Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive
Experience the world's only twice-daily cattle drive, featuring majestic Texas Longhorns and authentic cowboys in historic Fort Worth.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Scheduled drives
Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive
Best Time
Scheduled drives
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the world's only twice-daily cattle drive, featuring majestic Texas Longhorns and authentic cowboys in historic Fort Worth.
"A fun and unique slice of Texas history, worth checking out at least once."
🎯 Arrive Early for Spots
Secure a prime viewing spot by arriving 30 minutes before the drive.
☀️ Check Weather Forecast
The drive happens rain or shine, but extreme heat may cancel afternoon drives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Daily Cattle Drive
East Exchange Avenue
Witness the iconic Texas Longhorns and horses parade down the street, a true slice of Western heritage.
Longhorn Pen Viewing
Stockyards Station
Get up close with the magnificent Texas Longhorns before and after the drive. A great photo opportunity!
Stockyards History Talk
Near the cattle drive route
Learn about the history of the American cowboy and the significance of the cattle drive before the action begins.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Spots
Secure a prime viewing spot by arriving 30 minutes before the drive.
☀️ Check Weather Forecast
The drive happens rain or shine, but extreme heat may cancel afternoon drives. +1
📸 Longhorn Pen Access
See the longhorns up close before/after the drive. Great for photos!
📱 Download Stockyards App
Get the Fort Worth Stockyards app for schedules and info.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Spots
Secure a prime viewing spot by arriving 30 minutes before the drive.
☀️ Check Weather Forecast
The drive happens rain or shine, but extreme heat may cancel afternoon drives. +1
📸 Longhorn Pen Access
See the longhorns up close before/after the drive. Great for photos!
📱 Download Stockyards App
Get the Fort Worth Stockyards app for schedules and info.
🚶♀️ Explore the Stockyards
Wander the streets, shop, and enjoy live music after the drive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive as an authentic and memorable experience, highlighting the impressive longhorns and the historical significance. Many appreciate the free nature of the event and the vibrant atmosphere of the Stockyards. Some note the drive is brief and crowds can be significant, recommending early arrival for the best viewing.
"visited the Fort Worth Stockyards to see the cattle herd, and it was a great experience. The longhorns are massive, and seeing them up close is definitely memorable. The cattle drive started right on time and only lasted about five minutes, so get there early and be ready.
They gave a short but interesting history of the American cowboy before the herd came through, which added to the experience. I also noticed afterward that there’s a small museum nearby—but I missed it this time, so that’s a reason to come back.
Surprisingly, I didn’t mind the smell of the cattle either—adds to the authenticity! Overall, a fun and unique slice of Texas history. Worth checking out at least once."
Blayz Brooks
"Such a fun day!! We shopped, we drank, we enjoyed the history. The cattle walk is awesome. There was live music in the evening. Love that you can walk around with so much to do."
Hira zubair
"We loved our time at the Stockyards - wandering the streets, shopping, meeting the drovers/cowboys, learning about the longhorns, and watching the cattle drive. It is definitely something to experience at least once. Everyone we met was super friendly and we had a nice lunch. Definitely worth the drive from Dallas."
csganley
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fort Worth Herd cattle drive takes place in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, located at 131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164. Parking is available in various lots around the Stockyards.
Parking can be challenging, especially on busy days. Arriving early or considering ride-sharing services is recommended.
If you are staying in downtown Fort Worth, it's a considerable walk, but doable. Many visitors opt for a short drive or taxi/rideshare.
Driving is the most common method, taking about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use rideshare services.
While direct public transport can be limited, some bus routes may get you close. Checking the Trinity Metro website for current routes is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive is a free event for all to watch.
The cattle drive typically happens twice daily at 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM. It's always best to check the official Fort Worth Stockyards schedule as times can vary.
The drive generally occurs daily, rain or shine, but extreme weather conditions like severe heat might lead to cancellations, especially for the afternoon drive. +1
You can see the longhorns up close in the holding pens before and after the drive. There's a bridge over the pen for great views.
The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District itself does not have an admission fee. The cattle drive is also free to watch.
🎫 🤠 Onsite Experience
The cattle drive itself is quite brief, usually lasting around five minutes as the herd moves down the street.
Anywhere along East Exchange Avenue offers a good view. Arriving early will help you secure a spot closer to the street.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you'll be doing a lot of exploring. Western-themed attire is popular but not required.
Yes! You can visit museums, enjoy live music, shop for Western wear, dine at various restaurants, and even catch rodeo events at the Cowtown Coliseum. +1
Absolutely! Children are fascinated by the longhorns and the spectacle of the cattle drive. The Stockyards offer a fun, educational experience for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Stockyards offer a wide range of dining options, from casual saloons and BBQ joints to more upscale restaurants.
While there are many dining options, bringing your own snacks and water is generally permissible, but check specific venue policies if you plan to dine in.
Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex, and classic American diner fare are very popular choices in the Stockyards area.
Many restaurants offer diverse menus, and you can usually find vegetarian or vegan options, especially in more contemporary eateries.
Yes, many establishments in the Stockyards allow you to take your drinks to go, making it a lively place to stroll.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of East Exchange Avenue provides good vantage points. The bridge over the Longhorn Pen also offers unique angles.
You can take photos of the longhorns from designated viewing areas, especially in the pen. Direct interaction or posing with the cattle is not permitted for safety reasons.
Yes, photography and videography are encouraged! Capture the spirit of the Old West as the herd passes by. +1
The morning drive often has softer light, while the afternoon drive can offer dramatic shadows. Golden hour before sunset can also be beautiful.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas and historic districts for safety and privacy. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Arrive early to get a good spot where children can see clearly. The Stockyards also offer other family-friendly attractions like pony rides and a petting zoo, making it a full day of fun. Beyond the drive, explore the Longhorn Pen for a closer look at the animals, and consider visiting the Stockyards Station for interactive exhibits. The general atmosphere of the Stockyards, with its Western theme, is engaging for all ages. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little ones as there's a lot of ground to cover!
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the public areas, or look for casual eateries and BBQ joints that offer more affordable options. Many shops offer unique souvenirs, but window shopping is also a great way to experience the Western vibe without spending.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the Longhorn Pen for close-up shots of these magnificent creatures. The golden hour before sunset can also yield beautiful, atmospheric photos of the Stockyards.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Fort Worth Herd
+1 The drive features 15-20 Texas Longhorns, each representing a decade of Fort Worth's history, led by authentic drovers in traditional attire. This tradition harks back to the days when millions of longhorns were herded along the Chisholm Trail, making Fort Worth a vital hub for the cattle industry. Witnessing the Fort Worth Herd is a chance to step back in time and connect with the city's rich Western heritage. The drovers, with their chaps, boots, and hats, embody the spirit of the American cowboy.
The event not only educates visitors about this significant era but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the cattle industry in Texas. It's fascinating to note that the Fort Worth Herd has even been a part of service projects, with organizations like the Texas State FFA officers volunteering their time.
Experiencing the Stockyards Beyond the Drive
+1For those interested in the cowboy lifestyle, the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame and the John Wayne Museum offer deeper dives into the history and legends of the West.
The area is also filled with unique shops selling everything from cowboy boots and hats to Western-themed decor, making it a great place for souvenir hunting. Beyond the specific attractions, simply wandering the historic streets, enjoying live music, and soaking in the atmosphere is a highlight for many.
Navigating the Fort Worth Stockyards
When it comes to parking, several lots are available, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during special events. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a convenient spot.
For a more immersive experience, consider downloading the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District App. It can provide schedules, maps, and information about various events and attractions, helping you make the most of your visit.
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