PHIFER Photo by James Phifer/Rodeobum.com
Dust off those cowboy boots lurking in the back of the closet and break out the 10-gallon hat because the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is back. From January 17 to February 8, locals can mosey west to witness everything from bull riding and livestock shows to country music concerts and carnival rides. Whether you attend every year or have never seen this side of Cowtown, the Fort Worth Stockyards provides plenty of exciting entertainment options. So instead of just going out for the event, plan to make a whole day — and night — of it for good ol’ date night.
Cowtown Winery
Those familiar with Grapevine’s Grape Vine Springs Winery will love its sister concept in the stockyards, Cowtown Winery. This longtime Fort Worth destination will reopen in its new location on Exchange Avenue in mid-January, ideal for those heading to the city for the show. All Cowtown Winery varietals use grapes sourced from central California vineyards, but its variety is pretty expansive with dry, semi-sweet and port wines available for purchase. The winery will start hosting ghost tours every Friday and Saturday at the beginning of February, so you’ll have to come back to experience those spirits as well. CowtownWinery.com
Bryan Allen
Lonesome Dove Bistro
A quick stroll past the neon M.L. Leddy’s boot sign and down Main Street will lead you to chef Tim Love’s iconic Lonesome Dove Bistro. The western eatery opened in 2000 and has been serving up refined plates and hearty Texas flavors ever since. Start out with a vibrant cocktail to set the mood, like the Barrel Racer, Dewar’s White Label, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, Ginger Ale and Luxardo maraschino cherry syrup. The dinner menu provides plenty of bold options like rabbit-rattlesnake sausage served with spicy mango rosti and creme fraiche, and Rocky Mountain elk loin accompanied by salsify, hen-of-the-woods, Swiss chard and candied grapes. For a spread ideal for foodies, the wagyu tomahawk ribeye, served with a Maine lobster tail, wild mushroom-truffle orzo and asparagus, checks a lot of boxes. For a classic cowboy dish with a twist, try the chicken-fried steak with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, green beans, uni butter, pickled peppers and cream gravy. You might have to loosen that belt buckle when you’re done, but it will be worth it. LonesomeDoveBistro.com
Billy Bob’s Texas
No trip to the stockyards is complete without a pass through Billy Bob’s Texas. The beloved bar and entertainment venue has a long history with the rodeo; in 1910, it was an open-air barn that the Fort Worth Stock Show would use to house prize cattle. The space as it is known today came to life in the 1980s and has hosted concerts, bull riding and dancing sessions ever since. For almost 40 years, Billy Bob’s has presented country legends and industry newcomers alike, which is also true this month with Josh Abbott Band and Casey Donahew Band stopping by. Whether you swing by for a drink after the rodeo or spend the rest of your Fort Worth vacation on the dance floor two-stepping, a trip to Billy Bob’s is sure to be a cowboy’s ideal date night. BillyBobsTexas.com