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The Colony, TX

The Colony is a vibrant suburban city in North Texas, known as the "City by the Lake" for its 23 miles of shoreline on Lewisville Lake, offering extensive water recreation and parks.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full official name of the city is The Colony. It is a suburban city located in Denton County, Texas, United States, and is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex .

Historical Names and Nicknames

The city is officially nicknamed the "City by the Lake" . This name comes from its prime location along the eastern shore of Lewisville Lake, which provides the city with approximately 23 miles of shoreline and extensive waterfront views . The city's name, "The Colony," was chosen by its developers in 1973 to honor the spirit of the historic Peters Colony, an empresario contract that encouraged immigrant settlement in North Texas during the 1840s .

Date of Foundation and Age

The modern community of The Colony was founded in 1973 when the Dallas-based residential land developer Fox and Jacobs purchased land along the shore of Lake Lewisville . The first families moved into their homes in October 1974 . The residents voted to incorporate as a city, and The Colony was officially incorporated in January 1977. The city is 47 years old as of 2024 .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

The Colony is situated in North Texas at the geographic coordinates 33°5′27″N 96°53′5″W . The city is located on the eastern shore of Lewisville Lake and is bordered by the cities of Lewisville to the west, Frisco to the north and east, and Carrollton and Plano to the south . The elevation in the center of the city is approximately 554 feet (169 meters) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

The Colony is primarily a residential suburb and a growing hub for recreation and hospitality. Its economy is driven by its residential real estate and a strong focus on tourism and leisure activities centered around Lewisville Lake. Key economic sectors include:

Population and Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of The Colony was 44,534 . As of a 2023 estimate, the population has grown to 45,471 . This classifies The Colony as a medium-sized city. The city is characterized by its diversity, with the 2020 census showing a racial and ethnic makeup of 53.2% non-Hispanic white, 22.52% Hispanic or Latino, 9.73% African American, and 8.78% Asian . It is one of the many rapidly growing communities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

City's "Calling Card" (In Brief)

The Colony is a premier lakeside destination within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, offering a unique blend of suburban living and resort-style recreation. Known as the "City by the Lake," it boasts over 23 miles of shoreline on Lewisville Lake, award-winning golf courses, and an extensive park system, providing residents and visitors with endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor fun just minutes from major urban centers .

Geography

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

The defining geographic feature of The Colony is Lewisville Lake. The city is located on its eastern shore and contains approximately 23 miles (37 km) of shoreline, including two peninsulas . The lake is a large reservoir formed by the damming of the Elm Fork of the Trinity River . It is a central hub for recreation in North Texas, offering extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterskiing .

National and Nature Parks

While The Colony does not contain any national parks, it is renowned for its extensive municipal park system. The city boasts more than 3,000 acres of park land, which is one of the highest acreages of parks per capita in the state of Texas . Key parks and natural areas include:

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

The Colony has a humid subtropical climate, characteristic of the southern United States, with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences distinct seasons and benefits from plenty of sunshine throughout the year .

Average Temperatures by Month

The climate is marked by significant seasonal temperature variation .

Precipitation and Humidity

The Colony receives a significant amount of rainfall, with a distinct pattern throughout the year .

Seasonal Information and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit The Colony for outdoor activities is during the mild seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) .

Landmarks and Attractions

[The Tribute Golf Club]

One of the premier attractions in The Colony is The Tribute Golf Club. This unique public golf course pays homage to the historic courses of Scotland. It features recreations of many famous holes, including the iconic "Road Hole" from St. Andrews. The course is a major draw for golf enthusiasts and offers elegantly appointed guest suites for those looking for a complete golf getaway .

[Old American Golf Club]

Another top-tier golf destination is the Old American Golf Club. Designed to reflect the classic era of golf course architecture from the early 20th century, this award-winning course is consistently ranked among the best in Texas. It is located within The Colony and offers challenging play with scenic views of the surrounding landscape .

[Hawaiian Falls The Colony]

For family fun, Hawaiian Falls The Colony is a popular seasonal water park. It features a variety of water slides, a lazy river, an interactive splash pad for younger children, and a large wave pool, providing a full day of entertainment for visitors of all ages .

[The Colony Aquatic Park]

The The Colony Aquatic Park offers year-round aquatic fun. It features a deeper indoor pool for lap swimming and kayak classes, a shallow outdoor leisure lagoon, and an interactive splash zone. During the winter, it becomes a major hub for kayaking instruction .

[Memorial to Veterans of the Armed Services]

Located within the Five Star Complex, the Memorial to Veterans of the Armed Services is a significant local landmark. The concept was initiated by The Colony Masonic Lodge #1451 to honor all veterans. The memorial features a cenotaph surrounded by engraved bricks that display the name, rank, branch, and years of service for both active personnel and honorably discharged veterans .

Transport

Main Airports in the City and Region

The Colony is strategically located for air travel, with two major international airports within a short driving distance .

Other Airports (Alternative)

Several other general aviation and regional airports serve the area, providing additional options for private and corporate travel .

Main Highways and Roads

The Colony is well-connected by a network of major highways and toll roads, providing easy access to the entire Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and beyond .

Public Transportation System (Train)

While The Colony does not have its own rail system, it has convenient access to the Denton County Transportation Authority's A-train commuter rail service . The nearest station is the Old Town Station in the neighboring city of Lewisville. The A-train connects riders south to the Trinity Mills Station in Carrollton, where they can transfer to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Green Line for direct access to downtown Dallas .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

The Colony’s dining scene is a vibrant reflection of North Texas, offering everything from legendary barbecue to innovative international concepts. While the city is relatively young, its culinary identity is being shaped by a mix of traditional Texas flavors and modern, entertainment-focused dining destinations like the Grandscape development.

Texas Barbecue at Its Finest

No visit to The Colony is complete without experiencing Hard Eight BBQ, a local institution that embodies the spirit of Texas barbecue . The experience begins with the smoky aroma of mesquite wood even before you step inside. Diners line up cafeteria-style to select their meats, which are cooked over direct heat in large, open pits. The menu features classic smoked brisket, ribs, turkey, and sausage . This casual, rustic spot is a must for anyone seeking authentic Texas 'cue, served with classic sides like mac and cheese and baked beans .

Elevated Dining with International Flair

For a more refined experience, The Colony boasts several upscale restaurants. Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, the only Texas location of this celebrated chain, offers prime cuts of beef, handmade pasta, and fresh seafood flown in from Boston daily . Dishes like Kobe beef meatballs and Maine lobster risotto showcase its high-end Northern Italian concept . Another standout is Seven Doors Kitchen & Cocktails, named for seven 19th-century French colonial doors adorning the interior . The menu features creative takes on steak and seafood, with house specialties like candied bacon, tuna tower, and Korean barbecue tacos .

A World of Flavors in One City

The Colony's culinary scene is remarkably diverse. At the casual Truck Yard, a rotating selection of food trucks offers everything from Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex to Caribbean and Asian cuisine . This "grown-up playground" also features a microbrewery and live music . For a fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors, OMG Tacos serves Southern California-style taqueria fare, including teriyaki chicken tacos and a steak-and-French-fry burrito . Those curious about Indian-American fusion can visit Curry Up Now for dishes like a tikka masala burrito or Indian-inspired poutine .

Lakefront Dining and Live Music

The Colony’s location on the shores of Lewisville Lake provides the perfect setting for scenic meals. Angelina’s Don Francisco’s Mexican Restaurant has been a local favorite for over 20 years, offering sizzling fajitas and brisket tacos on an outdoor patio with lake views . For a truly unique waterside experience, Rockin’ S Bar & Grill, located within Hidden Cove Park and Marina, features the area's only floating patio, where visitors can enjoy fried seafood and relaxed coastal vibes . The entertainment district of Grandscape is also home to unique dining and music venues. Lava Cantina combines Tex-Mex cuisine with a large outdoor stage that hosts national touring acts . Windmills, a craft brewery and jazz lounge originating from Bangalore, India, offers a unique blend of Indian-inspired dishes and live music from Grammy award-winning artists .

Museums

The Colony offers a unique mix of quirky, artistic, and historical attractions, providing a cultural experience that is both unconventional and deeply connected to the area's heritage.

Barney Smith's Toilet Seat Art Museum

One of the most unusual and beloved attractions in Texas has found a new home in The Colony. Barney Smith's Toilet Seat Art Museum, located on the second floor of the Truck Yard, showcases the lifetime work of retired master plumber Barney Smith . The museum features over 1,400 decorated toilet seats, each a unique piece of folk art . Every seat represents a moment in time, adorned with found objects, intricate hand-lettering, and drawings . The collection includes seats with pieces of the Berlin Wall, barbed wire from Auschwitz, and a seat signed by San Antonio Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich . Admission is free, offering a truly one-of-a-kind cultural experience .

Art Galleries and Public Art

The Colony encourages artistic exploration through several galleries and public art installations. Dallas Silk Art in Grandscape introduces visitors to the ancient art of water marbling (ebru), featuring a gallery of hand-dyed fabrics and offering workshops for those who want to create their own treasures . Stained Glass Unlimited creates custom stained glass pieces for the community; visitors can view their public art displays in front of City Hall or sign up for instructional classes . The master-planned community of Austin Ranch serves as an outdoor sculpture garden, with a captivating collection of more than 15 world-renowned art pieces scattered throughout its rolling hills and scenic views . The historic Spencer House, originally built in Lewisville, was relocated to Austin Ranch in 2004 and now serves as an event space, preserving a piece of the area's architectural past .

Historical Sites and Local History

For those interested in the region's past, the Bridges Cemetery is a historic site dating back to 1843, when the Bridges family settled in the area . The cemetery, though closed, is opened to the public annually in the spring by the Local History Committee . The The Colony Public Library houses a Local History Collection, offering researchers and the public access to historical documents, photographs, and maps related to southeast Denton County and the Peters Colony land grant . The library's collection also tells the story of the Hedgecoxe War, an armed conflict in 1852 involving the colony's chief surveyor, Henry Oliver Hedgecoxe .

Memorials and Remembrance

The Colony is home to two poignant memorials. The Veteran's Memorial, located at The Athletic Club - The Colony (formerly the Five Star Complex), honors veterans of the armed services with a cenotaph surrounded by bricks inscribed with the names, ranks, and service details of military personnel . The city also features a 9-11 Memorial, which includes a significant fragment of steel from the World Trade Centers . The memorial's design thoughtfully incorporates elements like a strip of red concrete to represent firefighters and four trees symbolizing continuing life for those lost .

Sport and Sports Legends

The Colony is establishing itself as a dynamic hub for sports and recreation, anchored by a massive, modern sports complex and innovative new venues that attract athletes and fans from across the region.

Major Sports Facilities

The crown jewel of The Colony's athletic infrastructure is the Five Star Complex, an 80-acre, state-of-the-art sports facility that has been a community cornerstone since its grand opening in 2003 . The complex is home to six baseball fields, six soccer fields, two football fields, and one softball field . Designed with unique native stonework and star-shaped motifs throughout, the facility hosts dozens of tournaments annually and serves as the home base for the city's sports leagues . Its amenities include terraced seating for spectators, shade structures on every field, concession stands, playgrounds, and nearly 1.3 miles of hike and bike trails .

New and Innovative Sports Venues

The Colony continues to evolve as a sports destination with the opening of cutting-edge entertainment venues. In early 2026, TOCA Social Dallas opened at Grandscape, marking the first U.S. location for this interactive soccer-themed entertainment concept . The venue combines interactive soccer-based games with food and beverage offerings in a social setting designed for group gatherings . The project is backed by Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, whose professional athletic career began in soccer before he became one of the NFL's most reliable kickers . Aubrey's involvement connects The Colony to a prominent local sports figure as the region prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup .

Universities and Higher Education

While The Colony itself does not host a university campus, its prime location in the north Dallas-Fort Worth area places it within a short drive of more than 40 colleges and universities, including several of the state's most prestigious and largest institutions . This makes the city a convenient residential option for students, faculty, and staff.

Major Universities Near The Colony

Several major universities are located within a 20-mile radius of The Colony. The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) , located about 11 miles away in Richardson, is a public research university and is ranked as the #3 Best Public University in Texas, with an enrollment of over 31,000 students . The University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton, approximately 17 miles away, is another major public research university, enrolling nearly 45,000 students and ranked #8 Best Public University in Texas . Texas Woman's University (TWU) , also in Denton, is a public university with a strong reputation, located about 16 miles from The Colony .

The area is also home to highly regarded private institutions. Southern Methodist University (SMU) in University Park, about 18 miles away, is ranked the #2 Best College in Texas and is known for its competitive admissions and strong programs in business and law . The University of Dallas, a private Catholic university in Irving, is located about 17 miles away and is ranked #8 Best Private College in Texas .

Community Colleges

For those seeking two-year degrees or looking to start their higher education journey close to home, several community colleges are easily accessible. Brookhaven College in Farmers Branch is the closest, just 12 miles away, offering open admissions and affordable tuition . Collin College has a significant presence in the area, with its main district campus located about 16 miles away and an enrollment of over 35,000 students . Other nearby options include North Lake College and Richland College in Dallas .

Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Residents and visitors of The Colony have access to a wide range of healthcare services, from local emergency care facilities to the extensive network of one of the largest healthcare systems in Texas.

Baylor Scott & White in The Colony

Baylor Scott & White (BSW) , the largest not-for-profit healthcare system in Texas, has a significant presence in The Colony, offering a full range of inpatient, outpatient, and emergency medical services through numerous patient access points . The system provides primary care for routine health needs, as well as specialized services in areas such as women’s health, heart and vascular conditions, orthopedics, cancer care, and gastroenterology . Patients can access a network of providers in The Colony, many of whom offer video visits and are accepting new patients .

Local Emergency and Specialty Care

Colony ER Hospital is a general medical and surgical facility located within the city, providing emergency services to the community . This facility ensures that critical and immediate care is available locally. For more complex procedures and specialty care, the medical centers and hospitals in the nearby cities of Dallas, Plano, and Denton are easily accessible, providing The Colony with the resources of a major metropolitan medical community.

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