City Cheat Sheet: A Travel Guide for Fort Worth, Texas

Photography by Joseph Haubert Photography.

WHY VISIT THE LEGENDARY CITY OF COWBOYS AND CULTURE of Fort Worth, Texas? The Scout Guide Fort Worth editor Leigh Brown can name a few reasons. Interested in world-class museums? You’re in luck. “Fort Worth is home to three major institutions: Amon Carter Museum of American Art, The Kimbell, and The Modern,” Leigh says. If you’re seeking exceptional family amenities, you won’t be disappointed by The Fort Worth Zoo (“The #1 zoo in the country,” she notes). And if sporting events are your cup of tea, TCU has much to offer. “Go Frogs!” Leigh says.

Ready to plan your visit (or staycation)? Here, Leigh shares her favorite local finds and activities for taking in her city.

*Please note that due to COVID-19 some of these businesses might be closed or have specific guidelines in place. We recommend calling ahead and/or visiting their websites for the latest information on their status, offerings, etc. 


WHERE TO STAY // The Ashton Hotel (610 Main Street). A fabulous boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Fort Worth. Book your room early, because the 50-room hotel can fill up fast.

Hotel Drover (200 Mule Alley Drive). Scheduled to open in early 2021, this hotel is situated in the historic Stockyards and offers guests an authentic Texas experience—think rustic, chic rooms with luxurious features.

The Worthington Hotel (200 Main Street). An upscale hotel with contemporary, comfortable rooms that’s conveniently located downtown.


WHAT TO DO // The Stockyards National Historic District. Walking around and exploring this district allows visitors to witness the center of cowboy culture, which is alive and well in Fort Worth.

Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (new state-of-the-art Dickies Arena). During January each year, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo offers the most authentic western lifestyle experience anywhere. Great for the whole family.

Kimbell Art Museum (3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard), The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth (3200 Darnell Street), and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art (3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard). All of these art museums are unique and deserve a few hours of your time. Kimbell offers Michelangelo’s first painting, and The Modern includes a serene reflecting pool. Last but certainly not least, the Amon Carter has a can’t-miss photography collection.

Clearfork Farmers Market (4801 Edwards Ranch Road). This market takes place every Saturday, year-round, and offers visitors the opportunity to see and buy from over 25 local farms, ranches, and artisan studios.

Trinity Trails (300 North Main Street). A huge system of trails—more than 100 miles!—that’s perfect for walking, running, or biking around Fort Worth.


WHERE TO SHOP // Simple Things Furniture (7401 West Vickery Boulevard in Benbrook). Full of treasures for the home, you’ll definitely leave with some design inspiration.

You Are Here (5109 Pershing Avenue) carries beautiful and timeless apparel, accessories, gifts, shoes, and a curated selection of fine jewelry.

Esther Penn (3328 West 7th Street) is a women’s fashion boutique with a California-cool vibe perfect for everyday or a special occasion.

Hale House (4900 Camp Bowie Boulevard) is a fabulous lifestyle boutique with a little something for everyone, including apparel, jewelry, home goods, gifts, and accessories.

Stanley Eisenman Fine Shoes (6333 Camp Bowie Boulevard & 5144 Monahans Avenue) is a family-owned Fort Worth institution offering designer footwear, curated merchandise, and exceptional service.

Birdie (4933 Camp Bowie Boulevard). A women’s boutique focused on casual luxury silhouettes with a feminine/minimalist aesthetic.

B Kids (6323 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Suite 151) is an excellent source of clothes, accessories, toys, and gifts for children that’s particularly great for tweens.

Babies on the Boulevard (6323 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Suite 145) offers classic and timeless styles, shoes, and gifts for newborns through age 6.


WHERE TO EAT // Righteous Foods (3405 West 7th Street). A family-friendly and healthy cafe that offers energizing brunch grinds and bowls. There’s a great patio, too.

Joe T. Garcia’s (2201 North Commerce Street). A fun, delicious lunch option. Enjoy their famous nachos while sitting in the beautiful gardens.

Heim Barbeque (1109 West Magnolia Avenue & 5333 White Settlement Road). If you’re in need of a barbecue fix, this mom and pop shop is the place to go.

Pacific Table (1600 South University Drive). An ideal dinner spot. Try the grilled artichokes, Brussels sprouts salad with Manchego, and a side of French fries.

Provender Hall (122 East Exchange Avenue, Suite 110). Chef Marcus Paslay’s newest concept in the Stockyards is another great dinner option.

Bonnell’s (4259 Bryant Irvin Road). An upscale-rustic destination known for unique, Texas-style Southwestern cuisine, including wild game.

Ellerbe Fine Foods (1501 West Magnolia Avenue). This restaurant, with its superb farm-to-table experience, works fabulously for a special night out. Be sure to check out their hard-to-find selections of wine and champagne!

Loft 22 Cakes (106 East Daggett Avenue). Known for famously beautiful cakes and delicious treats, including the Caveman cookie with caramel drizzle!


WHERE TO DRINK // Craftwork Coffee Co. (1121 West Magnolia Avenue). This place will take care of your caffeine needs when you’re searching for a quick pick-me-up.

Thirty Eight & Vine (212 Carroll Street Suite 130). Currently open for curbside pickup or delivery, this is a prime place to purchase a delicious bottle of wine.

Blackland Distillery (2616 Weisenberger Street). An upscale cocktail lounge and tasting room serving up spirits with their very own vodka, gin, bourbon, and rye whiskey.


LOCAL PRO TIP // You can take in some of the beautiful views of downtown from The Amon Carter Museum.

You can download this Fort Worth Cheat Sheet by clicking here. For additional recommendations for what to do, see, and experience in Fort Worth, follow The Scout Guide Fort Worth on Instagram.