Coast to Country

If you’re looking for the ultimate cowboy adventure to share with your kids, there’s no better place than the Fort Worth Stockyards! Packed with history, excitement, and authentic cowboy culture, this historic district offers a hands-on way for kids to experience life in the Old West. From witnessing a cattle drive to cheering at a live rodeo, this trip is both educational and unforgettable.

The History of the Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards has been a hub of cowboy life since the late 1800s. Known as the “Cowtown” of Texas, this area played a vital role in the cattle industry, serving as a major stop on the Chisholm Trail. Cowboys herded cattle through here on their way to market, and the Stockyards became a lively center of trade and culture. Today, it’s a living piece of history where families can step back in time and experience the cowboy way of life.

Must-Do Activities for Kids

1. Watch the Cattle Drive:

Kids will be amazed by the twice-daily cattle drive, where real cowhands guide a herd of Texas Longhorns down Exchange Avenue. This is the only cattle drive of its kind in the world, and it’s a fantastic way to see how cowboys once moved herds across the open range.

2. The Fort Worth Stockyards Museum:

A must-visit destination for families, offering a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages. Located in the historic Livestock Exchange Building, the museum brings the Wild West to life with fascinating artifacts, photographs, and hands-on exhibits that tell the story of Texas cattle drives and cowboy culture. Children will love learning about the history of ranching and exploring items like real cowboy gear and branding irons. 

3. Try the Maze and Petting Zoo:

For younger kids, the Stockyards Adventure includes a fun cowboy-themed maze and a petting zoo, where they can meet friendly animals like goats and ponies. You might even catch a pony ride!

4. Take a Wagon or Train Ride:

Hop on a vintage wagon or seasonal train and take a ride around the Stockyards while learning about its history from a cowboy guide.

5. Take a Photo with a Texas Longhorn:

Stop by the Stockyards’ iconic longhorn photo station to snap a picture with these majestic creatures. Kids will love getting up close to the gentle giants and creating a memory that captures the spirit of the Wild West.

6. Watch the Stockyards Shootout:

Step back in time with the live Stockyards gunfight reenactments! Held daily, this family-friendly show features actors portraying old-timey outlaws and lawmen in an exciting (and safe) cowboy shootout. It’s a fun way for kids to see a slice of Wild West drama.

7. Cheer at the Rodeo

No cowboy trip is complete without a visit to the rodeo! The Fort Worth Stockyards Championship Rodeo happens every Friday and Saturday night at the Cowtown Coliseum. This exciting event showcases the best of cowboy skills, including bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. Kids will be on the edge of their seats, cheering for the riders and marveling at the bravery of the cowboys and cowgirls.

Learning Opportunities

1. Cowboy Skills:

Discuss the skills cowboys needed to succeed, such as roping, riding, and herding cattle. Kids can even try their hand at lassoing during some of the Stockyards activities!

2. The Cowboy Code:

Talk about the values of cowboys, like hard work, respect for nature, and helping others. How can your kids apply these lessons in their own lives?

3. Wild West History:

Explore how the Stockyards connected Texas to the rest of the country and the role it played in the cattle industry.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

• Wear Cowboy Gear: Encourage your kids to dress the part with boots and hats—it’s a great way to get into the cowboy spirit!

• Arrive Early: The cattle drive happens daily at 11:30 AM and 4 PM, so plan to arrive early to grab a good spot.

• Pack Snacks and Water: While there are great dining options, it’s always a good idea to have a few cowboy-friendly snacks on hand.

• Plan for Souvenirs: The Stockyards has plenty of shops where kids can pick up fun cowboy-themed keepsakes.

Why Kids Love It

Visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards brings cowboy life to the present, giving kids a chance to learn history while having fun. They’ll leave with stories of brave cowboys, memories of cheering at the rodeo, and maybe even a new lasso skill or two!

So, grab your boots, saddle up, and head to the Fort Worth Stockyards for a cowboy adventure your kids will never forget. Yeehaw!