Texas Parks and Wildlife has secured 60,000+ acres of privately owned land to convert into new public parks and expand existing ones.
Among new parks is the 4,871-acre Palo Pinto Mountains, a former ranch located west of Fort Worth. Outdoor enthusiasts will remember that a majority of the land was acquired way back in 2011. Talk about anticipation. Guided hikes will be offered as soon as January, with a full opening set for fall 2026.
Another highlight from the deal is the addition of Post Oak Ridge (~3,100 acres north of Austin’s Lake Travis) — set to open in 2029.
One expansion includes tripling the size of Enchanted Rock. But, the biggest upgrade of all is the addition of the Chinati Mountains — enlarging by 39,000 acres. That’s so much room for activity. But wait — there’s even more to look forward to.
On Friday, 2,000 soccer fans piled into Billy Bob’s Texas to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw. Forty-eight teams were announced, and six more will be named in March. Find out which ones will play at AT&T Stadium — to be renamed Dallas Stadium during the tournament — next summer. (Fort Worth Report)
Closed
Last month, Dallas’ Dick’s Last Resort closed its doors after 40 years. The restaurant, known for its insults to customers, was founded in Dallas, but due to an increase in rent and a decline in business, the owners have decided to shut down. (CultureMap Dallas)
Mansion Monday
One of Texas’ most expensive homes hit the market last month. The five-bedroom, 12,957-sqft mansion — in University Park of Dallas — features a sculpture garden, children’s playground, and ten fireplaces. Notice the hefty price tag.
Trending
Google’s 2025 Year in Search is out, and its local search function provides an interesting peek into our city’s queries. Did you know that DFW residents searched for Baker Mayfield jerseys more than any other quarterback? We prefer Dak Prescott merch, but to each their own.
Sports
In 2027, Major League Soccer will shift its regular-season schedule from February-October to July-April, to align with European leagues. Watch FC Dallas kick off their 2026 season on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Toyota Stadium + get a full rundown on all of North Texas sports teams. (Dallas Business Journal)
Announced
The Sheraton Arlington Hotel is set to close effective Sunday, Feb. 15, separating from all 110 employees. We’re not quite sure of the reasoning behind the closure. Follow WFAA reporter Scoop Jefferson to stay in the loop.
Eat
Craving a slice of ‘za? Chowhound just named its top hole-in-the-wall pizza spots across the US, and Carmine’s Pizzeria in Dallas claimed the Texas title. We think they’re sleeping on Fort Worth’s pizza scene — peruse our pizza guide to find your new favorite slice.
Try This
The 2026 Winter Olympics begin in just 60 days. Soon, athletes from across the globe will head to the picturesque slopes of Northern Italy to compete for the highest accolades in Alpine athletics. Closer to DFW, a visit to Angel Fire, New Mexico will help get you in the spirit of the Games.
Travel
$45. That’s the fee you’ll owe at TSA checkpoints starting in February if you show up without a REAL ID and still want to fly. Save yourself the cash (and the hassle) by securing your REAL ID in Fort Worth ahead of travel time.
Older Adults
Healthy eating, going for walks, and gardening. Those are three things that a group of centenarians credit for their long life in a new UnitedHealthcare survey of 100-year-olds. Another common factor was keeping an active social life, and there are plenty of ways for older locals to do that around Fort Worth.
Number
27,400+. That’s how many active job listings you can find on our Job Board. Explore openings in manufacturing, sales, marketing, and beyond. Roles for all experience levels are hiring now. Find a new gig for 2026.
Listen
Despite the University of Texas’ stunning win against the Aggies, their chances of making the playoffs are looking bleak. Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Texas Longhorns with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Number
$0. That’s how much 94% of patients pay to see a licensed dietitian with Nourish. Find a dietitian covered by insurance and build a personalized nutrition plan — a structured, supportive way to map out your 2026 wellness goals now.*
Did you know Roy Hutchins Barbecue in Trophy Club is BYOB AND you get free dessert for dining in? Yeah — I discovered that over Thanksgiving break. After trying my first Texas Twinkie back in the spring, I just couldn’t wait to introduce my family. An Arlington spot is opening up next year right off of I-30, and next to Nolan Ryan Expressway.
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