Grand Prairie’s Tourist Attractions
I was told it got its name because a dignitary and his wife arrived on a stage coach in 1862. As the Missus stepped off of the coach she commented on how “Grand” the prairie was. Well, as with all areas of the south, a good story will reel in patrons. But, the truth of Grand Prairie’s existent is that it was incorporated in 1909 and was previously called “Dechman”.
Alexander McRae Dechman bought cattle and land in 1861 for $200. Two-hundred and thirty-nine acres of land to be exact; on the east side of the Trinity River. The town’s name was changed to Grand Prairie after Dechman sold half of his property to the railroad in 1877. He sold the remainder to Grand Prairie in 1890.
Little did Dechman know his land would become one of the best kept secrets in this area. Grand Prairie is slowly becoming known for its family entertainment and easy living. It is smack dad in between Dallas and Fort Worth (twenty miles from either city). Making it the perfect suburban retreat from big city living.
If you exit I-30 at Beltline road you will be entering the entertainment gateway of Grand Prairie tourist attractions. The picturesque mural wrapped around the exit ramp is a lovely visual welcome mat.
This area houses the Lone Star racetrack; Nokia: Next Stage Theater; GPX Skate Park; Wax Museum and the Grand Prairie welcome center. During the Fourth of July holiday, Lone Star Park is the meeting place to see fireworks.
145,000 residents of this quiet Metroplex town not only have access to land games. But, there is also Joe Pool Lake for those who enjoy water sports.
Here are a few tidbits for the various attractions in Grand Prairie.
LONE STAR PARK
You can experience live or simulcast racing (check calendar for details)
There are several admission packages to choose from. Seat prices vary and are slightly higher on Big Event days (Kentucky Derby, Lone Star Derby, Breeder’s Cup . . .)
Check the website to see how you may get free parking. Lone Star also has an on-line service to help the novice learn how to place a wager.
NOKIA: NEXT STAGE
As you enter the gates for Lone Star Park, you will see Nokia: Next Stage in the (not too far) distance.
There is a cornucopia of events, venues and contests associated with the Nokia Theater website. The theater seats 6,350 patrons for concert events and has rental facilities for client meetings, group presentations, corporate events and luxury accommodations.
GPX SKATE PARK
This is teen skating heaven. The GPX Skate Park is position at the front entrance to Lone Star Park. The park offers in-line skating, biking, skateboarding and in-line hockey. You can sign your teen up for lessons or practice yourself in the area for beginners. But for the seasoned vet there is an advanced, vert and intermediate course.
You may also rent the facility for parties. Plus, check on-line specials for camps and clinics.
THE PALACE OF WAX
As you exit I-30 at Beltline, you will travel south on Beltline, turn left onto East Safari Parkway and look to the left for what appears to be a scaled down version of the Taj Mahal.
This unique structure houses some to the world’s most unusual wax replicas. Life like world figures, entertainers and a host of others reside here. Prices vary depending on age. They offer senior, military and kid’s discounts. Also, check out there season and combo packages for the most economical deal.
JOE POOL LAKE
Yes, you can fish. Yes, you can ski. Yes, you can hike. Yes, you can tan. No . . . you cannot be bored at Joe Pool Lake.
With 7,500 acres of open lake, it is a fisherman’s (fisherwoman’s . . .) paradise. Joe Pool Lake is filled with Bass, catfish and crappie.
Water sports make for an exciting weekend. Or, just laying on the dock, a boat or on the grass for a lazy Sunday afternoon may be your pleasure. Also, check out The Oasis Restaurant for good food and an occasional live band.
Now, should you travel off of the beaten path in Grand Prairie, it is very possible that you will see a winery. The Winery in Grand Prairie is a wonderful place to have a gathering or just visit for wine tasting. It is South of I-20 on Robinson Road. Just travel south on Carrier Parkway as you exit I-20. Turn left at the Steak and Shake restaurant (which is next to Sonic and across the street from Starbucks). Go through the stop sign and you’ll see the winery on the left side of the road as you come to Robinson Road. Whew! You’ll really want that glass of wine by the time you get there.
Now that you know we’re here, you should really stop by and enjoy our hospitality.
