There’s something special about summer in Fort Worth. The days are a little slower, the evenings stretch longer, and there’s no shortage of ways to spend time together as a family. Whether you’re looking for a new adventure or simply a reason to get out of the house for a few hours, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth all summer long.
From local favorites to outdoor adventures, here are 12 family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth this summer.
Table of Contents
Outdoor Adventures
Pack a Picnic and Hit the Trinity Trails
The Trinity Trails are one of the best parts of Fort Worth. Pack a picnic, find a spot, and spend the morning walking, biking, or simply exploring. One of the easiest access points is at Clearfork, where you can grab a coffee from Press Cafe before heading out on the trails. Whether your kids are ready for a long bike ride or just want to walk for the trails and explore, the Trinity Trails are the place to go.
Splash Around in a Local Creek
Fort Worth has several parks and creek areas where kids can splash, throw rocks, and cool off on a hot day. Bring water shoes, a towel, and don’t forget the bug spray! There’s tons of creek areas but Airfield Falls is one of the most popular spots to explore. If you’re visiting on a weekend, be prepared for limited parking – the lot at Airfield is pretty small.
Head to a North Texas Beach
No, it’s not the Gulf Coast, but it might be the next best thing for a quick family outing. Fort Worth and the surrounding areas offer several beach-like spots along local lakes. Twin Points Park (one of our family’s favorites) has a sandy beach area, swimming, and plenty of space to spend a day near the water without a long drive. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of extra towels. If you’re heading to Twin Points Park, be sure to reserve a parking pass online ahead of time.
Start Your Saturday at Clearfork
Saturday mornings, Clearfork hosts a farmers market. Grab a coffee and a pastry, browse local vendors, pick up fresh produce, and enjoy a slower Saturday morning together. There’s plenty of open space nearby for little ones to move around, and it’s an easy outing that doesn’t require much planning. The Clearfork Farmers Market is one of our favorite family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth because it’s easy, relaxed, and fun for all ages.
Fort Worth Favorites
Check out the Fort Worth Zoo (and Safari Splash too!)
The Fort Worth Zoo is a favorite option for a reason. Between the animal exhibits, shaded pathways, train rides, and splash area, it’s easy to spend an entire morning or afternoon here. If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth, the zoo is one of those places my family goes to again and again. The animals are always a hit, and the splash area is the perfect way to end a hot summer day.
Let the Kids Explore Dream Park
Located in Trinity Park, Dream Park is one of the best playgrounds in Fort Worth and one of our favorite family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth. The playground is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with plenty of areas for kids of different ages and abilities to explore, climb, and play. Pack some snacks, and plan to stay awhile.
Take the Kids to the Fort Worth Museum of History and Science
When the Texas heat starts feeling like too much (and let’s be honest, it usually does), the museum is one of my favorite indoor options. The hands-on activities and interactive spaces make it especially fun for younger kids (and adults too). It’s one of the best indoor family activities in Fort Worth when the temperatures start climbing.
Check out the Fort Worth Stockyards
Even as a local, I still enjoy taking my kids to the Stockyards. Kids love watching the cattle drive (happens twice a day), exploring the shops, figuring out the cattlepen maze, and seeing the longhorns up close. There are often live music performances, special events, and plenty of places to grab a snack or lunch. For families searching for classic, family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth, the Stockyards remains one of the city’s most iconic destinations.
Visit the Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is one of my favorite places to slow down for a few hours. The shaded paths, koi ponds, and beautiful gardens make it easy to forget you’re still in the middle of the city. While spring gets most of the attention, summer mornings can be especially beautiful before the day heats up. The garden is perfect for a slower morning together, and there’s usually a seasonal pop-up exhibit that gives kids something extra to discover.
Cool Off at Sundance Square
Sundance Square is located right in the middle of downtown. During the summer, the plaza becomes a great place to spend an evening together. Kids can run through the splash area, play in the open space, and enjoy the occasional live music or event while parents relax nearby. Grab dinner downtown, take a stroll through the plaza, and enjoy a slower summer evening in the heart of Fort Worth. For Summer 2026, Sundance Square is also hosting World Cup watch parties and festivities all summer long.
Slow Summer Nights
Sunset Views at Marion Sansom Park
If you’re looking for a simple way to end the day, Marion Sansom Park is worth a visit. While the park has plenty of trails to explore, the views overlooking Lake Worth make it a great spot to watch the sunset. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the beautiful views after a long summer day. Among all the family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth, this is one of my favorite spots for a slower evening together.
Schedule Family Photos – Try Out a Backyard Summer Session
Some of my favorite summer memories involve nothing more than popsicles on the porch, running through the sprinkler, and staying outside long after dinner. That’s exactly what inspired my Backyard Summer Sessions. These sessions are designed to capture the simple moments of summer. If you’ve been wanting family photos that feel relaxed, a backyard session might be the perfect fit.
12 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Fort Worth This Summer
Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here for years, there are so many family-friendly things to do in Fort Worth during the summer months. From outdoor adventures and local favorites to slow evenings together, there are plenty of opportunities to make memories and enjoy this season with your family.
Looking for this to do this fall or holiday season in Fort Worth too? Check out these helpful posts below (updated annually).
Hi! I’m Amber – a family and newborn photographer serving Fort Worth and Dallas areas. I specialize in maternity, newborn, family, and milestone sessions with a relaxed, lifestyle approach that allows families to slow down and simply be together. My work focuses on tenderness, joy, and authentic moments that showcases each family’s story.
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June 17, 2026
