One of the best things about Arlington is the fact that we’re home to the world-class UT-Arlington, an acclaimed research institution offering more than 180 graduate and undergraduate degrees in a broad range of disciplines - as well as a number of destinations that are well worth exploring for date night, family fun, or when you need a bit of quality time spent with yourself.
One: The Gallery at UTA
One of Arlington’s “hidden gems” and top things to do at UTA is The Gallery at UTA, a 4,900 square-foot exhibition space offering free, year-round multi-media art shows, as well as lectures, symposiums and film screenings. All works exhibited are created or curated by UT Arlington students, faculty or selected guest artists, many of whom have Texas ties.
Two: Mavs Speaker Series
It ain’t your mama’s lecture series, and it’s one of the most intellectually-stimulating events that Arlington has to offer. Mark your calendars today for the next round of presenters at the Maverick Speaker Series, a lineup of thought-provoking conversations led by innovators, icons and change makers, all of national and international renown. This year’s 10th anniversary lineup includes talks by actor Lou Diamond Phillips and astronaut Anousheh Ansari, while previous speakers have included the likes of Seth Meyers, Emmitt Smith, Bill Nye, Anderson Cooper, Soledad O’Brien, Daymond John, and Jane Goodall. Presentations are held at UT-Arlington’s Texas Hall. TIP: Space is limited, so it’s recommended that you get tickets for your preferred speakers as soon as they become available.
Three: Live Events
Given UT Arlington’s size and status, it’s not surprising that the university is a destination for an extensive lineup of year-round live and performing arts events - and in many cases, they’re available at a price that’s definitely budget-friendly. Visit utatickets.com often to find out what’s happening in the way of big events at College Park Center, performances by the UTA Jazz Orchestra, university live theatre, and more. COMING SOON to College Park: WWE Live and a Christmas concert from Casting Crowns.
Four: Sports
Are you crazy about college sports action? Head to College Park Center, Maverick Stadium, Clay Gould Ballpark and other campus venues to catch the UTA Mavericks playing championship-level baseball, volleyball, track and more. But don’t wear yourself out completely, because you’ll want to save some energy to cheer on the mighty Dallas Wings at College Park Center when the WNBA season kicks off each spring. Note: The ladies of the Wings are in the Playoffs! Visit wings.nba.com for a playoff schedule, or click here view the UTA athletic schedule.
Five: UTA Planetarium
One of Arlington’s more interesting destinations is the UTA Planetarium, which features live “tours” of the night sky and solar system presentations, as well as pre-recorded shows like “Pink Floyd” and “Big Bird’s Adventure”. Most showings last about an hour, which makes it easy to combine a planetarium visit with a walk around campus or a visit to the UTA Bookstore or nearby eatery in Downtown Arlington or College Park District. (See below.)
Six: Dining at College Park District
Think of it as a chance to re-visit your college days without the stress of finals and papers. Kick back before a Dallas Wings game with a leisurely pizza fest at Pie Five, a plateful of Chinese and Indian comfort food at Bombay Chopstix or a refreshing beverage at Starbucks, all while soaking up that nostalgic college campus vibe. Bonus: College Park District restaurants are located within easy walking distance of College Park Center, the planetarium or The Green at College Park. (See below.)
Seven: The Green at College Park
This beautiful “urban oasis”, which was designed to include a number of impressive environmentally-sustainable features, is a wonderful destination for strolling and communing with nature while simultaneously feeling the beat of the heart of the city. Located along the Center Street Pedestrian Trail, The Green at College Park features an expansive lawn, a curved wall with seating, native grasses and adaptive plants, plus easy on-foot access to other parts of the campus. Pack up a brown bag lunch, grab a book and enjoy a quiet hour or two outdoors.
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