Things to See and Do in Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, Texas isn't just about great barbeque joints and country music. The bustling city is actually a melting pot of cultures, and visitors can experience just about anything they desire on their trip. Whether you spend the day outdoors exploring the Fort Worth Zoo, or inside taking a peek at the Stockyards Museum, Fort Worth has something for everyone.

The Japanese Garden Inside the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens

With over two dozen separate gardens, the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens seems endless. But the Japanese Garden's blend of native plants and culture makes the ticket well worth the price of admission. Along the garden's winding path, visitors will see waterfalls flowing into Kio-fish ponds surrounded by tropical flowers and lush plants native to Japan. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of life in the Far East as the garden boasts Zen gardens and original works of Asian art crafted in stone. The Japanese Garden stays open daily. As of 2011, admission costs $4 for adults and $3.50 for children ages 4-12.

The Kimbell Art Museum

While small in size, the Kimbell Art Museum holds collections from around the world. This art museum has passed on American paintings in favor of Asian, European and African works of art. Visitors can see original creations by Rembrandt, Picasso and Matisse. The Kimbell holds Monet's first painting. Beyond the paintings, the Kimbell Art Museum houses antiques ranging from ancient Egyptian pieces to the early Christian era. The museum stays open from Tuesdays through Sundays and offers free admission to view the permanent collections.

The Stockyards

Fort Worth got its start as a stomping ground for cowboys and cattle ranchers. Thousands of cattle herders brought their stock from Mexico to Forth Worth to meet the incoming railroads. They met at the Stockyards, a place to sell cattle, grab a drink or take in a rodeo. Today, the Stockyards have become a much beloved monument. Visitors can tour museums devoted to the days of the great cattle drives, eat at some of the finest steak restaurants in the state or take in some live music at one of the Stockyard's many bars.

Sundance Square

Sundance Square has become the cultural center of Fort Worth. During the day, visitors can stroll down the sidewalks and window shop at famous boutiques, or stop by a small café for lunch. At night, visitors can take in an independent film, dine in a five star restaurant or spend the night listening to music in a club. Sundance Square stays open year round, but the summer heat may make it unbearable for some tourists.

The Fort Worth Zoo

Pink Flamingos running wild and free greet you at the door to the Fort Worth Zoo. From there, visitors can see rare and endangered animals from all over the world. If an animal exists, chances are it's found a home at the Fort Worth Zoo. The Fort Worth Zoo's biggest claim to fame lies in their habitats. Every animal gets a live and open habitat similar to their native dwelling. As a result, visitors get the experience of being in the rainforest, or deep in the ocean or standing in the sands right along with the animals.

Attractions; Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Hours of Operation; Fort Worth Botanic Garden.
Museum Information; Kimbell Art Museum.