If you’re looking to get a true feel for the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, there are few better ways than a drive along Interstate 635, also known as the Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway. Stretching about 28 miles from Mesquite to Grapevine, this route forms a critical part of the DFW beltway and offers a front-row seat to a diverse mix of cityscape, suburbs, and some of the region’s busiest interchanges.
We kick things off on the east side of the metro, joining I-635 from Interstate 30 near Mesquite. Right from the start, we’re in for a ride through some of the most dynamic corners of Dallas County. Mesquite itself is known for its vibrant rodeo culture and family-friendly parks, but as we head northwest, things quickly shift to the fast pace of Garland. Here, the Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway hums with commuters and shoppers headed to destinations like the Firewheel Town Center or the lush Spring Creek Forest Preserve, both just a short detour from the main road.
Continuing northwest, we skirt into Richardson—home to the Telecom Corridor and several major company campuses. One of the highlights on this stretch is passing through the massive “High Five” interchange where I-635 stacks up and flies over US Highway 75. This engineering marvel is not only visually striking, but also a crucial link for traffic moving north and south across the metroplex. If you’re riding shotgun, keep an eye out for the towering flyovers—some of the highest in Texas!
West of the High Five, the freeway bends toward the heart of Dallas. This section of I-635 is lined with a blend of business parks, residential neighborhoods, and local hangouts. If you’re up for a quick stop, both the Dallas Arboretum and White Rock Lake are within a few minutes’ drive south of the freeway—two urban oases that locals swear by for a quick breather from the interstate hustle.
As we roll farther west, we hit the key junctions with the Dallas North Tollway and then Interstate 35E, both major arteries feeding into downtown Dallas and points north. The neighborhoods here—Farmers Branch, North Dallas, and Carrollton—are packed with local eateries, shopping, and some underrated green spaces. In particular, Farmers Branch Historical Park is just off the route, offering a slice of Texas heritage for anyone interested in a short detour.
The vibe shifts again as we cruise into Irving. Known for its proximity to DFW International Airport and the Las Colinas business district, Irving is all about big business and big events, with the Toyota Music Factory and Mandalay Canal Walk providing plenty of reasons to pull off for a break or a meal. The freeway itself starts to feel a bit less urban as we near the final leg, with a wider view of suburban neighborhoods and a few more open spaces.
Finally, the journey wraps up in Grapevine, one of the most charming cities in the metro area. The western terminus of I-635 puts you right at the crossroads with TX-121, and just a stone’s throw from the entrance to DFW International Airport. Grapevine is famous for its historic downtown, wine tasting rooms, and the sprawling Grapevine Mills shopping center. If you’re into aviation or history, a stop at the Founders’ Plaza Airport Observation Area is a must—it’s a perfect way to end the drive with a view of jets soaring overhead.
🗺️ Route Map
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