The Difference Between Dallas and Fort Worth

Do you know the difference between Dallas and Fort Worth? Well, they are very different.

While many people outside the “Metroplex” view Dallas-Fort Worth as a single, vast area, there are distinct differences and numerous smaller communities between the two cities. Dallas and Fort Worth are in North Texas and offer excellent travel opportunities. Still, each town has its own unique culture and vibe, and oh so different like night and day (some of us Texans say)—the difference between Dallas and Fort Worth will amaze you.

What’s The Difference Between Dallas And Fort Worth?

It’s been said that “everything is bigger in Texas,” including our cities. It’s approximately 33 miles from downtown Dallas to downtown Fort Worth. But it could take much longer than that to drive depending on traffic and construction. Dallas is in Dallas County and is known to be more of the “uppity,” if you will, of the two, while Fort Worth, located in Tarrant County, has always been considered more of a laid-back, come-as-you-are type place.

Dallas has a population of about 1.3 million and ranks as the ninth-largest U.S. city, according to the U.S. Census QuickFacts. Fort Worth has a population of about 935,000 and ranks as the thirteenth-largest U.S. city. It has a smaller population but experienced more substantial growth between the 2010 and 2020 censuses.

While Dallas is a modern Southern city, Fort Worth blends modern events with “Western” heritage and is often called “Cowtown.”

Now that you’re familiar with the population, let’s discuss travel options, hotels for sports fans, things to do, significant events, top attractions in Dallas, dining options, shopping, and transportation in both cities.

Travel Options In DFW

The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW Airport) is located between the two cities, with a drive of about 20 minutes each way. The airline serves both cities with all major carriers, including American, Delta, United, Air Canada, Alaska, and more. Dallas Love Field, as the name suggests, is located in Dallas and is a smaller airport that serves Southwest Airlines.

The Difference In Hotels For Dallas And Fort Worth

Dallas offers a range of great hotels, catering to various tastes and budgets.

The Omni Dallas Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, and the Hilton Anatole are on the luxury end. The Hilton Anatole features the Jade Waters Resort Pool Complex, which includes a lazy river, two water slides, and a splash pad for kids.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton Dallas Downtown, the Hampton Inn and Suites Dallas Downtown, and the La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Dallas Love Field may offer more moderate pricing. Still, they may offer the opportunity to get free meals and save money for other parts of your vacation.

Fort Worth has numerous name-brand hotels throughout the city.

The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel and the Omni Fort Worth Hotel offer a more luxurious experience. The Worthington Hotel is a great place to view the Fort Worth Parade of Lights during the winter. It is in a great location and is one of the oldest hotels in downtown Fort Worth.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Worth Stockyards, Hampton Inn and Suites, and the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Worth Medical Center are more affordable and offer complimentary breakfast.

Military-connected families with base access may consider the Navy Lodge at the Naval Air Station – Joint Reserve Base. From the Navy Lodge, military-connected families can access all that Fort Worth has to offer.

Things To Do In Dallas, Texas

Dallas attractions will suit the family and include:

• Medieval Times
• Dallas Zoo
• Dallas Aquarium
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Dallas Museum of Art
• Dallas Arboretum
• African American Museum at Fair Park
• Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
• George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
• Dallas Farmers Market (one of the best)
• And many places to enjoy the Dallas nightlife scene

Things To Do In Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth attractions and activities include:

• Dream Park (free family fun)
• Fort Worth Zoo
• Worth Museum of Science and History
• Art Museum
• Museum of Modern Art Fort Worth
• Sundance Square
• Bass Hall Performance Center
• Fort Worth Botanic Gardens & Fort Worth Japanese Gardens
• Fort Worth Stockyards and the Fort Worth Herd (daily cattle drive)
• Cowtown Cattlepen Maze in the Stockyards
• Bureau of Engraving and Printing
• American Airlines CR Smith Museum
• Tandy Leather Museum and Gallery
• SeaQuest Fort Worth
• National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
• Fort Worth Water Gardens (free to roam)

Events In Dallas And Fort Worth

Dallas events include Dallas Blooms at the Dallas Arboretum, Fourth of July Parade, Taste of Dallas, St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, Dallas International Film Festival, and (of course) the State Fair of Texas in October of every year.

Fort Worth events include the Main Street Arts Festival, Mayfest, Fort Worth Fourth, Juneteenth, Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, Tarrant County Harambee Festival, Alliance Texas Aviation Expo, Lone Star Film Festival, National Day of the American Cowboy, Van Cliburn International Film Competition, Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and Western Swing Fest, and the Texas Indy 375 at Texas Motor Speedway.

Where To Eat In Dallas/Fort Worth

You’ll find many upscale, family diners and 5-star restaurants in Dallas and Fort Worth. No one will go hungry in either city.

Notable eateries include Hawaiian Bros, Sadelle’s Highland Park, Thunderbird Pies, the Exchange Food Hall, and the Origin Kitchen & Bar for those with food allergies.

Notable restaurants that put Fort Worth on the map include Cattleman’s Steakhouse (excellent steaks), Riscky’s Barbeque, Goldee’s BBQ, Belenty’s Love Mexican Vegan Restaurant, Heim Barbecue, Fort Worth Food Works, Crockett Row Food Hall, and HG Sply, to name a few.

Shopping In Dallas/Fort Worth

Dallas shopping centers include North Park Center, Galleria Dallas, Southwest Center Mall, and Uptown Plaza Dallas.

Fort Worth shopping centers include Sundance Square, The Shops at Clearfork, The Shops at Chisholm Trail Ranch, and Hulen Mall. I imagine you’ll find more western wear at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Transportation In Dallas/Fort Worth

Dallas transportation options include DART (Bus and Rail), TRE Commuter Rail, and Uber & Lyft.

Fort Worth transportation options include The Dash (Downtown to Museum District Bus), Molly the Trolley (Downtown Bus), TexRail, and Amtrak (Fort Worth Central Station and Fort Worth T&P Station).

The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) offers transportation between Dallas and Fort Worth.

What is your perspective on the difference between Dallas and Fort Worth? We would love to know!

If you’ve never been to Dallas, read this first to discover where to go on your first visit. This article was written by a Midwesterner – Top Sites To See In Dallas For First-Timers.

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