This article is a part of the 2023 Summer Travel Guide, a sponsored collection brought to you by our travel advertising partners. You can find more summer travel destinations and events here.

Irvine, CA? Heck NO! Irving, Texas? You heard that right! Don’t miss this little-known slice of paradise in Dallas/Fort Worth. With a beautiful lake, resort hotels, award-winning golf, and a prime music scene, Irving is the idyllic setting for summer fun. Picture yourself poolside, cocktail in hand or off to the lake for an outdoorsy escapade. Family fun? Early tee time? Next-level nightlife? Blues, jazz, hip-hop, or rock & roll? It’s your summer. It’s your playlist.

ROCKIN’ HOTEL DEALS

Any good getaway starts with an amazing stay, and Irving has plenty of options ranging from affordable to upscale. Each exclusive Irving retreat has a unique vibe, pool scene, foodie fun, and unique amenities.

Retro Stay

Escape from your everyday life to the retro-inspired Texican Court. Nestled on acres of beautifully landscaped courtyards, Texican Court offers outdoor fun with lawn games like Jenga and corn hole, complimentary bicycles, fire pits with s’mores kits, and LIVE MUSIC every weekend. The center of attention: the ultra-hip circular swimming pool.

Lakeside Stay

Sunshine and scenic views, dining options galore, and spa time make for the staycation trifecta at Irving’s Omni Las Colinas. With lawn games, inviting fire pits, a waterfront view, and the Lakehouse Waterfront Lounge, there’s no need to leave the property once you’ve settled into a poolside chaise, daybed, or cabana—unless you prefer the Mokara Salon & Spa for an afternoon.

Resort Stay

A great way to start off your morning at The Las Colinas Resort: play like a pro across 36 holes of champion-style golf. Or if you’re looking for deeper relaxation, there are plenty of options too. Pamper yourself with a soothing massage before taking a leisurely stroll around the urban oasis. The tranquil property is a great choice for this—the lush gardens and sparkling waters will leave you feeling soothed and energized.

ROCKIN’ SUMMER PLAYLIST

Playing It by Ear

Here’s a little secret. There’s more than one music city in the Lone Star State. That’s right, y’all. Irving is stealing the spotlight with superstars, world-renown headliners, local bands, and talented regional artists on stages all across the city. The Toyota Music Factory and its Live Nation Pavilion top the charts. The Pavilion draws some of the biggest acts around and its 8,000+ seating capacity ensures everyone has a great view. Plus, the Toyota Music Factory has everything you need for an exciting night out including dozens of bars featuring local live music, restaurants, and the open-air Texas Lottery Plaza with live music most weekends. Want even more? For a first look at up-and-coming Texas talent, find your way to the patio at OUTLAW Taproom, Texican Court’s Two Mules, or the intimate stage at The Ranch at Las Colinas.

Water Play

For an amazing outdoor experience, head to Lake Carolyn. Whether you’re with a group or the kiddos, Lake Carolyn offers classes and excursions that will have you on the water in no time. Enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, or cruising on a Gondola for breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.

Food Play

With more ethnicities represented in its 75038 ZIP code than almost any other city in the United States, it’s no wonder that Irving’s restaurants, too, speak many languages. Eateries all around town offer an authentic taste of far-flung culinary destinations including Japan, Italy, India, and beyond.  And first-rate dining just steps away from beautiful Lake Carolyn—that’s what you’ll find along Irving’s Water Street, a hip and happening part of town home to restaurants, bars, and plenty of things to see and do. Food options in the Toyota Music Factory and Water Street range from immersive dining experiences at upscale restaurants to expertly crafted cocktails, wine rooms, and gastropubs to farm to table and everything in-between.

Horseplay

The Mustangs of Las Colinas sculpture depicts a herd of nine bronze mustangs perpetually charging forward across a granite stream. This breathtaking illusion is created by small fountains strategically placed beneath the horses’ hooves. The Mustangs are one of the largest equestrian sculptures in the world making it an essential stop during your Irving visit. This larger-than-life work of art provide one heck of a photo op.

Playing Around

While Irving has more than enough to keep you and your friends, lovers and kids entertained with a mix of urban charm and small-town hospitality, it’s also a stellar starting point to experience all that the Dallas-Fort Worth Area has to offer. Stay here and you’ll be just minutes away from such top attractions as the Perot Museum of Science, Six Flags Over Texas, and the famous Fort Worth Stockyards. There’s a lot to see and do in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area, and Irving puts you right in the middle of it all.



Visit IrvingTexas.com for more information.