While state and county officials continue working to offer COVID-19 vaccines to interested recipients, many Irving residents might be rethinking plans to travel. Luckily, Irving is the perfect Staycation destination. The city has plenty of options for residents that will give the feeling they’re miles away from home.
STEPPING OUT OF THE CITY
South Irving has so many natural spaces to explore. Campion Trail is the perfect place to teach the kids about nature, from the native plants and trees to the wildlife. Exercise enthusiasts also will love the walking, running and biking options the trail offers.
Staycationers can spend a day on the waters of Lake Carolyn. Visitors can paddle board, kayak or aqua-cycle around the lake. For lovebirds, private gondola tours of the lake and Mandalay Canal are available. Lake Carolyn is a private lake; visitors are required to rent watercrafts and cannot bring their own. Reservations for water activities can be made online.
MUSEUMS AND HISTORY
The Irving Archives Museum (IAM) and the Irving Arts Center are open and are the perfect places for a day trip. Explore the IAM and learn about Irving’s history, from the days the first settlers arrived through present day. The museum also features a rotating exhibit. The Irving Arts Center has several galleries, featuring rotating exhibits. Visitors are required to make reservations for the Arts Center and the IAM.
FOR THE WEEKENDERS
The retro-inspired Texican Court is perfect for families, couples or even just a group of friends. The outdoor space features beautifully landscaped courtyards, with lawn games like Jenga and cornhole. Guests can hop on a complimentary bicycle for an afternoon ride and then spend the evening fireside making s’mores. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool.
The chic NYLO Las Colinas Hotel is a unique gem with many of the same activities and amenities as the Texican Court. The trendy, modern décor of the boutique hotel features exposed brick and polished concrete flooring. Couples and adults will definitely enjoy pool time and outdoor activities with a “fancy feel.”
The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas is a more traditional feel with an exciting location. The hotel is across the street from the Irving Convention Center and right next to Toyota Music Factory. There are plenty of on-site amenities to take advantage of, including a swimming pool, gym, whirlpool spa and more. And no visit to The Westin Irving Convention Center is complete without enjoying a meal at Mesa Mezcal, the onsite restaurant serving authentic Mexican Cuisine and craft cocktails.
ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE FAMILY
Toyota Music Factory is sure to please any palette, craving or vibe, with more than a dozen restaurants, bars and other attractions.
The Texas Lottery Plaza is an open-air space right in the middle of the action. During the day, the plaza is an outdoor exercise studio with yoga classes, Camp Gladiator sessions or Pound Fit, a workout class set to music where attendees use drumsticks to workout. At night, the plaza is pumping and jumping with live music and other events.
Situated around the plaza are the many restaurants and bars offering an eclectic blend of events, one-of-a-kind entertainment and more. One of the newest options is Stumpy’s Hatchet House, a place to eat, enjoy a few drinks and throw axes.
One of Irving’s trendier destinations is Water Street. With pathways to Lake Carolyn, new residential buildings and cool restaurants with menus that will satisfy any craving, Irving Water Street is the place to spend a day relaxing with family and friends taking in some of the best that Irving has to offer. Not to mention some of the city’s most Instagrammable spots.
