Fort Worth is known as a “Cowtown” due to its deep roots in cattle ranching and its cowboy culture. Families can immerse themselves in the Western lifestyle by visiting areas like the Stockyards, where you can catch live rodeos, witness live cattle drives, and even try on a pair of cowboy boots. We had such an amazing time on our trip, that’s why we’re sharing our Fort Worth Family Vacation Guide and experiences with all of you.
Must Stay in Fort Worth
Fort Worth has so many great neighborhoods and fun areas for families to stay. We always try to stay closest to all of the attractions that we are planning to see and do. Here’s a couple of our favorite places to stay in Fort Worth for families.
The Ashton Hotel
The Ashton is a luxury boutique hotel located in downtown Fort Worth, offering historic charm with modern amenities. It’s close to many of the city’s top attractions, making it convenient for families. The hotel provides spacious rooms and suites, making it a comfortable stay for families. The location is perfect for exploring nearby museums and parks.
Book your stay at The Ashton HERE
The Bowie House
The Bowie House offers a unique blend of historic Texas charm and modern luxury. This boutique hotel is known for its personalized service and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families looking for a special experience. The hotel’s proximity to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and other family attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Book your stay at Bowie House HERE
Search for other excellent Family Hotels in Fort Worth Texas HERE
Must Do in Fort Worth
There’s quite a lot to do for families in Fort Worth Texas. We chose to focus on experiencing the Wild West and seeing some of its natural beauty, but we only scratched the surface. Here are some of our favorite family friendly attractions that you must do when visiting Fort Worth.
Fort Worth Stockyards
The Fort Worth Stockyards offer a glimpse into Texas’s cowboy past, with live cattle drives, rodeo shows, and interactive exhibits. It’s an immersive experience that everyone in the family will certainly enjoy. Families can explore the Stockyards Station, participate in the Cattlepen Maze, visit the petting zoo, and fill up a bag of your favorite treats at an old-fashioned candy shop. We really enjoyed our time at the Stockyards and there was still many things that we didn’t get time to experience.
Check out more on The Stockyards HERE
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a peaceful escape with over 2,500 species of plants and twenty-three individual gardens. It’s a really great spot for a family stroll or a picnic surrounded by natural beauty. The Japanese Garden was a highlight for our family, with koi ponds and tranquil pathways, perfect for curious kids to explore and enjoy.
Stop by the front desk and pick up the scavenger hunt for the kids, they will have a blast finding all the fun hidden gems throughout the gardens. Family Workshops are also offered at the garden by instructors teaching a new side of nature like nature photography, how to plant a pollinator garden, and other super cool experiences.
UTA Planetarium Show
Located on The University of Texas at Arlington campus, The UTA Planetarium is one of the largest in Texas. UTA Planetarium offers views of the night sky, the solar system, stars, and distant galaxies, making it an educational experience for kids of all ages. They’re also offering a new concert series each month with live music from local artists under the skies of the planetarium. See show times HERE
Check out all the Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Fort Worth Texas HERE
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Must Eat in Fort Worth
Fort Worth Texas did not disappoint when it came to great food options. Not only did we try some of the best Tex-Mex around, we got to experience some of the most fun and lively places as well. Here are a few of our favorites from the trip that had both good atmosphere and awesome food.
Joe T. Garcia’s
Joe T. Garcia’s is an iconic Tex-Mex restaurant, famous for its large portions and lively atmosphere. Their outdoor patio is a perfect spot for families to enjoy a fun and delicious meal together. Joe T. Garcia’s offers a simple menu with excellent family-style service, making it easy to order for the whole group. Kids will love the chips and salsa, the quesadillas, and exploring the outside patio. Be sure to bring cash for the meal, as it is cash only and there is only one ATM onsite.
Second Rodeo Brewing
Located in The Stockyards, Second Rodeo offers a super fun dining experience with live music and a very laid-back vibe. It’s a great spot to relax with the kids after exploring the sites and shops. Their outdoor seating area is very spacious, with room for the kids to run around. Second Rodeo has great wings in some unique flavors like Peanut butter, bacon, and jalapeño! Our girls loved the loaded nachos, while I very much enjoyed my salted watermelon frozen margarita in a souvenir boot cup!
Press Café
Press Café is located along the Trinity River and offers a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients. It’s a great spot for a relaxed meal with very scenic views. The kids’ menu is full of tasty options like; cheeseburgers, butter noodles, grilled cheese, and crispy chicken tenders.
Check out more about the Taste of Texas HERE
Must See in Fort Worth
There’s some awesome things to see in and around Fort Worth, many that are perfect for families. Here’s a few of the ones we think that you and your family shouldn’t miss on your next trip there.
Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the top zoos in the country, with over five-hundred animal species and lots of interactive exhibits. It’s definitely a full-day adventure for families who love animals. Fort Worth Zoo features a safari splash pad, a train ride, and plenty of shaded areas to rest, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for families with young children.
Fort Worth Herd
Fort Worth Herd cattle drive is a must-see event that brings the Old West to life. It’s their daily tradition where real cowboys lead a large herd of Texas Longhorns through the streets of The Stockyards. There’s two cattle drives daily and they’re free to watch, so get there early and grab spot. Kids will be fascinated by the sight of these massive Longhorns and really enjoy the authentic cowhands that are interacting with the crowd.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History offers loads of interactive exhibits and hands-on learning for kids. Families can explore outer space, dinosaurs, and they even have a dedicated children’s museum that’s perfect for younger kids.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art
Admission is free, and the museum offers lots of family programs, including hands-on art activities and gallery games to keep kids engaged and entertained.
Check out even more Attractions and Family Fun HERE
What to Know about Fort Worth
Public Transportation
Families can take advantage of the Molly the Trolley service in downtown Fort Worth, which offers free rides to popular attractions and historic districts. Additionally, the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects Fort Worth with Dallas, making it easy for families to explore both cities without needing a car. Fort Worth is also fairly easy to navigate by car, and parking is generally available at most attractions.
Fort Worth is a Bike-Friendly City
Fort Worth offers plenty of biking paths, especially along the Trinity Trails that span over 70 miles and connect many parks and attractions. Your whole family can rent bikes through the city’s Fort Worth Bike Sharing program, which offer kid-sized bikes and tandem options for families to explore the city.
Lots of Open Spaces and Parks
Fort Worth has a number of great parks and open spaces where families can relax, play, and enjoy a picnic. Trinity Park is one of the largest, with playgrounds, a miniature train, and scenic walking and biking trails along the way.
Best Time to Visit Texas with Family
Spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather, but summer offers unique events like rodeos and festivals that are definitely worth experiencing. Fort Worth experiences really hot summers, so if you’re visiting during this time, be sure to plan some indoor activities and pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
Fort Worth offers the perfect mix of Texas charm, cowboy culture, and modern family fun. From outdoor adventures and rodeos to kid-friendly museums and family dining, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the Stockyards, getting up close with wildlife at the zoo, or just enjoying a leisurely day at one of the many parks, Fort Worth offers one of the best family vacations in Texas. So pack your boots, grab the kids, and get ready for a Texas adventure in the heart of Cowtown!
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