Dallas is forever home to the Cowboys and Fort Worth is widely considered “where the west begins.” It’s no wonder the DFW metro has a bounty of local businesses celebrating its wild western roots.
Whether genuinely historical, these Dallas–Fort Worth classics will have you eating, dancing, shopping, and partying like a Texan in no time. Cowboy boots are encouraged but not required.
Pecan Lodge, Dallas
Looking to eat like a real Texan? Look no further than Pecan Lodge. What’s more Texas-y than pecans? This is arguably one of the best barbecue joints in the world, and they’ve got the lines to prove it. If I could give this place 10 stars I would! This is my favorite bbq spot in Dallas and in my opinion has some of the greatest brisket you’ll ever taste… Don’t be intimidated by the line because it can go pretty quick. – Hencock N.
Fred’s Texas Cafe, Fort Worth
Gigantic burgers, cold beer, glorious chicken fried steak, live local music… Fred’s Texas Cafe remains a Fort Worth staple, still rocking in its original location. A Fort Worth tradition. A shack that refused to sell in the middle of a concrete jungle with the best burgers in town. No restaurant in town feels more Fort Worth and holds its tradition and quality than Fred’s Texas OG! – Kat S.
Hutchins BBQ, McKinney
The brainchild of McKinney native, Roy Hutchins, Hutchins BBQ is a consistent favorite on countless Best Dallas Barbecue lists for good reason – one of them being the fine pecan wood used for smoking those meats! Hutchins is famous for its legendary “Texas Twinkie,” a cream cheese stuffed, bacon wrapped jalapeno with brisket (a quarter pound of meat per “twinkie,” people). Try it now and thank us later.
Heim Barbecue, Fort Worth
This barbecue joint might not be a “historical” business (it’s only a few years old), but it’s making history already. Owned by a young local couple and famous for their bacon burnt ends, Heim was voted one of the top 50 barbecue joints in Texas. Their pulled pork is the best I’ve ever had. Their sides almost steal the show, though. Mac ‘n’ cheese? Get it. Burnt ends? The best thing on the menu. Their fries and potato salad? Incredible. Get it ALL. – Jordan N.
Wild Bill’s Western Store, Dallas
If you’re going to eat like a Texan, it makes sense to dress like one, no? Cowboy boots are a staple in DFW and locals know that Wild Bill’s has the best selection, quality, and country-loving ambiance. From footwear, to country style apparel, to lone star shaped knickknacks – it’s a one-stop shop for the whole family.
Cowboy Up Men’s Salon, Dallas
Before you hit the dancehall, go get gussied up by the pros at Cowboy Up. From beard shines, to gully washer facials, to urban cowboy hangover treatments, to waxes – they’ve got you well covered. Best of all, you can do it all while enjoying a complimentary local Texas brew.
Pearl’s Dance Hall & Saloon, Fort Worth
History has it that when Buffalo Bill showed up in Fort Worth circa late 1800s, he wasn’t too impressed with the nightlife (if only he could see it now). What’s a cowboy to do? Open a bordello named Hotel Pearl, of course – which would later become Pearl’s Dance Hall and Saloon. Now dedicated to country music, dancing, and cold drinks, Pearl’s Dance Hall still features a portrait of its original madame in the entryway.
Round Up Saloon, Dallas
This landmark dancehall is a must experience for any cowboy! Go for the line dancing lessons and karaoke, but stay for the killer bar. With some of the best looking cowboys in the city, it’s no wonder this business has been a hotspot for over 35 years. The whole vibe in here is so great! They have karaoke almost every day in the parlor with a separate room for playing pool, and then a huge room for dancing! – Ellie K.
Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth
The world’s largest honky tonk, y’all. Complete with incredible concerts featuring true country stars, two stepping, barbecue, and mechanical bull riding. What else could you need? So much fun! Everyone was amazing! True Texas spirit! Great BBQ and dancing. – Annette N.
The Stockyards, Fort Worth
Livestock has been ruling these stockyards since 1866 and they’re not going anywhere! The only place in the world that has a twice daily cattle drive, the historic Fort Worth Stockyards are home to rodeo shows, western heritage festivals, dramatic reenactments, and restaurants any cowboy would love. Brought visiting friends here to get an authentic Texas experience. They had the cattle drive and even had the opportunity to sit on a longhorn. – Matt B.
The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, Fort Worth
The only museum in the world that celebrates the trailblazing women of the American West! The National Cowgirl Museum has over 4,000 artifacts, incredible info on more than 750 memorable women, 2 theaters, traveling exhibits, an impressive permanent collection, seasonal events, and interactive activities for kiddos. Go learn about some impressive cowgirls.
Lone Star Park, Grand Prairie
A day of horse racing at Lone Star Park is a best friend. The park features two live racing sessions that start in April and continue throughout the year. Make bets, hopefully win big bucks, and enjoy some snacks or even 5-star cuisine at this enormous, uniquely Texan come! I did not really know how to place a bet, but the lady took care of me and I was off … who knew so much in my life? – Elisa M.
