
Livestock Exchange Building
Historic 'Wall Street of the West' and vibrant artist hub, famous for its daily cattle drive and iconic architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cattle drive shows

Livestock Exchange Building
Best Time
Cattle drive shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 'Wall Street of the West' and vibrant artist hub, famous for its daily cattle drive and iconic architecture.
"It felt like I was in a movie, completely westerned out!"

🎯 Arrive Early for Cattle Drive
Get a good viewing spot for the cattle drive by arriving at least 30 minutes prior.
🏛️ Explore the Building's History
Don't just see the cattle; explore the historic Livestock Exchange Building's architecture and studios.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive
Behind the Livestock Exchange Building
Witness a daily cattle drive, a quintessential Texas experience steeped in history and western charm.

Historic Livestock Exchange Building
Fort Worth Stockyards
Step back in time in this iconic 1902 building, once the heart of the cattle industry.

Artist Studios & Open Houses
Inside the Livestock Exchange Building
Discover unique artisan studios and galleries, often hosting open house events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Cattle Drive
Beyond the Cattle: Explore the Exchange
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Cattle Drive
Get a good viewing spot for the cattle drive by arriving at least 30 minutes prior.
🏛️ Explore the Building's History
Don't just see the cattle; explore the historic Livestock Exchange Building's architecture and studios.
🎨 Check Studio Open House Dates
Many artists open their studios in the building on weekends. Check schedules!
🤠 Embrace the Western Vibe
Dress in western attire for fun photos and to blend in with the Stockyards' atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Cattle Drive
Get a good viewing spot for the cattle drive by arriving at least 30 minutes prior.
🏛️ Explore the Building's History
Don't just see the cattle; explore the historic Livestock Exchange Building's architecture and studios.
🎨 Check Studio Open House Dates
Many artists open their studios in the building on weekends. Check schedules!
🤠 Embrace the Western Vibe
Dress in western attire for fun photos and to blend in with the Stockyards' atmosphere.
💰 Free Activities Abound
Enjoy the cattle drive and exploring the Stockyards for free; some attractions have fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the authentic western experience, particularly the daily cattle drive and the historic charm of the Livestock Exchange Building. The building's architecture and the vibrant artist studios are frequently praised, creating an immersive atmosphere. While some find the cattle drive brief, the overall vibe and historical significance make it a highly recommended Texas destination.
"Amazing experience!! Lovely longhorn showing at 11am & 4pm daily with some history of the city. Amazing food (recommend brisket sandwich). Love how the stock yards are completely westerned out! It felt like I was in a movie. Plus a cute petting zoo and cool maze."
April Hernandez
"What a fun time. We got to see the longhorn cattle drive, which is always fun. There's plenty of parking and plenty of things to do that don't cost anything. The big disappointment was Billy Bob's. They wanted 4$ just to come in and look around. There wasn't any live music or anything going on. It was a cover charge to go in and see the store."
Sunshine
"I’d visited years back but this time it seemed nicer, cleaner and much more sophisticated. There’s a small skating rink, (Christmas time) lots of photo ops, The vibe is definitely that of a Texas tourist must see spot. Everyone is dressed in western, cowboy attire. The longhorns show is nice but it only lasts like 5 minutes. The guy before the show who is hard to understand over the microphone talks longer. Get there early to get a “front row” spot. We stayed for the 4 pm show and it was very full and crowded. Over all good vibe, family friendly during the day. We left but I could tell the night life was getting very lively. We ate at Rick’s barbecue, the all you can eat ribs were delicious!"
Jeanette Garza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Livestock Exchange Building is located in the Fort Worth Stockyards. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available nearby. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are often recommended.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available in the Fort Worth Stockyards area, though it can fill up quickly during peak times, especially on weekends.
Absolutely! The Livestock Exchange Building is a central part of the Stockyards, and you can easily walk to it from other attractions like the petting zoo or shops.
The Stockyards are very walkable. You can explore on foot to see the Livestock Exchange Building, the cattle drive route, and various shops and restaurants.
While walking is the primary mode of transport, you might find horse-drawn carriage rides or other novelty transport options available in the Stockyards area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Livestock Exchange Building itself is generally free. You can walk through and admire its architecture. However, some specific events or studios within might have separate admission fees.
Watching the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive is free! It's one of the main attractions in the Stockyards.
Most artist studios are free to enter and browse. However, some may host special ticketed events or workshops. It's best to check individual studio schedules.
The building itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, individual businesses and studios within will have their own operating hours, often extending into the evening on weekends.
Yes, Billy Bob's Texas sometimes has a cover charge, even just to enter and look around, especially if there's no live music.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture of the Livestock Exchange Building offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the hallways and studio spaces can also be very photogenic. Don't forget the cattle drive for dynamic shots!
Yes, photography is generally allowed during the cattle drive, but be mindful of other visitors and the handlers. Get your shots quickly as it's a moving event.
While general photography is usually permitted, it's always a good idea to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private artist studios.
The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the building. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing the bustling atmosphere.
You can get great photos of the longhorns during the cattle drive. For closer, more posed shots, you might find opportunities with handlers or at specific viewing areas.
🎫 🤠 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic architecture, visit numerous artist studios and galleries, and witness the daily cattle drive that passes by. It's a hub of culture and history.
The Fort Worth Herd cattle drive features longhorn cattle being herded down the street by real cowboys, offering a glimpse into the area's ranching heritage.
Yes, the Fort Worth Stockyards are filled with restaurants offering everything from barbecue to Tex-Mex. Rick's Barbecue and brisket sandwiches are recommended.
Absolutely! The Stockyards, including the Livestock Exchange Building and cattle drive, are very family-friendly during the day.
You'll find a variety of western wear shops, souvenir stores, artisan boutiques, and art galleries throughout the Stockyards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the historic Livestock Exchange Building itself can be an adventure, with its grand architecture. Many of the artist studios are also engaging for children, offering a chance to see different crafts being made. The overall western theme of the Stockyards makes for a memorable and educational outing for all ages.
🤠 Cowboy Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The cattle drive is a must-see, providing an authentic reenactment of historical ranching practices. Beyond the building, the entire Stockyards district is a living museum, with western wear shops, saloons, and a pervasive cowboy culture that will transport you back in time.
🎨 Art Lovers & Shoppers
Keep an eye out for weekend open house events, where multiple studios open their doors, offering a chance to discover new artists and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts. It's a perfect opportunity to support local artisans and take home a piece of Fort Worth's creative spirit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Livestock Exchange Building
Today, the building has been revitalized, preserving its historical significance while adapting to modern uses. It now hosts a vibrant community of artist studios, galleries, and small businesses. This transformation allows visitors to experience both the building's rich past and its dynamic present, offering a unique blend of history, art, and culture. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of Fort Worth's western heritage.
Experiencing the Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive
Shows typically occur twice daily, at 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM, though it's always wise to check the official schedule as times can vary seasonally. For the best viewing experience, especially for the afternoon drive, it's recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot along the route. The area behind the Livestock Exchange Building is a prime location to witness this iconic event.
While the drive itself is brief, the atmosphere surrounding it is electric. Visitors often describe the experience as feeling like they've stepped onto a movie set, fully immersed in the western charm of Fort Worth. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photos and to soak in the authentic Texas culture.
Art and Artisans in the Exchange Building
Several artists and studios within the building frequently host open house events, particularly on weekends. These events are a fantastic way to explore multiple studios in one visit, often with opportunities to chat with the creators and learn about their craft. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding these open studios, as they provide an intimate look into the local art scene and are a great way to support independent artists.
Visiting these studios offers a more personal and engaging experience than a traditional gallery. It’s a chance to discover hidden gems and connect with the creative spirit of Fort Worth. The blend of historic architecture and contemporary art makes the Livestock Exchange Building a truly special destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit