When you head to Cowtown for the USTRC’s Cinch National Finals of Team Roping April 21 to April 28, you’re going to be busy at the Will Rogers Memorial Center.
But the schedule allows for great dinners out in Fort Worth and nights on the town, plus enjoying all the event has to offer outside of the arena. Here’s our roundup of add-on activities that will help make your trip to Fort Worth one you and your family will remember forever.
Billy Bob’s Texas
There’s only one Billy Bob’s. “The World’s Largest Honky Tonk” opened its doors in 1981 and, since then, the facility has been a Stockyards staple. This year, country music star Chris Young will play Billy Bob’s April 26 to 27 for the USTRC crowd in town. Operated by team ropers and rodeo industry icons Billy and Pam Minick, Billy Bob’s is a must-visit in Fort Worth. billybobstexas.com; 817-624-7117
Location: 2520 Rodeo Plaza,
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
Mule Alley
The Fort Worth Stockyards have transformed into a true Western mecca, filled with the finest dining, shopping and sightseeing in Texas. With brand stores for most of the industry’s leading apparel companies and custom boot shops galore, Mule Alley is a Western shopper’s paradise. PLUS, you can meet the team behind the American Paint Horse Association, whose offices are now headquartered there. The capstone piece of Mule Alley? The Hotel Drover—the new Stockyards landmark with fine dining, luxurious rooms and Western elegance. mulealleyfortworth.com
Location: 122 E Exchange Ave
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
Joe T. Garcia’s
Indulge in authentic Tex-Mex cuisine at Joe T. Garcia’s, a beloved Fort Worth institution since 1935. Dine in the lush garden patio or vibrant dining rooms while savoring mouthwatering fajitas, enchiladas and margaritas. Remember—bring cash because Joe T.’s doesn’t accept cards. joetgarcias.com; 817-626-4356
Location: 2201 N Commerce St
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
Silver Fox
If you want to run into the who’s who of the horse industry while slicing into a prime steak or lobster, the Silver Fox is the spot. The wait staff is familiar with many of its regulars: ropers and horsemen and horsewomen who know the Silver Fox is the hangout after everything from the ARHFA World Championship to the World’s Greatest Horseman. It’s just minutes from the Will Rogers, and the selection of food and wine is tough to beat. silverfoxcafe.com; 817-332-9060
Location: 1651 S University Dr,
Fort Worth, Texas 76107
Stockyards Museum
Dive into the rich history of the Stockyards at the Stockyards Museum, featuring exhibits on cattle drives, cowboys and the development of Fort Worth as a major livestock market. Housed in the historic Livestock Exchange Building, this museum offers fascinating insights into the area’s past through photographs, artifacts and interactive displays. stockyardsmuseum.org; 817-625-5082
Location: 131 E Exchange Ave
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
John Wayne: An American Experience
Discover the iconic legacy of John Wayne at the John Wayne: An American Experience museum in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards. With more than 400 personal and professional memorabilia pieces, you can delve into the actor’s journey to achieve the American dream. From rare photographs to cherished possessions, witness the enduring impact of his iconic roles on American cinema. Immerse yourself in the captivating story of a true legend at this must-visit exhibition. johnwayneae.com; 682-224-0956
Location: 2501 Rodeo Plaza
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
H3 Ranch Steakhouse
Experience the finest in Texas steakhouse dining at H3 Ranch, known for its hand-cut steaks, hearty cowboy fare and extensive whiskey selection. Located in the heart of the Stockyards, this historic establishment offers a true taste of the Old West. You’ll run into plenty of Western industry icons dining there, too, as it’s a Cowtown favorite for the movers and shakers of the cowboy world. h3ranch.com; 817-624-1246
Location: 105 E Exchange Ave
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
Stockyards Championship Rodeo
If you didn’t get enough cowboy action during the day at the Will Rogers, head to the Cowtown Coliseum to catch the excitement of the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, held every Friday and Saturday night. You’ll get the inside scoop on who’s trying out a new partner, who’s working on their reaching on a new mount and who’s going to be tough in the small setups. cowtowncoliseum.com; 888-269-8696
Location: 121 E Exchange Ave
Fort Worth, Texas 76164
—TRJ—
