The best things to do in Fort Worth, Texas

Easily the most famous (and photographed) attraction in town, the Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic cattle district steeped in longtime cowboy tradition. Today, it's a hub for live entertainment, including rodeos, concerts, and shootout shows. This is where to get a rich insight into Fort Worth’s Wild West culture and its famous livestock industry—the city used to be known as “Cowtown” due to being one of the biggest stockyards and processing operations in the West. Strolling through the Stockyards is akin to stepping back in time. Don’t miss the free twice-daily cattle drive starring their iconic Texas Longhorns.

While Western history often spotlights cowboys, the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame celebrates the trailblazing women who helped shape the West. Located in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, the museum showcases immersive exhibits and more than 4,000 artifacts. You can even saddle up virtually and create your own digital horse. Yeehaw!

Fort Worth’s dining scene is reason enough to visit, offering a taste of the chefs and flavors that define the city. Savor comfort classics like shrimp and grits or Texas-style fish and chips at Provender Hall before heading across the street for a night of Championship Rodeo. For something more elevated, indulge in the farm-to-table cuisine at Ellerbe Fine Foods. No matter what you're in the mood for, let the flavors of Fort Worth’s rich heritage guide your journey.

Situated downtown, right next to the Fort Worth Convention Center, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is for those craving a quiet, nature-filled hideout away from all the hustle and bustle. Impeccably designed by Philip Johnson and John Burgee, the gardens are a true architectural feat: there are modernist pools, cascading waterfalls, terraces, and a central plaza, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Active Pool, where water rushes down steep, stone steps to a sunken gorge below. It's the perfect place to visit any time of year.

One of the most revered American art museums in the country, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art opened in 1961 under the will of the late Amon G. Carter, the founder and publisher of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Today, this state-renowned museum houses more than 175,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures and an incredible photography collection. Best of all? It’s free. Before you go, look at their calendar of events for mixers, tours, and family days.

Located in the Cultural District, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History contains several awesome science and history exhibits, a planetarium and a new 8K LED dome. Adults and children alike are bound to thoroughly enjoy this museum and its dazzling variety of immersive, hands-on exhibits. Catch a show in the Omni Theater or pass the time in the Noble Planetarium, which offers dynamic views of the night sky, the galaxy, and beyond.

Art and architecture fans should not miss the Kimbell, whose permanent collection is one of the best in the country, if not the world. Designed by famed architect Louis Kahn, this world-class art museum boasts a top-notch collection of masterpieces by Matisse, Picasso, Rembrandt, Goya and dozens of others. Apart from the artwork, the building itself is often referred to as one of the most notable works of architecture of the 20th century.

Sundance Square, a 35-block entertainment and residential district in downtown Fort Worth, is the city’s foremost destination for dining, shopping and enjoying a cocktail (or two). It’s one of the most walkable urban areas in Texas (or elsewhere), and you’re super spoilt for choice with pit stops: there are hundreds of bars, restaurants, boutiques, and galleries in beautifully restored historic buildings. After exploring, relax in scenic Hyde Park, Burnett Park or the ever-popular Sundance Square Plaza, which hosts live music Wednesday through Sunday.

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the whole of Texas; complete with over 2,500 plant species and 23 specialty gardens, this is a peaceful haven conveniently located in Fort Worth’s Cultural District. You’ll step onto an enchanting world comprised of 120 acres of lush greenery, specialty garden spaces, sweeping city vistas, a garden conservatory, and several winding footpaths. Be sure to check out the Rose Garden, which features over 1,000 rose bushes, and the Japanese Garden, a gorgeous space with sculpted hillsides, bamboo, bridges, colorful cherry trees and koi ponds.

Modern art aficionados will love exploring the Modern. This gallery features a remarkable collection of contemporary artworks that span various movements (Abstract Expressionism, Pop, Minimalism and New Image Painting), all displayed in a spectacular glass-and-concrete building designed by architect Tadao Ando. Discover works by prominent artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, meander through special exhibitions and pause to admire the building’s truly unique architecture. Then, enjoy a comfort meal with global influences at Café Modern, helmed by executive chef Jett Mora. 

Featuring prairies, forests and wetlands, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge covers more than 3,600 acres and is home to over 20 miles of walking trails. For travelers who’ve had their fill of city life and want a quick dose of nature, the center is a must-visit. Located just 10 miles from downtown Fort Worth, the beautiful park and outdoor education center is home to bison, alligators, prairie dogs and other diverse local flora and fauna.

Having opened in 1909 with just six species (some of which were rabbits), Fort Worth Zoo has stuck its ground and become a major tourist attraction. Today, it's home to over 540 species, a petting enclosure, a Central Market playbarn, and a miniature train that runs between the Safari Depot and Texas Wild attraction. Open year-round, come by on Wednesday if you want to save some cash—tickets are half price.