No doubt about it—when it comes to venues, amenities, and things to do, Arlington has plenty to offer any reunion or social event planner who’s looking to put together a memorable and successful activity —so much, in fact, that it’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re trying to decide where to begin.
That’s why Arlington CVB has compiled this list of bright ideas and tips for smart event planners who are considering Arlington for an upcoming reunion, meeting or group outing.
- BRIGHT IDEA #1 - Let’s begin with the most important tip of all, which is registering for our upcoming free reunion planning workshop.
This information-packed session will take place on Feb. 29 from 9 a.m. to noon at Dan Dipert Career & Technical Center. During the workshop, we’ll cover topics like reunion checklists, planning timelines, saving money on hotels, itinerary building and more—in other words, just about everything you need to know, so you won’t want to miss it! Register now.
- BRIGHT IDEA #2 - Take advantage of all of the free planning tools and resources that the Arlington CVB offers, such as:
- “The ABCs of Reunion Planning”: This short read is a great place to get started, especially if it’s your first time to plan an event.
- Free assistance from the Arlington CVB: We love to help! Hit us up for hotel pricing, advice on itineraries and destinations, the whole nine. Request a proposal.
- BRIGHT IDEA #3 – EXPLORE UNIQUE EVENT VENUES
Tailgating and Stadium Tours
Is your group planning on taking in a Rangers or Cowboys game? If yes, you’ll definitely want to consider upgrading the experience by adding on a tailgate party or a behind-the-scenes stadium tour—or both! Read more about stadium tours. Get more tailgating tips. Get help with tailgating gear.
Group Outings at Six Flags Over Texas
No visit to Arlington is complete without a trip to Six Flags Over Texas, offering acres of thrills, adventure, live entertainment, dining, and shopping. Six Flags perks for groups large and small abound, including discounted tickets, before-and-after hours meeting spaces, park buyouts, catered picnics, and team building activities. Contact me to help get the ball rolling for all your theme park ideas and fun!
Alley Cats Entertainment
If you don’t have a blast at Alley Cats, you’re just not trying. This indoor/outdoor family fun zone features rain-or-shine entertainment for just about everyone, including bowling, arcade games, laser tag, rock climbing, Putt-Putt miniature golf, batting cages, dining, and a full-service bar—all available seven days a week, including late nights.
River Legacy
This stunning 1,300 urban oasis along the banks of the Trinity River is one of the top park destinations in the region, boasting an immense wildlife population, hiking and biking trails, canoeing and kayaking, as well as pavilion and picnic areas sure to suit any group’s needs for outdoor fun. Tip: Be sure to check out rental options at River Legacy’s Living Science Center, an out-of-the-ordinary nature museum located near the park’s entrance.
Arlington Parks and Recreation Centers
River Legacy is far from the only park option available in Arlington—in fact, we have more than 90 parks and green spaces to choose from, with amenities like pavilion rentals, picnic areas, outdoor grills, and basketball courts—even disc golf and FootGolf courses.
For indoor activities, you might consider renting space at one of Arlington’s six recreation centers, which feature private event rooms and spaces for group exercise. Learn more.
Howell Farms
Scenic Howell Farms is an off-the-beaten-path West Arlington destination that blends rustic charm with urban technology and amenities, making it a memorable place to host groups and celebrate special events. There’s even a baseball field behind the barn!
- BRIGHT IDEA #4 – COOL PLACES TO SEE
Top O’ Hill Terrace
Sure, you know Arlington as the land of baseball, roller coasters, and football—but did you also know that Arlington had a secret dual identity as the region’s former Vegas—before Vegas even existed? It’s all true, and you can explore Arlington’s semi-shady (but glamorous) past when you take a tour at Top O’Hill Terrace, a former tearoom, gambling casino, and gangster hideout turned Baptist university that’s also one of Arlington’s most popular destinations for visiting groups.
Arlington Music Hall
This beautifully-restored former movie theatre, built in 1949, serves as an elegant, vintage-vibe setting for an annual lineup of top-shelf live entertainment acts, as well as regular performances by Symphony Arlington. Concessions are available on site, plus, you can also do pre-show dinner and cocktails at a nearby Downtown Arlington destination. Tip: Ask Arlington Music Hall about private event rentals.
Levitt Pavilion
Another harmonious (and free) downtown destination that’s perfect for large groups is Arlington’s Levitt Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue where you’ll enjoy premiere live music shows under the stars in the heart of the city—and best of all, did we mention that it’s free? The Levitt is also a BYO-whatever venue, which means you can pack along a picnic dinner and your favorite wine to enjoy with the show—or if you prefer, you can purchase food and beverages from one of the venue’s on-site vendors.
- BRIGHT IDEA #5 – DON’T FORGET!
Free Family Reunion Workshop
Feb. 24, 2018 from 9 a.m. to noon
Dan Dipert Career & Technical Center
2101 Browning Drive
Arlington, TX 76010
