Photo: Guido Belgeri
Photo: Hugo Stachel
Photo: David McBee
Fort Worth Stockyards
★4.8(26,898 reviews)$$Activity
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger elementary kids are captivated by the cattle drives and cowboy culture, while tweens enjoy exploring the shops, learning about history, and the hands-on western experience. Toddlers can enjoy the sights but may get restless during longer walks.🧡 Saved by 200+ families
About
Step back in time at the Fort Worth Stockyards, where families can experience authentic Old West history through twice-daily cattle drives featuring real Texas Longhorns marching down Exchange Avenue. Kids will be thrilled by the rustic boardwalks, western shops filled with cowboy gear, and the chance to see real cowboys and cowgirls in action at this living piece of Texas heritage.
Highlights
- ✓Twice-daily authentic cattle drives with Texas Longhorns (11:30 AM and 4 PM)
- ✓Historic wooden boardwalks and Old West storefronts perfect for photos
- ✓Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and Stockyards Museum
- ✓Live country and western music performances on weekends
- ✓Western-themed shops where kids can pick out cowboy hats and boots
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 20-30 minutes before the cattle drive (11:30 AM and 4 PM daily) to get a good viewing spot along Exchange Avenue near the corrals
- 2.Park in the free lots on the north side of the Stockyards and walk across,it's easier than navigating the busy main area
- 3.Visit the Stockyards Museum (small admission fee) for air-conditioned learning and restrooms when kids need a break
- 4.Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water,there's limited shade along the wooden boardwalks and it gets hot in summer
- 5.Check the schedule for free live music at the outdoor stages on weekends for extra entertainment between cattle drives
Best Time to Visit
Visit Friday through Sunday mornings arriving by 11 AM to catch the first cattle drive, explore shops when it's cooler, and avoid the largest weekend afternoon crowds. Fall and spring offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor exploring.
What to Know
The Stockyards area itself is free to explore and open 24/7, though individual attractions, shops, and restaurants have varying hours and costs. Parking is available in several free and paid lots within easy walking distance, and the compact area is stroller-friendly on paved surfaces.
Seasonal Notes
The Stockyards host special events year-round including the Stockyards Championship Rodeo (most weekends), Christmas light displays in December, and the annual Stockyards holiday parade. Summer can be extremely hot, so early morning or evening visits are more comfortable June-August.
Nearby Eats
Riscky's Steakhouse offers a kid-friendly menu with Texas BBQ favorites in a casual atmosphere. Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is perfect for families wanting authentic Texas barbecue with picnic-style seating and quick service.
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