Often referred to as the state's oldest art museum, this facility has been in existence since 1892. The Modern Art Museum now houses more than 2800 sculptures, paintings, prints, photographs and other artworks created since World War II. The collection includes pieces by luminaries such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Andy Warhol. Tours are open to the public every Saturday afternoon. The gift shop offers books, magazines, posters and other artistic memorabilia as well as educational toys. The museum hosts various art classes for patrons of all ages throughout the year.
The Amon Carter Museum has one of the largest permanent collections of American Art. The artwork consists of pieces from the 1830s to the late 20th Century from great American artists such as Alexander Calder, Thomas Cole, Thomas Eakins, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Alfred Stieglitz. There is also a permanent exhibit of Amon Carter's personal collection of Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, who are considered to be the best artists of the American West. With more than 30,000 prints, the museum has one of the finest photography collections in the US.
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.
Architect Louis I. Kahn won an award from the American Institute of Architects for this building's striking design. He used a series of arched glass ceilings to let in natural light and enhance the presentation of the many important pieces in the museum collection. The artwork comes from all over the world, with maestros such as Renoir, Picasso, Rubens and Rembrandt represented. Those desiring more exotic artwork will enjoy the Asian, African and Mediterranean collections. The Buffet Restaurant is open daily, offering different kinds of light fare depending on the time of day. Admission to the permanent collections is free.
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.
Set in a lovely firehouse dating back to 1928, Firehouse Pottery & Gallery is a fabulous place to be if you love ceramics and pottery. Owner and potter, Keith Thomson not only hosts classes in pottery where you can create your own with friends, family or even your date, but also buy his artistic pieces made of clay and ceramics. The gallery showcases the works of local clay artists in the form of decorative pieces, functional objects and creative expressions. Call ahead for an appointment for private lessons, if you are planning for something different with your someone special, this is a fabulous option.
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.
This fascinating museum, which was named in honor of astronomer Oscar E. Monnig, helps educate visitors and space enthusiasts about the origin, evolution and types of meteorites present in the vast realm of space. Visitors to the museum can get a hands-on experience through interactive meteorite displays, and learn more through the museum's diverse collection, which was donated to the Texas Christian University (TCU) over a period of eight years. An exciting feature at the museum is that visitors can even create their own terrestrial impact crater!