“To knows & to dos”: Enjoying the 2025 Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show

The Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show is rolling into Vandergriff Town Center THIS WEEKEND! Join us Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free, family-friendly event draws crowds from all over North Texas to admire more than 200 restored classics and custom vehicles from decades past. Whether you're a lifelong gearhead or just love community festivals, this all-day experience has something for everyone.  

Here’s how to plan your perfect car show Saturday in Downtown Arlington. 

The First United Methodist Church of Arlington has graciously offered their parking lots at 105 W. North St. for patrons. There is plenty of free and low-cost parking within walking distance of the show. Surface lots are available along Mesquite Street, Center Street and Abram Street. Be aware that some roads near the venue will be closed to accommodate pedestrian traffic and show vehicles.

Parking slightly farther away in the free 101 Center parking garage near the Levitt Pavilion and Downtown Library can make for a pleasant walk through downtown while avoiding congestion at the main entrance. 

During the Car Show 

There’s much more than chrome and custom paint jobs on the festival grounds. Throughout the day, enjoy a variety of activities right in the heart of the car show: 

• Downtown Arlington Farmers Market (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.) 
  Located steps away from the car show lineup, the farmers market offers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, artisan snacks and small business vendors. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cold refreshment or shop for something unique to take home. 

• Grease Monkey Burger Shop & Social Club 
  This local favorite features classic bar food, cold beer and live music, plus an expanded outdoor patio that puts you right in the middle of the car show buzz. Grab a drink, listen to a local band and soak in the vintage vibes.

• Mellow Mushroom 
  Known for its funky decor and stone-baked pizzas, Mellow Mushroom has plenty of indoor and patio seating. Whether you’re cooling off with a fresh salad or digging into a pepperoni pie, grab a seat on the patio for a perfect view inside the car show. 

• On Tap 
  Beer lovers rejoice! On Tap offers over 50 rotating craft beers on tap, including Texas favorites and rare regional brews. Located right on the edge of the show site, it’s a great place to sample something new and people-watch from an indoor seat. 

• At the Show 
  Stick around for the award ceremony starting at 2 p.m. Enjoy music from Hankins at Knapp Heritage Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Grab some lunch at Chick-fil-a or Prince Lebanese at the food court. Take a look at student-made cars at UTA Racing’s set up. Stop by sponsor booths including Loews Arlington Hotel, Grand Prix Arlington, R&R Diecast Collectables, and Ceramic Pro. 

Grab a Bite 

Downtown Arlington’s restaurant scene continues to grow, offering options for every taste and vibe. Here are some top picks within walking distance of the car show: 

• Cafe Americana 
  Though it is located on the other side of the railroad tracks, this cozy, modern bistro is well worth the slightly longer walk. Featuring chef-driven, Spanish-inspired tapas this elevated restaurant is perfect for small plates and cocktails in a stylish setting. 

• Bonchon Chicken 
  The newest restaurant in Urban Union will satisfy any crispy Korean fried chicken craving. Bonchon delivers bold, savory flavor in every bite with signature soy garlic or spicy sauces, plus Korean street food favorites like bulgogi and japchae. 

• Hurtado Barbecue 
  A must-visit for Texas BBQ lovers. Hurtado is known for its award-winning tender brisket, jalapeño cheddar sausage, elote-style corn and brisket birria tacos. Get there quick, they often sell out! 

• Division Brewing 
  This locally owned brewery and pizzeria serves up incredible tavern-style pizza and dozens of craft beers and ales. Fresh ingredients, delicious brews and indoor or outdoor seating make it perfect for a car show day. 

Cool Off After 

After hours in the Texas sun, you’ll want to cool down. Luckily, Downtown Arlington has several fun, family-friendly ways to do it: 

• Free Play Arlington: Tokyo Station 
  Newly remodeled, Free Play now features a “Tokyo Station” theme complete with anime murals, custom claw games, Japanese games and prizes, plus a new “build-your-own” noodles option from the kitchen.  

• George W. Hawkes Downtown Library 
  This state-of-the-art public library has quiet seating, interactive children’s areas, a rooftop garden and even a small café. Cool off, check out a book or recharge your phone while enjoying the views. 

• Cidercade Arlington 
  Just down Front Street, Cidercade offers hundreds of arcade games with a single admission fee, plus a large bar serving house-made hard ciders. It’s great for groups and families with older kids. 

• Levitt Pavilion 
  Don’t let the day end early! Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a free outdoor concert at Levitt Pavilion. Music begins at 7:30 p.m. with Larry Ladale, followed by headliner Los Coast at 8:30 p.m. The perfect ending to a packed day. 

Whether you’re coming for the cars, the food or just the good community vibes, the Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show 2025 offers a full day of fun. We’ll see you in the shade of the hoods and under the summer sun!