From lake adventures to community-made arts and unforgettable eats, these locally rooted spots capture Irving’s real flavor right now. Mix a couple of classics with some fresh finds and plan a day that feels distinctly Irving.
Things to Do in Irving (2025)
11 Places
From lake adventures to community-made arts and unforgettable eats, these locally rooted spots capture Irving’s real flavor right now. Mix a couple of classics with some fresh finds and plan a day that feels distinctly Irving.
Gondola Adventures, Inc. - Irving
Boat rental service
An owner-operated gondola fleet glides through Mandalay Canal and Lake Carolyn year-round. Recently spotlighted by KERA News for its Valentine’s cruises, it’s equally great for families, proposals, or relaxed sightseeing, complete with the local Love Lock Bridge tradition.
Stand Up Paddle North Texas
Water sports equipment rental service
A local, family-run outfitter renting paddleboards, kayaks and pedal boats at Lake Carolyn. DCURD lists SUP NTX as one of the only licensed operators on the lake, and Visit Irving frequently features their sunrise sessions and canal routes.
The Mustangs of Las Colinas Sculpture and Museum and Visitors Center
Sculpture
Irving’s most iconic public art anchors Williams Square. Pop into the adjacent museum to learn how artist Robert Glen created the bronzes and catch film clips and artifacts. The plaza’s 2022 restoration renewed this community landmark for daily visits.
Irving Arts Center
Art center
A Smithsonian Affiliate since 2007, the city’s arts hub hosts rotating exhibitions, resident ensembles, and community programs. Expect credible curation, free gallery hours, and a lively calendar spanning theater, music, and family workshops throughout the year.
Irving Arts Center
Art center
This volunteer-driven theater company mounts an annual season in the Dupree Theater, earning praise from regional arts writers for polished, community-rooted productions. Check current titles and showtimes; recent seasons have mixed classics, comedies, and new favorites.
Irving Archives and Museum
Museum
A city-run museum with an engaging permanent gallery on Irving’s story, timely rotating exhibits, and Texas’s first Smithsonian Spark!Lab for young inventors. Recent programming shows strong community ties and updated hours with free Sundays announced for 2025.
Ruth Paine House Museum
Museum
A modest 1963 home where a pivotal chapter of Dallas history unfolded, interpreted with care by the city’s museum team. Guided tours start at IAM; reservations are required, and the narrative emphasizes primary sources over speculation.
Sanjh Restaurant & Bar
Restaurant
Irving’s splashy fine-dining Indian restaurant blends classic technique with regional recipes, earning a spot on D Magazine’s Best New Restaurants list and raves from Eater Dallas for standout chaats and housemade paneer.
Empa Mundo - World of Empanadas
Argentinian restaurant
A beloved, independently owned spot for Argentine-style empanadas that shows up on Eater Dallas lists and local critics’ roundups. From brisket to spinach-ricotta, fillings are flavorful and affordable, with quick counter service for a casual bite.
Argentina Bakery
Bakery
Family-run since 2003, this neighborhood favorite turns out alfajores, masitas, custom cakes, espresso drinks, and savory pastries. Featured by local travel editors for its community role and consistent quality, it’s a sweet taste of Buenos Aires in Irving.
Levy Event Plaza
Park
A lively Sunday market that’s been activating the lakefront plaza with local produce, baked goods, and makers. Las Colinas’ official calendar and community outlets confirm recurring 2025 dates, giving travelers a direct line to area growers and artisans.
