Fun In Fort Worth: A Complete Guide to the City

Fort Worth is a vibrant city in the U.S. state of Texas. Located in North Central Texas and the county seat of Tarrant County, Fort Worth is a major metropolitan area with a population of nearly 900,000 people. It is also the fifth-largest city in Texas and the seventeenth-largest city in the United States. Originally founded as an army outpost in 1849, Fort Worth has grown into a vibrant city with a rich history, culture, and entertainment.

While many people associate the city with its Western heritage and cowboy culture, Fort Worth is also home to a diverse population with plenty of activities to keep you busy. From art galleries to statues, parks to sports venues, and restaurants to shopping centers, there are plenty of fun things to do in Fort Worth. With this guide, you can explore the best of Fort Worth and find out what makes this city so special.

History of Fort Worth

Fort Worth was founded in 1849 as an army outpost near the Trinity River to protect settlers from Native American raids. It was named after General William Jenkins Worth, who led the U.S. Army during the Mexican–American War. The city quickly grew into an important trading post and gateway to the west.

The city’s growth was so rapid that just a few decades later, in 1873, it became the first telegraph station west of the Mississippi River. By the late 19th century, Fort Worth had become the hub of the cattle industry in Texas, earning its famous nickname, “Cowtown.” This earned it a reputation as an outlaw town in the Wild West and made it popular with cowboys and gamblers—a reputation it still carries today.

Famous Attractions in Fort Worth

Fort Worth is home to many popular attractions that draw thousands of visitors each year. From historic sites to modern-day entertainment centers, there is something for everyone in Fort Worth. Here are some of the most popular attractions.

The Stockyards

The Stockyards are one of the most iconic attractions in Fort Worth and a must-see for any visitor. This historic district is home to a variety of businesses, shops, bars, restaurants, and other attractions that capture the spirit of the Old West. Visitors can explore the cattle pens and learn about the city’s history as a major hub for the cattle industry.

The Stockyards are also home to a variety of entertainment, including rodeos, live music, and cowboy shows. They also host special events throughout the year, including rodeos and festivals.

Fort Worth Water Gardens

The Fort Worth Water Gardens is a popular attraction located in downtown Fort Worth. This four-acre park is home to two waterfalls, four reflecting pools, and more than 200 species of native plants, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. The park also features a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is another popular attraction in Fort Worth. This renowned zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals from around the world and features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and more. Whether you’re looking for an exciting day out or an educational experience, the Fort Worth Zoo is sure to offer something for everyone.

The Cultural District

The Cultural District is one of Fort Worth’s most vibrant neighborhoods. This area is home to numerous art galleries, museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions. Visitors can explore contemporary art galleries such as the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth or visit the Amon Carter Museum to view works from American masters like Frederic Remington and Georgia O’Keeffe. There are also numerous performance venues in this district, such as Bass Performance Hall and the Kimbell Art Museum.

Activities To Do in Fort Worth

In addition to its famous attractions and lively cultural district, Fort Worth has plenty of activities to keep you busy. From outdoor adventures to urban entertainment centers, here are some of our favorite things to do in Fort Worth.

Outdoor Adventures

Fort Worth offers plenty of outdoor activities that are perfect for those looking for some adventure. The Trinity Trails are a popular destination for running, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Trinity River. The Botanic Garden is also a great place to explore nature, with its lush gardens and tranquil ponds.

For those looking for something a bit more extreme, there’s Panther Island Pavilion—a watersports complex that offers wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and more. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, take a leisurely boat ride along the Trinity River.

Sports Venues

Fort Worth is home to numerous sports venues that offer visitors the chance to get up close and personal with their favorite teams. AT&T Stadium is home to the Dallas Cowboys NFL franchise and hosts major sporting events throughout the year. The Globe Life Field is also home to professional baseball team the Texas Rangers and offers visitors a unique experience with its rotating roof and clear views of downtown Fort Worth.

Restaurants & Shopping Centers

From fine dining to casual eateries and upscale shopping malls to quirky boutiques, Fort Worth has something for everyone when it comes to food and shopping. The West 7th Street corridor is one of the most popular areas for dining and shopping, with its eclectic mix of restaurants and boutiques. The Sundance Square area is also home to numerous restaurants and shops, as well as live music venues and movie theaters.

Example Tour: The Wild West Cowboy Tour

Experience a taste of Fort Worth’s Wild West roots with this fun cowboy tour! Hop on a horse drawn wagon ride through historic Stockyards National Historic District and learn about cowboys’ lives in the old days. As you ride around town on your wooden wagon seat, you’ll pass by famous attractions such as Billy Bob’s Texas—the world’s largest honky-tonk—and learn about Fort Worth’s role in the cattle industry during this exciting tour. The tour lasts about an hour and also includes stops at various attractions along the way. Book your Wild West Cowboy Tour here.

Example Tour: The DFW Foodie Tour

Experience one of Fort Worth’s best dining experiences with this delicious foodie tour! On this tour you’ll get to try some of Fort Worth’s best dishes while learning about its unique culinary history. Sample dishes from local eateries such as Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant or Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que and learn about how these restaurants have shaped Fort Worth’s food scene over the years. This tour lasts about three hours and includes five stops at various eateries around town. Book your DFW Foodie Tour here.

Conclusion: Have Fun In Fort Worth!

As you can see, there is plenty to do in Fort Worth! Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or an outdoor adventure, you’ll find it here in this vibrant city. From historic sites to modern-day entertainment centers and from outdoor adventures to urban shopping centers, there is something for everyone in Fort Worth! So book your tickets today and come experience all that this great city has to offer!