10 Totally Unique Things You Didn't Know You Can Do in Mesquite

Located just 15 minutes east of Downtown Dallas, Mesquite is probably familiar to most people in the region, if only for the rodeo. But that’s not all that this town has to offer. From great restaurants to historical sites and outdoor adventures, Mesquite is filled with activities just a short drive away. So try something new and see a different side of Mesquite with these 10 things to do:

1. Go Greek

While Texas may be best known for its barbecue, in Mesquite, the top two rated restaurants on TripAdvisor are Greek: The Atheneos Greek Village Cafe and Yia Yia’s House of Gyros are excellent options when in town. Whether you’re in the mood for a big sit-down meal or want to grab a bite on the go, you’ll be in for a treat with the classic Greek staples at both of these places. Make sure you try the gyro fries at House of Gyros.

2. Explore the Mesquite Heritage Trail

Ready for a bike ride or run? You’ll find that the 4.25-mile Mesquite Heritage Trail is a scenic way to explore the town. Start the trail at Towne Centre Drive and Franklin Drive, and you can follow it to just west of the Greenbelt Parkway. Along the way you’ll hit Palos Verdes Park, where there’s an exercise station and an attractive lake. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of options for shopping and entertainment if you need a break.

3. Cool Off with a Swim

Mesquite features three pool complexes, with a variety of water slides, play areas, and splash parks. Choose from the City Lake Aquatics Center, Vanston Pool, and Town East Pool to cool off on a hot summer day.

4. Hit the Courts at the Westlake Sports Center

Tennis anyone? Take advantage of the lighted courts at the Westlake Sports Center, or take a tennis lesson yourself. For younger kids, the center offers a free instructional program that teaches the basics using a smaller court and shorter racquets. All equipment is provided for them. The center’s tennis pro, Omar, has more than 12 years experience teaching the game and played collegiately at the University of Texas at Dallas. Tennis leagues are also available for those who want to play on a regular basis. You’ll also find an archery range at the sports center, for those who want to give that sport a shot.

5. Take the Kids to DeBusk Park

Your kids will love the KidsQuest play structure at DeBusk Park. The big, wooden play structure is good for hours of entertainment, allowing them to explore and create their own games. You’ll have to drag them home.

6. Play Paintball

With a 10,000-square-foot paintball arena, Celebration Station is home to one of the best venues for paintball in the area. Grab some friends and take on the challenge. You can also enjoy miniature golf, GoKarts, arcades, and laser tag and this family-friendly destination. It’s a day full of fun for kids of any age—and adults as well.

7. Go Fishing for Catfish at City Lake Park

Mesquite has lots of quiet fishing spots, but City Lake Park is the place to try and nab some catfish. It’s also home to the annual Kidfish event, a free way to introduce children to the sport of fishing. All equipment and instruction will be provided. The park also has a short walking trail and a pavilion that’s perfect for a picnic lunch.

8. Go Old-School Roller Skating

When was the last time you went roller skating? Dad’s Broadway Skateland has been around since 1961, and this roller rink is still a popular spot for rolling around for an afternoon. Another option is the Aloha Roller Palace, which features a larger-than-life roller skate in the parking lot that makes the perfect Instagram photo. All your followers will know exactly where you are. Check the websites for hours for each facility.

9. Spend the Evening Painting

Everyone’s got a bit of an artist inside of them, and at Painting with a Twist, you can get help to bring it out —perhaps with the aid of a bit of wine. This is an excellent option for girls nights out, birthday parties, date night or office team building. . An instructor will take you step-by-step to create a painting on a 16-inch by 20-inch canvas. Not only will you have a good time—but you’ll have a memento of the experience when you’re done.

10. Challenge Yourself in an Escape Room

Can you put the Mission Impossible theme song in your head? Good, now you’ve got the right mindset to check out the escape room at Xcape DFW Adventures. You’re “locked” in a room, and you have one hour to decipher the clues and solve the riddles to get out. Each of the four rooms you can choose from is designed to provide an immersive experience and tell a story. Those who are good at cracking codes and uncovering secret passages will put their skills to the test. This is another fun group activity for adults—if you choose to accept the challenge.

Written by Ashley M. Biggers for Matcha in partnership with Mesquite CVB.