The Foundry District — a trademark property of M2G Ventures — is a relatively new district and also one of the few local developments that isn’t intersected by a bustling street or thoroughfare. The entertainment destination’s location just north of the Cultural District gives the area an unhurried feel.
Don’t let the easy-going atmosphere fool you, though. The Foundry District is an entertainment hotspot with a regionally renowned distillery, spacious brewery, arthouse movie theater and multiple dining options.
PLAY
Maple Branch Brewing Company
TCU grads Stuart and Allyssa Maples recently opened Maple Branch Craft Brewing, and the space has become a hotspot for Biergarten and patio lovers. Stuart brings years of award-winning homebrew experience. The accolades shine through with Maple Branch Brewing’s dozens of delicious and sometimes funky beers that cover the gamut from traditional to trending. There’s a small but potent food menu, and plenty of reasons to spend the better part of your visit at this gorgeous brewery.
Blackland Distillery
Fort Worth native Markus Kypreos founded Blackland Distillery with a winemaker’s sensibility. Wineries often speak of the “terroir” of the region, meaning the natural flavors infused in the wine by virtue of the quality of the soil and environment. Kypreos uses the features of North Texas’ Blackland Prairie when sourcing local grains for gins, bourbons, whiskies and other spirits. The tasting room alone is worth a visit. The dimly lit, minimalist space is one of the swankiest drinking spaces around.
The Grand Berry Theater
Fort Worth’s only arthouse theater features independent and foreign films that can’t be seen at your local AMC theater and the like. Owner and TCU grad Jimmy Sweeney has created a community space that spurs conversations about films and various topics explored through cinema. Grab a coke or can of wine, lounge on a comfy seat, and enjoy Fort Worth’s premium movie-watching experience.
Leonard’s Museum
Adjacent to M&O Station Grill is a museum that all Fort Worthians should visit. Leonard’s Department Store Museum brings the history of Fort Worth’s iconic retail store to life through photos, historic merchandise and informative displays. From a small grocery and merchandise store that opened in 1918, Leonard’s Department Store grew to occupy six blocks of downtown Fort Worth. The store became a centerpiece of daily life for Fort Worth families for several decades.
Inspiration Alley
Immerse yourself in Inspiration Alley, one of Texas' only permanent outdoor art galleries. This permanent collection of mural work is an art (and selfie) lover's dream come true. Discover over 40 works of art on display, including the #28mantras, nestled between the back walls of Blackland Distillery and Cowtown Marathon.
SHOP
The health benefits of CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids are well researched and documented. Thrive Apothecary is a one-stop shop for all things CBD. Owners Dr. Lisa Gardner-Phillips and Trey Phillips (retired FWPD) understand the scientific and practical applications of the products they sell. Doc’s Records and Vintage offers rows and rows of vinyl records. The space also carries posters, vintage clothing, comics and fun memorabilia. The owners of Gifted seek out purposeful and unique products from small businesses that “stay true” to the belief that well-crafted products can boost happiness while being kind to the earth, body and soul.
EAT
Locals rave about Clay Pigeon Food + Drink and for good reason. Led by Chef Marcus Paslay, Clay Pigeon’s menu rotates to reflect the best meats and veggies available at any point during the season. Nearby Angelo’s Bar-B-Que has served up Texas barbecue for more than 60 years.
Tulane’s sells barrel-aged cocktails, ginormous slices of pizza and New Orleans-themed fun. Save room for M&O Station Grill, the tucked-away eater that sells some of the juiciest burgers in town. The Toluca Burger (chorizo, fried egg, fire-roasted jalapenos, cheddar, green chili and sliced avocados) is one of the better-known, devilishly tasty burger options.
2 Hours in Downtown: 5 Miles in Fort Worth
The perfect walk around for visitors and locals looking to stretch their legs and get moving, this…