Enjoy the Outdoors

If you’re drawn to fresh air and open space, Fort Worth offers plenty of ways to spend time outside. Hike scenic trails, paddle through calm waters, or plan a laid-back outing at one of the city’s many parks.

Animal lovers of all ages flock to the Fort Worth Zoo, which is regularly ranked among the best zoos in the entire United States. This zoo–the oldest in Texas– features an interactive great apes exhibit, thrilling seasonal attractions, and a water play area with slides, splash pads, and more. Families should also take advantage of Fort Worth’s public parks–, Dream Park’s huge playscape with slides, climbing apparatuses, and special accommodations for disabled kids makes it a go-to Fort Worth family destination; Eagle Mountain Park offers lake trails, picnic lawns, and plenty of space for games and sports; and Trinity Park (right next door to the zoo) has a duck pond, a miniature train, and lots of hike & bike trails.

For a peaceful outdoor experience in Fort Worth, don’t miss the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, where you can explore over 2,500 plant species. The Japanese Garden, which includes stonework benches, stunning waterfalls, and soothing koi ponds, is a particularly noteworthy spot for outdoor serenity. The Fort Worth Water Gardens, an architectural masterpiece with rippling pools, rushing streams, and unique tree design, will also bring you into a place of calming beauty.

Browse through the vast selection of outside activity options starring Fort Worth lakes, Fort Worth parks, Fort Worth trails, and much more!

Spring into Action in Fort Worth

Families can explore neighborhood parks, playgrounds, and open fields or spend a relaxing afternoon at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and Japanese Garden, combining outdoor beauty with cultural experiences. Outdoor festivals, riverside yoga, and guided nature tours add even more options for things to do outside in Fort Worth.

Explore the Outdoors

For those who love hiking, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge features more than 20 miles of scenic trails through prairies, forests, and wetlands, where you can spot deer, bison, and a variety of bird species. Kayaking and paddleboarding along the Trinity River are popular choices for adventure seekers, while mountain bikers can test their skills at Gateway Park’s off-road trails.