Virginia Lee Brinkhus – June 23, 1945 – Aug. 28, 2026
Virginia Lee Brinkhus, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Aug. 28, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born on Jun…
Fort Worth with Kids — Family Activities Guide
Whether you're visiting Fort Worth with kids or a local parent looking for the next weekend adventure, The Fort Worth has compiled the most family-friendly activities, attractions, and tips. Organized by age range and indoor/outdoor — and we mark the free options.
Parent tip: The Zoo and the Botanic Garden are about 1.3 miles apart, so plan them as two stops rather than one. The Stockyards cattle drive runs twice daily, 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., and is free.
Top family activities
Fort Worth Zoo
All ages
Outdoor
Consistently ranked among top US zoos. Nearly 7,000 animals across 64 acres. African Savanna (opened 2018) and Texas Wild! exhibits. Strollers welcome.
Stockyards cattle drive
All ages
Outdoor
FREE
Authentic longhorn cattle drive twice daily (11:30 AM + 4 PM) through Exchange Avenue. Iconic + memorable for kids.
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
3+
Indoor
Cattle Raisers Museum, DinoLabs paleontology gallery, hands-on science. Has the Jane & John Justin Omni Theater (Cosm dome, rebuilt 2024) for an additional fee.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
All ages
Outdoor
Texas's oldest major botanic garden — 120 acres including the Japanese Garden. Stroller-friendly paths.
Trinity River trails (cycling)
6+
Outdoor
FREE
100+ miles of paved trails along Trinity River. Bike rentals available. Family-friendly sections near downtown.
Modern Art Museum + Kimbell
8+
Indoor
Kimbell is free with kid-friendly architecture (Louis Kahn). Modern Art has more challenging works. Both have family programs.
Best for different ages
Toddlers (1-3)
Look for splash pads, playgrounds, and short-attention-span venues. The local library often has free story-time programs for toddlers — check the schedule.
Preschoolers (3-5)
Children's museums, zoos, and farms work best at this age. Keep visits to 2-3 hours and have a backup activity ready.
Elementary (6-10)
Science museums, nature trails, and creative venues hit the sweet spot. This is when kids start absorbing local history and culture.
Tweens & Teens (11+)
Outdoor adventure (kayaking, biking, climbing), arts venues, and food tours work well. Let them help plan the day.
Rainy day activities
- Local museums
- Public library children's program
- Indoor play centers
- Bowling alleys
- Movie theaters
- Recreation center
Free things to do
- Public parks and playgrounds
- Public library programs
- Community pool (residents discount)
- Walking trails
- Free museum days (check schedule)
- Farmers' markets
Family-friendly restaurants
Many Fort Worth restaurants welcome kids — look for those with kids menus, outdoor patios (for active toddlers), and play areas. Brunch spots are often more family-friendly than dinner-only places.
Get family-friendly Fort Worth content weekly
Weekly newsletter with family events, school news, and what's worth your weekend.
Subscribe to The Fort Worth →Related guides
All things to do
Weekend itinerary
Complete Fort Worth guide
Best family-friendly spots
Civic calendar
More from The Fort Worth
Local guides, business directory, and how to reach our readers.
The Fort Worth GuideComplete The Fort Worth GuideDemographics, schools, things to doLocal PicksBest Restaurants in The Fort WorthCurated picksLocal PicksBest Parks in The Fort WorthGreen spaces & trailsLocal PicksBest Breakfast in The Fort WorthLocal favoritesLocal PicksFamily-Friendly FavoritesThings to do with kidsNetworkAbout Nexcom MediaAbout our publisher
