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Nearby Destinations

Nearby Destinations

Texas, USA

Dallas, Texas

Approximately 30 miles (48 km) east of downtown Fort Worth. The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) commuter rail has direct weekday and Saturday service between Fort Worth Central Station and Dallas Union Station. Greyhound bus service is also available. Driving typically consumes around 30-45 minutes without heavy traffic; prepare for congestion during peak hours.

Dallas presents a more cosmopolitan urban experience. Must-see attractions include The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, exploring the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The Dallas Arts District houses world-class institutions like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Travel Styles

  • Dallas is easy to visit independently using the TRE or a car.
  • Many organized tours focus solely on Dallas.
  • Combining a Fort Worth trip with a day in Dallas is a common approach for Metroplex visitors.
  • Find day trip options: GetYourGuide

Natural Escapes

For those seeking outdoor adventures and natural beauty, several state parks and natural areas exist within a reasonable drive from Fort Worth.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Approximately 60 miles (97 km) southwest of Fort Worth. Driving is the only method, taking approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. No public transit.

Best Time to Visit

  • Visibility of footprints relates to river levels.
  • Visit when river levels are low.
  • Check park's official website or call for current conditions.

Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway

Approximately 50 miles (80 km) west of Fort Worth. Driving is the only method, taking approximately 1 hour. No public transit.

Activities

  • Rock climbing (with permits and gear).
  • Extensive hiking and equestrian trails.
  • Fishing in Lake Mineral Wells and various lake activities.

Planning Your Park Visit

Verify Details

  • Check official websites for entrance fees.
  • Confirm operating hours before arrival.
  • Review reservation needs, especially on weekends.
  • Understand any specific permit requirements.

Important Considerations

  • River levels impact dinosaur footprint visibility.
  • Rock climbing requires proper permits.
  • Seasonal weather may affect park access.
  • Adhere to all park rules and signage.

Park Details

  • Entrance FeesVaries by Park
  • Operating HoursCheck Park Website
  • ReservationsOften Needed Weekends
  • Permit RequirementsSpecific Activities
  • River ConditionsDinosaur Valley
  • Wildlife AlertsSeasonal
  • Fire BansDuring Dry Periods
  • Trail ClosuresDue to Weather

State Park Visits

Confirm details on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for entrance fees, operating hours, and any necessary reservations, especially on weekends.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond the immediate Fort Worth area, you might explore towns with distinct cultural or historical significance, for a dive into Texas heritage.

Waco, Texas

Approximately 95 miles (153 km) south of Fort Worth. Driving is the main method, taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Waco gained prominence from Magnolia Market at the Silos. Other attractions include the Dr. Pepper Museum, and The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. The Waco Mammoth National Monument is an active paleontological site where viewing in situ mammoth remains is possible.

Glen Rose, Texas

While known for Dinosaur Valley State Park, the town of Glen Rose itself has a quaint small-town charm. The Paluxy River presents recreational opportunities beyond the dinosaur footprints. Nearby, the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center delivers an unique drive-through safari experience to see various exotic and endangered animals in large enclosures.

Cedar Hill State Park

Approximately 30 miles (48 km) southeast of Fort Worth. Driving consumes approximately 40-50 minutes. This park stands on Joe Pool Lake, with excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking on its trails. It also has a preserved 19th-century farmstead (Penn Farm Agricultural History Center).

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Known for its preserved dinosaur footprints in the Paluxy Riverbed, this park offers an unique connection to prehistoric times. Visitors walk in the river and see these ancient tracks.

Park Features

  • Dinosaur footprints visible during low river levels.
  • Hiking trails and picnic areas.
  • Camping facilities for overnight stays.

Lake Mineral Wells State Park

The only Texas state park permitting rock climbing, it also has varied outdoor activities centered around its lake and expansive trail system.

Outdoor Activities

  • Rock climbing with proper permits.
  • Equestrian and hiking trails.
  • Fishing, boating, and swimming in the lake.

Outdoor Adventure Tips

Check conditionsBefore You Go
Pack waterStay Hydrated
Sun protectionEssential
Wear appropriate shoesFor Trails
Leave no traceProtect Nature
Know your limitsSafety First

Responsible Outdoor Visits

  • Minimize your impact by staying on marked trails.
  • Carry out all trash, leaving no trace behind.
  • Respect wildlife by observing from a distance.
  • Confirm park rules and any fire bans before visiting.
  • Support park conservation efforts through donations or fees.

Multi-Day Extensions

Fort Worth serves as an excellent starting point for longer regional explorations, enabling you to combine your visit with other major Texas cities.

Austin & San Antonio

Combining a trip to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with a few days in Central Texas (Austin and San Antonio) creates a comprehensive Texas experience.

Travel Connections

  • The I-35 highway corridor presents a direct driving route.
  • Amtrak's Texas Eagle route connects Fort Worth to San Antonio.
  • Driving: Approx. 3-4 hours from Fort Worth to Austin.

Suggested Routes

After time in Fort Worth and Dallas, travel south to Austin and San Antonio. This offers a progression from Fort Worth's Western heritage to Austin's live music scene and San Antonio's historic significance.

Example Itinerary

  • 3-4 days in Fort Worth/Dallas.
  • 2-3 days in Austin (live music, Capitol).
  • 2-3 days in San Antonio (Alamo, River Walk).

Multi-Day Travel Planning

Consider open-jaw flights to avoid backtracking and maximize your time when planning a broader Texas exploration.

Open-Jaw Flights

Fly into DFW, depart from Austin or San Antonio.

Book Early

Secure accommodations in popular cities well in advance.

Map Your Route

Plan your travel between cities for efficiency.

Smart Extension Planning

Maximize exploration time by flying into DFW and out of Austin or San Antonio, or vice versa, to avoid backtracking.