Summer in Texas can be brutal with boredom and on A/C units. But in Fort Worth, it doesn’t have to be on your wallet. There are options to save some bucks with these not-so-expensive venues, some of which the kids could fancy, too.
Billy Bob's Texas − billybobstexas.com
Billy Bob's Texas is not just the must-see destination for tourists − there’s plenty of fun in store for locals. Check out the concert calendar to find out who is taking to the stage. General admission tickets range between $14 to $20 for most shows. Entrance to watch live bull riding is only $4 more on Friday and Saturday nights. Or kick your heels up at Billy Bob's free line dance lessons, which are scheduled several times each week.
Rogue Brick Builder's Lounge − roguebrick.com
This one's fun for kids of all ages, and the cool concept is also an air-conditioned activity for kids − just when things are really heating up. Rogue Brick Builder's Lounge opened last year, and if you have any Lego-lovers in the house, this is the way to spend some quality time. Builders can select from about 30 feet of supplies. Choose from specialty Lego sets or bulk bricks, and you can either follow the directions or simply follow your own creative spark. $10 per visit or $40 per month.
Rockin' the River − rockintheriverfw.com
This free, weekly concert series has a twist. The waterfront stage is on the banks of the Trinity River, and the concert-goers get to float with friends or hang out on the shore while they take in the show. It's a uniquely Fort Worth concert venue that has grown in popularity every year. Check out the website for all the dos and don'ts, but this is not really a kid-friendly experience, in fact, with loud music and alcohol, kids under 30 inches tall are not even allowed in the water. Parking is $10 and tube rentals are $6 (with a $2 deposit).
Sundance Square Free Movie Nights − sundancesquare.com
The free movie series takes place on Thursday evenings in the plaza. All shows start around 8:30 p.m., and moviegoers are invited to bring blankets or chairs for seating. Beverages are available for purchase in the plaza during the movies, and restaurants will be open throughout the evening. The remaining showings are: July 11 – “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018), rated PG-13; July 18 – “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” (2018), rated PG; July 25 – “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” (2018), rated PG-13.
Burger's Lake − burgerslake.com
Generations of Fort Worthians have chilled out in this spring-fed swimming hole. The 30-acre park has two sandy beaches for sunning, and its surrounded by plenty of mature trees providing shade as well. Enjoy a cookout with family and friends with more than 300 picnic tables and charcoal grills for cooking. But the main draw is the refreshing Burger's Lake itself, with six diving boards, a 20-foot slide and a 25-foot trapeze. The lake is staffed with certified lifeguards as well. Cost is $15 per person and $5 for those under 6 years of age.
