Fort Worth's Water Gardens is a spectacular man-made creation. A crown jewel of Fort Worth, it is often used as a business, professional, wedding and tourist venue. Architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee were appointed by the Amon G. Carter foundation to create this masterpiece in the late 1960s. Covering over four blocks of downtown space, the Water Gardens offer outstanding sightseeing opportunities. More than 500 types of plants and trees adorn this 4.3 acre (1.7 hectare) park.

Traveling through Fort Worth near downtown and the cultural district, Trinity Park winds along the river of the same name. Shakespeare's plays are presented in an amphitheater just off Seventh Street in a large area amid trees and slopes. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is opposite the University Drive, a few blocks north of I-30. The trails that span the entire park have played host to annual events such as the American Heart Walk and Mayfest. The paved multi-use hiking/biking trail serves joggers, skaters and runners. There are many playgrounds, shelters, picnic areas and restrooms scattered throughout.

Fragrant and serene, Fort Worth's Botanical Gardens offer beautiful trails and garden exhibits in one of the oldest and largest natural settings in North Texas. An extensive greenhouse area, housed in the garden's conservatory, showcases tropical plants and exotic birds in colorful settings. The Japanese Garden, a popular attraction among visitors, is tranquil and perfect for relaxation or contemplation. Special events abound throughout the year, such as the annual spring butterflies in the garden, with more than 6,000 butterflies adding color to the already magnificent setting.

Built in 1970, the Japanese Garden is a part of Fort Worth Botanic Gardens and is spread across 7.5 acre. Much of the beautiful trees and plants of the garden were brought from the city of Nagaoka, Japan. Other attractions inside the garden include the wooden bridge, meditation garden, pagoda and a viewing deck. However, the most popular attraction inside the Japanese Garden is the pond where you can feed food palettes to number of exotic Koi fishes. Besides this, the garden is also host to concerts during the weekends as well as the annual Spring Festival and Fall Festival that celebrate Japanese art and culture. Call for more information.

Generations of Fort Worth families have sought relief from the hot Texas sun by diving into this cold, clear, spring-fed private lake located in northwest Fort Worth. Once a goldfish hatchery, Burger's Lake is now a one-acre, family-oriented "swimming hole" featuring tall trees, picnic tables, barbecue grills, concession stands, and tennis and volleyball courts, along with occasional sand-castle building contests and related events meant to entertain visitors. Slide down the 20-foot (6-meter) waterslide or check out the trapeze for "swinging" and "dropping." This is the perfect spot on a summer day!