When planning a trip to see the Dallas Cowboys play, one of the biggest decisions is where to base yourself: Dallas or Arlington, Texas. Both cities offer unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your priorities and preferences. AT&T Stadium, the home of the Cowboys, is located in Arlington, but Dallas boasts a wider array of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options. Let’s break down the key factors to consider to help you make the right decision.
Is It Cheaper to Stay in Dallas or Arlington for a Cowboys Game?
Generally, Arlington can be more budget-friendly than Dallas, especially when it comes to accommodations. Hotel prices tend to surge in Arlington on game days due to its proximity to AT&T Stadium.
Arlington: Expect to pay a premium for hotels closest to the stadium. However, you might find more affordable options further away from the Entertainment District, especially if you’re willing to use ride-sharing or public transportation. Keep an eye out for deals at hotels along Collins Street or near the Parks Mall.
Dallas: While Dallas has many luxury hotels that command high prices, you can find a wider range of mid-range and budget-friendly options, particularly if you stay outside the immediate downtown area. Consider areas like Love Field or near the Galleria for more affordable choices. The cost of transportation to Arlington will need to be factored in.
Is It Easier to Get to AT&T Stadium from Dallas or Arlington?
Arlington undoubtedly offers the most direct access to AT&T Stadium. However, Dallas offers more transport options, so the answer will depend on your chosen mode of transport.
Arlington: Staying in Arlington means you can potentially walk to the game, especially if you’re staying in the Entertainment District. Ride-sharing services are readily available, but expect surge pricing on game days. Public transport options, like the Arlington Trolley, offer convenient access to the stadium from various points in the city. Driving yourself and paying for parking at the stadium can be expensive, and traffic congestion can be significant.
Dallas: Getting to AT&T Stadium from Dallas requires a bit more planning. Driving is an option, but be prepared for a drive of 20-45 minutes (or significantly longer with traffic). Ride-sharing services are available, but the cost can be higher due to the distance. Consider using public transport with the TRE (Trinity Railway Express). It runs from Dallas to CentrePort/DFW Airport Station, where you can transfer to an Uber or Lyft for the remaining part of the journey to the stadium. Official Cowboys game day bus/shuttle services frequently exist from bars and transport hubs in Dallas too, it is worth checking online closer to the game.
Does Arlington or Dallas Have More Restaurants and Bars Near the Stadium?
Arilington has seen huge improvements in restaurants and bars in the last few years, however, Dallas still has by far the larger and more varied restaurant scene.
Arlington:. The Entertainment District around AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field boasts a variety of restaurants and bars, Texas Live! is a very popular pre and post game venue with multiple restaurants and live music. However, the options are more limited compared to Dallas. You can also find a good selection of chain restaurants and local eateries scattered throughout Arlington.
Dallas: Dallas offers a sprawling culinary scene with endless possibilities. From upscale steakhouses to casual Tex-Mex joints, you’ll find something to suit every taste and budget. Neighborhoods like Deep Ellum, Uptown, and the Design District offer a diverse array of dining and nightlife options. You’ll need to factor in transportation to and from the game, but the sheer variety of choices might be worth the extra travel.
Are There More Things to Do in Dallas or Arlington Besides the Cowboys Game?
Dallas wins hands down in terms of overall attractions and activities. Arlington is starting to catch up, but as a much larger city, Dallas has much much more to offer.
Arlington: Besides AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field (home of the Texas Rangers), Arlington offers family-friendly attractions like Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame is another unique option. The Arlington Museum of Art provides a dose of culture. However, the overall selection of attractions is more limited compared to Dallas.
Dallas: Dallas is a major metropolis with a wide range of cultural, historical, and entertainment attractions. Explore the Dallas Arts District, visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, or stroll through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas World Aquarium and the Dallas Zoo are popular with families. You’ll also find numerous shopping destinations and live music venues throughout the city.
Is it Easier to Find Parking in Dallas or Arlington?
Parking near AT&T Stadium in Arlington can be challenging and expensive. Dallas, while spread out, offers more parking options, especially if you’re willing to walk a bit or use public transport.
Arlington: Official parking at AT&T Stadium can cost a small fortune, and traffic congestion is a major issue on game days. You might find cheaper parking at private lots or businesses further away from the stadium, but be prepared for a longer walk. Pre-booking parking online is highly recommended. Ride-sharing can alleviate parking woes, but surge pricing needs to be considered.
Dallas: Dallas offers a greater abundance of parking garages and lots, particularly in areas like downtown and near the Arts District. If you’re planning to drive to Arlington for the game, you can park in Dallas and use a ride-sharing service to get to the stadium, potentially saving money and avoiding some of the Arlington traffic. Public transportation from Dallas to Arlington can also help you avoid parking hassles altogether.
What Are the Hotel Options Like in Each City?
Dallas offers a significantly wider range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious five-star hotels. Arlington’s selection is more concentrated around the stadium and entertainment district.
Arlington: You’ll find a mix of chain hotels and a few independent properties in Arlington, many within walking distance of AT&T Stadium. These hotels tend to be pricier on game days. Consider looking at hotels near the Parks Mall or along I-20 for more affordable options, but you’ll need to factor in transportation to and from the stadium.
Dallas: Dallas caters to every budget and preference, with hotels ranging from budget-friendly options near the airport to upscale hotels in downtown and Uptown. Neighborhoods like Deep Ellum and the Design District also offer unique boutique hotels. The greater selection means more competition and potentially better deals, especially if you book in advance.
Can I Rely on Public Transportation to Get Around in Each City?
Dallas has a more robust public transportation system than Arlington, although neither city is particularly known for its extensive public transit.
Arlington: Arlington’s public transportation options are limited. The Via Rideshare service provides on-demand transportation within designated zones. The Arlington Trolley offers a convenient way to get around the Entertainment District. However, relying solely on public transportation to get to and from Dallas might be challenging.
Dallas: Dallas has a more comprehensive public transportation system, including the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail and bus network. You can use DART to get around Dallas and even connect to the TRE (Trinity Railway Express) for travel to the CentrePort/DFW Airport Station, for stadium connection. However, it won’t take you directly to AT&T Stadium. Check DART’s website for routes and schedules.
FAQ: Dallas or Arlington for Cowboys Game?
Is Arlington a suburb of Dallas?
No, Arlington is not a suburb of Dallas. It is an independent city located between Dallas and Fort Worth.
How far apart are Dallas and Arlington?
The distance between downtown Dallas and Arlington is approximately 20 miles.
What is Arlington known for?
Arlington is best known for being the home of AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys), Globe Life Field (Texas Rangers), Six Flags Over Texas, and the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA).
Is it easy to get an Uber or Lyft after a Cowboys game?
Yes, Ubers and Lyfts are generally available after Cowboys games, but expect surge pricing and potential wait times due to high demand.
What’s the best way to avoid traffic on game days?
Consider using public transportation options like the TRE and ride-sharing services from Dallas, carpooling, or arriving at the stadium several hours before kickoff to avoid the worst of the traffic.
Conclusion: Your Best Bet for a Cowboys Game
Ultimately, the best place to stay for a Cowboys game depends on your priorities. If proximity to AT&T Stadium and budget are your primary concerns, Arlington might be the better choice, especially if you can secure accommodation early and are willing to use ride-sharing or the Arlington Trolley. However, if you prefer a wider selection of hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and don’t mind a bit of extra travel, Dallas offers a more diverse and vibrant experience.
Consider your budget, transportation preferences, and interests outside of the game when making your decision. With careful planning, you can have a memorable Cowboys experience regardless of whether you choose to stay in Dallas or Arlington. Don’t forget that Hotels.com or Booking.com can help you find a great hotel for your trip! Check out hotels in Arlington or Dallas now.