Whether you’re a Cowtown native or a relative newcomer, there are just some things every Fort Worthian understands to be true.
We asked our readers to share Fort Worth’s unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo. You won’t find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not from Fort Worth, these might be a little difficult to explain.
The unspoken rule everyone knows
“Your ‘nice jeans’ are perfectly fitting attire for almost any nice restaurant.”
“You don’t have to be a real cowboy to break out the boots and hat when in the Stockyards.”
“Never pay for parking in the Stockyards. Sign up for the Stockyards Heritage Club to receive a monthly code for free parking in the Stockyards.”
“You can play by the Trinity — maybe even float in it — but you don’t swim in it. You may grow a tail.”
We’re kind to our neighbors
“Being kind and courteous goes a long way.”
“Yes ma’am, no ma’am, yes sir, no sir are used when talking to just about everyone.”
“It is perfectly normal to have a conversation with a total stranger in the grocery store aisle, at the gas pump, or waiting for a table at a restaurant because Fort Worthians are friendly.”
We’ve learned a thing or two from commuting
“Take Trinity Metro to DFW Airport to save money on parking and tolls.”
“Wave in the rearview mirror if someone kindly lets you into their lane.”
“Anything under five miles over the speed limit is too slow.”
“If you’re in the know, you should never have to pay for parking downtown. Especially on the weekends.”
What did we miss? If you know an unofficial rule that’s not on the list, let us know .