20 Fun Facts About Arlington Texas

Arlington, Texas, located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, is a city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy. With a population of nearly 400,000 residents, Arlington is the seventh-largest city in Texas and has become a key player in the region’s growth and development. From its early days as an agricultural community to its current status as a hub for sports, entertainment, and education, Arlington has a fascinating story to tell.

Early History and Growth

Arlington’s history dates back to the mid-19th century when European settlers began to move into the area. Prior to this, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Caddo people, who lived along the Trinity River. The city itself was founded in 1876, named after General Robert E. Lee’s Arlington House in Virginia, and quickly became a center for agriculture, particularly cotton farming.

The arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the late 19th century was a turning point for Arlington. The railroad brought new opportunities for trade and commerce, spurring the city’s growth. By the early 20th century, Arlington had developed into a thriving community with a growing population and economy.

The Post-War Boom and Industrial Development

The period following World War II marked a significant era of growth for Arlington. The city’s population surged as returning veterans and their families sought affordable housing and job opportunities in the burgeoning Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. During this time, Arlington began to diversify its economy, attracting major industries that would shape the city’s future.

One of the most notable developments was the opening of the General Motors assembly plant in 1951. This facility became one of Arlington’s largest employers and played a crucial role in the city’s economic expansion. Alongside the automotive industry, Arlington also saw growth in the aerospace sector, with companies like Vought Aircraft Industries establishing a presence in the city.

Arlington as a Sports and Entertainment Hub

Arlington’s transformation into a sports and entertainment hub began in the 1960s and 1970s. The opening of Six Flags Over Texas in 1961 was a major milestone, as it was the first theme park in the Six Flags chain and quickly became a popular destination for families. This was followed by the relocation of the Texas Rangers baseball team to Arlington in 1972, solidifying the city’s reputation as a sports destination.

In the years that followed, Arlington continued to invest in its sports and entertainment infrastructure. The construction of AT&T Stadium in 2009, home to the Dallas Cowboys, further elevated Arlington’s status. The stadium, known for its cutting-edge design and massive capacity, has hosted numerous high-profile events, including the Super Bowl, concerts, and college football championships.

Today, Arlington is not only a city of sports but also a center for arts and culture. The Arlington Museum of Art, Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts, and the University of Texas at Arlington’s various cultural programs contribute to the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Education and Innovation

Education has always been a cornerstone of Arlington’s development. The city is home to the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), one of the largest and most respected public universities in the state. UTA has played a vital role in the city’s growth, not only as an educational institution but also as a driver of research and innovation.

UTA’s programs in engineering, business, and nursing are particularly renowned, and the university’s research initiatives have attracted significant investment and collaboration with industry partners. This focus on education and innovation has helped position Arlington as a leader in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

A City of Diversity and Community

One of Arlington’s defining characteristics is its diversity. The city is home to a wide range of cultures, languages, and traditions, reflecting the global nature of its population. This diversity is evident in Arlington’s food scene, festivals, and community events, which celebrate the city’s multicultural heritage.

Arlington’s commitment to community is also reflected in its numerous parks, recreational facilities, and public services. The city’s extensive park system, which includes the beautiful River Legacy Parks along the Trinity River, offers residents and visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to picnicking and birdwatching.

20 Fun Facts About Arlington, Texas

1. Home of the Texas Rangers: Arlington is home to the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team, who play at Globe Life Field.
2. World’s Largest Domed Structure: AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, is one of the largest domed structures in the world and can hold up to 100,000 people.
3. First Six Flags Park: Six Flags Over Texas, located in Arlington, was the first theme park in the Six Flags chain, opening in 1961.
4. Arlington Assembly Plant: The General Motors assembly plant in Arlington has been producing vehicles since 1954 and is the only GM plant in the U.S. to exclusively produce SUVs.
5. Frozen Margarita Machine: The world’s first frozen margarita machine was invented in Arlington at Mariano’s Hacienda.
6. Levitt Pavilion: Arlington’s Levitt Pavilion offers free outdoor concerts with a variety of music genres throughout the year.
7. UTA’s Engineering Program: The University of Texas at Arlington’s engineering program is one of the largest in Texas and has been recognized for its research contributions.
8. Sports Illustrated Covers: Arlington is one of the few cities to have had both its baseball and football stadiums featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
9. International Cuisine: Arlington is known for its diverse food scene, featuring authentic cuisines from around the world, including Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Lebanese, and more.
10. Arlington Museum of Art: The Arlington Museum of Art is housed in a historic 1950s building that was originally a J.C. Penney department store.
11. Golf Capital of Texas: Arlington is home to several top-rated golf courses, including the Tierra Verde Golf Club, a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
12. Lake Arlington: The city’s Lake Arlington is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports, covering 2,275 acres.
13. River Legacy Parks: Arlington’s River Legacy Parks span over 1,300 acres along the Trinity River and are home to diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
14. Largest Flock of Bats: Arlington is home to one of the largest urban bat populations in Texas, often seen near the Fielder Road bridge.
15. UTA Shorthorn: The University of Texas at Arlington’s student newspaper, The Shorthorn, has won numerous national awards for its journalism.
16. International Bowling Museum: Arlington houses the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame, celebrating the history and culture of bowling.
17. Theater Arlington: Theater Arlington is one of the largest community theaters in Texas and has been producing live theater for over 45 years.
18. Arlington Highlands: The Arlington Highlands shopping center is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring over 50 stores and restaurants.
19. Destination for Gamers: Arlington is home to the Esports Stadium Arlington, the largest dedicated esports facility in North America.
20. Public Art: Arlington has a vibrant public art program, with murals, sculptures, and installations displayed throughout the city, reflecting its diverse culture and history.