North Arlington - Arlington, TX

Begun as a trading post in the mid-1800s, Arlington soon attracted farmers, making it a prime spot for agriculture throughout the 19th century. Officially established in 1876, it remained a small community until the 1950s, when industrialization took over, and the population boomed. North Arlington in particular benefited from the building of Six Flags Over Texas. The addition of The Ballpark at Arlington and AT&T Stadium added to the area's reputation as a tourist center in the DFW Metroplex.

Though no museums serve the North Arlington neighborhood, the Arlington Museum of Art sits a short distance away. Area universities including the University of Texas at Arlington support a small but vibrant art scene in the community. Meanwhile, the biggest area celebrations take place at Six Flags with Holiday at the Park and Fright Fest. However, smaller events for the community also take place throughout the year.

The majority of area restaurants serve the more tourist-oriented parts of the city. However, several great dining options await in North Arlington. The same tends to be true when it comes to nightlife choices though easy access to other parts of the metropolitan area makes this a only a minor issue.

Foodies can find the majority of dining options along I-30 or near Lamar Boulevard. Part of a small local chain, Humperdinks features a menu of items such as lightly fried pickle chips served with ranch for a tart and tangy flavor sensation or soft shell tacos stuffed with succulent shrimp. Sports fans can head here on game night to catch the shuttle to the stadium.

Piccolo Mondo Italian Restaurant features an array of gourmet fare. Count the lasagna alla Bolognese, a rich baked lasagna with bechamel sauce, among its many specialties. Complete your meal with one of the restaurant's famous desserts such as a rich and decadent tiramisu or a refreshing sorbet.

Cacharel provides an unforgettable fine dining experience for residents and tourists alike. Order the swordfish piccata served on angel hair pasta with a delicate lemon butter sauce, or indulge in a roasted rack of lamb with a savory herb crust.

AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, features events and concerts throughout the year. Six Flags Over Texas regularly showcases big name musical acts at the park. Several smaller music venues also serve the North Arlington area, including Louie Louie's Dueling Piano Bar. Levitt Pavilion hosts free shows year-round.

The North Arlington neighborhood lacks entertainment options, but you can find local hot spots located within the surrounding community. Head to Arlington Improv to check out local talent and hot national headliners on stage. Sample a brew at some of the best area bars, including BoomerJack's and J. Gilligan's.

Cars provide those in the area with the easiest way to travel in Arlington. However, the theme park and stadiums can leave traffic at a standstill. Public transportation options such as the Metro Arlington Xpress bus system, or MAX, can take travelers to key spots in Arlington as well as other Dallas and Fort Worth locations. Several taxi companies serve the Arlington area, with Uber providing an alternative transportation option as well. The largest public parking areas serve the stadiums and theme park, but these require a fee to use. Finding free public parking in Arlington presents no challenge, but no lots serve the North Arlington neighborhood.

North Arlington lies alongside I-30 for easy access to both Dallas and Fort Worth. North Arlington caters to pedestrians more so than other Arlington neighborhoods. However, a lack of bike lanes means that cyclists should use caution while riding, and few residents walk.

River Legacy Park and River Legacy Park East make up the largest parks in the North Arlington area, and provide residents with great opportunities to enjoy the beautiful scenery that comprises this neighborhood. Great places to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life in Arlington, the parks provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and much more. The park accepts donations but does not require entry fees.

Those with canoes can use the park's launch point to explore the Trinity River or the nearby lake. Playgrounds make for safe outdoor play options for kids. Dogs need leashes on at the parks, but those willing to leave the neighborhood can find a dog park in the south of the city. Eight miles worth of trails make for great exercise opportunities as well for those who want a relaxing spot to get and stay fit. Special events and festivals at the parks include a Nature School, and an After Dark at the Park event, both of which aim to provide educational opportunities to children and families.

The cost of living in North Arlington tends to be slightly higher than other Arlington neighborhoods. A ride on the MAX costs a flat fee of $5 for an entire day's use, regardless of where you intend to travel. For a one-bedroom apartment, expect to pay an average of $677 per month. Meanwhile, for a beer at a local bar, expect to pay around $5 for a pint. On the whole, gas prices trend lower than the average at about 13 percent.

The biggest spot for shopping in the North Arlington neighborhood, Lincoln Square houses a wide range of stores with everything from shoes to formal wear. However, shopping in North Arlington doesn't tend to cater to the upscale shopping crowd. Shoppers in search of high-end items may need to head a little further south to Arlington Highlands or The Parks at Arlington.

For a great boutique shopping experience, the Gracie Lane Collection of retailers gives shoppers the chance to pick up unique home decor items, gifts, clothing and accessories in a number of different styles, many with a handcrafted and personal look and feel. For a fashionable sampling of women's clothing items that stand ahead of the trend, head to Kyanat's Designer Boutique on Southwest Green Oaks Boulevard to browse a number of hot contemporary items.

For everyday shopping, Tom Thumb, Whole Foods Market and ALDI serve the area. Shoppers also head to Albertson's at the Plaza Shopping Center in Arlington for groceries and basic household supplies. For fresh fruits, homemade jams and organic veggies, check out Green's Produce and Plants on West Arkansas Lane. You can also find locally-grown items at the Handley Farmers Market located 15 miles outside of downtown Arlington.