Arlington Travel Tips

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Arlington is a user-friendly city that often sits in the shadows of its larger neighbors, Dallas and Fort Worth. However, its relatively small size makes it an ideal base for visitors hoping to explore the entire metro area. Arlington has plenty of attractions that should not be overlooked in favor of the larger cities' offerings. Here are some tips to help tourists get the most out of a stay in Arlington, Texas.

1. Arlington is not as cosmopolitan as Dallas. However, the relatively compact size makes it more convenient. The amusement parks and family-oriented destinations make Arlington a good city in which to base a family vacation.

2. Arlington has more in common with Fort Worth's cowboy culture than the cosmopolitan vibe of Dallas.

3. Arlington has no public transit system. Having a car is all but required. Even in Dallas and Fort Worth, public transit is limited and the sheer size of the urban sprawl makes a personal vehicle necessary. That said, many hotels offer shuttle service to Arlington's malls and amusement parks. If you stay in a nice enough hotel, the concierge will be able to organize a personalized tour of Arlington's malls and amusement parks.

4. Because it began its life as a suburb, Arlington is still relatively safe. There are some poorer parts of the city, though these are mostly isolated and do not contain the major tourist sites or malls. Some areas of East Arlington are unsafe at night, though only for those traveling on foot or traveling without someone from the area.

5. If you plan to head into Dallas, stay off the roadways during rush hour, or, at least, make sure that you are going opposite to the traffic flow. Waiting until 10 a.m. to make the trip into the city is advisable, as is returning before 4 p.m. or waiting until 7 or 8 in the evening. Traffic is not as horrendous as it is in other major metro areas, but it can cause a headache if it is unexpected.

6. Arlington has some very suburban attractions. But these are larger than the usual droll malls and entertainment centers. For example, Arlington's Putt-Putt indoor mini-golf course boasts 54 holes.

7. Arlington is a great destination (or at least a great place to base yourself) if you are traveling with your family. The numerous interactive activities and family-centered entertainment venues will give the younger members of your group all the entertainment that they can handle.