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.
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.
A mosaic of rolling prairies, scenic woodlands, and green pastures, Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is located 10 miles northwest of downtown Fort Worth. It is a 3,621-acre (1,465 hectares) refuge for animals and indigenous plants. This area has unique trails which delight avid hikers and immersive educational exhibits which make for a fun and informative perusal for all ages. Herds of buffalo and white-tailed deer roam the refuge. Birdwatchers will enjoy identifying the varied bird species flitting about the area. A visit to this refuge is ideal for a day-long outdoor family adventure.
The nationally acclaimed Fort Worth Zoo is a pioneer in using natural habitats to showcase animals. Exotic animals are kept out of cages and left to freely roam in a natural environment. On most occasions, visitors are separated from the residents by only a river or a waterfall! Special exhibits include the world of primates, African Savannah, Asian falls and Texas wild. An onsite restaurant serves hamburgers, fries, pizza and BBQ, while a canopy of magnificent oak trees provides shelter from the hot Texas sun.
Located north of Six Flags on Green Oaks Boulevard in Arlington, this park offers something for everyone. There are areas for hiking, biking and inline skating. Four miles of paved trails wind in and out of the playground and greenbelt areas of this 958-acre (388-hectare) park. Eventually, Arlington hopes to connect this park to Dallas and Fort Worth via the Trinity River trail. Each Saturday, the River Legacy Park sponsors a guided trail hike. The River Legacy Living Science Center gives presentations on nature to promote ecological appreciation.
The beauty of Texas' nature can be experienced first-hand with a hike through this 630-acre (146-hectare) preserve. With guided and self-guided tours available along the ten miles of wooded trails, outdoor enthusiasts can wander up to the Escarpment Nature Preserve, the highest point in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Along the way you can view ponds, wildflowers and a butterfly garden before arriving at vistas and an observation tower. The trails vary in difficulty. All are natural terrain paved with rock, mulch, or dirt. They are designed for foot traffic only, and bikes or roller blades are not allowed. Hikes can last anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours, depending upon the trail selected. A snack bar, gift shop, and amphitheater are also located on the grounds.
Botanical Research Institute of Texas is a worldwide botanical research organization located in Arlington Heights, Fort Worth. Their aim is to educate the masses about the various species of plants and their functions for a better understanding of our surroundings. This state-of-the-art 70,000 square foot (6500 square meters) research facility features a Herbarium with in-depth information regarding various species of flora and a botanical library with over a million journals, books and periodicals.
The beauty of Texas' nature can be experienced first-hand with a hike through this 630-acre (146-hectare) preserve. With guided and self-guided tours available along the ten miles of wooded trails, outdoor enthusiasts can wander up to the Escarpment Nature Preserve, the highest point in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Along the way you can view ponds, wildflowers and a butterfly garden before arriving at vistas and an observation tower. The trails vary in difficulty. All are natural terrain paved with rock, mulch, or dirt. They are designed for foot traffic only, and bikes or roller blades are not allowed. Hikes can last anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours, depending upon the trail selected. A snack bar, gift shop, and amphitheater are also located on the grounds.
A small park located at the south of Arlington, Martha Walker Park offers a good respite from the commotions of the city. The park is divided into two sections, one of which is an open grassy area with a concrete trail and fitness station; while the other is covered with a blanket of trees and a few picnic tables. A great place for healthy walk or jog as well as for an enjoyable family picnic, the division ensures neither of the groups come in the way of the others.
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.
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.
A mosaic of rolling prairies, scenic woodlands, and green pastures, Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is located 10 miles northwest of downtown Fort Worth. It is a 3,621-acre (1,465 hectares) refuge for animals and indigenous plants. This area has unique trails which delight avid hikers and immersive educational exhibits which make for a fun and informative perusal for all ages. Herds of buffalo and white-tailed deer roam the refuge. Birdwatchers will enjoy identifying the varied bird species flitting about the area. A visit to this refuge is ideal for a day-long outdoor family adventure.