The video above takes a closer look at Rowlett, TX — a lakefront suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex that sits right on Lake Ray Hubbard between Garland to the west and Rockwall to the east. With a population of almost 70,000, Rowlett has that small-town feel even though it's part of one of the largest metro areas in the country. David Bridwell stopped through on his way to record songs at Audio Dallas recording studio in nearby Garland, and the footage captures a walk through Rowlett's downtown strip along with some honest observations about what the city does and doesn't offer when it comes to nightlife and live music.
What Is Rowlett, TX Like to Visit?
Rowlett is a pretty relaxed, nature-oriented city. The big draw is Lake Ray Hubbard — a massive 22,000-acre reservoir that borders the east side of town. Unlike the Rockwall side of the lake, which is more commercialized and touristy, the Rowlett waterfront is calm and residential. People come out here for quiet walks along the water, fishing, kayaking, sailing, or just having a barbecue by the shore. The city has a solid network of parks and trails, including Lakeside Park, Peninsula Park, and Pecan Grove. There's also a water park for kids and a planned $1 billion mixed-use development called Sapphire Bay that's set to go in right on the water. The city is generally considered safe and more affordable than nearby suburbs like Plano, Frisco, or McKinney, which makes it appealing to families and people looking for a quieter pace without leaving the metroplex.
Does Rowlett Have Live Music or Nightlife?
Honestly, not much. Rowlett leans more toward restaurants and casual dining than high-energy bars or music venues. The downtown strip has some interesting storefronts and a walkable feel, but if you're looking for a night out with live bands, you're better off heading east to Rockwall or making the trip into Dallas. That said, there is one spot worth noting on the main street:
- Bankhead Brewing Company — A brewpub on Rowlett's downtown strip serving craft beer and food, including pizza. It's a solid casual stop but more of a dining destination than a live music venue.
The town does hold farmers markets, local holiday festivals, and community lakeside gatherings throughout the year, so there's a sense of connection among residents even if the nightlife scene is quiet.
Recording at Audio Dallas in Nearby Garland
After walking around Rowlett's downtown area and grabbing some pizza at Bankhead, the trip continued to Garland, where David Bridwell recorded another round of songs at Audio Dallas recording studio. The video closes out with a performance of one of those tracks — a road-weary tune about chalk it up to experience and lessons learned, with lines about looking out at bridges burned with no intention to make it across. It's a fitting soundtrack for a day spent passing through the quieter corners of the DFW Metroplex before getting down to work in the studio.