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13 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Fort Worth

Been looking for some western things to do in Fort Worth? At Brumbaugh’s, we know a thing or two about rodeos. If you’re heading into Fort Worth to watch or compete in rodeo events, you’ll almost certainly find us at Will Rogers Memorial Center cheering on our own Elizabeth Brumbaugh as she competes in NCHA events or lounging in our booth in the Amon Carter Exhibition Hall.

But are you wondering what else to do once the rodeo is said and done? We believe in good ol’ fashioned Texas hospitality, so you won’t be bored on our watch. Here are 13 of the best western-themed things to do in Fort Worth – because it ain’t called Cowtown for nothin’. Here are our favorite things to do in Fort Worth:

1. Heim BBQ

Have you ever heard of a BBQ joint serving food so expertly crafted that it’ll draw people to stand in line for hours in the blazing Texas heat just to get a bite? Well, we have!

Heim BBQ Fort Worth

Credit: Lauren Bera

Heim BBQ is a new kid on the Fort Worth block, but they’ve already achieved near-legendary status thanks to their mouth-watering menu. Their offerings include what you might typically expect on a BBQ menu, but don’t be fooled: it is next-level. If you stop by Heim during their not-so-busy hours (between 3 pm and 6 pm on the weekends), you shouldn’t expect a terrible wait.

Pro-tip: Locals know that if you’re gonna eat at Heim, you gotta order the Bacon Burnt Ends. Shhh…. Just between us.

 

2. Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co.

After some BBQ, think about heading around the corner and visit the Firestone & Robertson Distilling Company, home of the now very popular TX Whiskey. While there are lots of brewery-related things to do in Fort Worth, this distillery is a little more unique.

Firestone & Robertson Distillery Fort Worth

Credit: @averyelizabeth

If you’ve never tried this particular spirit before, it’s a little different than you might expect from a typical whiskey. As a blended whiskey, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its sweet notes of vanilla and honey, the earthy taste of pecan, and a bright, citrusy finish of fresh oranges.

Located in another historical, pre-prohibition era warehouse near the Justin Boots factory, you can not only tour the distillery but also participate in tastings. Complete your time here with a look around their gift shop, which offers gifts and souvenirs for whiskey lovers galore, including tiny TX Whiskey bottles.

 

3. The Brumbaugh’s Mural

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention our famous “Postcard of Texas” mural, which emblazons the side of Brumbaugh’s Fine Home Furnishings on the west side of Fort Worth. This fun wall celebrates Texas, western heritage, the Aggies (Gig ‘Em), and was recently named by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram as one of the city’s most Instagram-worthy spots.

brumbaughs_mural_072617

Credit: Brumbaugh’s Fine Home Furnishings

Not only is this place a photo shoot hotspot, the inside boasts 50,000 square feet of the finest-quality western furniture Fort Worth can offer. Love leather? Crazy about cowhide? Totally tantalized by Tuscan decor? Then Brumbaugh’s is the place for you.

And don’t worry about hauling your discovered treasures back home – Brumbaugh’s will be happy to send your finds to you.

 

4. Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

No respectable ranch-dwelling cowboy can visit Fort Worth without taking a look around the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. This unique museum honors men (and women) who’ve made Texas proud through rodeo, philanthropic, and business success.

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Fort Worth

Credit: Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

Included in their many exhibits is one in particular which takes a special look into the life of the legendary Fort Worthian, John Justin, of Justin Boots fame. Also included are optional tours, a gift shop, and special exhibits for children, too!

Famous inductees include Lyle Lovett, Nolan Ryan, George Strait, and countless legendary horsemen. Texas country music star Pat Green will be inducted in January of 2018 and, if you’ve got some spare change to throw around, you can purchase tickets to attend the induction ceremony here.

 

5. National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Just around the corner from the Will Rogers complex and located next door to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is yet another fascinating must-see for all ages.

National Cowgirl Hall of Fame and Museum Fort Worth

Credit: National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

This visually stunning museum includes fascinating exhibits showcasing legendary women who, according to their website, “exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the American West.”

This attraction is known for its beautiful architecture, modern design, and its ability to inspire even the littlest of cowgirls with fun exhibits and interactive events. They also have a great souvenir shop which offers everything from home goods to art.

 

6. Billy Bob’s Texas

If you’re from anywhere in Texas, you’ve probably already heard about Billy Bob’s. As one of the most popular things to do in Fort Worth, the largest honky tonk in the world is famous for its lineup of country music events, huge dance floors, bull riding, and western atmosphere. 

Billy Bob's Texas Fort Worth

Credit: Billy Bob’s Texas

This 100,000 square foot club is a Fort Worth Stockyards staple and was once an open-air barn used for cattle back in the good ol’ days. Billy Bob’s is the real deal – it’s been nominated as Club of the Year by the Country Music Association 12 times. 

Another famous Fort Worth “landmark” actually lies within this honky tonk, where some of the most legendary country singers of all time have left moulds of their handprints on its walls. Famous prints include Gary Stewart, George Jones, Glen Campbell, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and many more. Newer artists like Garth Brooks, George Strait (long live the King), Dwight Yoakum, and Miranda Lambert also have their prints showcased here. You’ll just have to make a visit to see for yourself!

 

7. Fred’s Texas

Not in the mood for a huge crowd? Fred’s Texas is a great place to watch live country music, grab a few cold ones, enjoy the evening air, and hang out with the family without all the hullabaloo of a nightclub.

Fred's Texas Fort Worth

Credit: JetStream Outdoor Cooling

Fred’s is also famous for its burgers – especially the Fredburger, a ½ pound menu item which comes with hand-cut fries. A half pound patty not enough for ya? The Big Fred will certainly satisfy even the largest appetites and weighs in at a whopping ¾ pound.

Fort Worth has two Fred’s locations: the original, located in the 7th Street area (pictured above), and the newer location, which is located near TCU’s campus.

 

8. M.L. Leddy’s

Since 1922, Leddy’s has been hand-crafting exceptional-quality leather goods, like boots, saddles, and more. Once the Fort Worth location opened in 1941, locals have been relying on Leddy’s for only the finest in goods and customer service.

M.L. Leddy's Fort Worth

Credit: Emma Jenkins

This storied establishment is now so ingrained in Fort Worth’s culture, getting your first custom-made pair of boots is a well-known rite of passage in these parts. If you’re making your way to the Fort Worth Stockyards (and we know you are), a visit to Leddy’s has to be a part of your itinerary.

 

9. Lonesome Dove Western Bistro

Looking for some upscale things to do in Fort Worth? Lonesome Dove is the western bistro headed up by famed Chef Tim Love and it’s located right in the heart of the Stockyards.

Lonesome Dove Fort Worth

Credit: Adrian Valderrama

Their gourmet menu includes interesting fixin’s like rabbit-rattlesnake sausage, kangaroo carpaccio nachos (to die for), and rocky mountain elk loin. Although the menu may seem like it’s for adventurous eaters, trust us – their offerings are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Plus, the atmosphere is candlelit, romantic, and perfect for special occasions.

 

10. Fort Worth Herd

If you’re interested in a family activity that’s easy on the wallet, visiting the Stockyards to watch the Fort Worth Herd’s daily cattle drive through the streets is as budget friendly as it gets (hint, hint: it’s free)!

Fort Worth Herd by Dalton Zarko

Credit: Dalton Zarko

You can watch cattle drivers bring in the herd on East Exchange Avenue in front of the Fort Worth Stock Exchange Building at 1:00pm and 4:00pm each day. Plus, in between drives, you and the kiddos can even visit the herd in their pens behind the exchange building.

Local tip: On the weekends, there’s usually a steer hanging around on Exchange Avenue available for photo ops with you and the family!

 

11. Cattle Pen Maze

Another fun, family-friendly activity located in the Stockyards is the Cattle Pen Maze!

Fort Worth Maze

Credit: Veronica Sandoval

At only $6.00 a piece, visitors can make their way through the maze together or can compete against each other (and the clock). If you’d rather watch your pals attempt to finish the maze, an observatory deck is available for spectators.

 

12. Justin Boots Outlet

Remember the famous John Justin we mentioned before? You can see another little piece of history by visiting the Justin Boots Outlet store, which is located at the Justin Boots Factory right in the heart of Fort Worth.

Justin Boots Outlet Fort Worth

Credit: @colasuzyq

Here, you can find great deals on over 15,000 pairs of boots straight from the source and visit a historical site all in one. This is a can’t-miss stop for western-wear lovers of all ages, with great service to boot!

 

13. Sid Richardson Museum

If you’re into the finer things in life, the Sid Richardson Museum might be the place for you.

Sid Richardson Museum Fort Worth

Credit: Ricki Ewing

This museum holds the personal collection of art collector and famous Fort Worth philanthropist and oilman Sid Richardson. Also featured here are various exhibits that typically showcase art meant to highlight the beauty of the American Southwest. Located in downtown’s Sundance Square, plenty of restaurants and bars are within walking distance after you’ve completed your tour.

 

Y’all Come Back Now, Ya Hear?

Fort Worth is rapidly becoming a world-class city full of historical, fascinating, and fun activities and events. The people are friendly, the food is good, and we’re just the right mix of country and class. With plenty of things to do in Fort Worth, you won’t be disappointed.

Have fun enjoying your time in our great city, and we hope to see you at Brumbaugh’s soon!

 

Brumbaugh’s Fine Home Furnishings

11651 West Freeway

Fort Worth, TX 76008

817-244-9377

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