Fort Worth offers a unique blend of big-city energy and small-town charm, making it the perfect place to explore during the summer — whether you're here for a campus tour, taking a few classes or live nearby.  

1. Explore the stockyards
2. Make a splash at the water gardens
3. Go wild at the Fort Worth Zoo
4. Cool off at Burgers Lake
5. See a movie at the drive-in
6. Tour art museums
7. See downtown on a kayak

See the Cattle Drive and Snap an Iconic Photo at the Stockyards 

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a unique treasure. Step back in time and experience Western heritage. It’s the only place in the world with a twice-daily cattle drive, which happens at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. You can also learn more about the history and life of a cowboy at the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Stockyards Museum. 

There’s also plenty of restaurants, shopping and nightlife for you to enjoy.  

Distance from TXWES: 7 miles, 15 minutes 

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Make a Splash at the Fort Worth Water Gardens 

Within the hustle and bustle of the city lies a place with sparkling water features that you can explore for free. The Fort Worth Water Gardens has five water features, each offering a unique display of water from quiet reflections to rushing waters. It’s a great place to unwind and relax after exploring campus.  

Distance from TXWES: 3.4 miles, six minutes 

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Go Wild at the Fort Worth Zoo 

The Fort Worth Zoo has been ranked in the top zoos in the nation by Family Life Magazine, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today. With over 7,000 native and exotic animals and attractions like giraffe feeding, the outdoor learning theatre, Texas Wild! and more, there’s a lot to explore.  

Distance from TXWES: 7.3 miles, 13 minutes 

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Cool Off at Burgers Lake 

If you’re ready for a swim, look no further than Burger’s Lake. The locals love the spring-fed lake, which has sandy beaches, six diving boards, a 20-foot slide and 25-foot trapeze. Have an adventure or simply relax on the beach — either way, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some water!  

Distance from TXWES: 13.2 miles, 20 minutes 

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Catch a Movie at the Coyote Drive-In 

Did you know there’s about 300 drive-in movie theaters left in the United States? In the 1950’s, there were over 4,000. That makes Fort Worth’s Coyote Drive-In extra special! Drive up, grab some food and a drink from the restaurant, and sit back in the comfort of your own car as you watch a movie on a big screen.  

The drive-in theater even offers a playground for kids, live music and outdoor games! 

Distance from TXWES: 4.7 miles, nine minutes 

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Make Life Colorful with Art Museums 

The Fort Worth Cultural District is home to four world class art museums, all within walking distance of each other. Each museum offers different collections, from modern masterpieces to western beauty.  

• Amon Carter Museum of American Art 
• Christian Arts Museum of Fort Worth 
• Kimbell Art Museum 
• Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth 

But art museums aren’t the only ones in the cultural district — there’s also the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Cattle Raisers Museum. 

Distance from TXWES: 7.4 miles, 12 minutes 

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See Downtown on a Kayak 

Want a unique way to see the Fort Worth skyline? Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard at Panther Island Pavilion and see Downtown from the Trinity River! Paddle along the scenic river framed with trees and skyscrapers. Part of the proceeds help with river conservation.  

Distance from TXWES: 5.1 miles, 10 minutes 

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