Home to about 240,000 Texans, Irving is a suburb of Dallas. Irving has the benefits of a big city mixed with the quaint atmosphere of a smaller town. Formally established in 1903, Irving went through several name changes. By the time of its incorporation, Irving already had several churches, two cotton gins, a general store, and a blacksmith. Irving's population began to grow significantly throughout the mid-20th century, bringing with it a great deal of infrastructure.

A part of this growth is the Irving Arts Center. Occupying 10 acres, the performing and visual arts space includes galleries, theaters, classrooms, and a sculpture garden. The four galleries are always open to the public, displaying local and regional artwork. For ticketed events, the two theaters present everything from comedies to symphonies. Part of the Arts Center's mission is education and community engagement, hosting a plethora of classes and activities.

For a night out with friends, there's no place like the Toyota Music Factory. At the center of TMF is the 8,000-seat convertible amphitheater. This stage hosts some of the biggest names in entertainment. Usually hosting someone more local, Texas Lottery Plaza is an outdoor stage with performances year-round. For dinner at the movies, Alamo Drafthouse Movie Theater is the perfect spot for date night. Order a burger, fresh pizza, or warm cookies and enjoy the show. The Alamo Drafthouse screens new releases and independent films. While at TMF, you can also throw axes, grab some Mexican or Japanese food, or just enjoy at craft beer at one of the sports bars.

One of Irving's biggest attractions is undoubtedly the outdoor recreation. Stop by Centennial Park for a picnic and a hike. The trails are illuminated at night, and the park is scattered with tributes to Irving's history. Victoria Park boasts a large playscape for kids, as well as lighted trails and shelters. At Victoria Park you can also play tennis, volleyball, and disc golf. If you're already in Las Colinas, take a stroll along Mandalay Canal and watch the waterfowl swim. For a mix of urban and scenic, Campion Trails is the perfect place to walk or run. As the trail winds through Irving, you will have the chance to see everything the city offers.

Whether you're taking the kids to the Fritz Park Petting Farm, or teeing up on one of the city's four golf courses, there's plenty of reasons to love Irving. With mild winters and hot summers, a lot of stunning trees also love Irving. If the elms and cypresses in your yard are keeping you from enjoying the city, contact LawnStarter. The area's premier provider of tree care services, LawnStarter can help you with everything from routine pruning to emergency removal. All you have to do is download the simple LawnStarter app, enter your ZIP, and set your preferences. LawnStarter will match you with the pro for your specific job, and you can grab a scoop at Braum's and relax.