Something exciting is always happening in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, whether it is an enriching cultural event or a down-home rodeo. The Metroplex is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the country, and Dallas itself is home to some 1.3 million people, as well as a thriving business community, a vibrant entertainment district and a high-end retail and dining scene — plus four professional sports teams.
The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system is helping make commuting more bearable, which is good news for home shoppers heading to the suburbs to find their own personal space. If you are looking for a haven in the sun, then the Dallas-Fort Worth area may be your next destination. Take a look at the popular master planned communities below and decide which one has the lifestyle that fits your needs.
Morningstar
Only 15 minutes west of downtown Fort Worth is the laidback, country-living master planned community Morningstar. Three distinguished builders are offering a wide selection of floorplans with prices starting in the low $300,000s. Morningstar is located north of Interstate 20 and served by the acclaimed Aledo ISD. Residents can take advantage of the palatial community center and relax by resort-style pools under shaded cabanas. Kids can enjoy the playgrounds, and the manmade lakes are perfect for evening concerts on the lawn. Or head to Fort Worth’s Cultural District, which includes five renowned museums, to take in some art.
Canyon Falls
Canyon Falls is just over 20 miles northeast of Dallas, spread across the towns of Flower Mound, Argyle and Northlake. This expansive master planned community is served by 10 builders with home prices starting in the mid-$300,000s. Within Canyon Falls, the clubhouse is a gathering oasis where kids can enjoy the splash pads and pools. Community parks, including one for furry family members, are a definite bonus, and the Northwest and Argyle school districts both offer academic excellence. Venture into downtown Dallas to spend the day at the Dallas World Aquarium.
Explore the fun lifestyle of Canyon Falls.
Harvest
About 30 miles north of Fort Worth lies the tree-lined streets of the Harvest master planned community. Six builders are building a variety of home styles, including patio and townhomes, with prices starting in the high $200,000s. Planned as a walkable community, Harvest offers miles of trails leading to parks, plus there’s a 24-hour workout facility and the Yoga Lawn, which offers 50 classes each month. If fishing is a favorite pastime, Harvest Lake has 11 acres of fully stocked catch and release fish. The outdoor kitchen is equipped with a TV, fireplace and picnic tables. Residents can also play a round of horseshoes or half-court basketball, or gather at the event lawn for festivals and concerts. Back in Fort Worth, visit the famous Stockyards for a true Cowtown experience.
The Harvest is ready and waiting for you.
Lantana
The master planned community of Lantana encompasses 32 neighborhoods north of Fort Worth in the Argyle area. Four builders offer spacious floorplans with prices starting in the $400,000s. This grand community spans 1,700 acres with open spaces, hiking trails and five sparkling pools. Kids love the water spray park and parents appreciate the four on-site schools and the on-site daycare. Evenings are for playing tennis with friends on the five lighted courts. Not too far away is the must-see Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Discover if Lantana is right for you.
Viridian
Between Dallas and Fort Worth in Arlington is the master planned community Viridian. Beyond its estate and custom homes, Viridian also features townhomes and a 55+ active lifestyle community. Prices begin in the $200s for homes designed by more than eight prestigious builders including David Weekley Homes and Coventry Homes. Residents can relax and unwind at the Viridian Lake Club, a six-acre peninsula overlooking Lake Viridian. Amenities include a 25-foot conversation pool and a fenced toddler pool. Enjoy sailing and paddle boarding on-site or visit nearby Six Flags Over Texas.
Your dream home may be waiting for you in Viridian.
ArrowBrooke
Only 40 minutes north of Dallas in Aubrey is the 410-acre master planned community of ArrowBrooke. Four builders, including Meritage Homes and Highland Homes, offer high-quality homes with price tags starting in the low $300,000s. Students are zoned for the high-caliber Denton ISD. ArrowBrooke offers two amenity centers featuring resort-style pools, a wading area and a rain wall the kids will love. Another perk is nearby Lake Lewisville, which is perfect for a day of boating or jet skiing. For a unique expedition, take the nearby Denton Walking Food tour at Denton Square. Your taste buds will thank you.
Which home is your favorite in ArrowBrooke?
Mustang Lakes
Less than an hour north of Dallas in Celina is the 2018 Master Planned Community of the Year, Mustang Lakes. Eight builders are offering homes perfect for growing families or empty nesters, with prices beginning in the mid-$300,000s. Mustang Lakes has multiple creeks and lakes to explore, along with a 20-acre park and 10 miles of trails that weave throughout the community. Residents can congregate in the Club at Mustang Lakes to enjoy the pool and live entertainment presented at the amphitheater. Nearby in McKinney, Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary has a butterfly house and 50 acres of hiking trails.
What’s not to love about Mustang Lakes?
Devonshire
Devonshire is in Forney, only 30 minutes east of Dallas. Five builders are offering over a wide range of plans priced starting in the low $200,000s. Amenities include lounging at The Club at Devonshire or taking a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool. In the evening, residents can gather with friends and family around the fire pits for S’mores while watching the sunset. The splash pad is perfect for the little ones while the adults watch from the covered pavilion. For an educational experience, visit the highly acclaimed Spellman Museum of Forney History.
Discover your destiny at Devonshire.
Travis Ranch
Also in Forney is the 1,500-acre master planned community, Travis Ranch. Five builders offer homes beginning in the low $200,000s. Three parks, several playgrounds and an in-line hockey rink are sprinkled across Travis Ranch, and the community is served by the Forney and Rockwall school districts. Travis Ranch is adjacent to Lake Ray Hubbard, one of the largest lakes in North Texas, spanning 22,000 acres and a favorite place to visit on those hot summer days.
Learn more about Travis Ranch.
Star Trail
About 40 miles north of Dallas in Prosper is the 900-acre master planned community, Star Trail. Five builders offer luxury homes starting in the high $300,000s. Lakes, fountains and miles of trails that wind across the community are all part of the experience. The community clubhouse is a favorite gathering place; it is equipped with party rooms and an outdoor lounge area that includes a fireplace and large-screen TV. Residents can also enjoy three resort-style pools and two lighted tennis courts. Students attend Prosper ISD, which is among the top 20 school districts in Texas. Head to nearby Frisco and the Dallas Cowboys’ world headquarters, the Star District, to enjoy an array of dining and shopping options.
Which home in Star Trail is your favorite?
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Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.
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