The first settlement in Caddo tribal territory was Bird's Fort on the Trinity River. In 1845, a trading post was established at Mary le Bone Springs, and about 1876, the town—now known as Arlington—moved to its present site as the railroad was built through.

Today, Arlington is known for sports and thrills. The city is home to some of Texas' best-known family-fun spots, including Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor and Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, home of the Texas Rangers. In addition, there's action in the Cowboys Stadium, home to the NFL's Dallas Cowboys. For golfers, municipally owned Tierra Verde offers a beautiful course on 250 acres of secluded terrain.