If you are visiting Texas for the first time, the culture will feel different from what you are used to. Some of it is obvious. People are friendly. Portions are large. The heat is serious. Other parts are less obvious, and knowing them ahead of time makes your trip smoother.
Here is what to expect.
Restaurant meals in Texas are large by international standards. Asking for a to-go box to take leftover food home is completely normal and expected. Waitstaff will often offer one before you ask.
Drink refills at most casual restaurants are free and unlimited, including soft drinks and iced tea. Texas sweet tea is strong and very sweet.
The listed price on a menu or shelf is not what you pay. Texas adds sales tax at the register. The combined state and local rate in the Arlington area is typically around 8.25%. So a $20 meal costs about $21.65 before tip.
Southern hospitality is real. Strangers say hello, hold doors and start conversations in elevators, coffee shops and grocery lines. If you come from a culture where strangers do not interact in public, the friendliness can feel unusual at first. Go with it. People are genuinely being kind, and a simple “Hey, how’s it going?” back is all that is expected.
Dallas-Fort Worth in June and July regularly hits 93 to 98 degrees Fahrenheit (34 to 37 degrees Celsius), with many days exceeding 100. Humidity adds to the discomfort. Plan outdoor activities for the morning or evening and spend midday hours inside.
Globe Life Field has a retractable roof and air conditioning, so once you are inside, the heat is not a factor. The same goes for AT&T Stadium, most malls and every restaurant. Texans keep their AC cold, so bring a light layer for indoor venues.
Arlington does not have a public bus system or train service. The DFW area is spread out, and most locals drive everywhere. If your trip includes day trips to Dallas (25 minutes east) or Fort Worth (30 minutes west), a rental car gives you the most flexibility.
A valid international driver’s license or your home country’s license is accepted in Texas. Seatbelts are required by law. Right turns on red are allowed after a full stop unless a sign says otherwise.
If you do not want to drive, rideshare (Uber) is available 24 hours a day. Within the Arlington Entertainment District, everything is walkable.
Despite the cowboy imagery, most Texans wear jeans, T-shirts and sneakers. You do not need boots or a hat unless you are heading to the Fort Worth Stockyards or Billy Bob’s Texas, where they fit the setting. At Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium, casual clothing is the norm.
Wear breathable fabrics and sunscreen if you will be outside for any stretch of time.
Texas is a politically and religiously conservative state in many areas. Many residents are deeply religious. Casual conversations about gun policy, women’s rights or religion can become tense quickly. If someone brings up a sensitive topic, it is fine to smile and redirect the conversation.
English is the primary language, but Spanish is widely spoken across the DFW area. Signage in Spanish is common, and many service workers are bilingual.
Yes. Tap water is safe throughout the DFW area. Water fountains are available inside Globe Life Field on every concourse level.
Yes, for short-term visits. An international driving permit is recommended but not always required. Carry your passport and home license together.
Casual clothing is fine. Shorts, T-shirts and sneakers are the norm. Bring a light layer for the air conditioning inside Globe Life Field.
The main walkways within the Entertainment District are well-lit and heavily trafficked on event days. Stick to the primary routes along Cowboys Way and Nolan Ryan Expressway.
