A Guide to Things to Do in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. Located in North Texas, it is the fifth-largest city in the state and part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. It is home to a wide range of attractions, from art galleries and museums to live music venues and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone in Fort Worth.

History of Fort Worth

Fort Worth was founded in 1849, when U.S. Army Major Ripley A. Arnold established an Army camp called Camp Worth. The city received its name from General William Jenkins Worth, who was a key figure in the Mexican-American war. The camp was abandoned in 1853, but the city grew rapidly after the Civil War, and in 1880 it was officially incorporated as the City of Fort Worth.

In the late 19th century, Fort Worth became an important trading center for cattle and cotton, and the city earned the nickname “Cowtown” for its bustling livestock market and meatpacking industry. In the early 20th century, oil was discovered and Fort Worth’s economy shifted to oil production. This brought great wealth to the city and established it as one of the major cities of the Southwest region.

Today, Fort Worth is known as “Where the West Begins” and is home to a diverse population of nearly 900,000 people. The city is a vibrant blend of cultures and traditions, and it offers an exciting array of activities and attractions for visitors to explore.

Must-See Attractions

From world-class museums and galleries to exciting outdoor adventures, Fort Worth has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see attractions in the city:

Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Established in 1866, this historic district has been host to some of the most famous rodeos and livestock auctions in Texas. Today, the area is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions including saloons, restaurants, museums, shops, and more. Every weekend, visitors can enjoy a free cattle drive show at 11:30am and 4pm as well as nightly longhorn cattle drives at 6pm.

Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell Art Museum is one of the finest art museums in the U.S., and it houses some of the world’s most important works of art. The museum’s permanent collection includes Renaissance and Baroque paintings, sculptures, and textiles from Europe and America. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year. Admission is free, so it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in town!

Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Texas. It features over 5,000 animals from around the world, including rare species like cheetahs, Komodo dragons, and white rhinos. The zoo also has a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, making it a great destination for families.

Sundance Square

Sundance Square is a 35-block area in downtown Fort Worth filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment venues. There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as walking tours, live music concerts, and festivals throughout the year. Be sure to check out the stunning architecture in this area as well – many of the buildings date back to the late 1800s!

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a gorgeous oasis in the heart of the city. It features more than 2,500 species of plants from around the world in 23 specialty gardens spread across 109 acres of lush landscape. The garden also hosts special events throughout the year such as concerts and art shows. Admission is free!

Popular Tours

Fort Worth has plenty of tours to choose from – whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just want to explore the city in style! Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Fort Worth:

Fort Worth Historic Walking Tour

The Fort Worth Historic Walking Tour offers an in-depth look at some of the city’s most iconic sites and historic neighborhoods. You’ll learn about the history of Fort Worth while exploring downtown landmarks like Sundance Square and the Stockyards as well as unique residential areas like Monte Vista and Fairmount. This two-hour guided tour also includes entrance fees to some of the city’s most popular attractions such as the Kimbell Art Museum and Fort Worth Zoo. Book this tour to experience Fort Worth like a local!

Fort Worth Food Tour

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, then this tour is for you! The Fort Worth Food Tour takes you on an exploration of some of the city’s best restaurants and eateries. You’ll sample delicious local cuisine at five different stops while learning about the culture and history behind each dish. This three-hour tour also includes a tasting of craft beer at one of Fort Worth’s top microbreweries. Book this food tour to experience some of the best flavors Fort Worth has to offer!

Other Activities

In addition to these popular attractions and tours, there are plenty of other things to do in Fort Worth. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone here!

Outdoor Adventures

Fort Worth offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers! The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is a 3,600-acre park with trails for hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, and more. It also features a butterfly garden and an educational center with interactive exhibits about local wildlife. Other outdoor activities include canoeing on the Trinity River or visiting one of Fort Worth’s many parks such as Trinity Park or Marine Creek Lake Park.

Cultural Experiences

Fort Worth is known for its art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. The Modern Art Museum features contemporary works from around the world while The Amon Carter Museum houses art from American artists from 1945 to present day. Other cultural attractions include Bass Performance Hall (home to opera, ballet, and musical theater performances) as well as The Sid Richardson Museum (which features art from American western painters).

Conclusion

No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for in Fort Worth, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests! From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to popular attractions and tours – there are plenty of things to do in this vibrant city. So don’t wait – start planning your trip to Fort Worth today!