Arlington Nightlife

>> Cheap airline tickets >> Arlington nightlife

Arlington is not the most happening city in the Dallas/Fort Worth metro. There are plenty of nightspots within Arlington's city limits, but, overall, its after-dark scene is not as widespread and cosmopolitan as that of Dallas itself. That said, the diverse mix of classic country music bars, theme bars, neighborhood pubs and nightclubs offers visitors plenty of options in Arlington. Those who are using Arlington as a base for a visit to the area needn't head back into the big city to experience quality after-dark fun. Here's why:

Budget

The Studio Movie Grill (225 Merchant's Row) is a movie theater, bar and restaurant in one. Unlike other similar venues, this one actually shows first run movies and serves decent food. There is food and wine, as well as a menu of dessert items. Another feature that makes this place more than a gimmicky cinema is the plush leather chairs that are perfect for lounging in during the film. Sure, it's a gimmick, but it is also classy enough to be considered a recommended nightspot.

Value

Johnnie High's Country Music Revue (224 N. Center Street) is a famous country music venue in Arlington. Though the genre's biggest names generally do not take the stage, notable acts consistently come through as they build up their careers for the next step towards stardom. Johnnie's still has an old-school country vibe and some of its original décor, which has been around since the club opened in the early 1970s.

Cowboy's Dancehall is another live music venue. It is aimed at a younger demographic, hosting rock-tinged country acts and featuring line dancing, as well as dance lessons early in the evening. The crowd here is young, proving that, in Texas, country music is as much a part of the mainstream as R&B.

Sherlock's Baker Street Pub (Lincoln Square Center) is far from the nerdy/euro-chic restaurant its name suggests. There is live music nightly and the pool tables are always full. The menu is rather non-descript, but the beer, including a smattering of English pub faves, is good, and the bar stays open until 2 a.m.

Splurge

Humperdinks (700 Six Flags Drive) is a sports bar and eating emporium near Six Flags over Texas. This restaurant has a diverse menu featuring Cajun specialties, burgers, pasta, ribs, and Tex-Mex favorites. It can get crowded and raucous during major sporting events, but even then, it retains an air of family-friendliness.