Plan on visiting Fort Worth? Or do you live in our spectacular city and want something new to do?
Have no fear . . . . I have some ideas!
FOR THE HISTORY BUFF
National Bureau of Engraving and Printing: Did you know Fort Worth is the only other location – besides Washington D.C. – where our money is printed? (I didn’t either.) Guided tours are available twice a day, or you can walk through on your own. One main highlight: An enclosed, elevated walkway where you can actually see the money being printed on the production floor.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Check out the permanent and special exhibits, catch an IMAX movie, and/or lay back and relax during a showing at the Noble Planetarium.
Fire Station No. 1: The historic Fire Station No. 1 (northeast corner of Second and Commerce streets, built in 1907) houses the “150 Years of Fort Worth” satellite exhibit of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Check out the model of the original Fort Worth, established in 1849.
National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame: This is the only museum in the world dedicated to honoring the extraordinary women of the American West.
Log Cabin Village: Step back in time to the pioneer era at this living history museum. Each log house depicts different aspects of pioneer life with hands-on activities and exhibits including an authentic gristmill, one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and more.
FOR THE INNER ARTIST
The Modern: Looking for a great date with your partner? The Modern has it all: excellent food at Cafe Modern (hours vary, so be sure to check before you go), screenings of independent films, always evolving exhibitions, lecture series, and an awesomely unique gift shop. You can also take advantage of free admission on Sundays and half-price admission on Wednesdays.
Cultural District museums: Modern art not your thing? Luckily there are four other museums in our nationally-known Cultural District that you can spend a whole day (or more!) perusing, including the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the Kimbell Art Museum. All are within walking distance, so wear those sneakers.
Coyote Drive-In: Enjoy views of Downtown Fort Worth and double feature movies on three screens seven days a week. A great way to be able to talk about the movie while watching!
FOR THE WATER RECREATION ENTHUSIAST
Burger’s Lake: This one-acre, spring-fed lake is a hidden oasis within the city limits. The 30-acre park includes two sandy beaches, water slides, diving boards, 300 picnic tables, and more, so pack a picnic and make a day of it! Lifeguards are also on duty.
Panther Island Pavillion: This outdoor entertainment venue offers regular concerts (PIP is the only waterfront stage in Texas!), festivals, and fun runs year round. Visitors can also enjoy public access to the Trinity River and a sandy beach with a view of downtown. Those who love watersports can take advantage of canoe, kayak, and stand up paddleboard rentals through Backwoods Paddlesports at Panther Island Pavillion.
FOR THE OUTDOORSY
Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge: Located in northwest Fort Worth between Eagle Mountain Lake and Lake Worth, this 3,600 acre city-owned park has more than 20 miles of hiking trails through prairies, forests, and wetlands. Visit on your own or for one of their regularly scheduled events like guided nature hikes on Saturdays and story times for the kiddos on Wednesdays.
Fort Worth Botanic Gardens: If you’re looking for a great place for a relaxing walk and a picnic, this is it. FWBG boasts 23 perfectly curated gardens in more than 110 acres, and it’s right in the middle of the city!
Fort Worth Water Gardens: This constantly-moving urban park is a great place to get wrapped up in a book, have a picnic, people watch, or just take a break from exploring downtown. Grab a coffee at the nearby Omni Hotel, find a seat under some shade, and relax!
Stockyards Stables: Ride the Old Chisholm Trail along the Trinity River on horseback (arena rides are also available), take a spin in an authentic stagecoach replica, or take the little ones to the petting zoo and let them feed the animals. Nothing says Fort Worth like horses in the Stockyards!
If I missed anything, please tell me in the comments! Also check out our Around Cowtown guide for other fun ideas.