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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Texas, USA

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): This is the main international gateway for the entire Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. DFW ranks among the busiest airports globally and is a major hub for American Airlines. It is approximately 20 miles (32 km) northeast of downtown Fort Worth.

DFW Airlines & Routes

  • Serviced by major domestic carriers: American, Delta, United, Southwest, Frontier, Spirit.
  • Numerous international airlines: British Airways, Lufthansa, Qatar, Emirates, Qantas, Air Canada.
  • Direct flights from London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Seoul, Dubai, Sydney, Mexico City, Toronto.

Dallas Love Field DAL & Price Fluctuations

Dallas Love Field (DAL): Closer to downtown Dallas, about 35 miles (56 km) east of downtown Fort Worth. DAL mainly functions as a hub for Southwest Airlines, offering domestic flights and some regional international connections. It serves as a viable option if Southwest offers suitable routes.

Seasonal Pricing

  • Flight prices typically rise during peak seasons: Spring Break (March), summer (June-August), major holidays.
  • Shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall) offer better deals.
  • Lowest fares often in January and February (excluding holidays).

Flight Deals

Consider Dollar Flight Club for discovering affordable fares.

Price Comparison

Use Skyscanner for comparing flight prices from various airlines.

Booking Strategy

Booking several months in advance usually leads to better prices (3-6 months for international, 1-3 months for domestic).

Airport Facilities & Services DFW

Terminals & Connections

  • DFW has five terminals (A, B, C, D, E).
  • Skylink automated people mover connects all five terminals post-security.
  • Pre-security, Terminal Link shuttles provide connections.
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout terminals.

Amenities & Services

  • Wide array of restaurants, cafes, and shops (duty-free in Terminal D).
  • Various airline lounges and independent lounges.
  • Currency exchange, ATMs, baggage storage.
  • Nursing rooms, pet relief areas, interfaith chapels.

Transfers from Airports to Fort Worth

From DFW Airport

TEXRail connects DFW Terminal B directly to downtown Fort Worth (45 min trip, $2.50-$6 fare). Trinity Metro Express Bus (Route 280, 281) to CentrePort. Shared-ride shuttles, taxis ($50-$60 to downtown), Uber/Lyft also exist. Rental Car Center via shuttle.

From DAL Airport

DART Rail (Love Link 524 to Inwood/Love Field Station, then Green or Orange Line) to Dallas Union Station, then Trinity Railway Express (TRE) to Fort Worth Central Station (limited weekend service). Shared-ride shuttles, taxis, rideshare are more expensive due to distance. Rental cars available on-site.

Planning Transfers

Check TEXRail/TRE schedules, specifically for weekend or late-night travel. Allow ample time for transfers. The GoPass app helps with public transit ticketing and tracking. Consider distance and traffic when choosing between public transport, rideshares, or taxis.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

TEXRail: This commuter rail line directly connects DFW Airport and downtown Fort Worth (Fort Worth T&P Station and Fort Worth Central Station). It operates seven days a week, a reliable airport transfer and local movement option.

Other Rail Services

  • Trinity Railway Express (TRE): Commuter rail linking Fort Worth Central Station to Dallas Union Station (weekdays/Saturdays only). Travel time is approx. 1 hour.
  • Amtrak: Fort Worth is served by Amtrak at the historic Fort Worth T&P Station.
  • Texas Eagle: Connects Chicago to San Antonio, stops in Dallas and Fort Worth (tri-weekly).

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound: Greyhound operates extensive intercity bus services across the United States. Its station in Fort Worth provides connections to numerous cities, presenting an affordable long-distance travel option.

Other Bus Options

  • FlixBus: Another intercity bus provider to and from select cities, often with competitive fares and comfortable buses. Check their routes for connections to Fort Worth.
  • Bus stations are generally well-connected to local public transit for arrival in the city.
  • Consider travel times for longer journeys.

Self-Driving Considerations

To drive a car in Texas, you need a valid driver's license from your home country. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or sometimes required alongside your original license. Most rental car companies expect renters to be at least 21 years old and may charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

Roads & Traffic

  • Roads and highways in Fort Worth and surrounding areas are generally well-maintained.
  • Traffic congestion can be substantial during peak commute hours (6:30-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:30 PM weekdays).
  • Many highways and express lanes are toll roads; rental cars often have transponders. Inquire about rental company toll policy.

Car Rentals

All major international car rental companies operate in Fort Worth and at DFW/DAL airports. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Alamo, Thrifty, and Dollar.

Booking & Location

  • It is wise to book your car rental in advance, especially during peak seasons or major events.
  • The DFW Airport Rental Car Center is off-site, accessible by a free dedicated shuttle from all terminals.
  • For competitive rates, consider DiscoverCars.com.

Important Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • A right turn on a red light is permitted after a full stop, unless signs prohibit it.
  • Speed limits are clearly posted and enforced.
  • Laws against distracted driving, like texting while driving, are in effect.
  • Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and toll road navigation.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

The United States does not impose a specific "departure tax" for air travel. Any applicable taxes or fees related to your departure are typically included in your airline ticket price. You will not encounter additional fees upon leaving the country.

Arrival Times at Airport

  • International Flights (DFW): Arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled flight.
  • Domestic Flights (DFW/DAL): Arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Confirm airline's baggage allowances and restrictions to avoid excess fees.

Security & Transit

Be prepared for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security screening procedures. This typically involves removing electronics from your bag, adhering to the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids, and sometimes removing shoes and belts. Check TSA guidelines for current information.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers DFW

  • All five terminals offer comprehensive facilities: check-in counters, baggage drop, TSA checkpoints.
  • Wide range of dining and retail (including duty-free in Terminal D) post-security.
  • If using TEXRail or TRE for airport transfer, allow extra time for potential delays and connections.

Confirm Flight Status

Reconfirm your flight status the day before and the morning of your departure to verify delays or gate changes.

Check Schedules

For public transit to the airport, check the latest schedules, especially for weekend departures or early morning/late evening flights.

Ground Transportation Center

DFW's Ground Transportation Center (near Terminal B) connects to the Rental Car Center and TEXRail. Familiarize yourself with its location.

Specialized Transportation

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for general tourist transit in Fort Worth compared to some larger cities or scooter-friendly destinations. Some specialty shops may present motorcycle rentals, typically for experienced riders.

Electric Scooter Sharing

  • Electric scooter-sharing programs, common in other U.S. Cities, are not widely implemented or used for tourist travel in Fort Worth.
  • Motorcycle rentals cater to experienced riders and specialized touring.
  • Check local specialty shops for availability.

Bicycle Sharing Programs

Fort Worth Bike Sharing: This program presents bicycles for rent at numerous docking stations throughout downtown Fort Worth, the Cultural District, and along sections of the Trinity Trails. You can rent bikes using the BCycle app.

Exploring by Bike

  • An excellent way to explore walkable areas at your own pace.
  • Independent Bike Shops: Several local bike shops offer daily or multi-day bike rentals.
  • Helmets are recommended for all cyclists.

Car & Bike Rental Quick Guide

Car Rental

Daily cost: $40-$100+. Widespread availability (DFW, DAL, city locations). Flexibility for large distances and AC in summer. Considerations: traffic, parking costs, tolls.

Bicycle Rental

Daily cost: $10-$25. Available downtown, Cultural District, Trinity Trails. Scenic exploration and eco-friendly for short distances. Considerations: limited range, weather dependent, traffic safety.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Availability is low for general transit. More for specialized touring by experienced riders. Best to verify locally for specific needs.

Walking & Cycling

Many areas are designed for pedestrian and cycling enjoyment.