Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth exemplifies the essence of cowboy culture; once home to cattlemen, outlaws, and cowboys themselves, it has preserved its character within a more urban setting. This is evident in its remarkable institutions such as the Kimbell Art Museum and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Furthermore, let us not overlook the original essence of this cherished city; partake in the Fort Worth Herd, the world’s only daily cattle drive occurring twice a day, enjoy a rodeo, or dance the night away at one of Billy Bob’s honky-tonk performances. Preparing to partner up? Let’s explore the best activities to experience in Fort Worth.

1. Kimbell Art Museum

This art museum is distinctive in that its natural lighting showcases its collections to optimal advantage. Moreover, humidity levels are meticulously controlled to preserve the artwork in prime condition. The museum features a curated selection of exceptional works, educational initiatives, traveling exhibitions, and a comprehensive research library.

What is endearing about this institution is its intimate scale, making it accessible to individuals who may be new to art appreciation. With only a select few notable pieces on display, it serves as a wonderful introduction to art for children. Additionally, there is a splendid shop offering a variety of items including publications, prints, gifts, jewelry, and more.

2. Fort Worth Zoo

For various considerations, Fort Worth Zoo has been prioritized over its neighboring Dallas counterpart. Esteemed publications such as the LA Times, Family Life magazine, and USA Today have recognized Fort Worth Zoo as one of the top zoos. This institution has shown remarkable growth since its inception in 1909, when it began with merely a lion, an alligator, two bear cubs, a peacock, a coyote, and a few rabbits, evolving into a sanctuary for 5,000 native and exotic animals.

Part of its appeal lies in its intimate layout and user-friendly navigation, complemented by its commitment to educating children on animal care and conservation. A visit with your children is sure to be a memorable experience!

3. Amon Carter Museum of American Art

This museum houses an extraordinary collection of 19th and early 20th-century American art that should not be overlooked! Included are significant works from artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, John Singer Sargent, Alexander Calder, and Thomas Cole, alongside an impressive array of photographic works.

The museum’s highlight comprises its 150,000 items that center on American history, art, and culture. For families with an interest in American western art, this venue is a true haven! Admission is complimentary, and it features a delightful restaurant offering a captivating menu with enticing desserts.

4. Fort Worth Stockyards

The family will genuinely feel the charm of cowboy country upon visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards. Observing the drovers rounding up cattle along the Chisholm Trail will provide a glimpse into the late 1800s, when over four million cattle passed through the city. The advent of the railroad led to the establishment of the Union Stockyards, transforming the city into a crucial livestock shipping hub.

There is a multitude of attractions to experience here, allowing you to immerse yourself in the old “wild west” atmosphere, from interacting with cowboys to exploring numerous authentic shops. Although the structures have been renovated, they have retained the appearance of traditional saloons and bars.

5. Bureau of Engraving and Printing

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s Western Currency facility is one of only two in the United States responsible for printing currency (the other is located in Washington, D.C.). Visitors can partake in a complimentary 45-minute guided tour—available on weekdays—observing the money-printing process while gaining insights into the history of American currency and the various design stories.

Demonstration exhibits will particularly engage younger visitors. Notable artifacts include a vintage spider press and an engraver’s bench. While security is exceptionally stringent, the staff members are friendly and eager to address any inquiries.

6. Sundance Square

Ensure you visit Sundance Square while in Fort Worth. This lively district is filled with a variety of museums, art galleries, cinema venues, and an outstanding selection of options for shopping and dining. It caters to family entertainment, although nightlife activities and improv comedy venues may appeal more to adults.

Be attentive to the numerous special events and festivals for all ages, or simply enjoy people-watching from a café or one of the quaint ice cream shops situated on the red brick streets and in picturesque courtyards. On warm days, children can cool off in the nearby water gardens!

7. Hidden Valley Miniature Golf

This miniature golf course offers much more than just a delightful family-friendly golfing experience; it also features a video game room equipped with an air hockey table and a baseball pitching area, along with a designated picnic and grilling area. Its superior reviews highlight the cleanliness, amiable staff, and reasonable pricing, making this venue an excellent choice for a family outing. Completing the course takes approximately 30 minutes, even with children. The environment encourages relaxed, nostalgic fun!

8. Trinity Park

Trinity Park encompasses 252 acres along the banks of the Trinity River. It is a favorite among locals and tourists, providing a lovely venue for family enjoyment, featuring a duck pond, several playgrounds for children, a miniature train, and is acclaimed for having some of the best biking and hiking trails in the area. Fishing enthusiasts will be pleased to discover that fish are periodically released into the river.

With basketball courts, ample walking paths, bike rental options, picnic pavilions, water fountains, and plenty of clean restroom facilities, visitors of all ages can enjoy a rewarding experience in this splendid park.

9. The Secret Chambers Escape Challenge

For fans of James Rockford in the family, consider engaging in the uncovering of clues, solving puzzles, cracking codes, and discovering escape routes at the Secret Chambers Escape Challenge. Participants will have just 60 minutes to navigate the challenges and successfully escape!

This offers an enjoyable collective experience for families, fostering unity as everyone attempts to solve the riddles together. Assistance is readily available should you encounter difficulties. The puzzle room is noted for its inviting atmosphere and enjoyable experience!

10. Log Cabin Village

The creation of a replica log cabin village was a brilliant initiative by the Pioneer Heritage Committee and members of the Tarrant County Historical Society, who recognized that the unique log structures prevalent in the 1800s were vanishing from the Texas landscape, consequently erasing an integral part of Texas history. A replica village dedicated to log cabin heritage was established, featuring six log houses that offer visitors insight into the past.

The site houses authentic artifacts that provide a deep understanding of 19th-century pioneer life, including a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, a water-powered gristmill, and an herb garden. Visitors will also have the opportunity to interact with artisans dressed in period costumes. It serves as a remarkable educational experience for the entire family.

11. Texas Motor Speedway

A thrilling experience awaits at the Texas Motor Speedway, host to two NASCAR Spring Cup races: the AAA Texas 500 and the Duck Commander 500. Additionally, it holds events such as the WinStar World Casino & Resort 400 (scheduled simultaneously with the Indycar Firestone 600) and the WinStar World Casino & Resort 350. As a special highlight, consider attending one of the exciting race days, where affordable four-seat family packages are available.

The track spans 1.5 miles in an oval design, banked at 24 degrees in the turns for heightened excitement. Those who choose to take a tour will have the unique chance to complete a couple of laps, experiencing the thrill of those amazing turns! This makes for a truly exhilarating outing for the entire family!

12. Texas Civil War Museum

This museum serves as a captivating resource for learning about the Civil War. It is, in fact, the largest Civil War museum west of the Mississippi River, with galleries filled with fascinating artifacts and exhibitions on loan from the Texas Division of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Visitors may explore three distinct galleries that showcase numerous items related to the conflict, including an extraordinary collection of Victorian dresses, uniforms, rifles, flags, cannon artillery, and much more.

Furthermore, the museum features a 75-seat theater showcasing the commissioned film, “Our Homes Our Rights – Texas in the Civil War.” This provides a substantial learning opportunity for all members of the family.

13. Amon G. Carter Stadium

Amon G. Carter Stadium is an open-air football venue located on the campus of Texas Christian University, serving as the home ground for the TCU Horned Frogs football team. This sports venue is popular not only due to its affiliation with local teams but also for its amiable atmosphere, reasonably priced tickets, and concessions.

For families visiting, it’s worth noting that numerous activities for children are available, including a bounce house, live music, and various complimentary giveaways. If timings permit, arriving a bit early will allow you to appreciate the beautiful communal area and the charming bronze fountain.

14. Cross-Eyed Moose Antique

This antique store is a treasure trove of unique and captivating items, well worth dedicating an hour or more of your time! The shop features a wide variety of western, lodge, and rustic furnishings, along with often elusive western collectibles. Overflowing with interesting finds, the store also offers archival picture framing and represents contemporary western artists from Texas, making it a true gem in its own right!

15. Fort Worth Nature Center

The Nature Center is a distinctive feature of the city, comprising a sprawling 3,000-acre preserve with 25 miles of hiking trails that navigate through forests, prairies, and marshlands, and, with a bit of luck, you may spot buffalo, alligators, deer, and a myriad of vibrant bird species.

Visitors can progress at their own pace, whether seeking a relaxed nature walk or a more vigorous hike—there are abundant options for everyone. An interpretive center with restrooms is also available, alongside a stunning view of the lake on the Canyon Ridge trail for those considering that pathway.

16. National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

This engaging museum was established to honor the women of the American West who demonstrated exceptional pioneering courage amid the formidable challenges of the state’s development. Notable figures such as Annie Oakley, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Patsy Cline are commemorated here. The museum offers 33,000 square feet dedicated to rare photographs, interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts, a traveling exhibition gallery, and theatrical presentations.

The grand rotunda within this multi-story space is a sight to behold! Additionally, there is a well-stocked gift shop featuring authentic souvenirs. Children will also delight in the opportunity to ride the electric bucking horse!

17. Museum of Science & History

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, which opened in 1945, emphasizes educational opportunities for children through engaging projects and exhibits. For instance, there is a fantastic science section where children can explore concepts such as the mechanics of a pinwheel, the buoyancy of a beach ball, and the principles of shadows, light, and reflections.

Additionally, the museum features a well-equipped Lego and art room. For the youngest guests, there is an area dedicated to playing dress-up as dolls, doctors, and firefighters, which includes an ambulance with a siren! Meanwhile, older children can enjoy a planetarium with a wealth of space-related information, while a fun dinosaur slide keeps everyone entertained!

18. POP-N-CREAM

For a delightful treat for the whole family, visit Pop-N-Cream, a highly regarded ice cream and gourmet popcorn shop that boasts over 300 flavors of confectionery, 75 gourmet popcorn varieties, and an impressive assortment of unique ice cream options.

To enhance your experience, your children will enjoy sampling one of the store’s enticing ice cream sundaes while seated in a truck-themed booth. The shop exudes an inviting, vintage atmosphere, with amiable staff assisting you in selecting your favorite candies, such as gummy bears, jelly beans, and other sweet delights!

19. Vintage Flying Museum

For aviation enthusiasts visiting Fort Worth, be sure to allocate time to explore this museum! Although compact, its restored aircraft are certainly worth the visit. Highlights include distinctive flying machines such as the Piasecki CH-21B Workhorse, Douglas A-26B Invader, Stinson Reliant Model 77, and Boeing PT-17 Kaydet, among others. The museum is committed to keeping its collection of historical aircraft in operational condition, with dedicated volunteers conducting regular maintenance checks.

In addition to the aircraft displays, the museum features numerous military artifacts, including posters, photographs, aircraft models, and flight gear, mostly from the WWII era. Enthusiastic volunteer docents are always available to guide visitors and share intriguing stories about the exhibits.

20. Botanic Garden

Dedicate an afternoon with your family to exploring this beautiful botanic garden, showcasing a diverse array of wooded areas, a 10,000-square-foot conservatory featuring a stunning tropical display of orchids, bromeliads, and trees, alongside a seven-acre Japanese Garden with three koi ponds, waterfalls, bridges, a teahouse, pagodas, a Zen garden, cherry trees, and Japanese maples, as well as the Oval Rose Garden boasting hundreds of roses and Rock Springs, which includes ponds, a small waterfall, and herb collections, among other features.

This garden is a truly remarkable space for families to enjoy a leisurely stroll or simply savor the tranquil surroundings. Guests may opt to have a picnic or dine at the well-appointed garden restaurant.

21. Stockyards Rodeo

Experiencing a rodeo is nearly a requirement when visiting Texas, and attending the Stockyards Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum is likely to fulfill that expectation! This 3,418-seat multipurpose arena hosts local sports events and concerts while also featuring weekly rodeo performances. In fact, it was the first indoor arena for rodeos in North America.

A must-see for all family members, you will be enthralled by the continuous action and excitement, from witnessing bull riding and bronco riding, all amplified on large screens with enthusiastic announcers contributing to the thrill. Visitors also have the opportunity to converse with ranchers and learn about the realities of being a genuine cowboy!

22. Coyote Drive-In

While less common now than in earlier years, the Coyote Drive-In remains a favored venue among its patrons, offering outdoor double features along with a large concession area serving snacks and local brews, in addition to a playground for children. It indeed provides a fun-filled weekend experience for families and movie enthusiasts alike.

The play area is particularly beneficial, giving children a place to expend energy before and during intermissions between films. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, but there is also a wide selection of food available for purchase on-site.

23. Forest Park Miniature Railroad

Consider treating your family to a ride on the Forest Park Miniature Railroad, which provides a five-mile round trip train ride around the TCU/Zoo area and Fort Worth’s Trinity Park. Established in 1959, the train ride takes approximately 40 minutes from the Forest Park Depot to the scenic Duck Pond in Trinity Park and back, making one stop at Trinity Park’s Depot where passengers can board or disembark at their leisure.

This interesting train journey crosses six bridges, including a 350-foot girder bridge and a 175-foot truss bridge, both spanning the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. An essential experience for railway enthusiasts!

24. Ol’ South Pancake House

It is widely acknowledged that breakfast is the most significant meal of the day, and a visit to Ol’ South Pancake House will affirm that notion! Operating since 1962, this family-oriented restaurant has been consistently serving delicious pancakes in diverse varieties, including their beloved “Dutch babies”, which are small, sweet pancakes topped with lemon, butter, and powdered sugar, among other delectable options.

For those who may not favor pancakes, there are plenty of alternative food choices available. The restaurant’s popularity is evident through its bustling, friendly staff!