Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind? After one unforgettable date night, it won’t just cross your mind — it’ll stay there.

When I think of Fort Worth, I immediately think of the Stockyards. There is just something in the air there that leaves you wanting more. Whether it be the cattle run, Hotel Drover, Billy Bob’s or all the fun bars and restaurants in between, there is nothing like a Fort Worth night out.

Pre-Dinner Drinks

The atmosphere in the Stockyards is like none other, so get there early! There are multiple places you can go before dinner for happy hour. Sidesaddle Saloon is one of the best. 

From the moment you enter it is giving all the photo ops and vibes you could ask for. With drinks like the Beth Dutton, this bar is perfect for sipping on cocktails and chatting with your friends. The artwork and posters on the walls give it an elegant but western feel, and the service is perfect.

Time to Eat

Hotel Drover is one of the most popular places in the Stockyards, but did you know that you can eat at the restaurant attached to the hotel without staying there? 97 West Kitchen & Bar is the perfect place for a date night or to gather with friends.

We were immediately greeted as we entered the restaurant and it took almost no time for our table to be ready. The service was unmatched. Of course, we had to start with an appetizer. The Shishito Pepper Crab Dip was devoured in no time. With the fresh tortilla drips, I am still thinking about how good it was. 

When it came time for the main course, I went with the Wood-Grilled Bison Tenderloin. It was delicious and cut so perfectly. My boyfriend went with the 14oz Boneless Ribeye and it is safe to say that we did not need to go boxes. 

The sides were family style, so we got Fried Brussel Sprouts and Buttery Mashed Potatoes. I cannot say enough about this restaurant. This is a must-eat place when you are in the Stockyards.

Dance the Night Away

Now of course, you cannot go to the Stockyards without going to Billy Bob’s. We were fortunate enough to be there on a night that the Turnpike Troubadours were playing. We got there early and were able to enjoy the night while listening to the great Evan Felker sing his songs to us. Before concerts, there is bull riding that you can watch in the bar of the arena. 

If you ever have the chance to get pit tickets, I highly recommend it. It was so much fun to be down in the crowd and feel the energy. 

While during this sold out show there was not much room to dance, if you stick around after the concert is over it turns back into the dance hall everyone knows and loves. 

Your Next Date Night

The Fort Worth stockyards are the perfect place to go for a date night. Dress it up, go casual, no matter what you do it will be a great night with memories that will last forever.

Pro Tip: Go to the Basement Bar and see who is playing. Who knows, it could be the next big thing!

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Cover Photo Courtesy by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

Emily Hord is the Assistant Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine and a native Texan. She graduated from Texas A&M University, and in her free time she enjoys going to see live music and spending time with her friends and family.