Southlake’s history begins when settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, drawn to the rich farmland spanning Denton and Tarrant Counties. The area remained agricultural until the mid-20th century, when the creation of Grapevine Lake in 1952 shifted the pace of development.

Southlake officially incorporated in 1956, and things moved slowly until the opening of DFW International Airport transformed the region. What had once been ranchland became a highly sought-after suburb. Today, Southlake’s population is around 31,000, and while its zip code has become synonymous with prestige, the community has managed to hold on to a surprising number of local quirks.

Bicentennial Park offers a perfect example of how the city balances community amenities with character. The park includes everything from baseball diamonds and a tennis complex to a splash pad and paved trails lined with public art. Nearby, Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve spans over 700 acres and serves as a quiet contrast. Visitors can spot native wildlife along its trails or take part in educational programming that highlights the area’s ecological roots. Grapevine Lake, just west of the city, draws in hikers, paddleboarders, and fishing enthusiasts alike, while North Park and the city’s expansive trail network offer easy access to outdoor activities year-round.

Beyond trails and parks, several standout events draw regional attention. Oktoberfest Southlake transforms the downtown square each fall with food booths, polka music, and family-friendly activities spread across three days. In warmer months, live music performances rotate between Frank Edgar Cornish, IV Park and Town Square’s main stage, often paired with vendor markets and food trucks. The Marq, Southlake’s city-owned event space and recreation center, adds more depth to the calendar with dance nights, art shows, and lecture-style events that lean into wellness, culture, and creativity.

That energy carries into everyday life downtown. Southlake Town Square blends national retailers with upscale shopping experiences in a walkable, open-air setting. Visitors can browse clothes and accessories at stores like Anthropologie, Evereve, and Lululemon, or pick up gourmet items at Williams Sonoma. Indie bookstores like Hudson House Books add local charm, while the square’s fountains, shaded seating, and art displays make it more than just a shopping destination—it’s a space where leisure and style come together.

The food scene only adds to that identity. Feedstore BBQ continues to serve smoked brisket, ribs, and homemade sides from a building that once housed an actual feed store. Just a short walk away, Malai Kitchen offers an upscale spin on Thai and Vietnamese favorites, with craft cocktails and house-brewed beer rounding out the menu. Del Frisco’s Grille delivers steakhouse staples in a sleek setting, with patio views that make it a go-to for evenings out. Dining in Southlake feels less about trend and more about precision—every dish, every space, designed with intent.

That same attention carries over into the public library and Southlake’s arts efforts. The library regularly hosts author visits, teen writing workshops, and story hours that draw steady participation. Public art installations pop up seasonally, with many located near the library or along the Town Square walking paths. And while Southlake has no traditional museum, its cultural footprint is visible in the rotating exhibits, sculpture installations, and music performances supported through city programming and local arts partnerships.

Appearance, in Southlake, is more than surface. It’s a reflection of how much people care—about their town, their homes, and the spaces they share. That’s where Gutierrez Painting steps in. We bring decades of experience to Southlake projects—interiors that require a flawless finish, exteriors that need protection and personality, and commercial spaces that leave an impression. Contact us today to schedule your next painting project.