Maybe you have driven through Garland, Texas, or have visited the eclectic Dallas suburb a time or two. Either way, it’s worth another look. The suburb of Garland shares a border with central Dallas and has long been known for its rich diversity, unique restaurants featuring a wide range of international cuisine, lively breweries, and a thriving cultural arts scene. Garland has once again become a regional hot-spot, thanks to these can’t-miss assets and because of the opportunities the 2019 Build Garland bond program has brought the city.
When you’re strolling around downtown Garland, you’ll likely notice some construction. The area is undergoing a major redesign that to make it an even better place to stroll, shop, and dine. By the end of 2023, Garland’s Downtown Square and 14 blocks of surrounding streetscapes will be transformed into an entertainment hub, thanks to inviting patios, a recreational/event lawn, a new water feature, and a perfectly perched treehouse for the kids. While we wait on these exciting additions, there’s still plenty to explore in downtown Garland. Plan your visit today and put these popular spots on your agenda:
The Frocksy is a marvelously quirky vintage clothing and accessories shop that specializes in a one-of-a-kind stylish, and artfully curated collection of vintage dresses, separates, hats, and lots of jewelry. Also in this space is the Karin Wiseman Collection, bringing additional treasures shoppers always love to discover.
Alston’s Old Home Place is a longtime favorite shopping destination in a renovated historic home in Garland where there’s something for everyone.
Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery serves up handcrafted beers and slow-smoked BBQ. Come down, grab a seat, and make yourself at home.
Rosalind Coffee is a great space to work remotely, grab a cup of coffee with a friend, or see local artists and live music.
Main Street Café specializes in American favorites in a charming location.
Scoop N’ Buns is a cool, Filipino-inspired dessert shop—the perfect place to wind down after a day of shopping on the square.
Celebrate Thirsty Third Thursdays in Downtown Garland on the third Thursday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m.
The arts in Garland have flourished with the multitude of culturally diverse organizations that perform at the Granville Arts Center. Each year, the City of Garland brings a variety of fine arts experiences that attract patrons from throughout North Texas, including symphony performances, musicals, ballets, stage plays, and concerts. The theaters are also available to rent for meetings and events.
With spring in full swing and summer around the corner, Garland is also a great place to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, with more than 2,800 acres of green space for sports, recreation, and other outdoor activities, as well as numerous aquatics and activity centers. The City of Garland has also invested significant resources to renovate, construct, develop, improve, and expand its parks and recreation facilities. Already open is an impressive off-leash dog park, new playground equipment, and street improvements. Soon, residents and visitors can enjoy new aquatics amenities, recreation center improvements, library maker spaces, and more hike/bike trails. There will also be an investment in transportation corridors and utility infrastructure. In addition, Garland ISD’s new, state-of-the-art natatorium for students to enjoy.
Through the years, Garland has become a community where dreams come true for the people who call it home. The residents of Garland value the drive to create–not just to consume. With a variety of neighborhoods, employment opportunities, and community services, Garland values experiences that are good for the soul.
The city’s mantra, Make Your Mark, is the perfect call to action for its residents and visitors to live life to the fullest in Garland.
To learn more about Garland and its upcoming improvement and expansion projects, visit the City of Garland Website and, in particular, its Downtown Square Updates page.
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