15 Things to do in Fort Worth, Texas

You will be surprised by the huge number of tourist attractions you will find in Fort Worth. Known as Cowtown for its centuries-old history in industry and livestock farming, it is often overshadowed by nearby Dallas. However, there is a rich cultural history, historical cowboy museums, and many shopping places here. Visit the oasis-like Water Garden, some of the art museums, Bass Performance Hall, or Sundance Square. You are sure to find fun for every taste.

The city is also proverbial as one of the first cities in the United States to establish non-discrimination laws. Here is a list of the 15 most exciting places to visit in Fort Worth.

1. Fort Worth Stockyards

One of the must-see attractions in Fort Worth is the Fort Worth Stockyards, which offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and Western heritage. This historic district was once a major center for the cattle industry and is now home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options that cater to both locals and tourists. From the daily cattle drives and rodeos to the western-themed shopping and dining experiences, the Fort Worth Stockyards are a unique destination that should not be missed. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do in Fort Worth, with a focus on the Stockyards and the Western culture that makes this city so special.

2. Fort Worth Water Gardens

Another popular attraction in Fort Worth is the Water Gardens, a stunning urban oasis located in the heart of downtown. Designed by architect Philip Johnson, the Water Gardens feature a series of pools, fountains, and cascading waterfalls that create a tranquil and serene atmosphere in the midst of the bustling city. Visitors can walk through the gardens and relax on the steps of the main pool, which offers stunning views of the downtown skyline. The Water Gardens are a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon escape, and they are free and open to the public year-round. In addition to the Stockyards and the Water Gardens, Fort Worth offers a wealth of other attractions, from world-class museums to vibrant nightlife and live music scenes. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Fort Worth has something for everyone.

3. Amon Carter Museum of American Art

For art enthusiasts, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art is a must-visit destination in Fort Worth. The museum’s impressive collection features works by some of the most renowned American artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Frederic Remington, and Charles M. Russell. The museum is housed in a striking building designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson and is located in the city’s cultural district, alongside other popular attractions such as the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. Admission to the Amon Carter Museum is free, making it an accessible and affordable way to experience some of the best American art in the world. Visitors can also take part in guided tours, attend lectures and workshops, and browse the museum’s gift shop and café. With its exceptional collection and stunning architecture, the Amon Carter Museum is a true gem in the heart of Fort Worth.

4. Sundance Square

Another popular spot in Fort Worth is the Sundance Square, a lively entertainment district located in downtown. Sundance Square is a hub of activity, featuring an array of restaurants, bars, shops, theaters, and live music venues. The square also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art festivals, and holiday celebrations. Visitors can take a stroll around the square, dine al fresco on one of the many patios, or catch a movie at the iconic AMC Palace 9 Theater. Sundance Square is also home to the Fort Worth Convention Center and the Bass Performance Hall, a world-renowned venue for Broadway shows and other live performances. With its vibrant energy and endless entertainment options, Sundance Square is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Fort Worth.

5. Bass Performance Hall

The Bass Performance Hall is a true architectural and cultural masterpiece in the heart of Fort Worth’s cultural district. The hall, which opened in 1998, was designed by acclaimed architect David M. Schwarz and features stunning neo-classical architecture with modern amenities. The hall is home to several resident performing arts organizations, including the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and Texas Ballet Theater, and also hosts touring productions of Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances.

Inside the hall, visitors will be awed by the intricate details and beautiful acoustics. The grand lobby boasts a majestic staircase, beautiful chandeliers, and intricate marble work. The main stage features a state-of-the-art sound system and a beautiful 80-foot-tall proscenium arch that provides the perfect backdrop for any performance.

In addition to its impressive architecture and exceptional performances, the Bass Performance Hall also offers a variety of educational and community programs. These programs include backstage tours, masterclasses, and workshops, making the hall a hub of creativity and learning for all ages.

Whether you’re a lover of the performing arts or just appreciate exceptional architecture, the Bass Performance Hall is a must-visit destination in Fort Worth.

6. Log Cabin Village

Log Cabin Village is a historic site located in Fort Worth, Texas that features a collection of historic log cabins and structures that date back to the mid-19th century. The village was created in the 1950s as a way to preserve and showcase the pioneer heritage of the region.

The village includes several authentic log cabins, as well as other historic structures such as a blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, a smokehouse, and a water-powered gristmill. Visitors can explore the village on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the area.

Throughout the year, Log Cabin Village also hosts a variety of educational programs and events that offer hands-on activities and demonstrations of pioneer skills and crafts, such as spinning, weaving, candle-making, and woodworking. The village is a popular destination for school field trips and family outings, as well as for history buffs and anyone interested in experiencing life on the Texas frontier.

7. Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is a world-renowned zoo located in Fort Worth, Texas. It was founded in 1909 and has grown to become one of the top-ranked zoos in the United States.

The zoo is home to more than 7,000 animals representing over 500 species, including many endangered and threatened species. Some of the most popular exhibits at the Fort Worth Zoo include the African Savannah, which features elephants, giraffes, and zebras, and the World of Primates, which showcases a variety of monkey and ape species.

Other notable exhibits at the zoo include the Museum of Living Art (MOLA), which houses a collection of exotic reptiles, amphibians, and fish, and the Texas Wild! exhibit, which highlights the unique wildlife and habitats of the Lone Star State.

The Fort Worth Zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, which include breeding programs for endangered species and research into wildlife conservation and management. The zoo offers a range of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, as well as opportunities for behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.

8. Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell Art Museum is a world-renowned art museum located in Fort Worth, Texas. It was founded in 1966 by wealthy philanthropist Kay Kimbell, and has since grown to become one of the most important cultural institutions in the state.

The museum’s collection features over 3500 works of art, ranging from ancient to modern times, and includes masterpieces by some of the world’s greatest artists, such as Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet. The Kimbell is particularly well-known for its collection of European art, including Renaissance and Baroque paintings, as well as its extensive holdings of Asian and African art.

The museum is housed in a distinctive building designed by world-renowned architect Louis Kahn, which is widely considered to be one of the most important works of architecture of the 20th century. The building features a series of vaulted galleries illuminated by natural light, creating a serene and contemplative environment for visitors to enjoy the art.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Kimbell Art Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by contemporary artists as well as historical and cultural themes. The museum offers a range of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.

9. The Sid Richardson Museum

The Sid Richardson Museum is a small museum located in downtown Fort Worth, Texas that features a collection of western art. The museum was established in 1982 and is named after Sid W. Richardson, a prominent Texas oilman and philanthropist.

The museum’s collection includes paintings and sculptures by some of the most celebrated artists of the American West, including Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. The artworks depict the landscapes, people, and events of the American West, and provide a fascinating window into the history and culture of the region.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Sid Richardson Museum hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various themes related to western art and culture. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.

The museum is housed in a historic building that was originally built in 1885 as a mercantile store. The building has been beautifully restored and renovated, and provides a fitting backdrop for the museum’s collection of western art. Admission to the museum is free, making it an accessible and affordable cultural attraction in downtown Fort Worth.

10. Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a 110-acre botanical garden located in Fort Worth, Texas. It was established in 1934 and is one of the oldest and largest botanic gardens in the state.

The garden features a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers from around the world, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, a tropical conservatory, and a collection of native Texas plants. The garden is also home to several specialty gardens, including a fragrance garden, a water conservation garden, and a four-seasons garden.

One of the highlights of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is the Conservatory and the adjacent Begonia Species Bank. The conservatory features a collection of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, as well as exotic birds and butterflies. The Begonia Species Bank is the largest public collection of begonia plants in the world, with over 1,700 species and hybrids.

The garden also includes several ponds and water features, as well as sculptures and art installations throughout the grounds. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden hosts a range of educational programs and events throughout the year, including plant sales, gardening workshops, and guided tours. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who are interested in horticulture, botany, or just want to spend a relaxing day in a beautiful natural setting.

11. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is a world-renowned museum located in Fort Worth, Texas. It was founded in 1892 and is one of the oldest museums of modern and contemporary art in the United States.

The museum’s collection features over 3,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and videos, by some of the most important artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Cindy Sherman. The collection is particularly strong in contemporary art, with works by artists such as Kara Walker, Mark Bradford, and Julie Mehretu.

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is housed in a striking building designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. The building features a series of geometric forms and sleek lines, creating a dynamic and contemporary space that complements the art on display.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by emerging and established artists from around the world. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is considered one of the top cultural destinations in Texas and the United States, and attracts visitors from around the world who are interested in modern and contemporary art.

12. The Vintage Flying Museum

The Vintage Flying Museum is an aviation museum located in Fort Worth, Texas, that specializes in vintage aircraft. It was founded in 1990 by a group of aviation enthusiasts who wanted to preserve and share the history of aviation with the public.

The museum’s collection features a range of vintage aircraft, including biplanes, World War II-era fighters and bombers, and other historic planes. Visitors can see these aircraft up close and learn about their history and significance from knowledgeable guides and volunteers.

In addition to the aircraft collection, the Vintage Flying Museum also features a range of exhibits and displays related to the history of aviation, including artifacts, photographs, and models. The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including airshows, fly-ins, and other aviation-themed activities.

One of the unique features of the Vintage Flying Museum is its active flight program. The museum’s aircraft are not just static displays – they are also flown regularly, giving visitors the opportunity to see and hear these historic planes in action. The museum also offers flight experiences and rides for visitors who want to experience the thrill of flying in a vintage aircraft themselves.

The Vintage Flying Museum is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs who want to learn more about the history of flight and see some of the most iconic aircraft of the 20th century up close.

13. National Cowgirl Museum and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to honoring and celebrating the women of the American West who have made significant contributions to the arts, culture, history, and society. It is located in Fort Worth, Texas, and was established in 1975.

The museum’s collection includes artifacts, photographs, artwork, and other memorabilia related to the lives and accomplishments of women in the American West. The centerpiece of the museum is the Hall of Fame, which honors over 200 women who have made significant contributions to the Western way of life, including cowgirls, ranchers, artists, writers, and performers.

In addition to its permanent collection, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame hosts a variety of temporary exhibits and special events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and concerts. The museum also offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, field trips, and summer camps.

One of the highlights of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the life of a cowgirl, including riding a mechanical bull and roping a steer. The museum also features a gift shop that offers a range of Western-themed souvenirs and merchandise.

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is an important cultural institution that celebrates the contributions of women to the history and culture of the American West. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike who are interested in Western history, women’s history, and the cowgirl way of life.

14. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is a museum located in Fort Worth, Texas, that is dedicated to inspiring curiosity and learning about science, technology, history, and culture. The museum was founded in 1945 and has since grown into one of the largest and most comprehensive science and history museums in the Southwest United States.

The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from space exploration to Texas history to dinosaurs and fossils. One of the highlights of the museum is the Noble Planetarium, which offers a range of shows and programs on astronomy and space science. The museum also features a state-of-the-art IMAX theater, which shows a variety of educational and entertaining films on a giant screen.

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year, featuring a range of topics and themes. The museum offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and workshops.

Another unique feature of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is its partnership with the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which is located nearby. The two museums share a campus and offer joint admission, allowing visitors to experience a range of exhibits and activities related to science, history, and Western culture.

15. Cowtown Cycle Party

The Cowtown Cycle Party is a unique and fun way to experience Fort Worth, Texas, while getting some exercise and socializing with friends. It is essentially a mobile bar on wheels, with seating for up to 16 people, who pedal the bike while a driver steers and provides commentary on the sights and landmarks along the route.

The Cowtown Cycle Party offers a variety of tours, including brewery tours, pub crawls, and sightseeing tours of downtown Fort Worth. During the tour, riders can enjoy their favorite drinks, listen to music, and socialize with each other while exploring the city in a fun and active way.

The Cowtown Cycle Party is a great way to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays, bachelorette parties, or corporate team-building events. It is also a popular activity for tourists who want to experience Fort Worth in a unique and memorable way.

While the Cowtown Cycle Party is a fun and social activity, it is also important to note that safety is a top priority. The bike is equipped with safety features such as seat belts, lights, and a sound system for communicating with pedestrians and other vehicles. Additionally, riders are required to sign a waiver and adhere to the company’s safety guidelines.