This Father’s Day, skip the usual and treat Dad to a true Fort Worth experience. From smoky brisket that melts on the tongue to backyard-style grilling classes, from craft breweries pouring local suds to rodeo thrills in the historic Stockyards — this guide serves up everything you need to make Dad’s day unforgettable. Whether he’s a barbecue fanatic, a whiskey devotee, or a trail-riding adventurer, Fort Worth has a seat at the table just for him.
Caterina’s
For dads who believe dinner should still be an occasion, Caterina’s in the Stockyards delivers white-tablecloth service with an old-school Italian menu. Phones are checked at the door (literally), but there’s a red emergency phone at each table just in case.
128 E. Exchange Ave. #620, Fort Worth, TX 76164
caterinasftx.com | 682-267-0812
Cowtown Coliseum Rodeo Weekend
Celebrate Father’s Day with bronc riding and barrel racing in the historic Stockyards arena. Friday and Sunday’s Championship Rodeos flank Saturday’s Bill Pickett Invitational—a can’t-miss event honoring Black cowboy history.
121 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76164
cowtowncoliseum.com | 817-625-1025
Father’s Day Brunch at Martin House Brewing
Martin House goes all-in for Father’s Day with a brunch bash that’s family- and dog-friendly. Expect food trucks, more than 25 local vendors, live music, lawn games, and—of course—plenty of local beer. Parking is free.
Noon–5 p.m. June 15
220 S. Sylvania Ave. #209, Fort Worth, TX 76111
Father’s Day Canoe Fest
Glide along the Trinity River with Dad during this laid-back, first-come-first-served paddling fest. Canoes, life jackets, and guidance are provided—just bring sunscreen and five bucks in cash.
9 a.m.–1 p.m. June 15
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76135
fwnaturecenter.org | 817-392-7410
Father’s Day: Grilling with Dad at Central Market
Get hands-on in this guided cooking class where dads and kids team up to make beef and veggie kebabs, grilled potatoes, and a sweet finish. Grown-ups 21+ can toast the meal with a glass of wine.
11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. June 15
4651 West Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76107
centralmarket.com | 817-989-4700
Father’s Day Train — Grapevine Vintage Railroad
Take a scenic ride along the Historic Cotton Belt Route with a long stop at the Fort Worth Stockyards. Each dad gets a gift, and there are craft brews and concessions available onboard.
11:30 a.m.–7:15 p.m. June 15
705 S. Main St., Grapevine, TX 76051
gvrr.com | 817-410-3185
Fort Worth Japanese Garden
Escape the city’s buzz with a walk through koi ponds, shaded pathways, and quiet arched bridges. Nestled inside the Botanic Garden, this hidden gem is ideal for dads who appreciate peace, nature, and a little Zen.
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76107
fwbg.org | 817-463-4160
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
For dads who never outgrew their love of rockets and fossils, this museum hits the sweet spot. Don’t miss the Noble Planetarium or the Omni Theater for a cinematic deep dive into science and space.
1600 Gendy St., Fort Worth, TX 76107
fwmuseum.org | 817-255-9300
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
This 3,600-acre wild space is home to bison herds, hiking trails, and one of the most peaceful Father’s Day backdrops in town. Show up early for Canoe Fest—or just bring a pair of boots and roam.
9601 Fossil Ridge Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76135
fwnaturecenter.org | 817-392-7410
Goldee’s Barbecue
Ranked No. 3 in Texas Monthly’s most recent Top 50 BBQ Joints list, this southeast Fort Worth smokehouse still draws brisket lovers from across the country. Expect a wait—sometimes hours—but the fatty brisket, ribs, and house-made sausage make it worth the pilgrimage.
4645 Dick Price Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76140
goldeesbbq.com | 682-258-1896
John Wayne: An American Experience Museum
Dads get free admission on Father’s Day at this Stockyards museum dedicated to the Duke, plus 15% off at the retail shop. Saddle up for artifacts, photos, and a walk through Western film history.
9 a.m.–6 p.m. June 15
2501 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164
johnwayne.com | 682-224-0956
Log Cabin Village
Step back into 1800s Texas with this pioneer village in Forest Park. Costumed interpreters and hands-on history make this an especially fun pick for kids—and granddads with stories of their own.
2100 Log Cabin Village Ln., Fort Worth, TX 76109
logcabinvillage.org | 817-392-5881
Rahr & Sons Brewing Co.
Kick back in the taproom with a Texas Red or Dadgum IPA, and toast to fatherhood with three pours and a souvenir glass. The live music and food trucks most weekends are a bonus.
701 Galveston Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104
rahrbrewing.com | 817-810-9266
Whiskey Ranch
Overlooking rolling greens just east of downtown, Whiskey Ranch serves up panoramic views and serious pours of TX Whiskey. Swing by for a tour, a tasting, or just a damn fine bottle of bourbon.
4250 Mitchell Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76119
txwhiskey.com | 817-840-9140
