Family Fun at Arlington Highlands | DFW Activities

Arlington Highlands is an open-air lifestyle center in the heart of Arlington, the kind of place where a family can shop, eat, and catch a movie in one easy, low-stress stop. Sitting at the crossroads of Interstate 20 and Matlock Road, it blends big-name retailers with local favorites across wide, walkable plazas, and it makes a natural add-on to a bigger Arlington day around the stadiums and Six Flags.

Shopping, Dining, and a Movie

The center runs more than 50 stores and over 25 places to eat, leaning moderate to upscale rather than discount or fast food. For families, the entertainment mix is the draw: a movie theater and an arcade anchor the evenings, while patio restaurants and sweet-treat shops keep things social. It works equally well as a daytime browse or a relaxed family night out, and seasonal community events light up the plaza at various points through the year.

Good to Know

• Parking is free and plentiful, a genuine plus over an enclosed mall.
• The layout is open-air and walkable, with wide, stroller-friendly sidewalks.
• Because it is outdoors, bring water and sun protection in the warmer months, and consider an evening visit when the Texas heat eases and the patios come alive.

Best Time to Visit

Summer afternoons can be hot in an open-air center, so evenings are the sweet spot from late spring through early fall, when the temperature drops and the restaurants and theater draw a lively but comfortable crowd. Cooler months are pleasant any time of day. Combining dinner and a movie is the easiest way to turn it into a full family outing.

Nearby Activities

Arlington Highlands is close to the city’s major attractions. Pair it with a day at Six Flags Over Texas, a Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Field, or a behind-the-scenes tour of AT&T Stadium.

Planning a day in Arlington? Browse our full directory of family-friendly attractions across DFW to build your itinerary.