Founded in 1849 as a frontier outpost, Fort Worth was where “civilization” ended and the Wild West begun. Once a simple military fort to protect settlers from Indian raids, the small town has emerged into a sophisticated city. And the sophisticated city boasts a fantastic cultural district!
Exterior of the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
Located west of downtown, near the West 7th District, the Cultural District brings class and culture to Fort Worth. Most of these attractions are within walking distance of each other. So find a place to park (for free), and start strolling.
Exterior of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art
The Cultural District’s Art Museums
First, explore the three distinct art museums: the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. In subsequent posts, we will peruse the galleries of each of these museums. Collectively, the art museums anchor the Fort Worth Cultural District.
Inside the Omni IMAX Dome
The Cultural District’s Science and History Museums
In addition to art, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History adds a dose of, well, science and history. The exhibits are very family friendly. As an added bonus, the museum also features an Omni IMAX theater. You are transformed from watching a movie, to feeling immersed in the film as you are surrounded by the giant, curved and domed screen. We recently saw the film Jerusalem; the Omni IMAX sights and sounds wrap you in such a realistic experience that it made me feel as if I were back in Jerusalem, strolling the streets of the Old City.
Three more museums, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the Cattle Raisers Museum and the Leonard’s Department Store Museum round out the educational offerings.
Next door, catch a live performance at Casa Mañana, Fort Worth’s historic theatre.
The Cultural District’s Western Scene
If you are looking for some excitement, Will Rogers Memorial Center is home to the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. Even outside of rodeo season, Will Rogers frequently holds western competitions. Watch the horsemanship championships or meander through booths selling cowboy boots and western wear.
The Cultural District’s Natural Scene
If relaxing is in order, head to the near-by Fort Worth Botanical Garden, full of nature and beauty or the BRIT (Botanical Research Institute of Texas.)
The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens
In between all of these wonderful activities, check out some local bars, pubs and restaurants. For even more options, walk three streets over and enjoy the dining options in the expanding West 7th District.
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