Fort Worth consistently tops lists of the best places to live in the United States. It ranks as U.S. News and World Report’s ninth-best place to retire. There’s plenty to do in this vibrant city, including lots of day trips and fun excursions. Here are the best senior-friendly day trips in and around Fort Worth, Texas.
Dallas
Why not visit another thriving metropolis in Texas? Dallas is just a 45-minute drive away and offers its own unique culture. Check out the Cavanaugh Flight Museum for a unique take on aviation history. Or spend the day bar- and restaurant-hopping. Don’t forget to check out the world-famous Addison Improv Night Club, which hosts some of the nation’s best and most beloved comedians.
Museum Day
You don’t have to leave Fort Worth for a truly memorable day trip. Instead, consider spending a day in the Cultural District, where you can check out some of the city’s best restaurants and greatest museums. Some museums to put on your list include:
- Kimbell Art Museum
- Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
- National Cowgirl Museum
- Texas Civil War Museum
- Thomas Kinkade Gallery
If you don’t want to plan a specific itinerary and just want to enjoy a chance to learn about the city you love, try signing up for a Cultural District Walking Tour.
Fort Worth Stockyards
You’ll find more than just cows and ropes at the Fort Worth Stockyards. This unique region offers everything from Old West throwback events to decidedly modern dining. Some Stockyard stops you absolutely can’t miss include:
- Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame
- Vintage Flying Museum
- Adobe Western Art Gallery
- Military Museum of Fort Worth
And of course, no Stockyard visit could be complete without a cattle drive. They happen daily at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Kilgore Oil Country
Known as the home of the “world’s richest acre,” Kilgore was once the capital of Texas oil country. If you’ve ever wondered what fuels this powerful industry or wanted to see oil wells for yourself, you can’t miss Kilgore. The town isn’t as rich in oil as it once was, but it offers plenty of interesting historic sites, including the East Texas Oil Museum.
Denton Horse Country
Horse lovers absolutely must see Denton, the capital of North Texas Horse Country, at least once. Enjoy a self-guided driving tour, or schedule a horseback riding trip at one of Denton’s many legendary horse farms. For an even more fun trip, plan your visit for the end of April, when Denton’s annual Arts and Jazz Festival is in full swing.
Cedar Hill
Cedar Hill is the perfect day or weekend trip, boasting a robust range of outdoor activities year-round. Consider camping in Cedar Hill State Park, which offers 1,200 acres of bike and hiking trails, a fully stocked fishing hole, lake fishing, and stunning limestone hills. Cedar Hill also accepts volunteers, if you want to spend your summer helping other people learn to love the great outdoors.
Outlet Shopping
Fort Worth is home to some of the country’s best—and most affordable—outlet malls. Consider planning a shop-’til-you-drop excursion to the city’s best outlets. Check out these great bets:
Lake Murray
Don’t be fooled by Lake Murray’s Oklahoma address. It’s just an hour and 45 minutes from Fort Worth, and well worth the trip. The lush blue lake sits beneath verdant hills and the historic Tucker Tower. The lake itself features more than 150 miles of shoreline perfect for a wide range of activities, including hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. Take the grandkids on a trip to the Nature Center or spend the weekend relaxing in one of Lake Murray’s floating cabins.
For even more fun activities, check out the Vantage at Cityview, the Arbor Company’s premier senior living community in Fort Worth. We offer plenty of fun day trips, as well as community activities, classes, gourmet dining, and a continuum of care that supports your aging-in-place goals. We’d love to show you what a thriving retirement can look like. Give us a call to plan your visit!
