Located in the heart of downtown, Sundance Square has been an entertainment hotspot for 40+ years with small theaters, events, and entertainment that embrace Cowtown’s Western flare.
Originally established in the late 1970s by Bass Brother Enterprises, the 35-block area was named after the Sundance Kid, or Harry Alonzo Longabaugh, who often visited Fort Worth with his famous partner, Butch Cassidy.
The city square has been a community gathering spot for decades, holding major events like the annual Christmas tree lighting, Fort Worth Art Fair, and the New Year’s Eve fireworks show.
Whether you’re stopping by as a tourist or exploring a new side of town — here’s how to spend a day in the downtown destination.
The renovated historic building blends right into Main Street.
Photo by @sundanceplaza
Arts
Dang Good Candy | Opened by local artist Jay Wilkenson, the art gallery and studio provides emerging artists with a place to showcase their work.
Sid Richardson Museum | Explore Western art including paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.
Bass Performance Hall | Must-see performances include Broadway at the Bass, Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Texas Ballet Theater, Fort Worth Opera, and the Cliburn.
Entertainment
Live music | Kick back and relax with live music in the plaza every Friday-Sunday, 7-10 p.m.
Circle Theatre | The 125-seat theater produces contemporary playwrights in an intimate setting. You don’t want to miss “Tiny Beautiful Things” now playing through June 17.
Hyena’s Comedy Club | Grab a table or sit at the bar at this intimate comedy club for up-and-coming acts.
Scatt Jazz Lounge | Relax and unwind with the sounds of smooth jazz.
The cowboy hat is on display in Sundance Square Plaza.
Photo by @jw_digital_photography
Activities
Indulge | Embrace your inner Barefoot Contessa with a cooking class or sip some afternoon tea with your best pals.
Disco Cowboy Hat | It won’t be around forever — snag a photo with the 6-ft tall cowboy hat before it’s gone for good.
AMC Palace 9 | Catch some of the newest Hollywood blockbusters at this restored theater.
Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge | Order a handcrafted cocktail and choose from hundreds of cigar choices.
Fort Worth Water Gardens | The water oasis on the south end of Downtown is a must-see.
Eat
3rd Street Market | There’s nothing better than the smell of fresh-baked bread — grab a sandwich + soup for the perfect lunch pairing.
Reata | The ranch-themed restaurant is a hotspot for its rooftop bar and southwestern flare.
Riscky’s Barbecue | The 96-year-old barbecue joint knows how to do barbecue — try the slow-cooked ribs, chicken, and ham from the famed barbecue pits.
Istanbul Grill | This is the place to go for Turkish cuisine — our readers recommend the mixed cold appetizer made with Humus, babaganoush, spicy ezme, dolma, and piyaz.
MELT Ice Creams | Cool off with an ice cream treat for you and your four-legged friend.
Shop
Union Station | Located behind vibrant pink doors, stop in to browse through records, collectible skateboards, and streetwear fashion.
Haltom’s Jewelers | Be sure to take a photo of the 109-year-old, 2.5-ton cast-iron clock located out front before you shop for luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Breiting.
Urban Plantology | Freshen up your home with some greenery or take a workshop on how to build your own terrarium.
Stay
The Ashton Hotel | Pinkies up for an elegant afternoon tea at this 108-year-old hotel with updated features.
The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel | Rooftop Cinema Club (located on top of the hotel) is a must-visit for its breathtaking views of downtown.
Kimpton Harper Hotel | Grab a bite to eat at the in-house restaurant il Modo or head upstairs to Refinery 714 for drinks and happy hour with some of the best views of downtown.
Welcome to Main Street, Forth Wort. Don’t let its familiarity fool you, it’s a dizzying place.
Photo by @that_ldp
Parking
Don’t stress about downtown parking — Garage 3 + Garage 4 are free for 2.5 hours when you visit a local business Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Meter parking and garages are also free all weekend and after 6 p.m. on weeknights.