Irving Travel Guide
Sep 10, 2026 / Public Storage
What is Irving, Texas, known for?
Irving, Texas, is a convenient Dallas-Fort Worth destination known for Las Colinas, the Mandalay Canal, the Mustangs of Las Colinas, the Toyota Music Factory, and the Irving Arts Center. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth and near Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Irving is a convenient home base for exploring the Metroplex while offering plenty of dining, entertainment, arts, and outdoor activities of its own.
Irving Travel Guide at a Glance
- Best for: Arts, entertainment, dining, outdoor activities, and easy access to Dallas-Fort Worth
- Top area to explore: Las Colinas
- Must-see landmark: Mustangs of Las Colinas
- Popular outdoor destination: Mandalay Canal and Lake Carolyn
- Arts and culture: Irving Arts Center
- Live entertainment: Toyota Music Factory
- Airport: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Good for families: Museums, outdoor spaces, entertainment, and family-friendly activities
Getting to Irving
Irving sits in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, making it a practical base for travelers who want to explore multiple North Texas destinations. The city is adjacent to Dallas and Fort Worth and is known for its proximity to DFW International Airport.
If you’re flying into DFW, Irving’s location makes it particularly convenient for business trips, weekend getaways, and longer stays in the Metroplex.
Things to Do in Irving
Explore Las Colinas and the Mandalay Canal
Las Colinas is one of Irving’s best-known areas and a great place to start your visit. The Mandalay Canal features European-inspired architecture, restaurants, shops, and walkways along the water.
The canal connects with Lake Carolyn, where visitors can enjoy activities such as gondola rides, stand-up paddleboarding, and water trikes. A tree-lined, cobblestone walkway stretches about three miles around Lake Carolyn and the canals, providing an option for walking or jogging.
See the Mustangs of Las Colinas
The Mustangs of Las Colinas are among Irving’s most recognizable landmarks. The installation features nine bronze mustangs galloping across a granite stream and was created by artist Robert Glen. The sculpture was installed in 1984 in Williams Square Plaza.
The adjacent Mustang Sculpture Exhibit provides additional information about the artwork and its creation.
Visit the Irving Arts Center
For art and culture, visit the Irving Arts Center, a Smithsonian-affiliated facility in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The 10-acre complex features:
- Two theaters
- Five galleries with rotating exhibitions
- An outdoor sculpture garden
- Classrooms and meeting spaces
- Visual and performing arts programs
The galleries are free to view and are generally open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.; check the Arts Center’s current schedule before visiting.
Catch a Show at Toyota Music Factory
The Toyota Music Factory combines live entertainment, restaurants, and events in the Las Colinas area. The development includes The Pavilion, an indoor-outdoor amphitheater with capacity for up to 8,000 people, as well as an outdoor event plaza and numerous dining options.
Depending on the schedule, visitors can catch a concert, comedy show, movie, or live event and grab dinner in the same area.
Where to Eat in Irving
Irving’s dining scene reflects its location in the diverse Dallas-Fort Worth region. Las Colinas is particularly convenient for visitors, with restaurants ranging from casual spots to international cuisine and upscale dining.
The Toyota Music Factory area offers numerous restaurants and bars, including options such as Mexican, Italian, sushi, gastropub fare, pizza, and more.
For a meal with a view, consider dining near the Mandalay Canal or Lake Carolyn, where several restaurants feature patio seating.
Family Fun and the Outdoors
Irving offers several ways to spend time outdoors without leaving the city. The Mandalay Canal and Lake Carolyn provide opportunities for walking, jogging and water activities, while the city’s trail system gives visitors additional options for cycling and exploring the outdoors.
For families, Irving also offers museums, arts programs, entertainment venues, and activities throughout the city. Visit Irving’s event calendar for current family-friendly activities and seasonal events.
Where to Stay in Irving
Irving is a convenient place to stay if you’re planning to explore the broader Dallas-Fort Worth area. The city offers hotels throughout areas such as Las Colinas, with easy access to restaurants, entertainment, business centers, and attractions.
Which Irving area is right for your trip?
| Area | Best for | What you’ll find |
| Las Colinas | Entertainment and dining | Mandalay Canal, Lake Carolyn, Toyota Music Factory, restaurants |
| Near DFW Airport | Air travelers and short stays | Convenient airport access and numerous hotels |
| Heritage Crossing | History and culture | Museums and historic attractions |
| Central Irving | Local exploration | Neighborhood restaurants, parks and community attractions |
Moving to Irving?
If you’re relocating to Irving, temporary storage can make the transition easier. A Public Storage unit can give you extra space while you’re moving, downsizing, renovating, or getting settled into your new home.
With its central location, entertainment options, outdoor attractions, and access to the rest of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Irving can be a convenient place to visit—and a practical place to call home.
FAQs
What is Irving, Texas, best known for?
Irving is best known for Las Colinas, the Mandalay Canal, the Mustangs of Las Colinas, the Toyota Music Factory, and it’s convenient location near Dallas, Fort Worth, and DFW International Airport.
Is Irving close to Dallas?
Yes. Irving is adjacent to Dallas and is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.
Is Irving close to DFW Airport?
Yes. Irving is located near Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, making the city a convenient option for travelers flying into the Metroplex.
What should I do in Irving for a day?
Start in Las Colinas with a walk along the Mandalay Canal and a visit to the Mustangs of Las Colinas. Then visit the Irving Arts Center or explore Lake Carolyn before ending the day with dinner or a show at the Toyota Music Factory.
Is Irving good for families?
Yes. Families can choose from outdoor activities, museums, arts programs, entertainment venues, and seasonal events throughout Irving.
What is there to do at the Mandalay Canal?
Visitors can walk along the canal, dine at nearby restaurants, take gondola rides, and participate in water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and water trikes.
Is the Irving Arts Center free?
The Irving Arts Center’s galleries are free to view. Theater performances, classes, and special events may have separate fees.
