Blending urban amenities with a suburban feel, Irving offers a central location that provides easy access to DFW and all its attractions. But you don’t have to leave the city to find family-friendly perks—it’s brimming with cultural landmarks, numerous parks and recreational areas, including the expansive Campion Trail and the scenic Lake Carolyn, perfect for outdoor activities.
And where else in North Texas can you take the kids on a real-life gondola ride? With diverse housing options and a strong sense of community, Irving is a great place to put down roots.
NEARBY:
Irving is bordered by Coppell, Farmers Branch, Grapevine, Dallas, Arlington and a portion of the DFW International Airport.
Irving Fast Facts
POPULATION
254,373
2023 U.S. Census
REAL ESTATE
$425,000
Median listing price, realtor.com
Neighborhood Gems
MomComm: For any and all moms in need of community, this group though Irving Bible Church hosts monthly meetings for connection and time to breathe. irvingbible.org
Momentum Mothers: A faith-based community for single mothers that meets occasionally at Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church for fellowship and encouragement. momentummothers.org
Mommy Matters: A casual way for moms of children birth through grade school to connect though MacArthur Boulevard Baptist Church. macarthurblvd.org
RELATED: Where to Find Mom Groups in DFW
Irving Farmers Market: Come to Levy Event Plaza in Las Colinas on Sundays to stroll through local artisans and shop for your pantry staples including meats, eggs, breads and, of course, fresh produce. // 501 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving; fourseasonsmarkets.com
RELATED: Farmers Markets Around DFW
Animal Connection Experience at Fritz Park: This interactive petting zoo is open during the months of May, June and July where kids can pet, brush and feed animals like alpacas and mini cows, or take a ride on a mini pony.
While there stop by Lemur Land to see the antics of these ring-tailed creatures, grab a bite from the café and set the kids loose at the play area with sandboxes, trucks, wheelbarrows and water toys. // 312 East Vilbig St., Irving; animalconnectionzoo.com
Campion Trail: With miles of scenic paved pathways perfect for strolling or biking along the Elm Fork and West Fork of the Trinity River, these trails connect various parks and green spaces, providing beautiful natural views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. // cityofirving.org
Irving Arts Center: A vibrant 10-acre complex that houses four galleries with rotating exhibitions, often featuring Smithsonian-affiliated shows. Two theaters host over 200 performances annually, including music, theater, and dance. The center also boasts a sculpture garden and provides educational programs and family-friendly events, making it a cornerstone of Irving’s arts scene. // 3333 N MacArthur Blvd., Irving; irvingartscenter.com
Lake Carolyn: A picturesque urban lake and a focal point of the Las Colinas area, it’s known for its scenic walking trails and waterfront restaurants with patio seating. You can also find paddle boarding and other water activities. // Lake Carolyn Pkwy., Irving; supntx.com
Mandalay Canal: Surrounding the lake, this canal system creates a charming atmosphere perfect for strolls, dining, and enjoying the waterfront views and the iconic Gondola Adventures, offering gorgeous Venetian-style cruises. // 357 West Fork, Irving; irving.gondola.com
Toyota Music Factory: This sprawling entertainment hub boasts the 8,000-capacity pavilion for major concerts and diverse dining and nightlife options. You can also catch a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. // 316 W. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving; toyotamusicfactory.com
Sam Houston Trail Park: An access point to the northern end of the Campion Trail system, this park offers has a well-maintained green space perfect for starting an outdoor adventure or enjoying a peaceful stroll in a natural setting within the city. // 101 E. Interstate 635 Irving; cityofirving.org
RELATED: 181 Places to Go with Kids in DFW
Indoor Playground at Irving Bible Church: Free and open to the community seven days a week during building hours, here’s a great spot for kids who love to climb and scramble and also for toddlers who can enjoy the smaller structures. Bonus—there’s an espresso bar just down the hall. // 2435 Kinwest Pkwy., Irving; irvingbible.org
RELATED: Indoor Play Places Around DFW
Property Tax Rate
(per $100 accessed value)
Dallas County / Irving ISD: 2.13%
Dallas County / Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD: 2.10%
Dallas County / Coppell ISD: 2.17%
Property taxes may vary based on location and taxing entities
Child Care Centers & Preschools in Irving
Irving Schools
Public School Districts
Irving Independent School District
• 31,700+ students
• 3 early childhood schools, 18 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, 7 high schools, 1 career and technical education school
• TEA rating: C
Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District
• 24,000+ students
• 24 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, 5 high schools and 3 specialized learning centers
• TEA rating: C
Coppell Independent School District
• 13,300+ students
• 11 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 3 high schools, 1 alternative school
• TEA rating: A
Learn more about the Texas Education Agency’s accountability rating system at tea.texas.gov.
Mom-Approved Pediatricians in Irving
Find more DFWChild Mom-Approved Pediatricians near you.
Top Family Neighborhoods
Jamie Simpson, a realtor and team owner of Unlocking DFW, shares five of her favorite neighborhoods for families in Irving.
Las Colinas
Las Colinas is a master-planned community known for its corporate presence, upscale high-rises, and the scenic Mandalay Canal Walk. Residents might work for Fortune 500 companies and enjoy a blend of business and leisure. For families, there are parks and family-oriented events throughout the year. Learn more at realtor.com.
Valley Ranch
A large, planned community in the northern part of Irving, at Valley Ranch residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle with access to parks, trails and a variety of housing options. Valley Ranch is very popular with families, thanks to its many parks, playgrounds, and organized sports leagues. Learn more at realtor.com.
Irving Heritage District
Featuring historic buildings and a growing arts scene, Irving Heritage District offers a more urban lifestyle with access to local shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Families can enjoy community events, festivals and access to libraries and cultural programs. Learn more at realtor.com.
Hackberry Creek
While offering a more exclusive feel, Hackberry Creek has family-friendly aspects including community events and access to good schools. At this gated community centered around a golf course, residents enjoy a more private, upscale lifestyle with a focus on golf and country club amenities. Learn more at realtor.com.
University Hills
Located near the University of Dallas, University Hills offers a mix of housing options and a diverse community. Residents have access to the university’s cultural events and amenities. Learn more at realtor.com.
Irving Mom Life
Why Lipsa Mahapatra Calls Irving Home
Mom of two Lipsa Mahapatra, 42, has seen Irving change rapidly since settling here with her family in 2018, particularly where she lives in Las Colinas. But she calls the city a “gift” to her family.
“It strikes a great balance between the convenience of a big city and the warmth of a tight-knit community. We love the diverse culture, safe neighborhood and its proximity to the airport and downtown Dallas,” she says. “Our neighborhood is small, peaceful and family-oriented. We have HOA-organized events and neighborhood block events to ring in celebrations.”
Lipsa’s Irving Faves
Family Outing
“We love exploring Campion Trail with our dog and also love the Toyota Music Factory for weekend dinners and a kid-friendly show or movie. Mandalay Canal shops and restaurants are another favorite spot of ours.”
Best Parks
“Bird’s Fort Trail Park is perfect for nature walks and spotting wildlife. The trail loop is fun and shaded, great for a family stroll. Our dog loves Paws Colinas, and the kids enjoy the open space.”
Me Time
“We are members of Life Time Las Colinas and it is my go-to for me time. Whether I’m hitting a workout class, relaxing in the sauna, or enjoying a quiet coffee at the café, it’s the perfect place to recharge. The childcare center is a bonus—it gives me peace of mind while I take a break.”
RELATED: DFWChild’s Best for Families winners
Family-Friendly Events In & Around Irving
Sweet Baby James: The #1 James Taylor Tribute
Palace Arts Center
One Small Square of the Pond
River Legacy Nature Center
Create a Handblown Easter Egg from Molten Glass
Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery
Children’s Health Family Night at Six Flags
Six Flags, Arlington
Craft Your Own Wine Glass
Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery
DoNot Stop Half Marathon (5K/10K)- Dallas
Sam Houston Trail Park
Dino Cartoons & Crafts
Palace Arts Center
Dinosaur Quest
Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau
Find more family fun events every day of the week at dfwchild.com/calendar.