Cowgirls And Log Cabins - Layover In DFW Part 2
Fort Worth has the only cowgirl museum in the world
In our last post we looked at things to do in Dallas when on a layover in Dallas Fort Worth Airport. But let’s not forget about the other major city near this airport - Fort Worth. It started life as an army outpost but is now a prosperous city, with large natural gas reserves underground. However you can still get a feel for its proud Western heritage with some of the attractions on offer.
Sundance Square
One place to get a feel for the city’s heritage is Sundance Square, where a modern shopping and entertainment complex is housed behind renovated storefronts that date from the turn of the 20th century. Great food and live performances are only some of the attractions, and you can also choose to tour the area in a horse drawn carriage or a trolley.
Western History
To really open the history book, though, you will have to visit the Fort Worth Stockyards historic district. This was once the second largest cattle market in the world - it’s no wonder that Fort Worth was once nicknamed Cowtown. The rise of the trucking industry eventually spelled the end of sending livestock by rail and the era of large cattle auctions was over. But many of the landmarks of this era have been preserved, including the Exchange Building, which now hosts the Stockyards Museum, and the Coliseum. There are Wild West shows as well as annual events, and this is also a great area for nightlife.
Cowgirls And Log Cabins
There’s even more history on offer in the Log Cabin Village, which consists of several renovated log cabins dating from the mid 1800s. I must admit that I’d be tempted to visit the one room schoolhouse (I was a Little House on the Prairie addict as a little girl). For something completely different check out the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the only one of its kind. This is where you can find out about the contribution of women to the American West.
Animal Attractions
Back to more traditional pursuits, a trio of attractions rounds out this first exploration of the delights of Fort Worth. The Fort Worth Zoo has recently been ranked one of the nation’s top zoo. It’s come a long way since its origins in 1909 with only a handful of animals. There’s a new penguin exhibit, a primate exhibit and Raptor Canyon, which features four endangered species. Parrot Paradise is a feast for the eyes, as these colorful birds fly free.
Back To Nature
Delight the senses in other ways with the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. One of the oldest and largest natural attractions in Texas, this 2100 acre park has lots to offer, including the popular and restful Japanese Gardens. Finally, round out your visit with a trip to the Modern, as the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is known. It’s a good way to get back to the 21st century before you end your layover.
Photo: Mary Vogt
Tags: Attractions, dallas fort worth, dfw, fort worth attractions, offsite airport parking
