Fort Worth, Texas Weekend With Kids

Ft. Worth feels like a big city and a small town at the same time. It feels like a big city because of its diversity and culture. But, the people are so friendly and hospitable that you feel like you are in a small town. The rich history of cowboys and the cattle business in the old west is the foundation of this great place, and it still influences the people here today. This is evident throughout the city. There are large wall murals painted on the side of downtown buildings depicting cattle drives and rodeos. There are even sculptures of longhorn cattle placed on some curbsides. I was thrilled with the historic atmosphere.

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Fort Worth Zoo
The Ft. Worth Zoo is one of the top ten zoos in the country. It is home to many exotic animals from all over the world. But, one of the most fun parts of the zoo is the section that is dedicated to the native wildlife of Texas. Sub-divided into parts to represent the many regions of Texas, you get an appreciation for just how large ... More >
The Ft. Worth Zoo is one of the top ten zoos in the country. It is home to many exotic animals from all over the world. But, one of the most fun parts of the zoo is the section that is dedicated to the native wildlife of Texas. Sub-divided into parts to represent the many regions of Texas, you get an appreciation for just how large and diverse the state can be.
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Fort Worth Botanic Garden
I definitely recommend a visit to the Ft. Worth Botanic Garden while you are in town. Admission is free, making it a great value for the family. Some sections charge a small fee to get in, but it is worth it. I especially enjoyed the Japanese Garden section. It was worth the $5.00 per person that we paid to be among such beauty and... More >
I definitely recommend a visit to the Ft. Worth Botanic Garden while you are in town. Admission is free, making it a great value for the family. Some sections charge a small fee to get in, but it is worth it. I especially enjoyed the Japanese Garden section. It was worth the $5.00 per person that we paid to be among such beauty and peace. I suggest planning a visit in the fall, because the temperatures are more comfortable than the hot Texas summer. If you plan to have a meal at the garden, you may want to avoid the restaurant, which is over priced in my opinion, and pack your own picnic lunch to eat on the lawn. Overall, Ft. Worth Botanic Garden is a fun and educational opportunity for everyone in the family.
One of the most popular night spots for music in the Stockyards is Billy Bob's, an old cattle barn that houses its own indoor rodeo arena and touts itself as "the world's largest honky-tonk".
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Stockyards Historic Area
Cowboy related activities abound in this historic section of Ft. Worth. There are cattle drives, rodeos, and even classic trains to ride. I had fun just doing some shopping and dining in the shops, restaurants and nightclubs that now occupy the old cattle holding pens. One of the most popular night spots for music in the Stockyards is... More >
Cowboy related activities abound in this historic section of Ft. Worth. There are cattle drives, rodeos, and even classic trains to ride. I had fun just doing some shopping and dining in the shops, restaurants and nightclubs that now occupy the old cattle holding pens. One of the most popular night spots for music in the Stockyards is Billy Bob's, an old cattle barn that houses its own indoor rodeo arena and touts itself as "the world's largest honky-tonk". I recommend finding out in advance when they are putting on one of the old west shows they do, like the reenacting of a cattle drive through the yard. It is a lot of fun to watch.
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Fred's Cafe
If you enjoy down home cowboy cooking, then you owe it to yourself to eat at Freds Texas Caf in Ft. Worth. It looks and feels just like a typical greasy spoon diner that you could find in anytown, U.S.A., but with some unique twists. One such twist is the owner, who dubs himself the Outlaw Chef. He has on the menu some items you don... More >
If you enjoy down home cowboy cooking, then you owe it to yourself to eat at Freds Texas Caf in Ft. Worth. It looks and feels just like a typical greasy spoon diner that you could find in anytown, U.S.A., but with some unique twists. One such twist is the owner, who dubs himself the Outlaw Chef. He has on the menu some items you dont expect from a diner, like quail and eggs. I recommend eating Freds cheeseburger and rib eye steak, which the locals agree is one of the best anywhere. The green chile and lamb stew is also delicious, but only served when the fresh chiles are in season. I understand the outlaw chef himself travels to hand pick the chiles that they use. Be warned, though, it is spicy!
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Fort Worth Museum of Science & History
As I looked at the exhibit schedule of the Fort Worth Museum of Science & History, I could clearly see this museum gets a lot of really cool traveling exhibits. We happened to visit during the run of an exhibit about the life and work of Leonardo DaVinci, which was very fun. But don't worry; I'm sure any exhibit that travels here is just as entertaining. The museum has many permanent features as well, including a planetarium and an IMAX theater. It is located in the heart of Ft. Worth's Cultural District, which is home to several other famous museums within walking distance of each other, including the Kimbell Art Museum and the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame.
It is home to many exotic animals from all over the world.
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Best Western Inn and Suites
What impressed me the most about the Best Western Inn and Suites in Ft. Worth is the attention that the staff pays to the guests. The front desk people were very helpful in answering questions I had about getting around the city. The housekeeping staff was very accommodating of our need for extra towels for everyone. But most of all, the manager took time to talk to me personally, asking friendly questions to make conver... More
What impressed me the most about the Best Western Inn and Suites in Ft. Worth is the attention that the staff pays to the guests. The front desk people were very helpful in answering questions I had about getting around the city. The housekeeping staff was very accommodating of our need for extra towels for everyone. But most of all, the manager took time to talk to me personally, asking friendly questions to make conversation, while at the same time making sure all our needs were taken care of. Plus, the prices are very reasonable. You would expect to pay more for such great service and attention to guests. I would stay here again, and definitely recommend it to any travelers with kids.
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About the Author

Ross Pincock
Ross Pincock
I love music! I have spent most of my life either playing and writing music or listening to a live performance. I also love the outdoors, particularly camping, hiking, bicycling and sitting around the campfire. I am a father and I love spending time with my kids.
Websitemyspace.com/rosspincock
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