Fort Worth is always a good idea.
At least, in my experience. Whether I’m visiting to explore the city’s bustling museum district, checking out its big-name attractions or donning my boots to take in its famed Stockyards, there’s always something happening in Cowtown.
So when my 13-year-old daughter (and favorite concert buddy) told me that one of her favorite singers, Jordan Davis, was performing at Fort Worth’s Billy Bob’s Texas in March, we decided it was definitely worth making a quick trip.
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Billy Bob’s Texas
If you’ve never been to Billy Bob’s, you should know that it’s much, much more than a concert venue. It’s an experience.
Mirielle Badgley-Finan and Kristin Finan at Jordan Davis’ show at Billy Bob’s Texas in March. Kristin Finan photo
Set in the heart of Fort Worth’s famed Stockyards, a historic district known for its live music, rodeos, nightlife and a free, twice-daily cattle drive, Billy Bob’s draws visitors from across the world eager to take the self-proclaimed “world’s largest honky tonk.”
Built in 1910 and formerly an open-air barn used to house prize cattle for the Fort Worth Stock Show, Billy Bob’s now spans 100,000 square feet and has a capacity of more than 6,000.
After getting our wristbands and, for Mirielle, Sharpie on her hands denoting that she was minor, we walked inside and were instantly overwhelmed. The place was gigantic! There was live bull riding! And 30 bar stations! And multiple stages!
Eager to get a good spot, Mirielle and I made our way to the stage, which offered excellent visibility both for those on the floor and those watching from spots that were farther away. We soon also noted a sign that hangs from the ceiling in clear view of performers reminding them that they’re in Fort Worth, not Dallas.
Jordan Davis performs at Billy Bob’s Texas in March. Kristin Finan photo
By the time he hit the stage, we were front row for Jordan Davis, a country artist known for hits such as “Buy Dirt,” “Next Thing You Know,” and “Singles You Up.” Mirielle and I are both big fans, and we treasured the proximity we had to him during his 90-minute set at this hallowed Texas venue. More importantly, though, we loved having this experience, and rare one-on-one time, here, together.
The Crescent Hotel
An ideal home base for any music or art lover is The Crescent Hotel, which opened in November 2023 and offers the perfect place to stay with an artistic twist. This boutique hotel, which is located directly across the street from the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, features more than 20 works of art inspired by the neighboring museums and spanning a variety of mediums. The hotel also has an on-site Canyon Ranch Wellness Club and an incredible dining program, including its Coastal Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Emilia’s, and the fine dining experience at The Blue Room.
Emilia’s, located inside The Crescent Hotel, is an excellent choice for breakfast. Kristin Finan photo
The morning after the concert, Mirielle and I enjoyed a lingering breakfast at Emilia’s that included poring over setlist details from the night before. The light-filled room and decadent menu was the perfect setting for reliving the show, and my Eggs Benedict were perfectly crafted. The free coffee out each morning for guests and the complimentary bubbles at check-in only added to the welcoming and hospitable atmosphere.
The Museum District
While you’re in town, don’t miss the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, a leader in collecting, showing, and interpreting art from the 1940s to the present. Situated in the heart of the Cultural District, the creative center of the city, the Modern has been housed since 2002 in an elegant concrete, glass, and steel building designed by the renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando.
In addition to 53,000 square feet of soaring, light-filled gallery space and landscaped grounds with outdoor sculptures, the museum features a reflecting pond, theater, education center, gift shop, and café, creating a thriving hub for the local community and beyond. Founded in 1892, the Modern is the oldest museum in Texas; however, the mission has changed over the years. Today, it strives to connect audiences of all ages and backgrounds with the most compelling art and ideas of our time.
If You Go
Getting there:
Fort Worth is located about three hours from Austin.
Stay:
The Crescent Hotel is a modern and ideally located boutique hotel in the heart of Fort Worth’s arts district.
Do:
Billy Bob’s Texas is considered “the world’s largest honky tonk” and features 30 bar stations, real Pro Bull Riding, and a sprawling dance floor.
Eat and drink:
The Coastal Mediterranean-inspired Emilia’s and the fine dining restaurant, The Blue Room, at The Crescent Hotel are both well worth a visit.
