Get Around Downtown

Downtown Fort Worth's walkability and connectivity are two of many reasons visitors love to stay in the heart of the city. Explore by foot or jump on Molly the Trolley, a free downtown circulator that stops at every major hotel and entertainment venue. Bike share options also exist with over 15 stations in the district. Flying in to DFW Airport? Opt to ride the TexRail line from Terminal B to Fort Worth Central Station. The station is home to Trinity Metro’s largest bus transfer center, Amtrak and Greyhound bus services. 
 

 

Breakfast & Coffee

Downtown’s local coffee scene has blossomed in recent years. Start your day with a cup of Joe from newcomers Son’s of Liberty and Vaquero Coffee Co. who have joined longtime downtown stalwarts Buon Giorno and Casablanca. If you’re looking for bites to-go, check out FunkyTown Donuts. This mom-and-pop shop offers a revolving menu that includes brisket donuts as well as beer to-go.
 
 

 

History & Architecture

The Fort in Fort Worth was established in 1849 on the bluff where the courthouse now stands. The city grew around the Fort, making downtown the oldest neighborhood of the city. As such, downtown is packed with history. Take a self-guided history tour along the Fort Worth Heritage Trails, a series of over 20 bronze markers placed throughout downtown telling of the people and events that shaped Fort Worth’s rich history.
 
Downtown boasts a premiere collection of architecture, as each generation has left its mark on the city. See the Zig Zag Moderne Art Deco of the T&P Building or the Courtyard by Marriott Blackstone Hotel; the Italianate grandeur of Bass Performance Hall; the mid-century charm of 500 West 7th; the cutting edge design of the Tarrant County Community College River Campus; and the classic Texas styling of the historic Tarrant County Courthouse. 
 
The Fort Worth Water Gardens have been a landmark since opened in 1974. Designed by famed architect Phillip Johnson, the gardens feature three photogenic pools, including the popular selfie spot “Sunken Pool”, which famously starred in the finale of the film "Logan’s Run." Explore Downtown Fort Worth’s other parks, including General Worth Square where John F. Kennedy gave an unplanned speech on Nov 22, 1963, and is now immortalized as a bronze sculpture, or Burnett Park, home to Jonathan Borofsky's towering “Man With Briefcase” sculpture.
 

 

 

Lunch

Fort Worth's diverse culinary scene goes far beyond standard Texas fares. Istanbul Grill offers unique Turkish dishes in an upscale environment. Waters Texas brings the freshest fine dining seafood into the heart of landlocked Fort Worth. A few blocks down Main Street, Grace and its sister restaurant Little Red Wasp, offer classic American flavors in upscale yet laidback settings. Bailey’s BBQ small operation packs a big punch serving up barbecue staples since 1931. 
 

 

 

Shopping & Visual Arts

Sundance Square’s carefully curated collection of shops ranges from local boutiques to national brand name emporiums. Seek out a uniquely modern west outfit from Overland Sheepskin or Parts Unknown. From the Virgin Olive Oiler and the Thomas Kinkade Gallery to the Steinway Piano Gallery and Houston Street Toy Company, you are sure to find the perfect piece to bring home. 
 
The Sid Richardson Museum is a destination for all who enjoy paintings of the Old West. The Museum features works by Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell and other artists from the personal collection of the museum's namesake, the legendary Texas oilman and philanthropist, Sid W. Richardson (1891-1959). The Fort Worth Public Art collection is comprised of 100+ works from renowned artists like Ned Kahn, Cliff Garten and Jonathan Borofsky. Popular selfie sports include Sundance Square’s Chisholm Trail Mural and the playful Tabachin Ribbon sculpture outside City Hall.
 


Happy Hour & Dinner

For incredible views of the downtown area, head to Branch & Bird, perched midway up a skyscraper with a sweeping outdoor patio. Acre Distillery, named after the notorious Hell’s Half Acre where the distillery now stands, produces small batches of whisky, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum, liqueurs and cordials. For the passionate sports fan, Chef Jon Bonnell’s Buffalo Bro's is the go-to with nearly 100 TVs packed into the room you will never miss any of the action. Top it off with a large beer menu and unmatched buffalo wings. 

Taste a true to Texas meal at Reata Restaurant. The quintessential steakhouse rises four stories in the heart of downtown and delights carnivores with its artfully prepared takes on fine western cuisine. If you are hankering for barbecue, stop by Riscky’s BBQ, just one block north of Sundance Square Plaza. Founded in 1927, Riscky’s is a Fort Worth staple.
 

 

Nightlife

You don't have to end the day while the sun is up. Pete's Dueling Piano Lounge keeps a high-energy atmosphere in a unique environment. Thompson's Bookstore's historic setting offers a mysterious vibe with a few hidden spots if you know where to ask. Hidden in an alley off Sundance Square, Scat Jazz Lounge requires a short elevator trip into the basement where some of downtown's best live music can often be found.