What Are Some Fun Family Things To Do In Fort Worth, TX?

Fun family things to do in Fort Worth, TX, are abundant, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests, and these suggestions from hudsonfamily.net will definitely help. From exploring the city’s rich Western heritage to enjoying its vibrant arts and culture scene, there’s something for every family to create lasting memories. Consider making unforgettable family adventures through educational outings, outdoor escapades, and creative explorations.

1. Exploring Fort Worth’s Rich Western Heritage

Fort Worth, known as “Where the West Begins”, provides several opportunities for families to delve into its distinctive Western culture, and here are some ways to dive into that culture:

1.1. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is like stepping back in time, offering an immersive experience into the world of cowboys and cattle drives. This historic district is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a living, breathing monument to the Old West, where families can witness daily cattle drives, explore authentic saloons, and learn about the rich history of the Texas cattle industry.

Cattle Drives: Witness the spectacle of the Fort Worth Herd, the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive. Real cowboys drive a herd of longhorns down Exchange Avenue, offering a glimpse into the past.
Rodeo: Catch a thrilling rodeo performance at the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, where cowboys and cowgirls compete in various events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping.
Shopping: Explore the many Western-themed shops offering everything from cowboy boots and hats to handcrafted leather goods and souvenirs.
Dining: Enjoy a hearty Western meal at one of the Stockyards’ many restaurants, offering classic Texas cuisine such as barbecue, steak, and Tex-Mex.
Livestock Exchange Building: A must-see landmark, this building was once the heart of the Stockyards’ cattle trading operations.

1.2. National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Celebrate the spirit of women of the West at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. This unique museum honors women who have distinguished themselves in various fields, including rodeo, ranching, and the arts, with exhibits showcasing their accomplishments and contributions to Western heritage.

Exhibits: Explore interactive exhibits showcasing the lives and achievements of notable cowgirls.
Hall of Fame: Learn about the remarkable women inducted into the Hall of Fame, including Annie Oakley, Sacagawea, and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs and events designed to inspire and empower visitors of all ages.
Artifacts: View a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the stories of these remarkable women.

1.3. Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of Texas cowboys and cowgirls. This hall of fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of rodeo, ranching, and Western entertainment, making it a great learning experience.

Inductees: Learn about the lives and careers of legendary Texas cowboys and cowgirls.
Exhibits: View exhibits showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from the inductees’ lives.
Western Art: Admire a collection of Western art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Events: Attend events such as the annual induction ceremony and other special programs.

2. Engaging in Arts and Culture

Fort Worth’s vibrant arts and culture scene offers many enriching experiences for families. From world-class museums to live performances, there’s always something to inspire and entertain here are some ideas:

2.1. Fort Worth Cultural District

The Fort Worth Cultural District is home to several world-class museums, all within walking distance of each other. This district offers a diverse range of artistic and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for families, and the museums include:

Kimbell Art Museum: Admire masterpieces from around the world in this architectural gem designed by Louis Kahn.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art: Discover a vast collection of American art, including works by Frederic Remington and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth: Explore contemporary and modern art in this striking building designed by Tadao Ando.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Engage in interactive exhibits that explore science, history, and technology.
Cattle Raisers Museum: Learn about the history of the Texas cattle industry and the role of cattle raisers in shaping the state’s economy and culture.

2.2. Bass Performance Hall

Attend a performance at the magnificent Bass Performance Hall, known for its stunning architecture and exceptional acoustics. This world-class venue hosts a variety of events, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet performances, offering families memorable cultural experiences.

Broadway Shows: Enjoy popular Broadway productions suitable for all ages.
Concerts: Attend concerts featuring a variety of musical genres, from classical to pop.
Ballet: Experience the beauty and grace of ballet performances by renowned dance companies.
Family Events: Look for family-friendly events and performances designed to entertain children and adults alike.

2.3. Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, a beautiful oasis with over 120 acres of themed gardens. Explore diverse plant collections, attend educational programs, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature, and is one of the oldest major botanic gardens in the United States.

Japanese Garden: Wander through a serene Japanese garden with koi ponds, pagodas, and meticulously manicured plants.
Rose Garden: Admire a stunning display of roses in various colors and varieties.
Forest Boardwalk: Take a leisurely stroll along a boardwalk through a lush forest.
Children’s Garden: Let the kids explore a dedicated children’s garden with interactive exhibits and play areas.

3. Outdoor Adventures and Recreational Activities

For families who love the outdoors, Fort Worth provides numerous opportunities for adventure and recreation, and here are some outdoor excursions to think about:

3.1. Trinity Trails

Explore the scenic Trinity Trails, a network of over 100 miles of paved trails along the Trinity River. Enjoy walking, biking, or rollerblading while taking in the natural beauty of the riverfront, making for healthy family fun.

Walking: Take a leisurely walk along the trails and enjoy the scenic views.
Biking: Rent bikes and explore the trails on two wheels.
Rollerblading: Glide along the smooth paved trails on rollerblades or scooters.
Picnics: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal at one of the many picnic areas along the trails.

3.2. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge

Discover the diverse wildlife and natural habitats of North Texas at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. This 3,621-acre preserve offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs for families.

Hiking: Explore over 20 miles of hiking trails through various ecosystems, including prairies, forests, and wetlands.
Wildlife Viewing: Observe native wildlife such as bison, deer, and various bird species.
Educational Programs: Participate in guided hikes, nature walks, and other educational programs.
Lake: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or canoeing on Lake Worth.

3.3. Burger’s Lake

Cool off at Burger’s Lake, a family-friendly swimming destination with a sandy beach, diving boards, and water slides. Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the water in this refreshing outdoor setting.

Swimming: Swim in the clear, spring-fed water of Burger’s Lake.
Diving Boards: Test your diving skills on the diving boards.
Water Slides: Enjoy thrilling rides down the water slides.
Picnic Areas: Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many picnic areas.

4. Family-Friendly Attractions and Entertainment

Fort Worth offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options specifically designed for families, ensuring that there’s always something fun to do, and here are some ideas:

4.1. Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the United States, and is a must-visit destination for families. With thousands of animals from around the world, interactive exhibits, and educational programs, the zoo offers hours of entertainment and learning.

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), zoos and aquariums provide substantial economic benefits to their communities, supporting nearly 200,000 jobs and contributing billions to the U.S. economy. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are leaders in animal care, conservation, and education.

Animals: See a diverse collection of animals, including elephants, gorillas, tigers, and penguins.
Exhibits: Explore themed exhibits such as the African Savanna, the World of Primates, and the Museum of Living Art (MOLA).
Interactive Experiences: Participate in interactive experiences such as giraffe feeding and the petting zoo.
Educational Programs: Attend educational programs and events designed to teach visitors about wildlife and conservation.

4.2. SeaQuest Fort Worth

Dive into an underwater adventure at SeaQuest Fort Worth, an interactive aquarium where you can get up close and personal with marine life. Touch stingrays, feed sharks, and explore diverse aquatic habitats, creating a memorable experience for the whole family.

Interactive Exhibits: Engage with marine life through interactive exhibits and activities.
Animal Encounters: Touch and feed various marine animals, including stingrays, sharks, and turtles.
Underwater Walking Tour: Take an underwater walking tour and explore diverse aquatic habitats.
Educational Programs: Learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans.

4.3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Unleash your creativity at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where families can explore a world of LEGO bricks and imagination. Build LEGO creations, ride thrilling attractions, and watch LEGO-themed movies in this fun-filled entertainment center.

LEGO Creations: Admire impressive LEGO creations and displays.
Rides: Enjoy thrilling rides such as the Kingdom Quest laser ride and Merlin’s Apprentice.
4D Cinema: Watch LEGO-themed movies in a 4D cinema with special effects.
Building Workshops: Participate in building workshops and learn new LEGO construction techniques.

5. Educational Outings and Learning Experiences

Combine fun with education by exploring Fort Worth’s museums and cultural centers, offering valuable learning experiences for families, and here are some of those experiences:

5.1. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning fun for all ages. Explore science, history, and technology through hands-on activities and engaging displays.

Exhibits: Explore exhibits covering a wide range of topics, including dinosaurs, energy, and space exploration.
Planetarium: Journey through the stars in the museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium.
Omni Theater: Watch educational films on a giant screen in the Omni Theater.
Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, demonstrations, and other educational programs.

5.2. Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Take a tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, where you can see how U.S. currency is made. Learn about the history of money and the intricate processes involved in printing banknotes, giving the kids a peek into the world of finances.

Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the facility and see the various stages of currency production.
Exhibits: Explore exhibits showcasing the history of U.S. currency and the technology used in its production.
Souvenir Shop: Purchase souvenirs, including uncut sheets of currency.

5.3. Log Cabin Village

Step back in time at Log Cabin Village, a living history museum that recreates 19th-century Texas pioneer life. Explore authentic log cabins, interact with costumed interpreters, and learn about the daily lives of early settlers.

Log Cabins: Explore historic log cabins and learn about their construction and use.
Costumed Interpreters: Interact with costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional crafts and skills.
Demonstrations: Watch demonstrations of blacksmithing, weaving, and other pioneer crafts.
Special Events: Attend special events such as festivals and historical reenactments.

6. Culinary Delights and Foodie Adventures

Fort Worth’s diverse culinary scene offers many opportunities for families to enjoy delicious food and foodie adventures, and here are some delicious escapades to think about:

6.1. Joe T. Garcia’s

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine at Joe T. Garcia’s, a Fort Worth institution. Enjoy traditional dishes such as fajitas, enchiladas, and margaritas in a beautiful outdoor garden setting.

Outdoor Dining: Dine in a beautiful outdoor garden with lush landscaping and fountains.
Tex-Mex Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Tex-Mex dishes such as fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos.
Margaritas: Sip on refreshing margaritas, a Joe T. Garcia’s specialty.
Family Atmosphere: Experience a lively and family-friendly atmosphere.

6.2. Heim BBQ

Savor mouthwatering barbecue at Heim BBQ, known for its delicious smoked meats and creative sides. Enjoy brisket, ribs, and pulled pork in a casual and family-friendly setting, a very Texan meal.

Smoked Meats: Enjoy delicious smoked meats such as brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.
Creative Sides: Try creative sides such as bacon burnt ends and mac and cheese.
Casual Atmosphere: Relax in a casual and family-friendly atmosphere.

6.3. Central Market

Explore the culinary delights of Central Market, a gourmet grocery store with a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and prepared foods. Enjoy a picnic lunch or sample tasty treats while browsing the aisles, giving everyone a delicious snack.

Fresh Produce: Shop for fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables.
Artisanal Cheeses: Sample a wide variety of artisanal cheeses from around the world.
Prepared Foods: Enjoy delicious prepared foods such as sandwiches, salads, and soups.
Picnic Lunch: Create your own picnic lunch and enjoy it at a nearby park.

7. Seasonal Events and Festivals

Fort Worth hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, providing families with even more opportunities for fun and entertainment, and here are some ideas for seasonal activities:

7.1. Main Street Arts Festival

Attend the Main Street Arts Festival, a popular annual event that showcases the work of talented artists from around the country. Enjoy live music, street performers, and interactive art activities in this vibrant celebration of creativity, typically hosted in April.

Art Displays: Admire and purchase artwork from a variety of artists.
Live Music: Enjoy live music performances on multiple stages.
Street Performers: Watch street performers such as jugglers, mimes, and musicians.
Interactive Art Activities: Participate in interactive art activities for all ages.

7.2. Fourth of July Celebrations

Celebrate Independence Day with spectacular fireworks displays and patriotic events throughout Fort Worth. Attend a parade, enjoy live music, and watch dazzling fireworks light up the night sky, and here are a few ideas for your family:

Fort Worth’s Fourth: Attend the city’s official Fourth of July celebration at Panther Island Pavilion, featuring live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Parades: Watch local Fourth of July parades in various neighborhoods.
Community Events: Attend community events such as picnics, concerts, and festivals.

7.3. Holiday Lighting Ceremony

Kick off the holiday season with the annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony in downtown Fort Worth. Watch as the city’s Christmas tree is illuminated, enjoy festive music, and experience the magic of the holidays, which is normally held the day after Thanksgiving, and here’s how your family can experience it:

Christmas Tree Lighting: Watch as the city’s Christmas tree is illuminated with thousands of lights.
Festive Music: Enjoy live music performances by local choirs and bands.
Holiday Activities: Participate in holiday activities such as ice skating and carriage rides.
Santa Claus: Meet Santa Claus and have your picture taken.

8. Sports and Recreation

For sports enthusiasts, Fort Worth offers several opportunities to enjoy exciting games and recreational activities, and here are some sporty options for family fun:

8.1. Texas Motor Speedway

Experience the thrill of NASCAR racing at Texas Motor Speedway, one of the premier motorsports venues in the country. Attend a race, take a tour of the facility, and immerse yourself in the world of high-speed competition.

NASCAR Races: Watch exciting NASCAR races featuring top drivers and teams.
Tours: Take a tour of the facility and see the garages, pit row, and victory lane.
Driving Experiences: Participate in driving experiences and get behind the wheel of a race car.

8.2. Fort Worth Cats Baseball

Cheer on the Fort Worth Cats, a professional baseball team that plays in the United League Baseball. Enjoy a classic baseball game with hot dogs, peanuts, and family-friendly entertainment.

Baseball Games: Attend exciting baseball games featuring the Fort Worth Cats.
Promotions: Take advantage of special promotions such as discounted tickets and giveaways.
Family Entertainment: Enjoy family-friendly entertainment such as mascot appearances and contests.

8.3. Golfing

Tee off at one of Fort Worth’s many golf courses, offering a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels. Enjoy a round of golf with family or friends while taking in the beautiful scenery, and here are some popular courses to research:

Colonial Country Club: Play a round at this historic course that hosts the annual Charles Schwab Challenge.
Hawks Creek Golf Club: Enjoy a challenging round at this scenic course with rolling hills and water hazards.
The Golf Club at Fossil Creek: Tee off at this course designed by Arnold Palmer, featuring beautiful landscaping and challenging holes.

9. Day Trips and Excursions

Extend your family adventure beyond Fort Worth by taking day trips to nearby attractions and destinations, and here are some day trip ideas:

9.1. Dallas

Explore the vibrant city of Dallas, located just a short drive from Fort Worth. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the Dallas Arts District, and the Dallas World Aquarium.

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza: Learn about the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
Dallas Arts District: Explore museums, theaters, and galleries in this vibrant cultural district.
Dallas World Aquarium: See a diverse collection of marine and terrestrial animals.

9.2. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Discover prehistoric footprints at Dinosaur Valley State Park, where you can see fossilized dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed. Hike, swim, and explore the natural beauty of this unique state park, which makes a fun activity.

Dinosaur Tracks: See fossilized dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed.
Hiking: Hike along scenic trails through the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Swimming: Cool off in the Paluxy River.
Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s picnic areas.

9.3. Granbury

Visit the charming town of Granbury, known for its historic town square, antique shops, and scenic lake. Explore the shops, dine at local restaurants, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Granbury, making it a peaceful outing.

Historic Town Square: Explore the shops, restaurants, and historic buildings in the town square.
Antique Shops: Browse a variety of antique shops and find unique treasures.
Lake Granbury: Enjoy boating, fishing, or swimming on Lake Granbury.

10. Budget-Friendly Activities and Free Fun

Enjoy fun family activities in Fort Worth without breaking the bank, thanks to the many budget-friendly and free options available, and here are a few thrifty alternatives:

10.1. Sundance Square Plaza

Visit Sundance Square Plaza, a vibrant downtown area with free events, live music, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy the interactive fountains, street performers, and outdoor seating in this bustling public space, which makes it great for people-watching.

Free Events: Attend free events such as concerts, movie screenings, and festivals.
Interactive Fountains: Let the kids play in the interactive fountains.
Street Performers: Watch street performers such as musicians, jugglers, and magicians.
Outdoor Seating: Relax and enjoy the atmosphere in the plaza’s outdoor seating areas.

10.2. Forest Park Miniature Railroad

Take a ride on the Forest Park Miniature Railroad, a historic train that has been delighting families for decades. Enjoy a scenic ride through Forest Park and experience the nostalgia of this classic attraction, a ride that kids will enjoy.

Train Ride: Enjoy a scenic train ride through Forest Park.
Historic Train: Experience the nostalgia of riding a historic train.
Affordable Fun: Enjoy an affordable family activity.

10.3. Free Museum Days

Take advantage of free admission days at Fort Worth’s museums, offering families the opportunity to explore art, science, and history without paying admission fees. Check the museum websites for schedules and details to see what’s on offer.

Kimbell Art Museum: Enjoy free admission to the permanent collection.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art: Always offers free admission.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: Offers free admission on certain days of the year.

With its rich Western heritage, vibrant arts and culture scene, and numerous outdoor and recreational opportunities, Fort Worth provides a diverse range of fun family things to do. Whether you’re exploring historic districts, engaging in educational outings, or enjoying outdoor adventures, Fort Worth offers something for every family to create lasting memories.

For more ideas, guidance, and resources to help you plan your next family adventure, visit hudsonfamily.net. Discover articles, tips, and community insights that will inspire you to make the most of your family time. Connect with us today!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are some fun outdoor activities for families in Fort Worth?

Fort Worth offers numerous outdoor activities, including exploring the Trinity Trails, visiting the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, and swimming at Burger’s Lake.

2. Are there any free things to do with kids in Fort Worth?

Yes, you can visit Sundance Square Plaza, take advantage of free museum days, and explore the Fort Worth Botanic Garden (some areas may have admission fees).

3. What are the best family-friendly museums in Fort Worth?

Top choices include the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, the Kimbell Art Museum, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art.

4. Where can families experience the Old West in Fort Worth?

Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District to witness cattle drives, rodeos, and explore Western-themed shops and restaurants.

5. What are some good restaurants in Fort Worth for families?

Consider Joe T. Garcia’s for Tex-Mex cuisine, Heim BBQ for barbecue, and Central Market for a variety of gourmet foods.

6. What seasonal events and festivals are good for families in Fort Worth?

Look out for the Main Street Arts Festival, Fourth of July celebrations, and the Holiday Lighting Ceremony.

7. Are there any unique attractions for kids in Fort Worth?

Yes, check out SeaQuest Fort Worth for interactive marine encounters and LEGOLAND Discovery Center for LEGO-themed fun.

8. What are some educational outings for families in Fort Worth?

Visit Log Cabin Village for a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life, and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to learn about U.S. currency.

9. What are some day trip destinations near Fort Worth?

Consider visiting Dallas, Dinosaur Valley State Park, or the charming town of Granbury.

10. Where can I find more information about family-friendly activities in Fort Worth?

For additional insights and tips, visit hudsonfamily.net for articles and community resources on family activities and planning.