Traveling through Fort Worth near downtown and the cultural district, Trinity Park winds along the river of the same name. Shakespeare's plays are presented in an amphitheater just off Seventh Street in a large area amid trees and slopes. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is opposite the University Drive, a few blocks north of I-30. The trails that span the entire park have played host to annual events such as the American Heart Walk and Mayfest. The paved multi-use hiking/biking trail serves joggers, skaters and runners. There are many playgrounds, shelters, picnic areas and restrooms scattered throughout.

The nationally acclaimed Fort Worth Zoo is a pioneer in using natural habitats to showcase animals. Exotic animals are kept out of cages and left to freely roam in a natural environment. On most occasions, visitors are separated from the residents by only a river or a waterfall! Special exhibits include the world of primates, African Savannah, Asian falls and Texas wild. An onsite restaurant serves hamburgers, fries, pizza and BBQ, while a canopy of magnificent oak trees provides shelter from the hot Texas sun.

Fragrant and serene, Fort Worth's Botanical Gardens offer more than 2,100 acres of trails and garden exhibits in one of the oldest and largest natural settings in North Texas. An extensive greenhouse area, housed in the garden's conservatory, showcases tropical plants and exotic birds in colorful settings. The Japanese Garden, a popular attraction among visitors, is tranquil and perfect for relaxation or contemplation. Special events abound throughout the year, such as the annual spring butterflies in the garden, with more than 6,000 butterflies adding color to the already magnificent setting.

English architect Howard Messer designed and built this magnificent home in 1899 for Fort Worth "Cattle Baron" William H. Eddleman. Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House is situated on a high bluff overlooking former pastureland and features stoic, towering gables, meticulously ornate trim, a red sandstone porch and copper finials in a traditional Victorian exterior. The interior is also exceptionally elaborate, with dark parquet floors, magnificent oak paneling and original, handcrafted wooden frameworks.

Founded in 1975 in the small panhandle town of Hereford, National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame offers a distinct perspective on the role of women in the West. Beginning in the settling days and progressing through to modern times, this collection is the only one in the world dedicated to the lives of these exemplary women. More than 140 women are currently honored, while new honorees are added each year. Most notable are artist Georgia O'Keefe, singer Patsy Cline, actress Dale Evans Rogers, hatmaker Sheila Graves Kirkpatrick and barrel racer Martha Josey. The museum relocated to Fort Worth in the early 1990s in order to reach more people.

Located inside the Museum of Science and History, this domed theater is a tribute to the past, present and the future technological history. With a capacity for 390 people, the theater features 72 speakers unloading 18,600 watts off sound. It is best to arrive at least a half-hour before the presentation time, as no late seating is allowed.

Lavish elegance and opulence are the foundation of this Georgian Revival house. Built in 1903 during the Cattle Baron Era of the West, Thistle Hill was designed and occupied by Electra Waggoner-daughter of cattleman William T. Waggoner-and her husband. Today it is considered a historic landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.The house contains 18 rooms, each filled with turn-of-the century furnishings. Oak-paneled halls and solid limestone pillars are just a few of the fine craftsmanship details. The house is known as much for its architectural design elements as it is for the families who occupied it. Guided tours, which begin on the hour, are offered to provide insight on the family and the house's design and creation, as well as on local history. Tour times are W-F 11, 12, 1 & 2; Su 1, 2 & 3. Admission: Adults $15 Children (6-12) $7.50 Admission includes a tour of both Thistle Hill and The Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House.

Fort Worth Convention Center is a spacious complex and seats up to 11,200 people. It was formerly called the Tarrant County Convention Center. Being home to many professional teams like San Antonio Spurs of the NBA, it is always bustling with activities. Located within walking distance from downtown hotels, it contains exhibit halls and a theater. Big names such as Garth Brooks, LeAnn Rimes and Bryan White have performed here. Standard concert fare (beer, pretzels, nachos, etc.) is always available at concession stands during events.

Fort Worth's Water Gardens is a spectacular man-made creation. A crown jewel of Fort Worth, it is often used as a business, professional, wedding and tourist venue. Architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee were appointed by the Amon G. Carter foundation to create this masterpiece in the late 1960s. Covering over four blocks of downtown space, the Water Gardens offer outstanding sightseeing opportunities. More than 500 types of plants and trees adorn this 4.3 acre park.

Built in 1936, the Will Rogers Memorial Center attracts more than 2 million visitors each year. This 85 acre network of buildings plays host to auctions, entertainment and sporting events, etc. The Coliseum, which holds 8,000 people, hosts the Southwestern exposition and livestock show and Rodeo as well as other sporting and equestrian events. Broadway productions and concerts take place in the Will Rogers Auditorium, which seats 2,856. Banquet facilities are available. The Will Rogers Equestrian Center is one of the top livestock facilities in the world, with more than 1,000 stalls.