Main St, Garland

A drive down Main street reminds you that Garland wasn't always a major Dallas suburb, but once a small Texas town with it's own thriving little economy. The western end of Main Street contains a number of historic tudor homes which have been mostly converted to commercial uses, as well as a number of aesthetically challenge commercial buildings from the later half of the 20th century. The other end of Main Street, east of 5th street, serves as a gateway to downtown from busy SH-78/Lavon Dr., and is home to many auto related business, a Taco Bell, and a locally owned Feed and Seed store.

The middle section of Main Street is home to the downtown square, and is the epicenter of Garland's downtown Core. Main Street, along with the rest of downtown, is currently experiencing some much needed revitalization, a couple of restaurants have opened in the last few years, the Plaza Theatre has received a much needed restoration, and the building next door to Suzy's Quilt Shop is currently being restored to become a coffee shop.

The arrival of the DART train has also lit a fire under other downtown development during the last few years, including the Patty Granville Arts Center, a new Community College, and a mixed use development of shops, townhomes, and 200 apartments, bringing a residential component to downtown Garland. With all the new residents, Main Street is sure to get a new lease on life during the next few years.

Main Street cuts through what could be described as the middle of downtown Garland. There is always pretty bad traffic here, but that's something that you really can't avoid. There are a couple hotels and motels along main and closer to the major intersection a little to the east. Also, there is your usual slew of fast food restaurants. It is not exactly a high class place, but it definitely provides the amenities that anyone really needs.