Fort Worth, Texas, is a city brimming with rich history, cowboy culture, and plenty of activities for everyone. From iconic cattle drives to lively entertainment districts, there’s something here to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Western heritage, explore beautiful gardens, or enjoy thrilling nightlife, Fort Worth offers it all. In this blog, we’ll take you through 15 amazing things to do in this vibrant city. Let’s dive into the best spots you can explore!
Fort Worth Stockyards: A Step Back in Time
Address: 131 E Exchange Ave
| Type | Museums, Free, Neighborhood/Area, Tours, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Fort Worth Stockyards have been a symbol of Texas’ Wild West heritage since 1866. They were once the center of cattle drives and a bustling market for livestock. Today, they serve as a living history museum that celebrates cowboy culture and Fort Worth’s past.
What to Expect: Expect daily cattle drives, live cowboy shows, western-themed shops, and museums. Visitors can enjoy authentic Texan experiences and learn about the city’s deep-rooted history.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, the Stockyards are accessible for self-guided tours. Daily cattle drives take place at 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Entry is free, though some attractions may require a fee. Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the area.
The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Wild West. Famous for its twice-daily cattle drives, this historical site offers a living museum experience. You can watch cowboys herd cattle, dine in cowboy-style restaurants, and even explore museums like the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Visitors also enjoy taking guided tours or hopping on a stagecoach ride. This is where Fort Worth’s cowboy legacy truly comes to life!
Sundance Square: Where History Meets Modern Charm
Address: Sundance Square
| Type | Free, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Sundance Square has been an important cultural and commercial hub for Fort Worth since the early 20th century. It’s named after the Sundance Kid and embodies the blend of Western history and modern-day life.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment in this pedestrian-friendly district. The area is home to historic buildings, fountains, art installations, and live performances.
Visitor Information: Sundance Square is open daily, with events happening throughout the year. It’s a vibrant space ideal for families and groups. Plan to explore the area for at least 2 hours.
To experience the historic side of Fort Worth, don’t miss Sundance Square. This 35-block district, named after the infamous Sundance Kid, offers a mix of historic charm and modern-day shopping, dining, and entertainment. From the pedestrian-friendly plaza with fountains to the wide range of bars and restaurants, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a fun night out. Be sure to check out the fountains, which light up at night for a magical experience!
Fort Worth Zoo: A World of Wildlife
Address: 1989 Colonial Parkway
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1909, the Fort Worth Zoo is one of the oldest in the United States. It is recognized for its dedication to conservation and education, housing over 7,000 animals from across the globe.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore diverse habitats, from African savannas to the Australian Outback. Interactive exhibits and educational talks make it fun for all ages. The zoo also offers seasonal events and special exhibits.
Visitor Information: Open every day, the zoo charges an entry fee. It’s best to plan for a 3-4 hour visit to fully explore all the exhibits, especially if you have children.
The Fort Worth Zoo, one of the oldest in the United States, is home to over 7,000 animals. Visitors can explore various exhibits such as the African Savanna, Australian Outback, and the Museum of Living Art. The zoo also features interactive areas for kids, like the Texas Wild! exhibit and a splash park. With shaded pathways and cool water misters, it’s a great way to enjoy wildlife and stay comfortable, especially during hot Texas summers.
Kimbell Art Museum: A Must for Art Lovers
Address: 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd
| Type | Museums, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1972, the Kimbell Art Museum has garnered international acclaim for its impressive collection of European and American art, housed in a building designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn.
What to Expect: Expect to see masterworks by artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso. The museum offers a calm, enriching atmosphere for art lovers, with rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection.
Visitor Information: The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free for general exhibits. Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours enjoying the art. Special exhibitions may have a fee.
For those who appreciate fine art, the Kimbell Art Museum is a treasure trove of masterpieces. This small yet impressive museum showcases works by renowned artists like Monet, Picasso, and Rembrandt. The museum’s modern architecture, designed by Louis Kahn, is also a work of art in itself. With collections spanning from ancient Egyptian art to contemporary pieces, a visit here promises both aesthetic pleasure and educational enrichment.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden: Nature at Its Best
Address: 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1934, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is the oldest public garden in Texas. It boasts over 120 acres of lush gardens, showcasing Texas flora and international plant species.
What to Expect: Wander through the 23 themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Tropical Conservatory. The Botanic Garden offers a serene experience for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of plants and wildlife.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, the garden charges a nominal entry fee for certain areas. It’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 hours here to fully experience its beauty.
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, with its 120 acres of lush greenery, is the oldest public garden in Texas. Visitors can explore 23 unique gardens, including a stunning Japanese garden with koi-filled ponds. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. Whether you’re here for the vibrant rose garden or the tranquil waterfall features, this garden offers a calm retreat from the city buzz.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art: Explore American Heritage
Address: 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd.
| Type | Museums, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1961, the Amon Carter Museum showcases American art from the 19th century to the present. It honors American culture through the lens of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
What to Expect: Expect to see stunning works by artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Andrew Wyeth. The museum’s wide range of collections provides a deep dive into America’s artistic evolution.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Sunday, admission is free. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit to fully appreciate the art collections and temporary exhibits.
If you’re an art enthusiast, don’t miss the Amon Carter Museum, which focuses on American art from the 18th century to the present. It houses iconic pieces from artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Grant Wood, as well as contemporary works. The museum’s collection includes photography, paintings, and sculptures, offering a deep dive into the history of American art. It’s a perfect spot to learn more about the cultural evolution of the United States.
Billy Bob’s Texas: The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk
Address: 2520 Rodeo Plaza
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 1981, Billy Bob’s Texas is known as the world’s largest honky-tonk and has become an iconic venue in Fort Worth’s nightlife scene. It celebrates Texas’ country music and rodeo traditions.
What to Expect: Enjoy live music performances, bull riding, dancing, and plenty of Western-themed fun. The venue hosts both local talent and big-name country stars.
Visitor Information: Billy Bob’s Texas is open seven days a week, with cover charges for certain events. It’s best to spend 2-3 hours enjoying the live music and vibrant atmosphere.
For a truly unique Texas experience, visit Billy Bob’s Texas, which claims to be the world’s largest honky-tonk. With its massive dance floor, live music, and famous bull riding shows, it’s the place to be for nightlife and country music fans. The venue hosts some of the best live performances and also features a wide variety of food and drinks. If you’re looking to have some fun, Billy Bob’s Texas is where the party never stops!
Fort Worth Water Gardens: A Tranquil Oasis in the City
Address: 1502 Commerce St.
| Type | Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Completed in 1974, the Fort Worth Water Gardens are an architectural and engineering marvel. This urban park offers an artistic escape with its innovative water features and tranquil atmosphere.
What to Expect: The gardens feature three pools, including the Active Pool with cascading terraces and the Quiet Pool for peaceful reflection. It’s a great spot for photography and relaxation.
Visitor Information: Open daily, the Water Gardens are free to visit. Spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour here, especially if you enjoy taking photos of the beautiful water features.
The Fort Worth Water Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This five-acre urban oasis features three distinct pools, each offering a unique water experience. The Active Pool, with its cascading terraces, is the most striking, while the Quiet Pool provides a serene, meditative space. The gardens are especially beautiful when lit at night, making it a perfect spot for a quiet evening stroll.
Bass Performance Hall: A Cultural Experience
Address: 525 Commerce St
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Free |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Since its opening in 1998, Bass Performance Hall has been a cultural cornerstone in Fort Worth. Known for its stunning architecture and acoustics, it hosts a wide array of performances, from theater to ballet.
What to Expect: Expect to enjoy Broadway shows, concerts, and performances by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. The venue’s beautiful design, including towering angels, makes it a stunning place to enjoy live performances.
Visitor Information: Check the performance schedule online, as the venue hosts various events year-round. Plan for 2-3 hours depending on the event you choose to attend.
For a taste of Fort Worth’s cultural scene, head to the Bass Performance Hall. This stunning venue hosts a wide range of events, from Broadway shows and concerts to stand-up comedy performances. Its impressive architecture, with towering limestone angels and a vast interior dome, adds to the awe of attending any performance here. Whether you’re into theater, music, or just great acoustics, this venue is a must-visit for anyone looking for cultural enrichment.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Learn Through Fun
Address: 1600 Gendy St.
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Founded in 1945, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History educates and entertains visitors of all ages. It’s one of the largest of its kind in Texas, with exhibits ranging from paleontology to space exploration.
What to Expect: Explore interactive exhibits like the DinoLabs, Omni Theater, and the Energy Blast gallery. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on exhibits and educational experiences.
Visitor Information: Open daily, the museum charges an entry fee. Expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and attending live demonstrations.
For families and science enthusiasts, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is a fantastic destination. With exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to space exploration, this museum is both fun and educational. The Omni Theater offers immersive, large-screen experiences, while the DinoLabs and Dinosaur Science Lab are favorites among kids. It’s a place where learning meets excitement, and every visit promises new discoveries.
Grapevine Vintage Railroad: A Historic Ride
Address: 707 S Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051,
| Type | Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers a glimpse into Texas’ rich railway history. Established in 1987, it connects Fort Worth and Grapevine, offering themed train rides through scenic North Texas landscapes.
What to Expect: Visitors can experience a nostalgic ride aboard vintage cars, complete with costumed conductors. The railroad also offers themed excursions, such as the North Pole Express during the holiday season.
Visitor Information: The train runs on weekends and select weekdays. Plan for a 1-2 hour round-trip ride. Tickets must be booked in advance for special events like holiday rides.
For a unique experience in Fort Worth, hop on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. This train ride offers a nostalgic trip through Texas’ scenic landscapes, with options for themed excursions like the North Pole Express during the holiday season. It’s a fun way to see the area, especially for families with kids or anyone interested in historic trains. It’s not just a ride, but a step back in time to a more leisurely pace.
Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame: Celebrating Rodeo Legends
Address: 1720 Gendy St.
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, established in 1997, honors the individuals who have shaped the state’s cowboy and rodeo culture. It showcases Western heritage and the tradition of Texas ranching.
What to Expect: Expect to see exhibits showcasing cowboy gear, rodeo memorabilia, and the stories of Western legends. The Hall of Fame honors both historical figures and modern-day rodeo champions.
Visitor Information: The museum is open Monday through Saturday. Admission is affordable, and a visit will take 1-2 hours. It’s a great stop for fans of Western history.
If you’re fascinated by rodeo culture, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame is the place to be. This museum honors the men and women who have shaped Texas’ cowboy and rodeo legacy. From historic artifacts to modern-day rodeo champions, it offers an in-depth look into the state’s cowboy history. Whether you’re a rodeo fan or simply interested in Western culture, this museum provides an exciting and informative experience.
Cowtown Cattlepen Maze: Fun for the Whole Family
Address: 145 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164,
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Located in the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze takes inspiration from the historic cattle pens of the Wild West. It’s a fun way to explore the area while learning about Fort Worth’s cattle-driven past.
What to Expect: Enjoy a family-friendly challenge as you navigate through the maze, which features winding paths and dead-ends. Afterward, explore nearby attractions in the Stockyards.
Visitor Information: The maze is open daily. Plan for about 30 minutes to an hour to complete the maze, and don’t forget to explore the surrounding Stockyards afterward.
The Cowtown Cattlepen Maze offers a fun, family-friendly challenge in the heart of the Stockyards. This maze, designed to resemble an old-fashioned cattle pen, is great for all ages. It’s a fun way to test your sense of direction while learning about the area’s history. After tackling the maze, families can enjoy nearby attractions, making this an ideal stop for a day of adventure and exploration in Fort Worth.
Sundance Square Plaza: The Heart of Fort Worth
Address: 420 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102,
| Type | Entertainment, relax, shopping, Free |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Sundance Square Plaza is at the heart of Fort Worth’s downtown district. Named after the Sundance Kid, it is a symbol of the city’s historical ties to the Old West, while also serving as a modern hub for business and entertainment.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect fountains, art installations, and live events in this pedestrian-friendly plaza. The area hosts outdoor concerts, food trucks, and performances throughout the year.
Visitor Information: Open every day, the plaza is free to visit. You can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment at your leisure, but allow 1-2 hours to fully explore the area.
Sundance Square Plaza is a great spot to relax, shop, or catch a live performance. This vibrant area, with its fountains, colorful lights, and beautiful red-brick architecture, is the heart of Fort Worth. Whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or enjoying a performance on the plaza, it’s a lively and inviting place to soak in the city’s charm.
Fort Worth’s Historic Trinity Railway Express: A Scenic Ride
Address: Fort Worth, Texas.
| Type | Neighborhood/Area, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Texas Civil War Museum, founded in 2006, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Civil War and its impact on Texas. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, documents, and displays related to the war.
What to Expect: Explore exhibits on military uniforms, weapons, and daily life during the Civil War. Interactive displays and educational talks offer insight into the historical significance of the conflict.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Saturday, with a small entry fee. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
Hop on the Trinity Railway Express for a scenic and relaxing ride through Fort Worth’s beautiful surroundings. The train ride offers picturesque views of the city and the countryside, making it a great way to travel between Fort Worth and Dallas. Whether you’re commuting or just enjoying a leisurely ride, the Trinity Railway Express provides an easy and scenic journey through North Texas. It’s a fantastic way to experience Fort Worth from a new perspective.
