Garland, Texas.

Oh, the very name evokes images of wideopen spaces, big skies, and rugged individualism. But as I discovered during my recent travels there, Garland is so much more than just a stereotype.

For starters, lets talk about the neighborhoods. Sure, youve got your cookiecutter developments filled with tract housing and perfectly manicured lawns (not that theres anything wrong with that). But if you really want to explore the heart of this city, you need to head off the beaten path.

Take a stroll down Williams Drive (600800 block) for example. This street has some beautifullymaintained historical homes that will take your breath away. Theres something about walking past these homes that takes you back in time when things were simpler but no less beautiful.

And what would become of any Texan city without its own brewery? Lakewood Brewing Company (2302 Executive Dr) is one such local establishment; an unassuming warehouse from the outside which hides a raucous scene within its walls where people pour waterfalls of beer into their thirsty gullets while nibbling on pretzels larger than their fists.

But perhaps even more impressive than Garlands neighborhood charm or local brews is its dedication to diversity and familyoriented activities. Take Tilt Studio (210 Cedar Sage Dr), for instance: an arcade haven where parents can watch over kids playing various games including skeeball and basketball hoops while indulging themselves in their favorite pastime as well drinking cold beverages by comfortable seats located nearby!

But wait! Weve only scratched the surface here folks because we have yet to mention Hawaiian Falls Water Park at PGB , Firewheel Town Center mall(245 Cedar Sage Dr), Holifield Science Learning Center(205 N Glenbrook Dr), Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery(509 W State St ), Patty Granville Arts Center at The Plaza theater ( 300 N 5th St ), Garland Landmark Museum(393 N Sixth St), and Naaman Schoolhouse(6943 Naaman Forest Blvd). So much to explore, so little time!

Now lets not forget about the entrepreneurial spirit of Garland. The city is home to some real innovators, such as the folks over at Glazed Donut Works(3111 Cockrell Hill Rd) who make pastries that could start a revolution.

And whats more Texan than barbecue? One must visit Meshacks BarBQue Shack (240 E Ave B) where they smoke meats so tender they practically melt in your mouth.

In all my travels, Ive never encountered a place quite like Garland, TX. It manages to be both diverse and welcoming, historic yet innovative. If youre looking for an authentic Texas experience with a suburban twist look no further than this hidden gem of a city.

Websites:

https://www.lakewoodbrewing.com/

https://tiltstudio.com/garland/

https://hfalls.com/thecolony/

http://firewheeltowncenter.com

https://intrinsicbrewing.com/

http://garlandartsboxoffice.blogspot.in/p/contactus_28.html

http://garlandhistorical.org/visit.html

Twitter handles:

@GarlandLandmarkMuseum

@GlazedDonutsTX