Irving on a Budget: Eat, Explore, Relax!

Discover Irving's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visiting Irving, United States on a limited budget can still be a great experience. Start by exploring the city's many free attractions, including the Mustangs of Las Colinas sculpture exhibit and the Irving Arts Center. From there, enjoy affordable dining options and budget-friendly accommodations like economy hotels or vacation rental properties.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Eats and Exploration

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast of biscuits and gravy at First Watch Café.
  • Check out the variety of aircrafts at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum.
  • Head to the Irving Arts Center and admire the beautiful art collections.
  • Enjoy Vietnamese cuisine at Pho Palace for lunch.
  • Stroll through Lakeside Park and soak up some sunshine.
Day 2

Wildlife Wonders

  • Begin the day with a delicious omelette at Café on the Green.
  • Visit the Dallas Zoo and see a range of animals from all over the world.
  • Take a tour at the Texas Discovery Gardens and marvel at the stunning butterflies.
  • Sample some of the best barbecue in Texas at Lockhart Smokehouse.
  • Catch a flick at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.
Day 3

Shopping Frenzy

  • Fuel up with a big breakfast of pancakes and bacon at IHOP.
  • Go on a shopping spree at the Irving Mall.
  • Head over to the Gondola Adventure to experience a Venetian-style boat ride.
  • Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Empa Mundo for some traditional empanadas.
  • Walk around the Campion Trails for some fresh air and exercise.
Day 4

A Cultural Experience

  • Begin the day with a delicious breakfast of bagels and lox at Einstein Bros Bagels.
  • Visit the Mustangs of Las Colinas and marvel at the beautiful bronze sculptures of galloping horses.
  • Take a tour of the National Scouting Museum and learn about the history of Boy Scouts of America.
  • Savor some authentic Mexican food at Pollo Campero.
  • Attend a show or concert at the Toyota Music Factory.
Day 5

Kick Back and Relax

  • Start the day with a healthy breakfast of fruit and yogurt at Jason's Deli.
  • Take a serene walk through Mandalay Canal and admire the peaceful waterways.
  • Get a massage or facial at the luxurious Spa Castle.
  • Have a leisurely lunch at Marco's Pizza.
  • Play a friendly game of bowling or laser tag at Main Event Entertainment.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Irving is by flying into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) as it is only a 15-minute drive from Irving.

Car

Driving to Irving is easy as it is conveniently located off of several major highways including Interstate 35E, Interstate 635, and State Highway 114.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Irving.

Boat

As Irving is located inland and not near any major bodies of water, there is no way to get there by boat.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to the Dallas bus station and then transferring to a Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus or train to Irving is a viable option.

More travel plans