Irving Arts Center
About
Irving Arts Center is a cultural gem that brings the arts to life for families through interactive children's theater performances, rotating art exhibitions, and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden perfect for exploring. With programming specifically designed for young audiences and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot to introduce kids to theater and visual arts in an accessible, engaging way.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive children's theater productions with professional actors and kid-friendly storylines
- ✓Outdoor sculpture garden with large-scale artworks perfect for photo opportunities and exploration
- ✓Free rotating art exhibitions in two gallery spaces
- ✓Family-friendly performances ranging from music to dance throughout the year
- ✓Special workshops and art classes for children during school breaks
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their family-friendly performance schedule in advance and book tickets early, as children's theater shows often sell out during school breaks
- 2.Start with the outdoor sculpture garden - it's free to explore and helps younger kids burn energy before sitting through indoor exhibits or performances
- 3.Gallery admission is free, making this an excellent budget-friendly cultural outing when you're not attending a ticketed performance
- 4.Arrive 20-30 minutes early for performances to allow time for restroom breaks and to explore the lobby displays
- 5.Visit on First Thursdays for special evening programming and extended hours with family-oriented activities
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Friday, 12-5 PM) are less crowded for exploring galleries and the sculpture garden. Saturday afternoons offer the same hours with a livelier atmosphere. Performance times vary, so check the calendar for family shows, which typically run on weekends.
What to Know
Gallery admission is free; performance ticket prices vary by show (typically $10-25 for children's productions). Ample free parking is available on-site. No food service on premises, but you can pack snacks for the sculpture garden.
Seasonal Notes
The outdoor sculpture garden is most comfortable in spring (March-May) and fall (October-November). Summer visits can be hot, so plan early or late in their operating window. Holiday-themed children's theater productions are popular in November-December and often require advance booking.
Nearby Eats
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (family-friendly chain with kids' menu) and Chick-fil-A are both within 2 miles, offering quick options before or after your visit.
More Activities Near Irving
Campion Trail
Campion Trail offers families over 20 miles of smooth, paved pathways winding through Irving's parks, neighborhoods, and scenic green spaces. This well-maintained multi-use trail is ideal for family bike rides, stroller walks, scooter adventures, and teaching little ones to ride without training wheels in a safe, car-free environment.
National Scouting Museum
The National Scouting Museum in Irving offers an interactive journey through scouting history that goes far beyond displays in glass cases. Kids can climb real rock walls, participate in hands-on activities, and explore exhibits designed to engage curious minds through physical challenges and interactive learning experiences that bring the spirit of scouting to life.
Andrew Brown Park West
Andrew Brown Park West is an outdoor paradise for active families, offering something for every energy level and interest. With expansive playgrounds, scenic trails winding around beautiful Lake Carolyn, and unique activities like disc golf, this highly-rated park provides hours of entertainment without the typical crowded park feel. The combination of water views, diverse play areas, and adventure trails makes it a go-to destination for Irving-area families seeking quality outdoor time.
Lake Carolyn
Lake Carolyn offers families a beautiful urban oasis where kids can enjoy paddle boating, feeding ducks along the scenic boardwalk, and fishing from designated spots. The 1.2-mile paved walking path is perfect for strollers and young cyclists, while waterfront fountains and plenty of open green space give little ones room to run and explore.