4 Reasons to Visit Mesquite, Texas

Spring's amiable temperatures make it a wonderful time to be outdoors, and the season also holds some of the year's liveliest festivals. This is especially true in Mesquite, an authentically Texas town declared the Official Rodeo Capital of Texas by the Texas Legislature since 1993. While it holds fast to its own personality, Mesquite is all of 15 minutes east of Downtown Dallas. Easy to get to and an ideal launchpad for exploring the beating heart of North Texas, see why you'll want to make Mesquite a major stop on your next Texas adventure.

It's Not Short on Outdoor Space

Mesquite is home to more than 70 parks and 17 miles of trails. Yes, you read that right.

Mesquite is home to more than 70 parks and 17 miles of trails woven throughout the city and connected to outdoor exercise stations, dog parks, pools, many stocked fishing ponds and picnic pavilions. Popular trails to bike, jog or walk include Mesquite Heritage Trail at Palos Verdes Lake Park, City Lake Park, Debusk Park, and Valley Creek. Have your camera ready for bluebonnets in late March and April at the 609-acre Samuel Farm and capture great images of butterfly high season in March and October at Mesquite’s Butterfly Trail.

It's the Official Rodeo Capital of Texas

Summer in Mesquite means rodeo season. And what better way to enjoy a rodeo than in the Official Rodeo Capital of Texas? Every Saturday night in June, July and August, Mesquite Arena hosts the Mesquite Championship Rodeo. For 65 years, this Texas staple has been a go-to for locals and visitors alike to find family-friendly fun, enjoy delicious Texas BBQ at the onsite pavilion and beat the heat in the climate-controlled arena.

It's Home to the Famed Devil’s Bowl Speedway

Whether you're a fan of motorsports or not, should you find yourself near Mesquite between March and Mid-October, you've got to check out Devil's Bowl Speedway — the Southwest's most famous dirt track. This half-mile dirt track is uniquely shaped to offer unparalleled views to each of the surrounding 10,000 seats, but if that's not close enough to the action, we urge you to purchase a Pit Pass. This allows visitors to watch the race from the center of the track, interact with the drivers and even sit in the cars for a can't-miss photo op.

It Has a Sophisticated Art Scene

While Mesquite is famous as the Official Rodeo Capital of Texas it has an equally impressive art scene. The Mesquite Art Center is home to rotating art exhibits, live theater and the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra, which has been around for over 30 years. Lastly, visit Front Street Station to see gorgeous new murals and live performers at the weekly Downtown Mesquite Farmers Market.