14 Ways North Richland Hills Near Fort Worth Proves It’s The Little City That Could

With the Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex encompassing 13 counties and countless small, medium, and large-size towns and cities, locals have an almost endless array of choices on where to live. But the City of North Richland Hills is one that repeatedly tops the chart for having it all. It's conveniently located between the two anchor cities of Dallas and Fort Worth (and about 13 miles from the DFW International AIrport), so it is a top choice for business travelers. The good schools, affordable housing, a competitive tax rate, an impressive parks system, and innovative partnerships with the community makes residents absolutely love the city. Here's why 66,000 people currently call North Richland Hills home:

1. City Hall is where innovation begins.

Officials make it a priority to live up to the motto of "Live. Work. Play." The city regularly receives awards for its innovation, community enrichment, and beautification efforts. It was honored in 2016 with the Keep Texas Beautiful Governor's Community Achievement Award and received a $250,000 grant from the Texas Department of Transportation for continued efforts.

2. The NRH Centre is a hub for activities.

This 86,000-square-foot fitness center opened in 2012. The multipurpose building was constructed with sustainable features to minimize the impact on the environment. Not only does it include a fitness center, but also a senior center, aquatics center, activity and education classrooms, outdoor plaza and more.

3. The Maker Spot is a fantastic center for innovation and creativity.

Made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum & Library Services and Texas State Library & Archives Commission, the goal of The Maker Spot is to incorporate hands-on learning to enhance readiness for careers in digital age and improve technological literacy. It's located at 9015 Grand Ave.

4. Tee off at the Iron Horse Golf Course.

The premier 18-hole municipal course is consistently voted among the best municipal golf courses in Texas. It's located at 6200 Skylark Circle.

5. NYTEX Sports Facility is world-class.

This large facility is home to the North American Hockey League's Lone Star Brahmas. You can also find junior ice hockey here, as well as a separate rink for skating. The facility also offers grappling and fencing. It's located at 8851 Ice House Dr.

6. North Richland Hills highlights art in public spaces.

The city has a permanent collection of 18 artworks located throughout the city as well as on-loan art programs that rotate for display.

They also participates in the Signal Art Program, where traffic signal boxes feature artwork of music legends and Hollywood cowboys.

7. The Richland Tennis Center keeps locals moving.

The award-winning, 16-court outdoor facility featuring a sunken championship court, pro shop, and more is operated by the city in partnership with the Birdville Independent School District. It's located at 7111 N.E. Loop 820.

8. Don't miss the Sounds of Spring Concert Series at NRH Centre and other city locations .

Family-friendly festivals and music are planned by city leaders in the springtime. There are also laser shows and concerts at other times throughout the year as well.

9. The City features over 800 acres of parkland.

Activities such as runs, biking adventures, and fitness promotion are scheduled regularly. There are numerous playgrounds, ballparks, extensive trail systems, a fishing pond and more throughout all areas of the city.

The city even features a community garden near Davis Memorial United Church on Davis Blvd. Families are welcome to take part in the organic gardening experience and become good stewards to our land.

10. There will be two stops here on the future TEXRail Commuter Line.

Smithfield Station and Iron Horse Station will provide commuter service to downtown Fort Worth commuters, as well as those who work at and use DFW International Airport. It will also provide transfer connections to Dallas.

11. NRH20 offers endless fun to locals.

The city operates its own successful water park and continues to expand and new thrilling rides all the time. The water park also offers dive-in movies, fireworks, swimming lessons, and special entertainment throughout the year— even when it’s too cold for the water park. Residents receive half-off admission! It's located at 9001 Blvd. 26.

12. Veterans Memorial in Liberty Park is a beautiful tribute to history.

This beautiful moment provides North Richland Hills with a respectful place for citizens to honor our veterans and serves as an outdoor learning area for schoolchildren to learn about our nation's past. You'll find it at 5825 Holiday Lane.

13. North Richland Hills has a renowned Parks and Recreation Department.

With 32 parks and facilities, over 30 miles of trails, and 830 acres of parks and open spaces, the Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of activities to enhance the city’s sense of community and the quality of life for citizens.

14. Babe's Chicken Dinner House is coming in 2018!

North Richland Hills has a variety of restaurants and fast food spots, but the most recent buzz is that this popular DFW chain is coming to the city the fall! The Roanoke-owned eatery specializes in fried chicken and chicken fried steak!

With so many excellent attractions and a tight community vibe, it's not hard to see why residents of North Richland Hills love living here! Have you visited, or - even better - are you lucky enough to call this city home? Share what you love about it in the comments!