July 26, 2011

Got Plans for the Weekend?

When the weekend comes calling, Arlington residents no longer need to look at neighboring cities to fill their plates with activities.
Look around. There’s enough to do right here at home.

Whether it’s exercise, culture, entertainment or dining, the city has enough amenities to keep locals—and their friends and family—busy all weekend.
While a Texas Rangers ballgame or Six Flags Over Texas are still popular choices, the city has plenty more to offer.

The athletic-minded can start the day in one of the city’s parks which feature 47 miles of trails or in a class at one of the six recreation centers. For a cool-down later in the day, visit one of the city’s six outdoor pools.

Early risers can hit the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market,  which is open on Friday and Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. or have huevos rancheros for breakfast at Marquez Bakery on Division Street.

Ever wanted to row a canoe? Then check out the paddling trails that run along Lake Arlington, which operates from Bowman Springs Park and Richard Simpson Park, or the Trinity River via the River Legacy Parks Paddling Trail.

The River Legacy Living Science Center also offers a full calendar of events including nature walks, classes and demonstrations.

During the heat of the day, explore the Arlington Museum of Art or any number of weekend exhibits at gallery spaces at the University of Texas at Arlington.

UTA also hosts afternoon events at the planetarium, including $2 movies during the summer.

If shopping is your bag, the retail centers at Arlington Highlands along Interstate 20, the Parks at Arlington mall or Lincoln Square at Collins and I-30 should fit the bill.

There is no shortage of restaurants come dinnertime, but some of the city’s newest offerings are popping up in downtown and along East Abram Street. Flying Fish will soon be joined by Bee and Twisted Root.  Mellow Mushroom pizza is on the way just north of City Hall near Babe’s Chicken Dinner House.

For evening entertainment, consider various music and arts offerings unique to Arlington.

Theater Arlington on Main Street and CATS theater on Randol Mill Road stage live local theater performances on weekends.

In downtown, Johnnie High’s Country Music Revue on Center Street offers a country music variety show and regularly hosts guest country artists. The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts on Abram Street also stages regular free outdoor concerts and performances.

Cap off the evening by joining other locals for a cold ice cream treat from Marble Slab Creamery in Lincoln Square while you toss a few coins into the bronze horses water fountain for good luck.