Things To Do in Arlington With Kids

The biggest family attraction in Arlington, TX, might be Six Flags Over Texas, but there are plenty more exciting spots to check out in the city. From well-maintained parks to homemade ice cream shops, there’s so much for family to explore. Here are our picks for best things to do in Arlington with kids.

Kids Attractions in Arlington, TX

Six Flags Over Texas has plenty of rides for your death-defying bucket list, including El Diablo, named the world’s largest loop coaster. But there are also options if the thought of steep drops and creative curves turns your stomach, like Miss Ruby’s Wild West Cabaret.

Ripley’s Grand Prairie allows you to “explore the odd” in more ways than one. Pose for pictures with wax statues of your favorite celebs (from Lady Gaga to John Cena) or experience a whole range of sense-based entertainment with their 7-D Moving Theater.

Ally Cats Bowl has so much more than bowling. If you aren’t in the mood to try for a strike, you can check out the arcade, putt-putt golf, and even rock climbing.

Free Play Arlington has every classic game you could dream of, including Frogger, Tetris, and Pinball. While the arcade is kid-friendly during the day, anyone too young to vote has to leave by 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and anyone too young to drink has to leave by 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark offers all the fun of a waterpark with no threat of sunburn. You can test the waters (pun totally intended) in an innertube slide, or step into the death-drop Prarie Plunge without a float.

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Best Restaurants in Arlington, TX for Kids

Babe’s Chicken Dinner is full of Texas charm, from the patio made of petrified wood to their 9-foot tall neon cowboy sign. The kids menu features local fare like catfish, and all kids menu meals come with a biscuit and a salad.

Lazy Dog Resturant and Bar boasts a kid’s menu that lets junior diners customize. You can build your own pizza, top your noddles with butter, marinara, or have them plain, and pick from sides that include watermelon and mashed potatoes.

Bay 34th Street Diner is known for its comfort food, from cinnamon rolls to bagels with lox. If you’re not in the mood for traditional diner fare, there’s also a Little Italy section with a variety of Italian options.

Moni’s Pasta and Pizza is a family-owned Italian eatery with a massive menu. Chose from a selection of calzones, baked pasta, and house specialties like shrimp scampi.

Mike’s Ice Cream is a sweet shop that makes all of its 24 flavors in-house. Try out something unique like pumpkin walnut and nutty cherry, or enjoy something more classic like cookies & cream.

Best Hotels in Arlington, TX for Kids

The Thorton Bed and Breakfast Inn is known by its nickname, the “Lone Star House of Quilts.” The homey vibe of each room is paired with a fresh daily breakfast and a High Tea service.

The Sandford House Inn & Conference Center will give you the best possible welcome—fresh cookies left in your room when you check in. After enjoying that snack, check out the inn’s spa, which offers the services of a full hair salon, in addition to the usual spa offerings, like a special teen facial.

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Homewood Suites by Hilton Dallas/Arlington South makes a point of offering kid essentials so you don’t have to pack half the house, just request a crib or high chair at the front desk. To get in some exercise you can take a dip in the outdoor pool, or hit the putting green.

Residence Inn by Marriott Dallas Arlington South is a pet-friendly spot that offers complimentary breakfast and full kitchenettes if you want to do any of your own meal prep. There’s also a picnic area on the hotel grounds if you want to dine outside.

Best Outdoor Activities in Arlington, TX for Kids

Storm Farms offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with your food. Grab a basket, and pick your own strawberries. Admission is free, you just pay for the berries you bring home.

Golf Center of Arlington boasts a 36-hole mini golf course in addition to its ranges for adults. Kids three and under get in for free, and the course also offers free replays.

Global Life Park has been home to major league baseball games for 25 years. Check out a game on one of their themed giveaway nights, like “Stranger Things” Night.

The Molly Hollar Wildspace at Veterans Park is a spot to look for butterflies, from Monarchs to Queens. The protected area has been kept up by volunteers since 1994.

Parks in Arlington, TX for Kids

River Legacy Parks’ forest-themed jungle gym will keep kids entertained for hours. When they get tired of the tree-trunk slides, you can explore the park’s bike and nature trails.

Cedar Hill State Park is home to Joe Pool Lake, where you can fish in the hopes of catching black bass and catfish. The park also features bike and hiking trails, and over 300 campsites.

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