Looking for the perfect weekend trip from Fort Worth? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of our top Texas day trips for families, couples, and friend groups – all less than a two-hour road trip from Fort Worth.
Mineral Wells, Texas: The “wellness capital of Texas”
Downtown Mineral Wells Photo credit: Billy Hathorn, Wikimedia Commons
In the early 1900s, Mineral Wells was a go-to tourist destination for its mineral waters, and you can still experience this natural marvel today. At only an hour’s drive west of Fort Worth, Mineral Wells makes a great day trip.
Nature lovers should visit the Lake Mineral Wells State Park for hiking, kayaking, and biking. The kids will really love digging for fossils at Mineral Wells Fossil Park. If you want a taste of the town’s celebrated mineral water, you can head to the Famous Mineral Water Company, which is like stepping into history. Try their “crazy water” or old-fashioned sodas. For a more luxurious experience, the Crazy Bath House has a full spa using the mineral water, including baths, towel wraps, facials, and massages!
Pilot Point, Texas: A romantic getaway
Pilot Point, Texas is one of the best two-hour road trips from Fort Worth for couples. You can easily spend a weekend in this charming small town. Take a tour of the flavored vodkas at Western Son Distillery, or catch a romantic sunset at Ray Roberts Lake State Park, ride horses at Black Mustang Ranch, or play a round of golf at Christie’s Golf Ranch (You might want to separate these activities from your tour of Western Son’s spirits). If you visit during strawberry season (April to June), head down to Pecan Creek Strawberry Farm to pick your own berries.
Roanoke, Texas: The unique dining capital of Texas
If you’re an adventurous eater, Roanoke is a must-visit, and it’s less than half an hour from Fort Worth. This tiny town packs in over 40 restaurants that can please any palate, on top of a vibrant farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. Babe’s Chicken Dinner House offers traditional Southern fried chicken, and if you’re looking for some authentic Texas barbecue, Hard Eight BBQ is the place to go. Oak and Main puts an upscale spin on American fare and local seafood from the Gulf. You can also find craft breweries, taquerias, sushi bars, and world-class bakeries. Come hungry!
Glen Rose, Texas: The dinosaur capital of Texas
Glen Rose dinosaur tracks
Photo credit: Diane Turner, Wikimedia Commons
Glen Rose is one of the top Texas day trips for families – especially if your kids love dinosaurs! You only need to drive an hour southwest of Fort Worth to marvel at the perfectly preserved dinosaur tracks in the riverbed of Dinosaur Valley State Park. There’s plenty of great hiking and horseback riding, plus geocaching – a one-of-a-kind outdoor treasure hunt that the whole family will enjoy. You can also experience a safari at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, play a round at Squaw Valley Golf Club, or learn about local history at Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum.
Muenster, Texas: A slice of Europe
You don’t need to hop on a plane to get authentic bratwurst or strudel. Muenster, Texas, whose motto is “Where German tradition meets Texas hospitality,” turns weekend trips from Fort Worth into European vacations. You can try to time your visit to coincide with vibrant annual festivals like Germanfest (the last weekend in April) or Oktoberfest (the first weekend in October). But no matter when you make it to Muenster, be sure to try the truly lecker (German for delicious) food at Bayer’s Bakery and Rohmer’s Restaurant. You can also go treasure-hunting at the Muenster Antique Mall and learn about the German immigrant experience at the Muenster Museum.
Waco, Texas: A classic college town
Home to Baylor University, Waco is a classic college town with a lot of edu-tainment opportunities. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Mayborn Museum, especially the mammoth exhibit. You can also visit the Dr. Pepper Museum, Cameron Park Zoo, Martin Museum of Art, and Texas Ranger Hall of Fame – not to mention the iconic Waco Mammoth National Monument. The downtown area also has a lot to offer, from shopping at the Magnolia Market to the delicious food at Rudy’s Bar-B-Q.
Granbury, Texas: Something for everyone
Granbury is one of the most charming small towns in Texas. Situated just an hour southwest of Fort Worth on Highway 377, Granbury is a must-do weekend trip from Fort Worth. Granbury has something to offer the whole family, from world-class shopping and unique dining to fun in the sun at Lake Granbury. You can stroll around the historic downtown or head to Lake Granbury Marina for fishing and boating for the whole family. Lake Granbury is also known for its vibrant entertainment scene, including outdoor live performances, the Brazos Drive-In Theater, and the Granbury Opera House.
Visit Stumpy’s Lakeside Grill: A must-see weekend trip from Fort Worth
If you’re on a day trip to Granbury, be sure to stop by Stumpy’s Lakeside Grill! This iconic local eatery encompasses everything that makes Granbury great: tradition, nature, and authentic Texas flair. Located at the Lake Granbury Marina, Stumpy’s gives you the opportunity to enjoy delicious food, like fried catfish, tacos, and po-boys, right next to the water. It’s the perfect way to cap off a beautiful day out on the lake.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you can head over to Stumpy’s Sweet Shack for delicious homemade cupcakes, cookies, and ice cream. And if you want to pick up a souvenir from your visit, Stumpy’s Closet has gifts, clothing, and boating essentials for the whole family.
There’s a reason Stumpy’s is a favorite for Granbury locals and tourists alike! Contact us today to learn more about how Stumpy’s can help turn a family day trip into memories that last a lifetime.