Fort Worth, Texas, is sometimes overshadowed by its larger neighboring city of Dallas. However, there is plenty to do and see in this Texas city, especially for travelers on a budget. Home to a number of incredible museums, historic districts and outdoor spots to explore, a fun time can be had on a budget while in Fort Worth. These 10 budget-friendly things to do in Fort Worth are perfect for all types of travelers and all types of budgets.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Explore the oldest botanic garden in Texas, founded in 1935, while visiting Fort Worth. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden spans over 110 acres and has 23 specialty gardens. You don’t have to break the bank to view the 2,500 different plant species here either. Ninety percent of the garden has free admission, and the Japanese garden’s fee is quite low at $7 for adults and $4 for children.
Kimbell Art Museum
Art lovers will enjoy the unique art collection found at Kimbell Art Museum. The museum’s permanent collection — which is comprised of works from Picasso, Monet, Matisse, and other prominent artists — is always free. Only Kimbell’s special exhibitions cost money to view. With nearly 350 works of art along with a well-stocked gift shop, Kimbell Art Museum is a must-do for budget-conscious travelers.
Fort Worth Stockyards
Grab your cowboy hat and dress in your best Western boots for your visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Twice a day, view the cattle drive where real cowhands, cowboys, and longhorns walk through the Stockyards on Exchange Avenue. The Fort Worth Stockyards is a great place to explore for those on a budget, since it doesn’t cost a thing to browse this historic district and view the cattle drive. Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, to visit an authentic honky tonk and find some great barbecue too.
Fort Worth Water Gardens
If you need a rest from walking around the city or a break from the festivities occurring at the Fort Worth Convention Center, stop at the Fort Worth Water Gardens. This downtown oasis is a unique fountain and waterfall structure where many people flock to relax, reflect and enjoy the outdoors. Best of all, this tranquil sanctuary is absolutely free to enjoy.
Amon Carter Museum of American Art
There’s nothing better than free admission when you’re on a budget. Head to the Amon Carter Museum to view the best in American art, all for free. This museum has both a permanent collection and rotating, temporary exhibits. View art from famous American artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Stuart Davis. The museum also houses photography too.
Fort Worth Zoo
Fort Worth is home to one of the oldest zoos in Texas. The Fort Worth Zoo holds both native and exotic animals — more than 500 species, to be exact. Admission here is not free, but if you head to the zoo on a Wednesday you’ll only pay half price. There are 16 permanent animals exhibits here and an impressive 8-acre area full of plants and animals native to the Lone Star State.
Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
View Fort Worth’s extensive collection of international and American modern art at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. To save some money, visit this modern art museum on Wednesdays or Sundays. Visitors pay half-price admission on Wednesdays, but admission is free on Sundays. This museum, simply referred to as The Modern by locals, has nearly 3,000 works of art to view and is a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Trinity Trails
Another budget-friendly activity to do while in Fort Worth is exploring the city’s trails along the Trinity River. Perfect for running, walking, and cycling, the Trinity Trails have over 40 miles of pathways and 17 different trailheads. Since some of the trail is located near the Fort Worth Zoo, picnic along the Trinity Trails before hitting up that budget-friendly spot.
Sundance Square
Sundance Square is a historic district that spans 35 blocks in downtown Fort Worth. To save some dollars, grab yourself a coffee from a local coffee shop here and simply window shop the eclectic retail spots found at Sundance Square. Check out the local event calendar because sometimes Sundance Square plays hosts to a number of free outdoor and indoor events throughout the year.
Sid Richardson Museum
While browsing Sundance Square, hit up this free museum that is full of art from the American West. Sid Richardson Museum has both a permanent art collection and special exhibits that all feature Western artists and art like paintings and sculptures.
