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15 Fun Things to Do in Fort Worth

Published May 01, 2023

15 fun things to do the next time you’re in Fort Worth, Texas.

 
night life
1. Downtown Fort Worth Nightlife
No matter the day of the week, there’s never any lack of fun when you’re out on the town at night in Fort Worth. But compared to most other major metropolises, a more laidback vibe pulses through the bars, music venues and restaurants. With its saloons and rodeo-influenced nightclubs, Fort Worth feels familiar for the cowboy-at-heart — as though you’re coming home after a long day on the range.
the stockyards
2. The Fort Worth Stockyards
They’re the reason why Fort Worth is dubbed “Cowtown”: the Stockyards drove millions of head of cattle in the 1800s. To this day, the Stockyards, in the Stockyards National Historic District, remain the city’s main tourist attraction, drawing crowds to its western-themed stores, cattle drives, stagecoaches, museums and rodeos.
botanic gardens
3. Fort Worth Botanic Gardens
In the heart of Fort Worth lies the Botanic Gardens, a place to spend an afternoon wandering, exploring, strolling and frolicking through stunning landscapes. Bring the whole family to see the drama of the waterfalls, more plant species than you ever knew existed, and the fascinating art galleries and libraries.
sundance square
4. Sundance Square
A place to shop, dine and lounge, Sundance Square feels as Western as anything. Here is where you can grab authentic cowboy apparel, stroll through the Fort Worth Water Gardens and so much more. Round up the kids and enjoy this perfect destination for a relaxing Saturday afternoon.
bass performance hall
5. Bass Performance Hall
The not-for-profit performing arts center Bass Performance Hall boasts the honor of being one of the top opera houses worldwide, among other accolades. Whatever your tune, be it classical, rock or something in between, you can expect world-class performances during your trip to Bass.
biking trails
6. Biking Trails
Trinity Trails, the main artery in the body of biking trails that forms the greater Fort Worth area, actually connects the city to a plethora of others. One will take you straight into Dallas, while others will have you journeying alongside interstates. If you’re an adventurer, the trails are definitely a can’t miss opportunity.
log cabin village
7. Log Cabin Village
Dedicated to preserving the history of Fort Worth, the Log Cabin Village emphasizes the study of Texas’ Old West pioneer era. Along with log houses, exhibits include guided tours of blacksmith shops, a gritsmill and a schoolhouse, complete with a gift shop filled with pioneer craftwork to commemorate your experience.
trinity park
8. Trinity Park
Straddling the Trinity River, Trinity Park makes the perfect stop for those seeking outdoor respite in the midst of city life. Biking, walking and hiking trails, playgrounds, a miniature train and even a duck pond will keep all ages entertained.
arlington
9. Arlington
Wildlife-rich forests and exhibits such as aquariums and terrariums drive numerous tourists each year to nearby Arlington — a short drive from Fort Worth. But the most popular reason by far? The Arlington planetarium, located in the University of Texas at Arlington.
live music
10. Live Music
Whether it’s a rockabilly bar, a honky tonk restaurant or a grand opera house, the Fort Worth music scene is always buzzing. Get your fix by visiting a jazz lounge on Houston Street, a dance hall on Magnolia Avenue or one of the many local and independently-run music venues skirting Sundance Square.
texas motor speedway
11. Texas Motor Speedway
For those with a need for speed, the Texas Motor Speedway knocks it out of the park — very, very fast. Host of an IndyCar Series round, Nascar races and other events, the Speedway is also a destination for nature and habitat lovers (the surrounding grounds contain relaxing outdoor activity spots) or those looking to unwind after race day.
fort worth modern art museum
12. Fort Worth Modern Art Museum
Built in 1892, the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum is a sight for contemporary and modern art fans. While the works of art are something to behold, the architecture alone is worth the trip. (Three unique pavilions overlooking a reflecting pond is a spectacle you won’t find anywhere else!)
national cowgirl museum
13. National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
Honoring historical women, female icons of the American West, the National Cowgirl Museum in Fort Worth’s Cultural District offers interactive exhibits and educational memorabilia. Whether you’re on a date with the girls or traveling solo, make sure to stop by this gem of Fort Worth for a dose of inspiration that won’t leave you anytime soon.
cafe inside living spaces
14. The Cafe Inside Living Spaces
Whether you’re visiting or just moved to the area, a trip to northern Fort Worth may just have you stumbling upon Living Spaces Fort Worth. If you call “Cowtown” your home, the 800,000-square-foot store is the perfect place to bring home unique finds and decor, but it’s the Living Spaces Cafe that truly makes it the ideal pit stop for adventuring. Refuel on the go with the snack or meal you crave in between your adventures — and take some time to soak in a little relaxation and shopping before you hit the road again.
kids spaces
15. Kids’ Spaces
A multi-level play structure is truly what being a kid is all about, and that’s exactly what you get at Kids’ Spaces. An adult-supervised paradise for younger travel companions, Kids’ Spaces is the most fun way for children younger and older to blow off steam and find their groove.

More Family-Friendly Things to Do in Fort Worth:

The outdoors enthusiast will enjoy the Fort Worth Nature Center, a reserve of prairies and woodlands great for hiking and biking. For music aficionados, Panther Island, an outdoor concert venue with a scenic backdrop of downtown Fort Worth beyond the Trinity River, is a must-see.

For a more cultural angle of the DFW area, try a day trip sightseeing some famous works of art and artifacts. The Sid Richardson Museum, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, the Fort Worth Aviation Museum, Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Cattle Raisers Museum and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame are some of the most beloved history museums and galleries in north Texas and a must-see for art and history buffs.

And if you’re traveling with little ones, you can’t miss the Fort Worth Zoo, a world-famous destination. Young eyes experiencing the zoo for the first time will love taking in the sights and sounds of wildlife up close.

On the menu in Fort Worth? Burgers. As a cattle town, the city knows how to grill, fry and broil to perfection. Take a walk down Main Street or any downtown avenue for a wealth of options for lunchtime or dinner grub.

Looking for more? Other things to check out during your stay in Fort Worth include the Cowtown Coliseum, Fort Worth Cultural District, the koi fish at the Japanese Gardens, the Fort Worth Rose Gardens, bull riding at a local bar downtown, kayaking along the river and the Fort Worth Water Gardens and water parks, and the Fort Worth Children's Museum.

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