaust Studies
This is a permanent collection of photographs, artifacts and documentary films concerning the holocaust. Also includes videotapes of local survivors, a memorial room and a library. Located at 7900 Northaven Road. Call 214-750-4654 for more information.
Dallas Memorial Center for Holocaust Studies
Dedicated to reducing prejudice, this museum, library and memorial educate people on the Holocaust. A permanent collection of photographs, artifacts, and documentary films, as well as videotapes of local survivors, a memorial room, and a library. Closed Saturdays. An audiotape tour is available. Located at 7900 Northaven Road. Call 214-750-4654 for more information.
Dallas Museum of Art
Enjoy this superb core collection of pre-Columbian artwork plus major European and American art, including Church's "The Icebergs" and Oldenburg's monumental "Stake Hitch." Other exhibits include choice examples by Monet, O'Keeffe, and Matisse. Sculptures include those of Rodin and Henry Moore, plus special traveling exhibits. Located at 1717 North Harwood. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11am - 5pm (Thursday until 9pm). Closed on Mondays, New Year's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Call 214-922-1200 for more information.
Dallas Nature Center
The center is comprised of 640 acres of preserved wilderness, including native-plant nurseries and seven miles of hiking trails. Picnic area and visitor center on the premises. Located at 7171 Mountain Creek Parkway. Call 972-296-1955 for more information.
Dallas Theatre Center
This center is of great architectural interest as this is Frank Lloyd Wright's only direct contribution to the dramatic stage. The permanent repertory company plays 154 performances over an eight month season (September - May). Located at 3636 Turtle Creek Boulevard. Call 214-526-8210 for more information.
Dallas World Aquarium and Zoological Garden
Visit this showcase of sea life from around the world. Some spotlighted splendors of the ocean include Bahamian Acropora corals, giant Tridacna clams, bonnet-head sharks and stingrays. Adjacent tropical rain forest harbors toucans, monkeys, jaguars, snakes and cascading waterfalls. Inspired by the Orinoco River Basin in Venezuela, the rain forest building serves as a complement to the aquarium. In the West End District at 1801 North Griffin Street. Open daily 10am - 5pm. Call 214-720-2224 for more information.
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is home to many rare and endangered species, such as okapis, lowland gorillas, tuataras and much more. The Exxon Mobil Endangered Tiger Habitat is a one-acre naturalistic exhibit for Sumatran and Indo-Chinese tigers. The New Lacerte Family Children's Zoo features two acres of entertaining and interactive exhibits for children. The Zoo also features the nationally renowned reptile collection, interactive Reptile Discovery Center and a walk-through rain forest aviary. Located at 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway. Open daily 9am - 5pm Call 214-670-5656 for more information.
Deep Ellum Historic District
Located just east of downtown Dallas is the popular Deep Ellum area. In the early 1900s this was a center for African-American business, entertainment and for popular blues music and artists. Today, the old two-story stores have become the home of shops, restaurants and clubs featuring music from country to rock. The several block area is bounded by the streets Elm, Commerce, Hall and Good Latimer.
Fair Park
This site was recognized in 1986 as a National Historic Landmark for its Art Deco architecture. The area is also home to a huge annual state exposition, which hosts millions during three weeks in the fall. The rest of the year (except two weeks before the fair opens) this area serves as popular city park. Located at 1000 1st Avenue. Call 214-421-9600 for more information.
Farmers Market
This market is one of the few remaining in Texas and one of largest markets in the nation. Some 1,000 farmers bring fresh produce here for sale. At times during the year special crafts, plants and flowers are featured for holidays. Open daily 7am - 6pm. Located at Cadiz and Harwood Streets. Call 214-939-2808 for more information.
Frontiers of Flight Museum
The History of Aviation collection that was formerly at the University of Texas at Dallas is now located at Love Field. The Museum's artifacts chronicle the history of flight from primitive balloon launches in the 1800s to today's stealth bomber and space shuttle. Exhibits include the fur parka worn by Admiral Richard E. Byrd during his first flight to the South Pole in 1929, engines from early airplanes and a Hindenberg collection that includes original radio operator's chair and silverware recovered from the crash. Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Call 214-350-1651 for more information.
Hall of State
This majestic shrine depicts Texas historical greats in epic-scale marble and mosaics. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Call 214-421-4500 for more information.
Historical Park
This 22-acre, tree-shaded park includes 14 historic buildings that have been relocated and restored including the 1877 depot and the Gilbert House, the oldest rock house in Dallas County. Open Monday - Thursday, 9:30am - 8pm and Saturday and Sunday from noon - 8pm. From November - March the park opens at the same time but closes at 6pm. Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Located at 2540 Farmers Branch Lane. Call 972-406-0184 for more information.
Hyatt Bear Creek Golf & Raquet Club
3500 West Airfield Drive, Garland, TX
Keeton Park Golf Course
2323 North Jim Miller Road, Garland, TX
L.B. Houston Municipal Golf Course
11223 Luna Road, Garland, TX
Lake Lavon
Located four miles northeast of Wylie off Texas Highway 78, northeast of Dallas.
Lake Ray Hubbard
One mile east of Rockwall on the East Fork of the Trinity River
Lakewood Country Club
6430 Gaston Avenue, Garland, TX
Landmark Museum
This museum displays early settlers artifacts, old newspapers, farm implements and quilts. It also features the Lyles House, which is a restored "matchbox style" home. The museum is open the first Saturday of each month from 10am - 3pm and Monday - Friday from 9am - 4:30pm. Located in Heritage Park, Museum Plaza and State Streets. Call 972-205-2749 for more information.
Mary Kay Museum
Do not miss the Mary Kay Museum. Display cases are complete with mementos that tell the story of the famous cosmetics firm, from its beginning struggles to its present successful corporate operations. Located Mary Kay's international headquarters at 16251 Dallas Parkway. Open Tuesday - Friday from 9am - 4:30. Call 972-687-6300 for more information.
McKinney Avenue Trolley
These nostalgic early 20th-century trolley cars were recommissioned to take visitors from downtown to uptown McKinney Avenue. At the end of the trip are numerous antique shops, restaurants and clubs, which includes the Hard Rock Café. The trolley runs from Ross Avenue and St. Paul Street up St. Paul to McKinney Avenue and back. Call 214-855-0006 for more information.
Meadows School of the Arts Virginia Meadows Museum
View this wonderful 15th through 20th Century collection of Spanish art. There are paintings by international masters, a sculpture court and gardens. It is the most comprehensive collection of Spanish art in the U.S. Located on the SMU campus at 6094 Bishop Blvd. Open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 10am - 5pm; Thursday 10am - 8pm, Sunday 1 - 5pm.Closed Wednesday. Call 214-768-2516 for more information.
Medieval Times
Step back to the Middle Ages and cheer for your favorite knight. As you dine, enjoy all the pageantry of a medieval feast, including horsemanship, swordplay, falconry, sorcery and an authentic jousting tournament. Located at 2021 North Stemmons Freeway. Shows play Wednesday - Thursday 7:30pm; Friday at 6pm and Saturday at 6pm and 8pm; Sunday 5pm. Located at 2021 North Stemmons Freeway. Call 214-761-1800 for more information.
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
This multimillion-dollar facility was designed by architect I. M. Pei with acoustics by Russell Johnson. The 260,000-sq.-ft. facility is the home of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. A full schedule of both home performances and tours is available. Their consistent excellence puts them in the top 10 rated symphonies in the nation . Open for scheduled performances. Located at 2301 Flora Street. Call 214-670-3600 for more information.
Mountain Creek Lake
Located four miles southeast of Grand Prairie on Mountain Creek.
Museum of Natural History
Presents a wide collection of native animal life in authentic habitat groups. Located at 3535 Grand Avenue. Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm and Sunday from 12pm - 5pm. Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Call 214-421-3466 for more information.
North Texas Golf Center
2101 Walnut Hill Lane, Garland, TX
Northwest Golf Par 3
10726 East Northwest Highway, Garland, TX
Old City Park
At this park visitors can discover the culture and lifestyle in North Texas from 1840 - 1910. The village consists of 38 structures, including a gift shop, restaurant, bank, print shop, lawyer's office, blacksmith shop and more. Located on 13-acres of land in the heart of Dallas. Rental facilities include the restaurant, chautauqua pavilion, gazebo, church and greenspace. Located immediately south of the Farmer's Market in the downtown business district at 1717 Gano Street. The grounds are open dawn to sunset. Guided Tours are available Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm; Sunday noon - 4pm. Call 214-421-5141 for more information.
Pioneer Plaza
This 4.2-acre plaza, located between historic Pioneer Cemetery and Dallas Convention Center, features the world's largest bronze monument. See the 40 Texas Longhorn steers being driven by three cowboys on horseback, all in magnificent bronze. Located between Young and Griffin Streets at 1000 Young Street. Call 214-953-1184 for more information.
Reunion Tower
The Reunion area was once a settlement for the French immigrants during the 19th Century. The fifty-story tower features an observation deck, restaurant and revolving lounge adjacent to the Hyatt Regency. Nearby is the restored Union Station. The Reunion Arena schedules sporting events, circuses, ice shows, concerts and rodeos. Located just off the I-35E at the southwest edge of downtown. Located at 436 Hotel Street. Call 214-651-1234 for more information.
Science Place & TI Founders IMAX Theater
Science Place & TI Founders IMAX Theater is filled with more than 250 hands-on exhibits, classes and programs. Exhibits include the Gossamer Penguin, the first solar-powered aircraft. The Forces of Nature exhibit lets visitors of all ages explore science and technology behind the fields of force. Hours vary, call for specific information. Located at the Grand Avenue entrance at Fair Park. Call 214-428-5555 for more information.
Sixth Floor Museum
A permanent, educational exhibition on the life, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The exhibits feature photographs, artifacts, a 30-minute audio tour and six films. The visitor center is at the former Texas School Book Depository, which has elevators up to the 6th floor. Other Kennedy Memorials include historical marker on Houston Street near Elm Street marking the spot where President Kennedy was assassinated during the motorcade on Nov. 22, 1963. Located at 411 Elm Street. Open daily 9am - 6pm. Closed Christmas Day. Call 214-747-6660 for more information.
Speed Zone
This entertainment complex features sprint racing tracks and vintage racing cars; miniature golf, bumper boats and more than 100 video games. Located at 11130 Malibu Drive. Open Sunday - Thursday 11am - 11pm; Friday & Saturday 11am - 1am. Call 972-247-RACE for more information.
State Fair Coliseum
The Coliseum host's rodeos, horse shows and sporting events throughout year and seats 7,000.
Stevens Park Golf Course
1005 North Montclair Avenue, Garland, TX
Surf and Swim
Visitors can ride four-foot waves in Garland's municipal wave-action pool that is surrounded by grass beaches and pecan trees. Also features a special children's area. Open daily from June - September. Call 972-686-1237 for more information.
Tenison Highlands
3501 Samuel Boulevard, Garland, TX
Texas Lil's Diamond
A ranch located in a rustic setting. Includes horseback riding, swimming and hayrides. Call 940-242-3202 for more information.
Thanks-Giving Square
This square was opened in 1977 and is the regular site of worship services. The waterfall and landscaping provide a quiet retreat within the center of the city. Call 214-969-1977 for more information.
Visitor Center
The Dallas Convention and Visitor's Bureau operates a visitor's center offering details about local events, accommodations, dining and points of interest. Housed in the historic Dallas County Courthouse, which was built in 1892. Open daily 9am - 6pm except holidays. Call 214-571-1300 for more information.
West End Historic District
This early day business district has been revived and restored with shops, push cart traders, craftsmen, restaurants and clubs occupying modern facilities within the original architectures. Serviced by DART light rail. Call 214-741-7180 for more information.
West End Marketplace
A festival market with dozens of restaurants, clubs and boutiques including Planet Hollywood. It occupies three adjoining buildings. Street entertainers and many special events along with the 3.5million dollar Dallas Alley, which features several nightclubs with a variety of music and entertainment. Located in the Historic District at the north end of Market Street.
White Rock Lake
Located in the city of Dallas on White Rock Creek.
Wilson Historic District Walking Tour
Visitors can walk the historic Wilson Block along Swiss Avenue in the heart of downtown Dallas and recall the Victorian era of early Dallas. In 1981, the Meadow Foundation purchased the Wilson Block and began the restoration project. Tours begin with a short film at the Wilson Carriage House. Tours available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at noon. Located at 2922 Swiss Avenue. Call 214-821-3290 for more information.
Women's Museum: An Institute for the Future
This museum chronicles the lives of women in America like never before. Through state-of-the-art exhibits the museum explores the contributions of women throughout American history and the shows the similarities and differences of women throughout history. Open Tuesday 10am - 9pm; Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 12 - 5pm. Closed on Mondays. Call 214-915-0860 for more information.
Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park
This Park offers the latest cutting edge in amusement rides near Dallas. The "Nothing But Net" attraction allows divers to experience complete unattached free fall from a height of 100 - 150 feet .Open Monday - Thursday 7pm - 11pm; Friday 7pm - 1am; Saturday noon - 1am; Sunday 1 - 11pm. Located at 11131 Malibu Drive. Call 972-484-8359 for more information.