Looking to explore what sets Garland, Texas apart? Nestled within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Garland attracts with its strong job market, warm community vibe, and plentiful parks and recreation. Get to know how this growing city blends economic vibrancy with a quality lifestyle, providing a snapshot of what potential residents or visitors can experience.
Key Takeaways
- Garland, Texas, blends a vibrant community culture with rich history, accessible public transportation, and a political landscape that leans liberal, enhancing its appeal as a connected and progressive city.
- The city’s dedication to arts and education is reflected in its vibrant Downtown Square, the Granville Arts Center, and a thriving Garland ISD that helps foster community pride and educational advancement.
- Garland’s economy is strengthening with a solid manufacturing industry, diverse job market, and commitment to community development, promising a sustainable future with substantial economic and infrastructural growth.
Exploring the Heart of Garland
Garland, bridging northern and eastern Dallas, is a city teeming with life and energy in Dallas County. A majority of its residents are homeowners, reflecting a community that’s stable and committed. Convenient access to downtown Dallas via public transportation, such as two Dart Blue Line stations and buses, places Garland at an advantage, connecting its residents to the heart of the city in no time.
The city’s political inclination leans towards liberal views, a testament to its open-minded residents and the profound influence of Garland’s history.
Downtown Square
Situated in northern and eastern Dallas, Downtown Square is the beating heart of Garland. The historic business district, recognized in the National Register of Historic Places, adds to its allure and importance. As you walk the streets of downtown Garland, you’ll be greeted by a myriad of:
- homegrown specialty shops
- vibrant boutiques
- public art installations
- over 12 locally owned eateries
The culinary delights range from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, catering to every palate.
Downtown Square is more than just a center for commerce; it’s a hub for community activities and events. From shopping to cultural arts events, and sports & recreation, there’s always something happening in the Square. Annual events like The Wheels of Hope Car Show, Christmas on the Square, and Garland Summer Musicals are eagerly awaited by the community, offering a chance to come together and celebrate. It’s a place where individuals connect, fostering community pride and connectivity.
Granville Arts Center
Located centrally in Garland is the Patty Granville Arts Center, an emblem of the city’s artistic spirit. Established as the Garland Performing Arts Center in 1983, the center boasts:
- Deluxe dressing rooms
- Two green rooms with kitchen facilities
- Two scene shops
- A large rehearsal hall
The Granville Arts Center acts as a stage for a variety of cultural events and performances. From theatrical productions by Garland Civic Theatre to various events featured in the Garland Cultural Arts event calendar, the center is a bustling hub of creativity and talent.
Esteemed artists such as:
- Silas Farley
- Jason Fowler
- Christina Ghiardi
- David Bates
have graced the Granville Arts Center with their performances or exhibitions, enriching the city’s cultural landscape. The center also houses the Nicholson Memorial Library, further supporting arts and culture in Garland. Located at 300 N Fifth St, Garland, TX 75040, the Granville Arts Center welcomes all to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Plaza Theatre
Of Garland’s many cultural treasures, the Plaza Theatre holds a special place. With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the Plaza Theatre has evolved from a dry goods store to a theatre in 1941, with its current facade completed in 1950. This historic venue is the site for a variety of events, including:
- throwback movie screenings
- live music performances
- stage plays
- symphony performances
- musicals
- ballets
- other cultural gatherings.
From Vivid Seats to TicketSmarter, there are several convenient ways for visitors to acquire tickets for events at the Plaza Theatre. The theatre’s seating capacity is 350, offering a cozy and intimate setting for patrons to enjoy an array of performances and events.
The Plaza Theatre, with its rich history and diverse events, continues to be a significant asset to Garland’s cultural landscape.
Education and Community
Garland’s educational system speaks to the city’s dedication to nurturing a balanced community. With a strong school district, highly rated public schools, and a community that’s passionate about involvement and growth, Garland provides a nurturing environment for educational advancement.
This dedication to education, combined with the city’s vibrant community spirit, contributes to the overall appeal of Garland as a place to live, work, and play.
Garland ISD
Garland Independent School District (ISD) is a beacon of educational excellence in the city. Offering a diverse range of academic programs, the district caters to the varied interests of its students, including:
- Athletics
- Fine arts
- Technical education
- Advanced academics
The district also emphasizes social and emotional learning, underlining the importance of a comprehensive education.
It offers school choice through programs such as Montessori, fostering a conducive learning atmosphere for the holistic development of students.
High Schools
High schools in Garland are known for their commendable graduation rates and emphasis on college readiness. Institutions such as North Garland High School, Harmony School Of Innovation – Garland, and Lakeview Centennial High School are highly regarded for their educational outcomes. Through initiatives like the College Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) and College for All programs, Garland high schools ensure that students are well-prepared for their future, offering opportunities to earn college credit or industry certifications.
Community Involvement
Community involvement in Garland goes beyond the classroom. Residents actively contribute to the city’s growth by participating in various educational and training initiatives, engaging in volunteer opportunities, and collaborating with non-profit organizations. This active participation not only fosters a strong sense of community but also makes a tangible difference in the city.
This commitment to community involvement is evident in the range of initiatives implemented by the city, from Citizens on Patrol to housing repair programs and social services.
The Rich History of Garland
Garland’s rich history is a mosaic of stories, each piece contributing to the dynamic community we see today. From its early days to its growth into a bustling city, Garland’s history is preserved in its museums, landmarks, and historic places, serving as the cornerstones of its community heritage. Exploring garland history provides an insight into the city’s past and its transformation over the years.
Early Days and Growth
Garland’s beginnings can be linked to the competition between the Duck Creek and Embree communities. The city emerged as a neutral location between these two towns, with local families playing a significant role in its early development. Garland’s growth was shaped by the economic boom resulting from the World Wars, transforming it from an agricultural community to a city with a strong emphasis on business and industrial development. The construction of railroads and the establishment of new resort hotels also contributed to the city’s development, attracting both visitors and residents.
Today, Garland continues to grow, with a population increase of 12% since 2000. This growth reflects the city’s evolution as a populated and industrious urban area, despite the scarcity of undeveloped land. The city’s consistent population growth and significant manufacturing heritage lay the groundwork for future economic expansion, reinforcing Garland’s position as a city of growth and opportunity.
Garland Landmark Museum
The Garland Landmark Museum, located in the former Santa Fe depot, stands as a testament to the city’s history. Since 1974, it has been showcasing local artifacts from early settlers and old newspapers, providing a glimpse into the past. The museum’s displays, including Garland Railroads, Bankhead Highway, and Garland’s Hat, animate the city’s history. In addition, the museum showcases artifacts like old newspapers, farm tools, and an antique Pullman coach, each artifact telling a unique story of the city’s past.
The museum provides a self-guided tour for visitors, allowing them to explore at their own pace. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, the Garland Landmark Museum offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s past, enriching your understanding of Garland’s rich heritage.
Historic Places
Garland’s history is etched into its streets and buildings. Historic landmarks such as Historic Downtown, Santa Fe Depot, Plaza Theatre, and Central Park bear witness to the city’s past. Among the oldest structures in the city are the Lyles House and the Tinsley-Lyles House, both dating back to the latter part of the 1800s.
These historical landmarks hold significant meaning for Garland:
- The Santa Fe Depot, built in 1901, symbolizes the early transportation history of the town
- The Plaza Theatre, established in 1941, represents a legacy of entertainment
- Central Park, with its historical connection dating back to an 1880 Duck Creek picnic, remains a popular community gathering spot
The preservation of these historic sites is actively pursued by the Garland Landmark Society, in collaboration with the Texas State Historical Association, which commemorates significant sites and structures and helps maintain the city’s unique heritage.
Embracing Diversity
Garland is a city that welcomes diversity. As the home of a multicultural community, Garland acknowledges and celebrates the distinctive cultural heritage of its inhabitants. From the Hispanic, White, and Black communities that form the majority of its population to the various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year, Garland’s cultural diversity is one of its most distinctive attributes.
Demographics
Garland’s demographics reveal a diverse population. The city is home to a population of around 245,000, with a significant percentage of residents under 34 years old. The demographics highlight the city’s youthful energy and potential for growth.
The average household size of 3.00 individuals indicates a community-oriented lifestyle, with families playing a key role in the city’s social fabric. The economic status of households in Garland is another important aspect of its demographics. The median household income stands at $71,044, reflecting the city’s thriving economy and the collective prosperity of its residents.
These demographics, provided by the American Community Survey, offer a snapshot of Garland’s community, highlighting its diversity and vibrancy.
Community Celebrations
Community celebrations in Garland serve as a platform for cultural exchange and community bonding. The city organizes an annual Asian American Heritage Festival that celebrates the talent, creativity, and cultural diversity of Asian-Pacific American communities. These events not only entertain but also educate, providing a platform to showcase the city’s rich cultural diversity.
Apart from specific cultural festivals, Garland conducts a myriad of events that cater to the city’s diverse cultural communities. From commemorating Garland’s Dia de los Muertos to a variety of other city-wide events, Garland leaves no stone unturned in celebrating its multicultural heritage. These celebrations not only foster community spirit but also contribute to Garland’s unique cultural identity.
African American History
Garland’s African American history is a vital part of its cultural tapestry. Some significant markers of the African American history in the city include:
- Schools for African American children established before 1920, after the founding of Garland ISD in 1901, which initially did not cater to black children
- The Sims Chapel Baptist Church, the oldest church organized in Garland by African Americans
- The thriving local businesses in ‘the Flats’
These are just a few examples of the rich African American history in Garland.
The Friends of Garland’s Historic Magic 11th Street is a local organization committed to preserving the history and heritage of African Americans in Garland. The city also hosts an annual Juneteenth celebration, commemorating African American history and culture. These efforts reflect Garland’s commitment to acknowledging its diverse history and fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Outdoor Activities and Parks
Garland provides an abundance of recreational and relaxation opportunities. The city offers a wide array of outdoor activities and beautiful parks for residents and visitors to experience the outdoors. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a sports lover, Garland’s outdoor spaces have something to offer for everyone, including:
- Hiking and biking trails
- Picnic areas
- Fishing spots
- Sports fields and courts
- Playground areas for children
So get outside and enjoy all that Garland has to offer!
Garland Parks
Garland’s parks are a testament to the city’s commitment to providing quality outdoor spaces for its residents. From Central Park to Kids Kingdom, Turtle Creek Park to Breckenridge Park, Garland’s parks are aesthetically pleasing and offer a variety of options, including lake parks and dog parks. These parks are equipped with amenities such as disc golf, dog parks, facility reservations, pavilions, recreation centers, trails, baseball/softball fields, playgrounds, and beautiful pavilions with pond views.
Specialized recreational features such as water parks and large playgrounds are available in parks like Surf & Swim, Audubon Park, Hawaiian Falls Garland, WetZone Waterpark, and Embree Park’s splash pad. The city also offers sports facilities in parks like Bradfield Park, Central Park Outdoor Recreation, Groves Park, Holford Sports Complex, and Winters Park, hosting sports leagues, tournaments, and competitions.
Families can also enjoy picnics in the designated picnic areas in the parks, making Garland’s parks a perfect venue for community gatherings and family outings.
Trails and Green Spaces
Garland’s trails and green spaces offer residents scenic routes for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. Popular trails such as the Rowlett Creek Short Loop and Arbor Hills Nature Preserve Trail Loop take you through lush green landscapes, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. These trails are not just about physical activity; they’re about connecting with nature and appreciating the city’s natural beauty.
In addition to trails, Garland boasts over 2,880 acres of parks and green spaces, including Lake Ray Hubbard and Firewheel Golf Course. These green spaces provide a serene environment for residents to unwind, engage in recreational activities, and commune with nature. Guided walking tours such as the Waxahachie Haunted History Tours and self-guided options like Garland’s Public Art Walking Tour enhance the trail experience with educational and recreational opportunities.
Family-Friendly Activities
Garland is a city that caters to families. The city offers a range of family-friendly activities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. From The Wheels of Hope Car Show to December’s Christmas on the Square, Garland hosts numerous recurring family events that bring the community together.
For those seeking entertainment, Garland offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including:
- Sounds of Summer Concert Series every other Thursday
- Outdoor movies at BlanketTop Theater, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Richardson, and Popcorn Included
- Hapik Dallas Firewheel
- Safari Run
- SPARK
- Kids Kingdom
- Magic Fun House Productions
- NickelRama
- Kids Empire
With such a wide array of options, Garland ensures that every family member has an unforgettable experience.
Integrity Pools: Enhancing Your Outdoor Experience
In Garland, the outdoor experience is elevated by the superior services of Integrity Pools. We provide a variety of swimming pool services, including:
- Pool Construction
- Pool Maintenance
- Pool Repairs
- Weekly pool services
- Thorough pool leak detection services
Integrity Pools contributes significantly to the recreational and visual appeal of residential areas in Garland.
Pool Services and Construction
Integrity Pools focuses on customized pool construction. Each design is customized to meet the specific preferences and requirements of our clients, employing innovative design, exceptional craftsmanship, and high-quality materials. Whether you’re looking for a new pool or a remodel, Integrity Pools’ commitment to quality and attention to detail ensures an end product that exceeds expectations.
Integrity Pools offers a wide range of pool services, including:
- Weekly maintenance programs
- Pool closing
- Safety cover sales and installation
- Vinyl liner replacement
- Pool opening
- Chemical services
- Pool equipment repair services for heaters, filters, and pumps
- Pool remodeling services
With Integrity Pools, you can ensure that your pool remains in top condition.
Customer Satisfaction and Values
Central to Integrity Pools is the commitment to unparalleled customer satisfaction. Our Garland Pool Company ensures customer satisfaction through:
- the employment of reliable and thorough pool technicians
- the provision of helpful and exemplary customer service
- the timely completion of projects coupled with excellent follow-up support
- placing great importance on customer feedback and continually enhancing their services based on client needs and preferences.
Integrity Pools’ commitment to customer satisfaction is backed by our service guarantees and warranties. Our dedication to customer satisfaction has earned us outstanding reviews from customers, attesting to our commitment to quality and service.
Garland’s Thriving Economy
Garland’s booming economy is fueled by a sturdy manufacturing industry, an expanding job market, and a resolute commitment to community development. The city’s consistent population growth, along with its significant manufacturing heritage, plays a key role in maintaining economic stability and establishing a strong basis for future economic expansion.
Manufacturing and Industry
A significant element of Garland’s economy is its manufacturing sector. As one of the largest manufacturing cities in Texas, Garland boasts over 300 manufacturers. These manufacturers contribute significantly to the city’s economy, generating over $100 million through the purchasing of goods and materials and attracting new businesses.
The city’s manufacturing industry encompasses a diverse range of sectors, from transportation and wholesale to plastic and chemical production, and packaging. Prominent corporations like Nature, Inc., Automatic Products, Atlas Copco Drilling Solutions LLC, A Brite, Cable Electronics, Kraft Heinz Company, Sherwin Williams, Epiroc Drilling Solutions, U.S. Food Service, Anderson Windows, and Arrow Fabricated Tubing contribute to Garland’s strong manufacturing profile.
Job Market and Growth
Garland’s job market mirrors the diversity of its population. With an employment growth rate of 32.38%, surpassing the national average, the city’s job market shows strong economic vitality and growth. The leading industries in job creation encompass manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The current unemployment rate of 3.5% in Garland reflects the robustness of the job market.
The city’s average salary stands at $17.85, which, while lower than the national average salary of $56,310, reflects the city’s thriving economy and the collective prosperity of its residents. With the job market expected to grow by 40.5% over the next decade, Garland offers promising opportunities for both current residents and those looking to make the city their new home.
Future Prospects
Garland holds a promising future. With a forecasted population doubling by 2050 and a low vacancy rate, the city anticipates substantial expansion in its commercial and industrial sectors. The local government offers strong business support, including workforce development and industry guidance, to foster the growth of these flourishing industries, harnessing garland power for a sustainable future.
Community development is also a priority for Garland. The Community Development Department of the City of Garland oversees a range of programs focused on housing repair and development, as well as social services. These initiatives, along with continuous redevelopment projects, are aimed at improving community infrastructure and services, making Garland an attractive destination for families and professionals alike.
Summary
Garland, Texas, is a city of vibrant community spirit, rich history, and diverse cultural heritage. With a focus on education, community involvement, and economic development, Garland offers a blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Its parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation, and the services of Integrity Pools enhance the outdoor living experience. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to preserving its heritage, celebrating its diversity, and fostering a strong community. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Garland invites you to explore its unique charm and become a part of its vibrant story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Garland Texas famous?
Garland, Texas is famous for its rich history, diverse community, and cultural attractions, including the longstanding Resistol Hat Company and the popular Firewheel Town Center.
Is Garland TX a good area to live?
Yes, Garland, TX is a good area to live, with a diverse population, safe neighborhoods, and plenty to offer.
What is the ethnic makeup of Garland Texas?
The ethnic makeup of Garland, Texas comprises primarily White (Non-Hispanic), White (Hispanic), Black or African American (Non-Hispanic), Two+ (Hispanic), and Asian (Non-Hispanic) groups. These are the 5 largest ethnic groups in the area.
What is the median household income in Garland Texas?
The median household income in Garland, Texas is approximately $65,278 as of 2021.
What county is garland tx in?
Garland, TX is located in Dallas County. It is also a part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, with small portions in Collin and Rockwall Counties.