Just 30 miles outside of Dallas, Texas in Fort Worth is the national historic district appropriately called The Stockyards. Visiting Fort Worth is like being transported back in time to the Wild West. There are cowboys, cattle, saloons, honky-tonks, and so much more. We recently took a trip out there and we have so much to share!
Here are all the things we experienced on our western themed trip to Fort Worth
Stay
Let’s start with Hotel Drover. This stunning western boutique hotel definitely sets the tone for this dreamy town. The entire hotel is curated to fit a modern country western theme and it doesn’t disappoint. We can go on and on about how cute and comfortable the rooms were – because they were! But the real star of the show here is the hotel’s property. It’s the perfect spot for a getaway, a wedding, or even a business trip. The property is relaxing yet energizing. You’ll find yourself constantly exploring and finding a new curated piece you missed the first time around. They describe it as a “rustic-luxe oasis” and we couldn’t think of a better way to describe it. You just have to experience it yourself!
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Eat & Drink
If you’re looking for good food, we suggest the very popular Joe. T Garcia’s. Seriously, everyone kept telling us to eat there. They have a beautiful garden patio perfect for lunch or dinner. Please note that they only take cash or checks but there are ATMs on site if you forget this tidbit. If you’re looking for more food options, try Second Rodeo Brewing in Mule Alley. There you’ll find a unique dining experience including truck style booth seating! Seriously, it’s an experience!
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Now for the drinks! What’s a trip to Fort Worth without a trip to the famous honky-tonk, Billy Bob’s? Make sure to check the schedule before you head out because you never know which iconic artist might be performing there. For a round of low-key beers, check out PR’s Saloon. Lastly, giddy up to Sidesaddle Saloon, aka the cowgirl bar, for tapas and happy hour!
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Bonus: If you want a little taste of Austin in Fort Worth then hit up Nickel City – Fort Worth. It’s the same, but different! Why? You’ll just have to see for yourself.
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Shop
Get ready to look the part! From cowboy boots, jeans, and even bolo ties, we found some amazing goodies by just walking around the Stockyards. We stopped in Wrangler, Tecovas, Tucker Brown, and Proper Supply Co. Then, of course, there’s the little obscure stores that you just pop into that have a little of everything! We especially loved Maverick’s Fine Western Wear and Flea Style for all the hidden gems around each corner! Pro-tip: get a little taste of Flea Style inside Hotel Drover with their pop-up store called Wide Brim, located directly in the lobby. They have a customizable hat bar where you can add ribbon, feathers, and other little accessories to your hat. What we’re really saying is, be prepared to shop till you drop!
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Experience
Let’s dive deeper into the western experience that is the Stockyards. Not only can you catch the rodeo while you’re there but they have multiple museums. If there’s anything cooler than a John Wayne museum, it’s a COWGIRL museum! And if you really want to feel like you’ve transported back in time you can watch the longhorns heard twice a day right there on Main Street. On weekends you might even catch a gunfight show! No matter how old you are, we promise you, you’ll really enjoy this trip.
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Fort Worth really leans into the western history and theme and we’ve got to say, we absolutely love it. We think you will too. It’s such a unique experience. It doesn’t matter if you grew up in Texas or if you’re new here, you’ll catch yourself leaning into the western vibes yourself. You might even two-step out of there!