From roads to restaurants, Fort Worth has changed more over the past 10 years than anyone could imagine.
Joe T. Garcia’s, Lonesome Dove and the Stockyards are all places alumni are likely to remember. But in the last 10 years, Fort Worth has added plenty of places to make new memories.
“Fort Worth still has the same small town feel it did 10 years ago, but [it has] all the luxuries of a big city,” said Kate Vahlberg, a TCU class of 2004 alumna. “It’s the best of both worlds.”
Woodshed
The Woodshed Smokehouse is chef Tim Love’s interpretation of all things grilled.
Located right next to the Trinity River, Woodshed has become a Fort Worth favorite.
“Woodshed is my favorite restaurant in all of Fort Worth,” said Casey Hartigan, senior strategic communications major. “On a beautiful day, there is no better restaurant to sit outside, listen to live music and eat delicious food.”
Sundance Square
Sundance Square, Fort Worth’s 35-block entertainment and shopping center, has grown into a food and shopping paradise. Restaurants like Bird Café, Del Frisco’s Grille and The Capital Grille are just a few of Sundance Square’s major attractions. Don’t miss the new 55,000 square foot Sundance Square Plaza.
“The renovation of Sundance Square has really enhanced the charm of the city,” said Keeton Monahan, a 2008 TCU graduate.
Don’t forget to download the free Sundance Square app for your iPhone to help you navigate the exciting Sundance experience.
Grace
It only takes one trip to know why this restaurant makes the top of this list.
Chef Blaine Staniford offers a “dining experience like no other,” said Sophie Garza, junior business major.
“I love taking my family to Grace,” Garza said.
West 7th Street
With countless restaurants and shops, the West 7th area has become a community hotspot.
New restaurants like Waters, AF+B, Fireside Pies and many others have become regular dining destinations for Fort Worth residents.
“What used to be a huge Montgomery Ward store has been cut through the middle and now contains numerous restaurants, stores, a movie theater, apartments and condos,” said Lindeen Shipler, a Fort Worth resident and a 1969 TCU graduate.
Brewed
Located at the end of West Magnolia Avenue, Brewed is much different than your average Starbucks.
Brewed offers a cozy, living-room-inspired atmosphere. One-third coffeehouse, brewpub and restaurant, Brewed can please everyone.
“I remember when Magnolia was nothing but a street,” said Madeline Hamm, junior journalism major. “Now, it has my favorite restaurants and hangout spots like Lili’s, Live Oak and Brewed.”
Rodeo Goat
There is a reason Rodeo Goat was named “best burger in Fort Worth” by DFW.com.
With inventive creations like the “Cowboy Murrin”—a blend of juicy beef, crispy fried onions, thick-cut apple wood-smoked bacon and house-made barbecue sauce—all burger lovers are guaranteed a unique burger experience at this joint.
Magnolia Cheese Co.
Magnolia Cheese Co. proves there is a lot more to Fort Worth than barbeque and cowboys. For those who are looking for an experience beyond the grill, Magnolia Cheese Co. offers fresh, local and European cheeses and wines from all over the world.
Omni Hotel
Located in the middle of downtown, the Omni Hotel provides a luxurious retreat in the heart of the city.
“The downtown area, specifically the building of the Omni Hotel and renovation of the Convention Center, are major changes that have taken place since 2004,” said Dr. Sally Fortenberry, director of the Center for Merchandising Education and Research.
And don’t forget the Omni bar, Whisky & Rye, for a fun environment in which to unwind and enjoy a nice drink.
Live Oak Music Hall & Lounge
If you want to dine, drink and dwell in some of the best music Fort Worth has to offer, Live Oak offers a unique experience with its music hall, lounge, rooftop and patios. The rooftop view alone is worth the visit.
University Park Village
If you’re looking to shop, University Park Village is a great place to do it. What used to be a Barnes and Noble has been replaced with new stores like Michael Kors, Kendra Scott and Athletica. From Apple to Anthropologie, University Village will satisfy even the hungriest of shoppers.