Fort Worth

Fort Worth Travel Guide

Fort Worth, Texas, often referred to as the "City of Cowboys and Culture," offers a unique blend of Old West charm and modern sophistication. Nestled in North Central Texas, it's a city where cattle drives still take place in the historic Stockyards, while just a few miles away, world-class art museums, theaters, and gardens await exploration. With its rich tapestry of music venues, rodeos, and festivals, Fort Worth embodies the authentic heart of the American West while embracing its evolving contemporary spirit.

Table of Contents

1.       Best Time to Visit

2.       Getting to Fort Worth and Getting Around

3.       Top Attractions

4.       Top Activities to do in Fort Worth

5.     Day Trips from Fort Worth

7.       Where to Stay

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fort Worth, Texas, is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Springtime sees the city in full bloom with vibrant wildflowers, especially the iconic Texas bluebonnets.

Fall offers a backdrop of colorful foliage and a lineup of events and festivals.

Additionally, these seasons tend to have fewer tourists compared to the hot summer months, ensuring a more relaxed experience at popular attractions.

Getting to Fort Worth and Getting Around

Getting to Fort Worth:

• Air Travel: The most accessible airport for Fort Worth is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). One of the largest airports in the world, DFW offers numerous domestic and international flights daily.

• Train: Amtrak's Texas Eagle line provides service between Chicago and San Antonio with a stop in Fort Worth. The Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) serves as the main hub for Amtrak as well as local transportation options.

• Car: Fort Worth is easily accessible by car, with major highways like I-20, I-30, I-35W, and US-377 passing through or near the city.

  
  

Getting Around Fort Worth:

• Public Transportation: Fort Worth Transportation Authority (known as "Trinity Metro") operates bus routes throughout the city. The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects Fort Worth to Dallas and stops at several stations in between.

• Bike Sharing: Fort Worth Bike Sharing offers numerous stations around the city where you can rent a bike for short rides, ideal for exploring downtown and nearby areas.

• Car Rentals: Numerous car rental agencies operate out of DFW Airport and various locations throughout Fort Worth, providing flexibility for those wanting to explore at their own pace.

• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Fort Worth, offering convenient transportation options.

• Walk: Downtown Fort Worth is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. The Sundance Square area, in particular, is a popular spot to explore on foot.

• Molly the Trolley: This free downtown trolley service is a charming way to travel between popular spots in the city's central area.

Top Attractions

Fort Worth offers a unique blend of Western heritage with modern attractions. Here are some of the top attractions in Fort Worth:

1. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District: Step back in time in this historic district where you can witness daily cattle drives, visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and experience the world's largest honky-tonk at Billy Bob's Texas.

2. Kimbell Art Museum: This renowned museum features a diverse array of art, from ancient to modern, and is housed in a building designed by the famed architect Louis Kahn.

3. Fort Worth Zoo: One of the top zoos in the country, it's home to more than 7,000 animals from around the world.

4. Fort Worth Botanic Garden: The oldest botanic garden in Texas, it offers 110 acres of lush gardens and scenic landscapes.

5. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth: Designed by Tadao Ando, this museum showcases post-World War II art in various mediums.

6. Sundance Square: This 35-block area in downtown Fort Worth is filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It's a hub for entertainment and events.

7. Amon Carter Museum of American Art: This museum offers an extensive collection of American art, from the first landscape painters of the 1820s to modern artists of the 20th century.

8. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Perfect for families, this museum offers interactive exhibits on science, history, and culture.

9. Fort Worth Water Gardens: A unique and beautiful urban park designed by architect Philip Johnson, it's a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city.

10. Panther Island Pavilion: A scenic venue for outdoor concerts, festivals, and water activities on the Trinity River.

11. Sid Richardson Museum: A museum showcasing the art of the American West, particularly works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

Top Activities to do in Fort Worth

Fort Worth is a lively city with a rich history, ensuring a diverse range of activities for visitors. Here are some of the top activities to indulge in when in Fort Worth:

1. Attend the Rodeo: Experience the authentic cowboy culture by attending a rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum in the Stockyards.

2. Horseback Riding: Explore the Trinity Trails or the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge on horseback for a unique perspective.

3. Watch a Cattle Drive: Witness the world's only twice-daily cattle drive in the Stockyards, a nod to the city's rich cattle-ranching history.

4. Nightlife at Billy Bob's Texas: Enjoy live country music, dancing, and even bull riding at the world's largest honky-tonk.

5. Take a Walking Tour: Join guided walking tours of Sundance Square, the Stockyards, or the Cultural District to learn more about the city's history and architecture.

6. Brewery & Distillery Tours: Explore the local craft beer and spirit scene with tours available at several breweries and distilleries.

7. Kayaking on the Trinity River: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the Trinity River, especially around the Panther Island area.

8. Explore the Arts Scene: Attend a performance at the Bass Performance Hall or the Casa Mañana Theatre.

9. Shopping: From boutiques in Sundance Square to the unique shops in the Stockyards, there's something for every shopper.

10. Dining: Indulge in Texan specialties like barbecued brisket, Tex-Mex, or a hearty steak in one of the city's many renowned restaurants.

11. Outdoor Activities: Hike, bird-watch, or simply enjoy nature at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge.

12. Biking: Rent a bike and explore the city's numerous bike trails, including the expansive Trinity Trails.

13. Golf: Spend a day at one of Fort Worth's scenic golf courses.

14. Participate in Festivals: Depending on when you visit, partake in one of the city's numerous festivals, such as the Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival or the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival.

15. Art Classes: Join workshops or art classes available at various venues like the Kimbell Art Museum.

Day Trips from Fort Worth

Fort Worth is advantageously situated, offering visitors easy access to a range of intriguing destinations suitable for day trips. Here are some notable day trips to consider:

• Dallas: Just a short drive away, Dallas provides a plethora of attractions, including the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and upscale shopping at the Galleria Dallas.

• Granbury: A charming town with a historic square, Granbury offers boutique shopping, the beautiful Lake Granbury, and the Granbury Opera House.

• Glen Rose: Home to Dinosaur Valley State Park where you can see actual dinosaur footprints, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a drive-through safari park.

• Waco: Visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a creation of Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV's "Fixer Upper." Also, explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

• Arlington: Experience thrilling rides at Six Flags Over Texas, splash around at Hurricane Harbor, or catch a game at the AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys.

• Decatur: Renowned for the Wise County Courthouse, a beautiful piece of architecture, and the Petrified Wood Gas Station, a unique historical site.

• Mineral Wells: Explore the famous Baker Hotel and try the healing waters of the "Crazy Water" mineral wells.

• Weatherford: Known as the "Peach Capital of Texas", it's a great place for peach picking in the summer. The town also has a beautiful historic downtown area.

• Ennis: Particularly in spring, drive to Ennis to witness the breathtaking Texas bluebonnets in full bloom.

• Bridgeport: Dive into the clear blue waters of the Bridgeport Blue Lagoon or explore the Northwest OHV Park for off-road fun.

Where to Stay

Fort Worth, Texas, offers a variety of neighborhoods and areas that cater to different tastes, preferences, and budgets. Here are some of the best areas to stay when visiting Fort Worth:

• Downtown Fort Worth: This is the heart of the city with Sundance Square as its focal point. Downtown is ideal for travelers who want to be close to entertainment, dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Many of the city's major hotels are located here.

• Fort Worth Stockyards: A historic area that offers a glimpse into the city's cowboy and cattle heritage. Staying here provides a unique Western experience, and it's a great place if you're interested in live music, rodeos, and cowboy culture.

• Cultural District: Home to many of Fort Worth's museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum, Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. This area offers a mix of cultural experiences and is close to the Will Rogers Memorial Center.

• West 7th: A trendy and vibrant district with a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. This area caters to a younger crowd and is bustling with activity, especially during the evenings.

• Near Southside: Located just south of downtown, this area has undergone significant revitalization and now boasts an eclectic mix of eateries, bars, and boutique shops. It's a more laid-back alternative to the downtown scene.

• TCU Area: Near Texas Christian University, this area is lively, especially during the college session. It offers a mix of affordable accommodations, eateries, and is close to the Fort Worth Zoo.

• North Fort Worth/Alliance: This rapidly growing area is closer to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and offers a range of accommodations from luxury to budget. It's also near the Texas Motor Speedway.

• Forest Hill: Situated between I-20 and I-820, this area offers budget-friendly hotel options and is a short drive away from downtown and other attractions.

• Fossil Creek: Located in North Fort Worth, this area has a mix of mid-range hotels and is conveniently located near I-35W, providing easy access to both downtown Fort Worth and Dallas.