The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the coolest places in the Dallas Fort Worth area. The premiere experience at the stockyards is watching the cattle drive. Great activity for an authentic Texas experience. In the Dallas area, this was one of my favorite activities that had a true Texas feel. You can watch the cattle drive, see cowboys, longhorns, and enjoy a bunch of gift shops and restaurants.
We watched the cattle drive which they have twice daily. It was a cool experience to watch the Longhorns walk up the street. They also gave some background and history beforehand on the cattle drive which was interesting.
It is also a cool little street that makes you feel like you are in the wild west. Lots of neat gift shops with souvenirs, antiques, art and other Texas paraphernalia. There are also lots of restaurants to stop and grab a bite to eat.
While it is pretty touristy, it is definitely worthwhile checking it out if you happen to be in the area. Pop into a couple places that have some
really beautiful handmade cowboy boots for men, women, and children.
The cattle drive happen at 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM each day.
Just after each cattle drive in the Stockyards Station section (which is a shopping and restaurant area) every Saturday and Sunday at 11:45 am immediately following the cattle drive, and again at 4:15 pm immediately following the 2nd cattle drive of the day.
Where to Eat and Park at The Fort Worth Stockyards
If you like a good steak, you must eat at Cattlemen’s Fort Worth Steak House. When I was there, it was one of the best steaks I have ever eaten. It is really a Fort Worth institution. On Yelp, the reviews are mixed but I would still go give it a try, it is worth it for the experience.
Parking at The Stockyards can be expensive. Unless you really want or need to park in the middle of the action, I would park behind Billy Bob’s Honkytonk. The parking there is only $5.00. In the center of the Stockyards, district Parking starts at $10.00 and goes up from there.
Links to My other Favorite Texas Destinations
Waco Mammoth National Monument
This sounds really fun! Definitely would give that “true Texan” kind of experience haha. I’ve never heard of it, so I’ll have to check it out next time I’min
Dallas
Maggie, it is a very cool place and if you have kids I think it can be a special trip for them. If you don’t have kids go for the evening cattle drive and check out the party places after dark.