Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and just minutes from the Dallas Fort-Worth Airport, Irving is a city that allows residents to travel non-stop to and from every major city in the United States. Beyond traveling, however, there's plenty to do if you say in Irving too – It's a city with so much to offer and plenty to see and do. It's also a place with plenty of business opportunities – In fact, Irving serves as the headquarters for six Fortune 500 companies. Beyond that, it’s a warm and welcoming place with a diverse community – in fact, it is frequently ranked as one of the most diverse cities in the United States. Irving also has a growing and thriving LGBTQ community where everyone can feel welcome and find their niche.
A Bit of Irving History
Irving was initially founded in 1903 by two surveyors named J.O Schultz and Otis Brown, who established the city as a rail link between Dallas and Fort Worth. Local historians say that the co-founders decided to name the city after Mrs. Brown’s favorite author, Washington Irving. By the early 1960s, several manufacturing plants had moved to Irving, as well as many retail and financial businesses. In the 1970s, it also became home to Texas Stadium, which was then the home field of the Dallas Cowboys. All of these things encourage Irving's growth – and the city continues growing to this day.
Irving– A Few Fun Facts
Read more fun facts about Irving here.
The LGBTQ Community in Irving
Irving has a warm and friendly LGBTQ community, rich in diversity, and welcoming to all. That community is fortunate to be well-supported by a variety of community resources, including:
PFLAG Dallas is the Dallas-area chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which also serves the Irving area. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the United States, and for many years, it has played an essential role in providing education, advocacy, support, networking opportunities, and resources to LGBTQ communities across the country. Monthly meetings and other community-building events and resources are regularly offered.
What’s the Weather Like in Irving?
Those who live in Irving can expect mild winters and warm summers. In January, the lows are typically in the 30s, while in July and August, temperatures can reach up into the 90s. Typically, spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons in Irving, with spring bringing beautiful blooms, and fall offering crisp breezes and brightly colored leaves.
Can’t-Miss Events Near Irving
Located just a short drive away in Dallas, this annual pride celebration is well worth the trip. Often referred to as “The Pride of Texas,” the annual Pride event held in Dallas is considered the mecca of LGBTQ events in North Texas. Pride weekend is held in June in Fair Park and includes a music festival, a family pride zone and the Texas Freedom Parade.
The Dallas Red Party is a fun, festive, can’t-miss event held in September of each year. Hosting by the Dallas Red Foundation, it is a fundraising effort to raise money and awareness for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
The Best Irving Neighborhoods
There is no one particular “gayborhood” in Irving like some might expect to find in larger cities – but that doesn't mean that there aren't plenty of great places to live. Because of its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Irving offers great living options for those who want to enjoy a more suburban lifestyle while still being somewhat close to the big city and all that it offers. There are a wide variety of homes in Irving, from condos to single-family homes in all styles and price ranges. Some homes can be found for under $100,000, while more expensive areas can range up to a million dollars or more. The median home value in Irving is currently around $210,000. For those interested in renting, there are many affordable options throughout the city as well, that a qualified realtor could help you to find. Whatever your personal preference or price range, you're sure to find something you love in Irving.
Arts and Entertainment
The Bishop Arts District located in downtown Dallas is an eclectic, trendy arts district full of small, mostly gay-owned galleries, shops, bars, theatres, and restaurants. It also frequently offers fun events like a monthly wine walk, an annual pumpkin festival, and a small business Saturday mimosa walk.
The Toyota Music Factory is one of the largest and best entertainment venues in the country. It offers an incredible array of bars and restaurants and hosts some of the best national and international touring music acts. There’s truly something here for everyone to enjoy!
Parks and Recreation
Lone Star Park is a horseracing track and entertainment center located fifteen minutes away from Irving in nearby Grand Prairie. It has two live racing seasons each year and offers gaming and entertainment year-round. It's a great place to spend an afternoon having fun with friends.
The Campion Trails area is a 22-mile greenbelt that runs through Irving and offers many unique opportunities to enjoy the outdoors on a beautiful day. It's a great place to pack a picnic, and walk, bike, run, hike, or just relax in nature's beauty.
Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Irving area, The Varsity Gay League calls itself the original LGBTQ+ Recreational Sports Organization. Founded in 2007, it proudly offers year-round activities, games, and sporting events with the goal of uniting the LGBTQ and straight communities with new and fun ways to get some exercise and have some fun. All are welcome!
Irving Nightlife
Established in 1980, JR’s Bar and Grill (named for one of the main characters in the 1980s soap opera Dallas) is considered by many to be one of the most popular gay bars in the Dallas-Fort-Worth-Irving area. It’s well-known for its cheap drinks, friendly atmosphere, and comfortable patio area.
The Round-Up Saloon has a country-western theme with a dance floor and video screens. It offers six different bars, plenty of wonderful live music, and nice outdoor patio, and endless opportunity for fun, dancing, and socializing.
Contact an Irving Gay Realtor Today
If you’re ready to make a move to Irving, you’ll want to find a realtor who knows and loves the community to help you get started with the process. We would love to have the opportunity to put you in touch with a realtor who knows the community well and can help you find the perfect home for your family in a neighborhood that you’ll love. Contact an Irving gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
