Attractions and Places To See in Tarrant County - Top 20

Tarrant County offers a variety of natural features. You can explore the extensive Trinity Trails, a system of over 100 miles of paved and gravel paths along the Trinity River, perfect for walking, running, or cycling. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Texas's oldest major botanic garden, spans over 100 acres with 23 specialty gardens. For a more wild experience, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is a vast wilderness area with diverse habitats and wildlife like bison and alligators. You can also visit Eagle Mountain Park for nearly 6 miles of natural hiking trails and scenic views.

Yes, Tarrant County has many family-friendly options. The Trinity Trails are great for all ages, and you might even spot Alpacas at CBT Trail. The Fort Worth Zoo, ranked among the top zoos, houses over 7,000 animals. For amusement, Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington offers numerous rides and shows. Other popular choices include LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas Fort Worth and SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium.

Tarrant County is rich in history. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District brings the Old West to life with daily longhorn cattle drives, museums, and shops. The Tarrant County Courthouse is an architectural landmark from the 1890s. You can also see the historic Henderson Street Bridge, built in 1930, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Thistle Hill, a cattle baron's mansion from 1903, offers a glimpse into the opulent past.

For art and culture, Tarrant County offers several renowned institutions. The Kimbell Art Museum is famous for its architecture and curated collection. The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth features international modern and contemporary art. You can also visit the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which honors women of the American West, or the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, showcasing American art from the 19th century to the present.

Absolutely. The Trinity Trails system, with over 100 miles of mostly paved paths, is ideal for cycling. You can also find specific sections like The Crystelle Waggoner Trailhead – Trinity Trails Gravel Section, known for its well-maintained limestone gravel. For more cycling options, explore the Road Cycling Routes in Tarrant County guide, which includes routes like the 'Trinity Trails: Stockyards and Downtown Loop'.

Tarrant County offers numerous trails for hiking and running. The Trinity Trails provide extensive options for all skill levels. River Legacy Trail East is a well-maintained paved trail with ample shade and views of Lake Viridian and the river. For more dedicated running routes, check out the Running Trails in Tarrant County guide, featuring trails like the 'Northshore Trail' and 'Eagle Mountain Park Trail'.

Yes, accessibility is considered in Tarrant County. The Phyllis J. Tilley Memorial Bridge is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge that is wheelchair accessible, connecting Trinity Park to downtown Fort Worth. Many sections of the Trinity Trails are paved and suitable for wheelchairs, offering a smooth experience along the river.

For scenic views, the Trinity River banks offer beautiful vistas, especially along the multi-use paved trails. River Legacy Trail East provides breathtaking views of Lake Viridian and the river. Eagle Mountain Park also offers scenic views from its natural hiking trails. The Fort Worth Water Gardens provide a unique urban aquatic landscape with various pools and waterfalls.

Beyond traditional hiking and biking, Tarrant County offers unique outdoor experiences. You can enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking on the Trinity River. Grapevine Lake provides recreational activities on the water. For a different kind of thrill, iFLY Fort Worth offers indoor skydiving. The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge allows for wildlife spotting, including bison and alligators, in a vast wilderness setting.

Yes, Tarrant County welcomes dogs in many outdoor spaces. The Henderson Street Bridge area is dog-friendly, as is River Legacy Trail East. Many sections of the Trinity Trails are also suitable for walks with your dog. Additionally, Nutt Lake Park is a dog-friendly location where you can enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

The best time to visit Tarrant County for outdoor activities is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring trails, parks, and other outdoor attractions without the intense heat of summer or the occasional chill of winter. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.

You can find facilities conveniently located near popular routes. For example, Johnny's Bike Shop is a highlight that also functions as a cafe, making it a great stop for cyclists and visitors exploring the area. Many urban areas and trailheads along the Trinity Trails also have cafes and amenities nearby.