Grapevine, Texas is located in between Dallas and Fort Worth. If you have ever flown into DFW International Airport, you have been in Grapevine. There are many places and activities to do while in Grapevine, and many tourists come visit Grapevine. Regardless if you are visiting or live here, here are 11 great things to do in Grapevine.
1. Grapevine Mills Mall
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Compared to other malls in relative proximity, this Grapevine Mills is under appreciated. There are many great stores in the mall, such as Forever 21, H&M and Banana Republic. Throughout your day of shopping, you'll eventually become hungry. Some of my favorite restaurants in the mall are Chilis and Rainforest Cafe. If I just want a snack, Auntie Anne's Perfect Pretzel (Garlic Parmesan is the best). If you have rambunctious children, send them to either Lunar Mini Golf or LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
2. Lake Grapevine
Although Lake Grapevine is not the cleanest lake or largest lake around, there are numerous activities. There are many trails to hike and bike around the lake for those enjoy a scenic adventure. If you want to go on the water, you can rent Kayaks at Meadowmere Park. There are also six parks around the lake located in Grapevine if you want to enjoy a picnic, or the fireworks on a Friday night with that special someone.
3. The Gaylord Texan
I would say this is one of the many hotel accommodations in Grapevine, but that would be a huge understatement. The Gaylord Texan is basically a small village within Grapevine. Whether you would like to shop at some of its stores, eat at quality restaurants or just enjoy a relaxing spa day, the Gaylord is one of the two best hotels to experience Grapevine.
4. Great Wolf Lodge
The other of the two hotels to experience Grapevine, TX would be the Great Wolf Lodge (GWL). If you are look for an adventure, but aren't the outdoors type, GWL is the perfect place for that. GWL has an indoor waterpark; lazy river, wave pool and waterslides included. If you (or your children) have ever wanted to be wizards and go on a fantasy adventure, MagiQuest is the thing for you. Just make sure you didn't use all your energy in the waterpark because you'll be running around the whole hotel trying to complete your quest. This is definitely a more child friendly hotel than the Gaylord.
5. Historic Downtown Grapevine
It is impossible to experience Grapevine without visiting Historic Downtown. There is something about this area that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are from. There are many local stores, bars, and restaurants on Main Street that will quickly settle your inner hipster. There are many different festivals and parades that occur throughout the year in Historic Downtown that are sure to make a visit here memorable. Did I mention that Grapevine is the Christmas Capital of Texas? Visit Historic Downtown in December and you will learn why.
6. Grapevine Botanical Gardens
The beautiful Grapevine Botanical Gardens is are free to the public. This peaceful sanctuary of plants and running water will help you relax from the big city feel of the DFW metroplex.
7. Wineries
You didn't think we got the name Grapevine for no reason did you? There are many wineries across Grapevine where you can try genuine local wines. (21 and older of course).
8. Parks
There are countless parks along the lake, such as Dove and Meadowmere parks. Pictured is Parr Park, which is located on the Grapevine and Colleyville city boundaries. Whether you want to walk on trails or play on a playground, Grapevine has many lovely parks for any occasion.
9. Founders Plaza
Located on DFW airport property, Founders Plaza is a lovely spot where you can watch planes take off and land. You can also listen to the flight tower via intercom. Whether you like flying or not, this place is a great spot to relax. Founders Plaza is perfect for a daytime or nighttime activity.
10. Palace Arts
Located on main street in Historic Downtown Grapevine, the Palace Theatre is a renovated theatre from the 1940's. This used to be the premiere theatre in the county back in the day. This is a staple of Historic Downtown, and any visit wouldn't be complete without watching a movie here on a Friday night.
11. Grapevine Vintage Railroad
If you want to step back in time even further, just head south on main street and you will see some railroad tracks. That will be your signal to know you have found the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Engine 2248 (now called Puffy) had quite the adventure before giving rides between Grapevine and the Ft. Worth Stockyards. She helped start the Texas State Railroad Excursion and Walt Disney himself was eyeing her. Whether you want to experience what a train robbery would have been like, or just want to experience a relaxed train ride, this is the thing for you.
Grapevine is a historic place located in the heart of the DFW metroplex. So before you head to Dallas or Fort Worth or head home out of DFW, take sometime to explore Grapevine. I promise you'll feel more like a resident than a tourist.
