Fort Worth Family Attractions: Find New Things to Do

From wild animals to water fun, families will find plenty to do in Texas. This is especially true in Fort Worth, an exciting metro located west of Dallas. The city welcomes all ages to play and make long-lasting memories with loved ones. To get some ideas, check out these Fort Worth family attractions.

Fort Worth Family Attractions Worth Visiting During Vacation

fort worth family attractions zoo

Fort Worth Zoo

Families love Fort Worth Zoo. From the hundreds of animals that call it home to outdoor activities, the zoo offers fun for all. In addition, it provides a home for 540 species, including birds, mammals, fish and reptiles. Elephants, bears, primates, rhinos, exotic cats, zebras and other animals welcome guests to learn about their environments. More than 148 species of birds also live at the zoo.

After seeing the animals, families have fun playing outside and seeing shows. The outdoor learning theater hosts animal shows. Younger children enjoy riding the train and carousel, stepping inside the weather simulator, climbing, and learning about the Wild West.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Part historic district, part attraction, Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District welcomes families to learn about Wild West heritage and Texas culture. Brick-lined walkways and buildings create the perfect backdrop for fun, games, and entertainment.

Tour Stockyards Museum to see historic artifacts and learn about influential people. Then play virtual games, ride horses, navigate the maze, hear live music and watch the cattle herd. Families also enjoy walking tours, mechanical bulls, ghost tours and rodeos.

fort worth things to do

SeaQuest Fort Worth

For hands-on interactions, head to SeaQuest Fort Worth. This attraction has more than 20,000 square feet of space where guests feed and meet animals from around the world.

Families can customize their adventure based on age and interests. Possible experiences include otters, stingrays, kinkajous and sloths. Additionally, guests may feed birds, pet lizards and watch marine life — and take photos of their adventure.

Texas Motor Speedway

Ranked among the top Fort Worth family attractions for racing, Texas Motor Speedway hosts Indy and NASCAR events and local races.

The track measures 1.5 miles with up to 24-degree turns in certain sections. In addition to the main track, the speedway has a road course, Lil Texas Motor Speedway and dirt track. When not watching races, shop for souvenirs, take a tour and try local food.

space museum texas

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

This attraction has grown into one of the most popular places for families to learn and play. While the museum started as a children’s museum, today it houses a DinoLab and DinoDig, Children’s Museum, planetarium, theater, and Cattle Raiser’s Museum. Its gallery houses changing exhibits from artists around the world.

Exhibits at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History include animals from Texas, dinosaurs, weather, space exploration, fashion, cars and historic events. The planetarium and theater host movies that allow guests to immerse in fun stories and the natural environment. In addition, families have access to STEAM programs and family clubs.

Sundance Square

Sundance Square is a hub for dining, shopping and entertainment. The area offers blocks of things to do and different options for families. Visitors can start by browsing local shops that sell art, apparel, candy, jewelry, gifts and toys. When it’s time to eat, explore new restaurants. Both chains and locally owned spots are located in Sundance Square.

In addition to dining and shopping, the area offers entertainment venues. See new releases at the movie theater, attend a concert, meet comedians and hang out with locals. There are also art galleries and museums.

lakes fort worth vacation home

Photo: iTrip Vacations Fort Worth

NRH2O Family Water Park

Summer in Texas means lots of sunshine and warm temperatures. When it’s time to cool off, head to NRH2O Family Water Park. This park has attractions suitable for all ages, so everyone can play at their own pace.

Families with children enjoy the lazy river and tadpole swimming hole. Those will school-age kids and teens have access to thrilling slides, tunnels, racers and wave pool. The park has slides in various shapes and sizes as well. When it’s time to refuel, grab a snack or refreshments from restaurants in the park.

Fort Work Lakes

Ranked among the best year-round Fort Worth family attractions are the nearby lakes. The city has nearly a dozen lakes where guests swim, rent boats, water ski, relax on beaches, fish and enjoy the view. Plus, there are hiking trails and picnic spots.

Visitors will find Lake Worth and Benbrook Lake closest to downtown Fort Worth. Located north of Fort Worth, Eagle Mountain Lake offers more than 9,000 acres to explore. Other popular lakes in Fort Worth include Grapevine Lake, Lake Bridgeport and Lake Whitney. For the ultimate trip, book a private Fort Worth vacation home on the lake.