Discover Fort Worth - Where the West Begins!

Day 1: Artistic Masterpieces & Sundance Sparkle

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your Fort Worth adventure in the renowned Cultural District. Start at the Kimbell Art Museum (3333 Camp Bowie Blvd), celebrated for its architecture and diverse collection spanning from antiquity to the 20th century. General admission is free, but special exhibits may have a fee (budget $0 for general admission). Allow 1.5-2 hours. Directly across the street, visit the Amon Carter Museum of American Art (3501 Camp Bowie Blvd), which offers free admission and features a significant collection of American art, including Western masterpieces. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Practical Tip: Free parking is available at the Amon Carter Museum, or paid parking at the Kimbell. Both are easily walkable from each other.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) For lunch, dine at the Kimbell Cafe inside the museum (budget $25-35 per person) or take a short Uber/Lyft ride (~1.5 miles, ~$8-10) to Blue Mesa Grill (1600 S University Dr) for delicious Tex-Mex ($25-35 per person). Afterward, escape to the tranquility of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden (3220 Botanic Garden Blvd), located about 1.5 miles from the museums. General admission is free, with some special areas like the Japanese Garden having a small fee (budget $0-12 per person if opting for paid sections). Allow 1.5-2 hours to explore. Conclude your afternoon at the architectural marvel of the Fort Worth Water Gardens (1502 Commerce St), a stunning urban park with flowing cascades and quiet pools, located ~3 miles from the Botanic Garden (Uber/Lyft ~$10-15). Admission is free. Allow 45 minutes to an hour.
• Evening Head to the vibrant Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth, about 0.5 miles from the Water Gardens (walkable or short Uber/Lyft). This bustling district offers dining, shopping, and entertainment. For dinner, experience upscale Texan cuisine at Reata Restaurant (310 Houston St), known for its rooftop patio and Southwestern dishes (budget $60-90 per person, reservations recommended). Alternatively, P.F. Chang’s (401 Throckmorton St) offers a popular Asian-inspired menu ($30-50 per person). After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the plaza, often featuring live music, or find a cozy spot for a drink.

Day 2: Giddy Up in the Historic Stockyards

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Immerse yourselves in the legendary Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District (130 E Exchange Ave). Arrive early to find parking (paid lots available, budget $10-20 for the day). Start by exploring the shops and historic buildings along Exchange Avenue. At 11:30 AM, secure a good spot along the street to witness the twice-daily Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive – a truly iconic, free spectacle of real Texas cowboys driving longhorns. Afterward, delve into cowboy history at the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame (124 E Exchange Ave). Admission is $15 per person (total $30 for two), and you should allow 1-1.5 hours.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) For an authentic Texas BBQ lunch, head to Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (301 Stockyards Blvd), where you choose your meat by the pound (budget $20-35 per person). After lunch, explore Billy Bob’s Texas (2520 Rodeo Plaza), “The World’s Largest Honky Tonk.” During the day, you can often walk through for free to see the famous rodeo arena, multiple stages, and gift shop (check website for tour hours). You might also enjoy browsing the Western wear shops and souvenir stores around Stockyards Station.
• Evening For dinner, experience the legendary Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant (2201 N Commerce St), famous for its beautiful patio, family-style meals, and being cash-only (budget $30-50 per person, expect a wait). Alternatively, Riscky’s Steakhouse (120 E Exchange Ave) offers classic steakhouse fare right in the heart of the Stockyards (budget $40-60 per person). Cap off your Western experience with the Stockyards Championship Rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum (121 E Exchange Ave). Held every Friday and Saturday night at 8:00 PM, tickets range from $30-50 per person (total $60-100 for two, book in advance). If it’s not a rodeo night, head back to Billy Bob’s Texas for live music, line dancing, and mechanical bull riding (cover charge varies, $10-30+ per person for non-concert nights).

Day 3: Modern Marvels & Lasting Impressions

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Return to the Cultural District to visit the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (3200 Darnell St). This impressive museum features post-WWII art in a striking building designed by Tadao Ando. Admission is $16 per person (total $32 for two). Allow 2 hours to explore the collections. Practical Tip: Free parking is available at the nearby Amon Carter Museum, making it convenient to visit the Modern on foot.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Enjoy a final Fort Worth lunch at Rodeo Goat Ice House (2836 Bledsoe St), a popular spot known for its creative and delicious burgers, located about 1 mile from the Modern Art Museum (budget $20-30 per person). After lunch, if time allows and you’re looking for last-minute souvenirs, consider a quick stop at one of the gift shops in the Cultural District or a quick Uber/Lyft (~2 miles, ~$8-10) to Sundance Square for some final browsing. Depart from Fort Worth with cherished memories of its unique blend of Western heritage and vibrant culture.

• Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Kick off your “Quick Cowboy Kick” by arriving at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District around 8:30 AM. Park in one of the paid lots (expect to pay around $15-20 for the day, e.g., Stockyards Station Parking). Begin your exploration on foot along Exchange Avenue, browsing the historic shops like M.L. Leddy’s for authentic Western wear or the various souvenir stores. Around 10:30 AM, head to the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame (12:30 PM closing, located behind the Livestock Exchange Building). Admission is $20 per person ($40 for two), and you’ll need about 45 minutes to an hour to take in the exhibits celebrating legendary cowboys and cowgirls. Make your way back to Exchange Avenue by 11:15 AM to secure a good spot along the street for the iconic Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive at 11:30 AM. This free, daily spectacle of longhorns being driven by real cowboys is a must-see, lasting about 15-20 minutes. After the drive, grab a quick coffee or snack from a local vendor or coffee shop on Exchange Avenue (approx. $10-15).
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) For lunch, savor authentic Texas barbecue at Riscky’s Barbecue (1734 N Main St, within the Stockyards). Expect to spend around $50-60 for two for hearty plates with sides and drinks. After your meal, take a brief walk through the legendary Billy Bob’s Texas (2520 Rodeo Plaza), the “World’s Largest Honky Tonk.” During the day, it’s often free to walk in and explore the vast space, check out the gift shop, and perhaps even see the famous mechanical bull (riding is extra, typically $5-10). Around 2:30 PM, call a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to transport you from the Stockyards to Downtown Fort Worth/Sundance Square (approx. $15-20 one-way for the ~15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic). Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Sundance Square, a vibrant 35-block entertainment and shopping district. Enjoy the beautiful plaza, walk past the stunning Bass Performance Hall, and browse the unique boutiques.
• Evening For dinner, enjoy a sophisticated yet approachable meal at Del Frisco’s Grille (154 E 3rd St, within Sundance Square). Their menu offers American classics with a modern twist. Expect to spend approximately $100-120 for two including appetizers, entrees, and non-alcoholic drinks. After dinner, if you’re up for more Western fun, consider a nightcap at a nearby establishment. For a relaxed atmosphere with occasional live music, Thompson’s Bookstore (900 Houston St) offers a speakeasy vibe (expect $30-40 for two drinks). Alternatively, stay within Sundance Square and enjoy the evening ambiance.

Day 1: Arrival & Sundance Square Grandeur

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Fort Worth. Check into your accommodation. Recommendation: Consider The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel (downtown) for its central location, ~$180-250/night, or Hotel Drover (Stockyards) if you prefer a Western-themed stay and are willing to allocate a larger portion of your budget to accommodation, ~$250-400/night. Settle in, freshen up. Practical Tip: If flying into DFW, consider using the Trinity Metro TEXRail train to the T&P Station downtown Fort Worth (~$2.50/person), then a short ride-share or walk to your hotel. This is often more cost-effective than airport taxis or parking.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Begin your exploration in Sundance Square. Enjoy lunch at Reata Restaurant (known for its upscale Texan cuisine, ~$60-80 for two) or a more casual bite at Taco Diner (around $30-40 for two). Afterward, wander through the charming brick-paved streets of Sundance Square. Admire the architecture, pop into unique boutiques like Parts Unknown (for western wear and gifts). Head to the Bass Performance Hall for an exterior view of its stunning angels; consider taking a free public tour if available (check their schedule in advance, tours are typically 90 mins). Distance: All of Sundance Square is easily walkable.
• Evening Pre-dinner drinks at Thompson’s Bookstore Speakeasy (reservations highly recommended, hidden entrance, cocktails $12-18 each). For dinner, enjoy Del Frisco’s Grille for modern American fare (around $80-100 for two) or Little Red Wasp for a vibrant gastropub experience (around $70-90 for two). Afterward, catch a live performance if there’s an event at Bass Hall (check schedules and book tickets well in advance, costs vary widely, e.g., $50-150+ per person) or simply enjoy the lively, illuminated atmosphere of Sundance Square.

Day 2: Echoes of the Old West in the Stockyards

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District (approx. 10-15 min drive from downtown, use ride-share ~$10-15, Trinity Metro bus Route 15, or drive and park, parking garages usually $10-15 for the day). Arrive by 10:00 AM to catch the Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive at 11:30 AM (free, arrive early for a good viewing spot near the Livestock Exchange Building). Afterward, explore the historic brick walkways, visit the various shops like Luskey’s Ryon’s Western Store for authentic boots and hats. Practical Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be on your feet on brick and uneven surfaces.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Have a classic Texan lunch at Riscky’s BBQ (casual, $30-50 for two) or try the iconic Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant (cash-only, no individual checks, beautiful patio, family-style meals, ~$60-80 for two). After lunch, visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame ($12/person) to learn about rodeo legends. Consider a visit to the Stockyards Museum ($5/person) inside the historic Livestock Exchange Building for deeper insights into the district’s past. Distance: All Stockyards activities are walkable once you’re there.
• Evening Enjoy happy hour at a saloon like the White Elephant Saloon. For dinner, experience the renowned Lonesome Dove Western Bistro (fine dining, reservations essential, $150-250+ for two, a potential splurge within the budget) or opt for a more casual but delicious meal at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (order by the pound, ~$50-70 for two). Cap off the night with live music and two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas, “The World’s Largest Honky Tonk” (entry fee varies, typically $2-10+ depending on the night and performers; concerts are separate tickets, $20-100+).

Day 3: Artistic Immersion & Botanical Wonders

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Dive into Fort Worth’s Cultural District (approx. 5-10 min drive from downtown/Stockyards, ride-share ~$10-15 or drive and park, parking lots/garages usually $10-15 for the day). Start at the Kimbell Art Museum (free general admission, special exhibitions are extra, ~$18/person). Admire its stunning architecture by Louis Kahn and Renzo Piano, and world-class collection. Then, walk across the street to the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (admission $16/person, free on Fridays), known for its post-WWII collection and reflecting pond. Distance: Kimbell and Modern are directly across the street from each other.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a light lunch at Cafe Modern within the Modern Art Museum (expect $40-60 for two) or a casual bite at a nearby spot like Blue Mesa Grill (Southwestern, ~$40-60 for two). Afterward, spend the afternoon strolling through the serene Fort Worth Botanic Garden (free general admission, Japanese Garden $12/person, Conservatory $8/person, combined ticket $12/person). Explore its diverse landscapes, including the magnificent Japanese Garden and the tropical Conservatory. Distance: Botanic Garden is a short walk (10-15 min) or very short ride-share from the museums.
• Evening Relax and prepare for dinner. Consider a casual pre-dinner drink at a spot on Camp Bowie Boulevard. For dinner, try Fireside Pies for delicious artisan pizzas (around $50-70 for two) or for a more refined experience, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood (upscale, $150-200+ for two, another potential splurge) is nearby. Alternatively, head back towards downtown for dinner options there.

Day 4: Wild Adventures & Eclectic Charm on Magnolia

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Spend the morning at the renowned Fort Worth Zoo ($19/person, parking $5). Ranked among the top zoos in the nation, it offers engaging exhibits and diverse wildlife. Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the experience. Grab a casual lunch at one of the many eateries within the zoo (expect $30-50 for two). Distance: Fort Worth Zoo is about a 10-15 min drive from the Cultural District/Downtown (ride-share ~$15).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Head to Magnolia Avenue in the Near Southside district (approx. 5-10 min drive from the zoo, ride-share ~$10). This vibrant street is known for its independent boutiques, art galleries, and coffee shops. Grab a coffee at Avoca Coffee Roasters or a sweet treat at Melt Ice Creams. Browse the unique shops like Maison D’Etoile for home goods or Keep Fort Worth Funky for local apparel. Enjoy the eclectic street art and murals. Distance: Magnolia Avenue is very walkable once you’re there.
• Evening Enjoy happy hour at a spot on Magnolia Avenue, such as Kent & Co. Wines. For dinner, you have a wealth of options on Magnolia. Try Cane Rosso for authentic Neapolitan pizza (around $50-70 for two), Brewed for a gastropub experience with craft beers (around $40-60 for two), or Ellerbe Fine Foods for a farm-to-table Southern-inspired menu (reservations recommended, ~$100-150 for two). Finish the night with a craft cocktail at Grand Berry Theater or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll.

Day 5: Riverside Reflections & Fond Farewells

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a leisurely morning. Consider a walk or bike ride along the Trinity Trails (rentals available from companies like Fort Worth Bike Sharing, ~$10-15 for a few hours per person, dock locations throughout the city). Take in the scenic views of the Trinity River and the city skyline. Alternatively, if there was a museum you missed in the Cultural District, like the Amon Carter Museum of American Art (free admission), now is a good time to visit. Distance: Trinity Trails are easily accessible from downtown. Amon Carter is a short drive/ride-share from downtown.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM) Have a final Fort Worth meal. Consider a casual, delicious lunch at Fred’s Texas Cafe (original location on Currie St. for a true dive experience, ~$30-50 for two) or a return to Sundance Square for a meal at Istanbul Grill (Mediterranean, ~$40-60 for two).
• Evening Depending on your departure schedule, complete any last-minute souvenir shopping. Head to the airport or begin your journey home, carrying with you memories of Fort Worth’s unique blend of Western heritage, artistic culture, and Southern charm. Practical Tip: Allow ample time for travel to DFW or Dallas Love Field airports, especially during peak traffic hours. Ride-shares to DFW can range from $40-60.