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A Fort Worth Staycation Rich in History & Culture

The Worthington is the perfect spot for a weekend in Cowtown

The Worthington is a hotel rich in Fort Worth history. Located in the heart of downtown and taking up nearly three city blocks, it sits on what was once the site of Leonard’s Department Store and Stripling’s Department Store. Making its dazzling debut in 1981, the standout architecture alone makes it an important part of Fort Worth’s vibe. The hotel has since been a mainstay in Fort Worth culture and tourism: if you’re looking for the perfect staycation spot, The Worthington checks every box. 

The hotel finished its multi-million dollar renovation in 2022, and when you enter the lobby, you’ll immediately notice the elevated cowboy core interior design—a perfect fit for Cowtown. The rooms range from single rooms with two queen beds or a single king to luxurious one-bedroom suites with balconies boasting stunning views of downtown Fort Worth.

Start your weekend with drinks in the lobby bar & lounge during the Cowtown Ritual: a daily storytime-meets cocktail experience where Fort Worth’s saloon culture comes to life, TVs tune into the world-famous Stockyards cattle drive, cowbells ring, and bartenders offer tastings of the daily drink special, all of which pays homage to local legends Wyatt & Zeke, barkeeps who once served cactus wine to thirsty cowboys 170 years ago. 

Book a table at Toro Toro Pan-Latin Steakhouse, the Texas debut of celeb chef Richard Sandoval, for an evening of unique dishes like smoked swordfish dip, sweet corn empanadas, wood-fired steaks, truffle fries, and housemade churros. This restaurant is treasured by locals and visitors alike, so be sure to make a reservation. 

Head to Rooftop Cinema after dinner, where you’ll be able to screen movies of all types on LED screens, comfy seats, and wireless headphones, as well as enjoy 360-degree views of Fort Worth, lawn games, candy, popcorn, and drinks from Sip & Show. The Worthington is home to one of only two Rooftop Cinemas in Texas, so spending time here is a must for a staycation. 

In the morning, get your daily fix at Corrida Coffee shop, or indulge in Toro Toro’s famous bottomless brunch, complete with Latin tunes spun by an in-house DJ. If you want to explore The Stockyards, book the Cowboys in Cowtown Ultimate Experience: enjoy tours of the historic district, museum visits, a stop by Billy Bob’s—the world’s largest Honky Tonk—plenty of shopping, plus a $50 credit at Toro Toro. There’s even a shuttle that’ll take you to and from the Stockyards. 

If you have time to explore Sundance Square and the surrounding neighborhood, you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy live music, a water fountain show, take in a show at Bass Performance Hall, or enjoy the lively vibe at Pete’s Piano Bar. There are boutiques and artisanal gift shops everywhere, including the lobby of The Worthington. Known for hosting pop-up weekend shopping events, you can customize your own cowboy hat with A.B. Lino or find a new piece of jewelry and art before heading home. 

Whether you’re a local or live somewhere else in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, a staycation at The Worthington offers a bit of everything for everyone: culture, history, food, shopping, relaxing accommodations, and most importantly, a chance to spend time with your loved ones. All you need to do is plan your weekend and book that room.