Fort Worth, Texas is home to numerous popular tourist attractions that often draw plenty of visitors and long lines. However, when you want low-key things to do and explore, there are plenty of hidden gems tucked away in this city. Venture from your Fort Worth vacation rental to ride horses along the Trinity Trails, or shop for authentic Mexican gifts at La Gran Plaza. Begin your hunt for the best secret spots in Fort Worth starting with this list of nine incredible attractions.

1. Stockyard Stables

While the Trinity Trails are popular for morning walks and hiking, you may also wonder why you see groups of people riding horses on this trail that outlines the Trinity River. Stockyard Stables, a hidden gem in the Fort Worth area, is home to stables of breeds trained to trot in the historic Northside during a 30-minute to one-hour rides. Get a direct view of the skyline in downtown Fort Worth while mounted on a horse on Trinity Trails when signing the entire family up for a horseback riding adventure at this stable located at 128 E. Exchange Avenue.

2. Maxwell-Liston House

Spend an afternoon sight-seeing with a stop at the Maxwell-Liston House, located at 712 May Street in Fort Worth. This historic home from the early 1900s is located in the Fairmont neighborhood and has been restored from the days when James Liston, Sr., was shot on his back porch. The controversial homeowner ran saloons in Fort Worth’s “Hell’s Half Acre” and was killed over bar receipts. Although you can’t tour the inside of the home, you can walk around the entrance gate to view the stunning architecture.

3. Jesus BBQ

Go back in time and enjoy an amazing dinner in Fort Worth that is made to order and “piping hot.” Jesus BBQ Family Restaurant offers a mix of both barbecue and Mexican food. Located at 810 South Main Street in Fort Worth, this establishment that has been in business since 1969, is known for its quaint shoebox exterior. Step inside and order from the variety of entrees that range from chicken fried steaks to enchiladas. This hidden gem sells out of beef barbecue early, so it may be worth your time to stop in for lunch versus dinner if you want to taste the heavenly specialty of Jesus BBQ.

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4. Airfield Falls

Seek out one of the most stunning hidden gems in Fort Worth with a day at Airfield Falls. As the only natural waterfall in the city, Airfield Falls, located at 200 Pumphrey Drive, can be found by heading through the trailhead built in 2011. Ride bikes along the trails or take a leisurely walk to reach the falls where you can wade through the shallow waters or dip your feet into the cool, refreshing waters on a hot summer day. The conservation area that leads to the falls includes a walkway, bridges that lead to the falls, and shady areas ideal for a family picnic. This park offers convenient parking.

5. Southwest Community Center

While the Southwest Community Center is a mecca for children’s activities, athletic attractions, and summer camps, this Fort Worth hidden gem also knows how to display local art. Stop in at the center to see the building’s mural that features puppeteers at the top representing neighborhood children. Created by Artist Michael Kirby, the mural offers a colorful and playful view that spans 25 feet by 95 feet. After taking a selfie in front of the mural, head indoors to learn more about special programs for your children during your stay in a Fort Worth vacation rental.

6. National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Put on your boots and stomp your way into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, a hidden gem in Fort Worth that features more than 4,000 artifacts of legendary cowgirls. Browse exhibits and displays honoring women such as Annie Oakley, Sacagawea, and Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. This specialty museum is located at 1720 Gendy Street in Fort Worth.

7. Clearfork Food Park

Get some good eats while relaxing waterside when visiting Clearfork Food Park in Fort Worth. Located across from the Fort Worth Zoo at 1541 Merrimac Circle, this hidden gem features a circle of food trucks offering Mexican, barbecue, and American fare. Known as a permanent cantina, you can also find live music under the pavilion on the weekend evenings. Feel free to bring Fido along, as this is a dog-friendly park.

8. Coyote Drive-In Theater

Opt for an evening of old-school entertainment when pulling your vehicle into the Coyote Drive-In Theater. This vintage drive-in offers double features on Friday and Saturday evenings for the entire family to enjoy. Located at 223 NE 4th Street in Fort Worth, this vintage theater also doubles as a restaurant. Grab some popcorn to eat on your tailgate or chow down on burgers and pizza. The theater has beer on tap for the adults in your crew.

9. La Gran Plaza

If you are searching for an eclectic or bazaar gift for that special someone, venture to La Gran Plaza, located at 4200 South Freeway, five miles south of Sundance Square in Fort Worth. Head out from your cozy vacation rental to browse more than 200 stores in this 120,000 square-foot market. This Mexican-style shopping mall offers home-cooked cuisine, clothing stores with authentic Mexican garb, and serenades from vocalists and mariachis.


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