The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Fort Worth is a city of contrasts. It’s a big modern city (in fact, it’s the fifth largest in Texas), and yet it determinedly holds on to its cowboy past.
Fort Worth lures in travels with its fascinating cowboy culture. Head to the Stockyards district to see it first-hand. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a Wild West movie, with stores selling belt buckles and cow hides, loads of bars, and surprise, surprise – COWBOYS!
There is also an epic museum culture in Fort Worth, check out the National Cowgirl Museum and the Modern Art Museum while you’re here.
Whatever you’re travel desires are in Fort Worth, you’ll want to choose to stay in an area that matches. Deciding where to stay in Fort Worth can be a tricky task if you’ve never been to the city before.
But never fear! That’s where I come in. I’ve compiled the best areas to stay and categorised them by interest. I’ve even included the best places to stay in each and the top activities to do.
After reading through these words of wisdom, you too will soon be an expert on the areas of Fort Worth and be ready to book your trip to Fort Worth.
Yee-haw! Let’s get into it.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Fort Worth?
- Fort Worth Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Fort Worth
- Fort Worth’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Fort Worth
- What To Pack For Fort Worth
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Fort Worth
- Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Fort Worth
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Ready to choose your hotel or hostel in Fort Worth? Check out my top picks.
Hampton Inn & Suites | Best Hotel in Fort Worth
This hotel sits right in the heart of Downtown and is very budget-friendly which frees up your cash to cop cattle at the Fort Worth Stockyards… Or whatever you can fit in your backpack.
Jokes aside, it has a fitness center, swimming pool, bar, and parking on-site. As well as all that jazz, you can choose rooms in a variety of sizes, whether you’re with your boo or your crew, you’ll love.
Hotel Drover | Best Luxury Hotel in Fort Worth
Hotel Drover has all the old-time Fort Worth charm but in a chic, modern decor. This part of the city is extremely walkable and with free bikes on offer, your travel time will be halved. There is private parking, a swimming pool and a fitness center, of course.
One of the best hotels in Fort Worth, within walking distance to the historic stockyards and only 5.2 km from Fort Worth Convention Center.
Cozy Bungalow | Best Airbnb in Fort Worth
With enough space for up to five guests, this bungalow is ready for the whole fam. Filled with all the comforts of home like a full kitchen, great books, and an inside and outside dining space, you’ll love this vacation rental. This Airbnb is one of the best places in Fort Worth to stay if you’re traveling with your family.
Downtown, Sundance Square
Fort Worth’s Downtown is an exciting neighborhood, with lots of entertainment options and some of the city’s best restaurants. It’s all based around the famous Sundance Square, where the people-watching is amazing and there’s plenty of cafes where you can sit and watch the world go by.
North Side
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Fort Worth on a budget, you want a more local neighborhood. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in North Side. Close to the famous Stockyards National Historic District, this neighborhood is filled with shops and restaurants that will keep you busy for days.
West 7th
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Fort Worth for families, you want to be close to lots of attractions and restaurants. And that’s exactly where West 7th is. This neighborhood bridges the city’s Downtown and Cultural District, so it offers a lot to do for every kind of traveler.
Fort Worth is often overlooked as a destination, but there’s plenty to see and do. Alongside the classic Texan feel, the city is home to top museums, great food, and an endless array of awesome bars.
If you’re visiting Fort Worth for the first time, check out the Downtown, Sundance Square area. It offers the best combination of shops, eateries, and accommodation to suit every price point. It also has the best transport connections to other areas of the city.
The city’s North Side is a more local neighborhood. This is where you can indulge in activities that the locals love, like visits to the famous Stockyards National Historic District. Restaurants and accommodation are a little more wallet-friendly, making it the best place to stay if you’re traveling on a budget.
The final area on this list is the West 7th neighborhood. This walkable area is close to Downtown and offers great food, as well as loads of things to see and do. This makes it my top pick for families staying in Fort Worth.
Fort Worth’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at the best areas in Fort Worth in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Downtown, Sundance Square – Where to Stay in Fort Worth for Your First Time
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Downtown – Have a cocktail in the famous and terminally hip Thompson’s Bookstore.
- BEST Place to Visit in Downtown – Sundance Square for dining, cafes, and people watching.
Fort Worth’s Downtown is an exciting neighborhood, with lots of entertainment options and some of the city’s best restaurant options. It’s all based around the famous Sundance Square, where the people-watching is amazing and there’s plenty of cafes where you can sit and watch the world go by.
This part of the city also offers the best transport to further afield, so you can easily explore other destinations in Dallas Texas. This makes it the best place to stay if you’re discovering Fort Worth for the first time.
Fairfield Inn & Suites | Best Budget Hotel in Downtown
Hotels in Fort Worth can come with a hefty price tag but not here, no Ma’am, just good old-fashioned southern hospitality. Stay at the Fairfield Inn, in Sundance Square, adjacent to the Fort Worth Convention Center, just 5km from the Fort Worth Stockyards. Fort Worth Water Gardens are 400m away, there’s lots to see and do around within walking distance so you can stay fit on vacation.
Aside from the handy location, I love this hotel for its comfy rooms and free breakfast! You can hang out in the shared lounge or the business center if you need to get down to business. Not that sort of business… leave that in the comfy beds!
Aloft Fort Worth Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown
Wander around Sundance Square while you’re here, you’re basically right next door.
Texas Themed Luxury Loft | Best Airbnb in Downtown
If you like a little extra luxury, then check out this charming loft. It boasts industrial-style decor and enough space for up to 4 guests. It’s got large windows which allow in plenty of natural light, as well as all the amenities you’ll need for a great stay.
I loved staying here and felt like I had an oasis to go to to take a break from the huslte of Sundance Square.
Things to See and Do in Downtown Fort Worth:
- Wander through the pools and fountains of the Fort Worth Water Gardens.
- See the JFK Tribute in General Worth Square.
- Wander the streets and check out the turn-of-the-century buildings like the Tarrant County Courthouse and the Saint Patrick Cathedral.
- Take a guided electric bike tour through Downtown Fort Worth, watch a live cattle drive in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, and eat Texas BBQ for lunch.
- Check out what’s on at one of the local live theaters like the Jubilee Theater or Circle Theater.
- Take Molly the Trolley through the city, you can hop on at Sundance Square and ride the loop circuit.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey2. North Side – Best Place to Stay in Fort Worth on a Budget
- COOLEST Thing to Do in North Side – Pick up your own pair of Texas cowboy boots at Maverick Fine Western Wear.
- BEST Place to Visit in North Side – The Stockyards National Historic District for cows and lots of shopping, live music, and saloons.
If you’re traveling on a tight budget, it’s usually best to stay in a more local neighborhood. These areas tend to offer lower prices on food and accommodation due to lower levels of tourism. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in North Side. Close to the famous Stockyards National Historic District, this neighborhood is filled with shops and restaurants that will keep you busy for days.
This is also one of the best areas to stay in Forth Worth for nightlife. There are lots of saloons and live music venues in this part of the city. So, pull on your cowboy boots and enjoy some authentic Texan cheer!
Hyatt Place Fort Worth Stockyard | Best Hotel in North Side
This hotel is a great choice for anyone traveling with kids as it has a pool and spacious family rooms. The Hyatt has a bar too so you can sip a late-night drink without having to leave the hotel. It’s also close to the Fort Worth Stockyard area, so you can enjoy all of its attractions.
Hotel Drover | Best Luxury Hotel in North Side
Hotel Drover has all the old-time Fort Worth charm but in a chic, modern decor. This part of the city is extremely walkable and with free bikes on offer, your travel time will be halved. There is private parking, a swimming pool and a fitness center, of course.
One of the best hotels in Fort Worth, within walking distance to the historic stockyards and only 5.2 km from Fort Worth Convention Center.
Entire Casita near all the best in Fort Worth | Best Airbnb in North Side
Perfect for a romantic getaway, this one-bedroom casita is in the heart of the North Side. The decor is modern Texan and the property has a fenced shared backyard, free parking, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
Things to See and Do in North Side:
- Discover the history of Fort Worth’s famous Stockyards and visit local saloons and watering holes with an expert guide.
- See a show at the Rose Marine Theater.
- Step back in time and wind through the haunted streets of the wild, wild west on this Ghost Adventure.
- Delve into the past at the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.
- Learn the two-step at the honky-tonk known as Billy Bob’s Texas.
- Make sure you see the Fort Worth Herd, a twice-daily cattle drive through town.
3. West 7th – Best Neighborhood in Fort Worth for Families to Stay In
- COOLEST Thing to Do in West 7th – Have French toast for brunch at Mash’d.
- BEST Place to Visit in West 7th – The Cultural District, for the best museums in the city.
When you’re finding somewhere to stay with family, you want to be close to lots of attractions and be able to find a good restaurant. And that’s exactly what West 7th has to offer. This neighborhood bridges the city’s Downtown and Cultural District, so it offers a lot to do for every kind of traveler.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
West 7th is very walkable, so you’ll be able to enjoy the city at a slower, more relaxed pace, perfect for people with young children. Make sure you make the most of the Cultural District being on your doorstep here, visit the National Cowgirl Museum! I also loved Modern Art Museum and the Kimbell Art Museum.
Residence In Fort Worth | Best Hotel in West 7th
This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Fort Worth if you want to be close to all the famous museums. It’s just a few steps from West 7th and offers studio rooms with a fully-equipped kitchen. The hotel has free shuttle services within an 8km radius and there’s a gym, BBQ facilities, and an outdoor pool and hot tub on-site.
Bowie House | Best Luxury Hotel in West 7th
Bowie House is the ultimate place to come home to after a big day seeing all the sights of Fort Worth. Draw yourself a big bath, put on one of those fluffy robes, and get that Netflix on, treat yourself and relax. There’s a swimming pool to enjoy as well as a restaurant and bar… I can already see you sipping a mimosa and watching the kids splash.
You’re right around the corner of 7th Street, within walking distance to all that’s going on and the epic parks in the area.
Cultural District Apartment | Best Airbnb in West 7th
This central apartment on West 7th Street is an epic place to stay and pretty friendly on the wallet too. With a double queen room and a pullout bed in the lounge – you and your crew can stay here! You’ll have access to a full kitchen which is also great for saving cash.
There’s heaps happening within walking distance of this apartment too though so strap on your boots and see wagwan.
Things to See and Do in West 7th:
- Make sure to visit some of the local museums like the Amon Carter Museum of American Art and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.
- Take the kids to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
- Enjoy a picnic and feed the ducks at Trinity Park and pay your respects at the Fort Worth Police & Firefighters Memorial.
- Check out the lush Fort Worth Botanic Garden with its famously Japanese flair.
- See some live music at Magnolia Motor Lounge.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Fort Worth
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Fort Worth and where to stay.
What To Pack For Fort Worth
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What are the top three tourist attractions in Fort Worth?
You absolutely must see;
- The Fort Worth Water Gardens
- The National Cowgirl Museum
- The Museum of Modern Art
They’re all conviently close to eachother too, near Sundance Square, Downtown Fort Worth.
Where to stay in Fort Worth for a five star hotel?
Bowie House would be my pick. It’s just your classic chic five star hotel, close to West 7th Street so you’re in a convenient downtown location withou being downtown, ya feel?
Where to stay in Fort Worth with kids?
West 7th Street is going to be your best bet. You can trip up to the Historic Stockyards and take part in the cattle drive, but you’ll want a good rest in between the excitement. West 7th Street will give you that, with lots of parks and the Fort Worth Water Gardens to entertain the children and tire them out.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Fort Worth
That cattle drive’s no joke and neither are those Texas Saloons. Anything can haoen on holiday, make sure you’ve got good travel insurance and travel carefree.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Fort Worth
There’s more to do and to see in Fort Worth than you might expect. This city is filled with a culture that has an unmistakably Wild West feel. With this Fort Worth neighborhood guide, you’ll be able to enjoy this unique atmosphere while staying close to the best shops and attractions in the city.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Fort Worth, I recommend the downtown area. With so much to do, it’s the best place to get a feel for this awesome destination. You’ll be near Sundance Square which is conveniently connected to other neighborhoods, a great base to explore the rest of the city and Texas. My number one of all the hotels in Fort Worth has to be Fairfield Inn – everything you could want at a very friendly price.
If you’re looking to treat yourself, stay at the Drover Hotel in the North Side. This luxurious hotel has a swimming pool and isin an epic location to pop up to the Fort Worth Stockyards and see the cattle drive.
Wherever you stay, I know you’ll have a great time in Fort Worth. Make sure you visit the Fort Worth Water Gardens – there really is something for everyone!
Have I missed something? Let me know in the comments, let’s chat.
Image: Haded
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
