Irving: Art, History and Nature

Irving is well suited to a stay that balances culture, local history, nature and events in different ways. If you’re looking for a hotel in Irving, it helps to decide what you want to focus on first: Would you like to explore art, visit historic sites, spend time on paved trails, or include music and entertainment? The attractions vary considerably, from a single work at Williams Square to museums and stages, and a long green corridor along two branches of a river. This makes it easy to organize your choices around your interests.

Art, Galleries and Performances

In the Las Colinas Urban Center, the sculpture Mustangs of Las Colinas is the centerpiece of Williams Square. It was dedicated on September 25, 1984. With its specific setting and historic date, it is a single work of art that differs from the rotating exhibitions and performances at other cultural venues.

The Irving Arts Center adds galleries, a sculpture garden and stage programs to this art-focused experience. The 10-acre complex includes a lushly landscaped sculpture garden and four distinct galleries. More than 20 exhibitions are typically held there each year. The Center also hosts hundreds of performances in two venues: the Dupree Theater and Carpenter Hall. Exhibition and performance programs may change. If you’re planning a culture-focused stay, visual art and stage performances offer two distinct areas of interest here.

History from Different Perspectives

The Ruth Paine House Museum documents the connections between the Kennedy assassination and Irving. Public tours are available, but must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance. Allow for this lead time if the tour is a fixed part of your travel plans.

The Jackie Townsell Bear Creek Heritage Center offers a different historical focus. Its three museums together tell the story of the Bear Creek community in western Irving. This includes the history of the African American population from emancipation through the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. This historical span brings together community and population history, setting it apart from the Ruth Paine House Museum’s connection to the Kennedy assassination.

Specific historical references are also central to the park in Irving’s Heritage District: it is home to the 1887 Caster Cabin and a replica of the Rock Island Depot built in 1903. The dates and the depot’s status as a replica provide two distinct points of reference for understanding these buildings.

River Views and Paved Trails

The Campion Trails offer a nature- and activity-focused experience. They form a 22-mile greenbelt along the Elm Fork and West Fork of the Trinity River. Highlights include expansive river views and diverse wildlife and plant life, including birds, snakes, flowers, trees and shrubs. All trails are paved and suitable for walking and cycling. The trails thus combine river scenery and its flora and fauna with two activities on paved paths.

Plan for Entertainment and Getting Around

The Toyota Music Factory brings together dining, movies, music and special events in an entertainment district. It is also a venue for national and international touring acts. The events program and on-site offerings may change. Gondola Adventures offers gondola rides on Lake Carolyn and the Mandalay Canal year-round; operating details may also change. Check the latest information before making plans.

Irving’s transportation options include two major airports, urban and intercity rail, and several major highways. You can take these different modes of transportation into account when planning your own route.

Discover more destinations: Cedar Hill, Richardson, Carrollton, Duncanville, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Garland, Hutchins.

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