Halfway There: Downtown Arlington’s Summer Momentum and Midyear Milestones

As July kicks off, we find ourselves officially in the second half of 2025 and at a time to pause, reflect and look ahead. In Downtown Arlington, the first six months have been packed with progress, from welcoming new businesses to celebrating community. Now, with fresh energy and even more developments on the horizon, we’re entering the back stretch with excitement and momentum. Let’s take a look at what’s already made 2025 one to remember. 

All Aboard for The Doggie Depot 

Dog lovers and four-legged friends rejoiced this spring with the opening of The Doggie Depot, Downtown Arlington’s very first off leash dog park. This new public space, built along the railroad tracks near Front Street, has quickly become a go-to hangout for locals and their pups. With shaded seating, water fountains and separate play areas for big and small dogs, The Doggie Depot isn’t just a place to let your dog run; it’s one of the places the downtown community gathers and connects. 

A Fresh Start: Downtown Arlington Farmers Market 

This spring also saw the wildly successful launch of the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market, a weekly Saturday morning destination for fresh produce, local honey, handmade crafts and community vibes. Located in the heart of downtown, the market brings together residents, regional vendors and small businesses in celebration of local living. It’s already become a staple for weekend plans, and we’re just getting started.  

To beat the Texas heat, the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market has new summer hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday now through September 28! We know mornings come early... but so do the peaches, tomatoes, local eggs and fresh-baked goodness you love.  

A Big Win for the BID 

One of the most meaningful accomplishments of the year so far? Renewing the Business Improvement District (BID), which allows Downtown Arlington Management Corporation to continue providing enhanced services, events and beautification efforts that make our Arlington Cultural District thrive. 

The BID renewal process was a true community effort, requiring the signatures of over 50% of property owners within the downtown boundaries. Through months of outreach, conversation and collaboration, DAMC earned those signatures, signaling strong support and belief in the continued growth of Downtown Arlington. 

In direct response to property owner concerns voiced during the BID campaign, Downtown Arlington adjusted its work plan to launch a new Homeless Outreach Initiative. Modeled after the national Block by Block program, this initiative introduces a trained social worker focused on compassionate, proactive engagement with unhoused individuals. Through area analysis, direct contact and connection to vital resources, the program provides meaningful support to those most in need, while helping keep downtown welcoming and accessible to everyone. 

Honoring Heroes, Winning Awards 

At the June edition of our monthly First Thursday celebration, local artist Juan Velasquez completed a striking new piece of public art: the Medal of Honor mural, honoring recipients of the nation’s highest military award. Timed to coincide with the highly anticipated opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum, this mural serves as both tribute and invitation for residents and visitors to reflect, remember and learn. 

The momentum didn’t stop there. The National Medal of Honor Museum made waves at the 2025 Dallas Business Journal Best Real Estate Deals Awards, taking home two major honors: Deal of the Year and the Community Impact Award. It’s a reminder that Arlington isn’t just on the map—we’re helping shape its future. 

Building Toward the Future: Caravan Court 

Caravan Court, a new boutique hotel project currently under construction in Downtown Arlington, is already earning praise. Nominated as a Best Real Estate Deal in the Hotel category by the Dallas Business Journal, this project promises to bring fresh lodging options and hospitality energy to the district. See its mid-century frame taking shape at the corner of Division and Collins streets, serving as a new anchor that will help link the Entertainment District to Downtown Arlington. We’re keeping a close eye on its progress, and we know it will be worth the wait. 

What’s New and What’s Next  

Downtown’s food and retail scenes continue to grow in flavor and diversity. This year welcomed the opening of multiple storefronts, all part of Urban Union along E. Front Street and emerging on Division Street: 

• Bonchon brings its globally loved Korean-style fried chicken to the heart of Arlington.  

• Rodeo Goat, the beloved burger joint known for bold creations and an eclectic atmosphere, has officially opened downtown, drawing foodies from near and far. 

• Royal Nepal Grill, now serving up authentic Nepalese cuisine, adds to the global flavors of our restaurant lineup.  

• Lavish Nail Salon offers high-end nail services in a sleek and modern setting, bringing more wellness and self-care options to downtown residents and visitors. 

With more openings on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to stay local and try something new. 

Save the Date 

We’re thrilled to invite you to the 2025 Downtown Arlington Annual Meeting, presented by Texas Trust! New this year, we’ve introduced early bird pricing! Take $100 off listed table prices through the end of July. 

TABle details

Mark your calendar: 
October 22, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM 
UTA Bluebonnet Ballroom (300 W 1st St, Arlington, TX 76010) 

This is our signature annual fundraiser, where you'll connect with key community leaders and get a front-row seat to the future of Downtown Arlington. It’s your chance to be in the room where it happens! All proceeds from table sales benefit arts and events programming in Downtown Arlington. 

Program details drop at the end of July. Stay tuned and keep up with the latest at downtownarlington.org/AM. 

The second half of 2025 is shaping up to be just as exciting as the first. With new events, projects and community moments on the way, there’s no better time to explore, support and celebrate Downtown Arlington. 

Stay connected, stay curious, and we’ll see you downtown.