I love to take advantage of all that Fort Worth has to offer until guests come to town. I like to have a plan in advance so that I’m not scrambling to decide where to go and can pick the absolute best places to show off our fabulous city.

Here are the six best places to take guests in Fort Worth and give them a Cowtown welcome!

1. Mule Alley

The Stockyards are known for cowboys and Fort Worth’s daily cattle drive. With the addition of Mule Alley, the area is now a food and shopping destination with something for everyone. Sitting as the centerpiece of this market street is the gorgeous Hotel Drover. This four-star hotel is a great place to have a drink or dinner at their restaurant, 97 West.

There are many other restaurants in the area worth trying, including Provender Hall for elevated comfort food, or buzzy Catarina’s for upscale Italian fare. Catarina’s is known for their strict “no cellphone” policy. Don’t forget to bring a jacket (and make that reservation) if you go! 

2. The Modern Museum of Art

We have several top-notch museums in our cultural district, but there’s something extra special about The Modern. From the stunning building that sits on serene pools to the unbelievable exhibits, this museum is impressive. The art featured here is from the 1940s to present day. There is also a fantastic restaurant with a spectacular view of the grounds. Fun fact: The Modern is the oldest museum in Texas!

3. Sundance Square

Another excellent place to visit for a great food and shopping experience is Sundance Square. Located in the heart of downtown, there is always something going on in the square, including performances and fitness classes. In the summer, kids can run around in the fountains. Around Christmas there is an enormous Christmas tree. (The tree in 2022 was the tallest live Christmas tree in Texas, only six feet shorter than the tree at Rockefeller Center in NYC.)

4. Joe T. Garcia’s

Locals have strong feelings about this restaurant, but everyone can agree that Joe T’s is a real vibe. Situated in the stockyards, the picturesque patio and gardens have stone walkways and fountains. It’s the perfect spot to share a pitcher of margaritas on a warm day. The line gets long, so get there early or be prepared to wait, especially if you want to sit outside. 

5. Fort Worth Zoo

I doubt our readers are surprised to see this on the list. Local moms know we have an world-class zoo in town. With a collection of more than 7,000 animals, it’s easy to spend the better part of a day here. On hot summer days, check out the large splash pad for an additional cost. Several exhibits are guest favorites, including Elephant Springs and the herpetarium, The Museum of Living Art. 

6. Billy Bob’s Texas

Another Stockyards staple everyone needs to see The World’s Largest Honky Tonk once! After all, we are in Cowtown! Visitors don’t necessarily need to attend a concert to get the Billy Bob’s experience. They can also go during the day to check out the handprint wall, which has cement handprints and autographs from musicians who have played at Billy Bob’s. There is also an indoor bull riding arena, with events every weekend. 

What did we miss? Where is your favorite places to take guests in Fort Worth?