Visiting Top O’ Hill Terrace: Your Insider Guide

Once a secret hideaway for gamblers and gangsters, Top O’ Hill Terrace now offers one of the most unique historical tours in North Texas. Set on the grounds of Arlington Baptist University, this estate may not have the grandeur of a castle—but what it lacks in scale, it more than makes up for in stories.

Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

📍 Location & Hours

• Address: 3001 W Division St, Arlington, TX 76012
• Located on the campus of Arlington Baptist University
• Tours by appointment only — no walk-in access
• Most tours take place Monday–Saturday, late morning to early afternoon

Parking: Free on-site parking available. Look for signage near the gated entrance.

🎟️ Tickets & Admission

• General Tour Admission: Usually $10–$12 per person
• Group Tours: Available for schools, clubs, and history groups
• Private Tours: May be available by request

Reservations Required
To book, call (817) 461-8741 ext. 106 or visit the Top O’Hill Terrace

Tour Options

Guided Historical Tour (approx. 90 minutes)
Led by Vickie Bryant or a trained docent, the tour includes:

• The restored guardhouse and casino room
• The underground escape tunnel
• The ruins of the tea garden
• Fascinating stories about Top O’ Hill’s secret past

Note: There are no self-guided tours.

Helpful Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes—some areas include gravel, uneven paths, or stairs. [[Insert affiliate link]]

♿ Accessibility & Amenities

• Mobility:
• • Visitor center and casino exhibit are wheelchair accessible
  • Outdoor areas include uneven terrain and steps
• Vision/Hearing Impairments:
• • Tours are verbally rich and can be tailored if requested in advance
• Other Amenities:
• • Restrooms available at visitor center
  • Gift shop with memorabilia and books
  • Service animals are welcome
  • No café onsite—bring a water bottle [[Insert affiliate link]]

Tips for Visitors

• Comfortable shoes are a must
• Bring a sun hat or sunglasses in warmer months
• Flash photography is discouraged indoors
• Plan for 90 minutes to 2 hours total
• Spring and fall are ideal times to visit

🏞️ Nearby Attractions: Make a Day of It

If you’re already in Arlington, here are a few local stops to round out your day:

• The Gallery at UTA – Modern exhibitions and student works
• Knapp Heritage Park – Pioneer cabins and a glimpse of early Texas life
• AT&T Stadium Tours – Impressive whether or not you’re a football fan [[Insert affiliate link]]
• River Legacy Park – Great for nature walks, biking, or a quiet picnic

Explore nearby lodging—from luxury stays to budget-friendly options—all within easy reach of the site.

🛏️ Where to Stay Nearby

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or making a weekend of it, these options are all within 15–20 minutes.

Luxury

• Live! by Loews – Arlington
  High-end hotel near the stadium with rooftop bar and modern amenities
  [[Insert affiliate link]]

Mid-Priced / Family Friendly

• Hilton Garden Inn Dallas/Arlington
  Modern, clean, and convenient
• Hampton Inn & Suites Arlington
  Great value with free breakfast
  [[Insert affiliate links]]

Budget

Motel 6 Arlington – UTA
Affordable and close to the university

La Quinta Inn & Suites Arlington North
Budget-friendly with reliable comfort

Looking for more options? Browse more hotels and traveler reviews on TripAdvisor

Airbnb Options

Historic Studio near Downtown
Vintage charm with private entrance

Modern Loft with Kitchenette
Ideal for solo travelers or couples

Explore local short-term rentals on Airbnb

Find the best local dining options—whether you’re in the mood for upscale cuisine or a quick, casual bite.

🍽️ Local Eats & Treats

Here are some great options before or after your tour, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a relaxed sit-down meal.

Upscale

• Restaurant506 at The Sanford House
  Refined American cuisine in a serene setting
• Mercury Chophouse Arlington
  Steakhouse with a view—perfect for dinner

Mid-Priced / Family Friendly

• Babe’s Chicken Dinner House
  Local favorite with family-style Southern fare
• Fork in the Road
  Quirky local joint known for burgers and wraps

Budget

• Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
  Quick Tex-Mex with vegetarian options
• Shipley Do-Nuts
  Easy breakfast stop if you have a morning tour

Quick Visitor Reference

• Address: 3001 W Division St, Arlington, TX
• Website: topohillterrace.com
• Phone: (817) 461-8741 ext. 106
• Tours: By appointment only
• Accessibility: Main building accessible; outdoor terrain varies
• Booking: Call or visit website to reserve your tour slot

🧳 Final Thoughts

Visiting Top O’ Hill Terrace isn’t your typical historic house tour—it’s a step into a story that blends charm, controversy, and hidden history. With its roots as a tranquil tea garden turned covert casino, the estate offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Texas’ Prohibition-era past. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone who just loves uncovering secrets, this tucked-away site in Arlington is well worth the visit.

Planning ahead is essential, but the effort pays off in full—especially if you pair the tour with some time exploring the surrounding area. And with nearby lodging and dining options to suit every style and budget, Top O’ Hill makes for a surprisingly memorable detour in the heart of North Texas.