Visit Downtown Fort Worth!
For my last feature in digital storytelling, we decided to go to Fort Worth to see what new things were going on. I have read about the progress and eventual reopening of the iconic Sundance Square, but didn't know what to expect. First, 8.0s, the legendary bar and live music venue was changed to a Flying Saucer and the patio was remodeled to mimic Fremont Street in Las Vegas. The decorations were the same as the previous place, but the slender space of 8.0s transferred to the new Flying Saucer. We planned to interview one of the bartenders and managers that we heard had worked for Flying Saucer previously and was familiar with the rich history of Fort Worth. Our plans were complicated when the establishment refused to participate in our feature. We were able to find many people willing to discuss their experience at this local brew house.
We ventured through the city and wandered by the Dallas Cowboys' Pro Shop, The Texas Rangers store and the old Riscky's Barbecue. Downtown Fort Worth is small enough to walk from one end to the other without much trouble. Dozens of hotels line the streets to accommodate tourists and stay-cation-ers alike. The proximity makes it easy to visit various landmarks and historical sites as well as participate in the local hangouts.
We weren't able to include Pete's Dueling Piano Bar or the Water Gardens, but both are high on the list of attractions for people in the city. The recently renovated Sundance Square was bustling with people. Kids ran around and were mesmerized by the new fountain that lines the north side of the square. The western edge contained dancing fountains that children dodged in and out of, frantically as their mothers yelled at them.
After we left downtown, we headed to the West 7th District, via the new West 7th Bridge. We entered Montgomery Plaza and wandered into a few of the surrounding boutiques. Chimy's was busy during the worst cold front of 2013. It is a counter service restaurant that serves a famous margarita and their spin on Tex-Mix favorites. The staff knew the names of most of the customers and it had a small town feel.
Later we ventured to the Medical District and The Bearded Lady. This small craft beer and food kitchen had an impressive and original food and drink menu. Their owner greeted us with smiles and was more than willing to open his place up to help us make our video.
Fort Worth is where I was born and raised and it was nice to come back and do my last story there. I love the humble hospitality and look forward to visiting some of the new establishments that were missed on this trip.
When is the last time you tried something new in your city? Is there an area that you know, but maybe haven't visited in a while? Take a trip and re-experience something you think you already know!
Follow me on Twitter @JQueppet and this story at #FWsFinest
