Sprawling on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, Garland is a lively city within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Named after U.S. Attorney General Augustus Hill Garland, it combines the former towns of Embree and Duck Creek, which flourished with the construction of a Santa Fe Railroad depot in the 19th century.
Things to do in Garland
Travelling with kids? They’ll love cooling off at Hawaiian Falls, a family-friendly water park with a lazy river, a wave pool and an interactive tree-house play area. You can challenge your family and friends on the speed slides of The Tornado, brave the giant drop of The Flyin’ Hawaiian or enjoy the waterfalls and shallow waters of Splashwater Reef. Hot dogs and hamburgers are available at Sharkey’s Cafe while water toys and souvenirs are for sale at the Island Trader’s Gift Shop.
Adjacent to Hawaiian Falls is the Spring Creek Forest Preserve, which protects a tract of old-growth bottomland forest home to several endangered plant species. Designated nature trails wind through the preserve and monthly speakers offer insight into its unique ecology. The Spring Creek Forest Preserve is particularly impressive in the summer when the wildflowers are in bloom.
History buffs should head to the Garland Landmark Museum, which occupies an old railway depot and houses artefacts relating to the city’s cultural heritage. Get up close to vintage farming tools, period clothing and old newspapers or book a guided walking tour through Downtown Garland. If you’re feeling inquisitive, you can also participate in the museum’s scavenger hunt.
Getting around Garland
Garland is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Dallas and 35 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. DART light rail services stop at the Forest/Jupiter and Downtown Garland stations while buses travel throughout the city.