Here are fun things to do at Sundance Square in Downtown Fort Worth, TX.
Fort Worth is the fifth-largest city in the state of Texas and has one of the best downtowns, with many hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops to suit everyone. The picturesque Sundance Square is at the heart of it all. There are so many things to do in Sundance Square that you’ll want to pack a good pair of walking shoes and a fat wallet. It’s one of my favorite areas of Fort Worth.
Whether you’re visiting with family or on an all-adult getaway, there is plenty of variety on this list, including entertainment venues for nightlife entertainment, all-day shopping sprees, or kicking back under umbrellas at the same time the kids play on the plaza.
And don’t miss the section below about spending the holidays in Sundance Square and what’s going on, like the Christmas tree lighting with special guests.
Getting Around Sundance Square
Parking can get hectic downtown, especially around special events and the holidays. Here are a few other ways to get around downtown Fort Worth.
- Hop on the Molley The Trolley for free to take you around downtown. It is open every day from 10 am to 10 pm.
- TEXRail is a commuter rail line serving nine stations over 27 miles from Downtown Fort Worth across northeast Tarrant County.
- Trinity Metro Bus
- Bike Share – buy membership online.
- It’s first come, first serve parking downtown – free or not.
- Find parking garages. There are a few near Sundance Square.
Things To Do In Sundance Square Plaza & Surroundings
The historic Sundance Square is a massive part of the downtown area. It encompasses many attractions, including the Worthington Renaissance Hotel Fort Worth, Fort Worth Water Gardens, the Courthouse, many high-end shops, plenty of restaurants, and much more. And it’s all completely walkable. I love the brick roads and the Tarrant County Courthouse, which delights visitors worldwide with its Renaissance revival style in Texas pink granite.
Besides the above, there are many entertainment options, art galleries, rooftop bars, and a rich history on every corner. Whether planning a date night or a major shopping spree, you’ll find it at Sundance Square.
Sit and relax on the Sundance Square Plaza while marveling at the water fountains and the mural depicting the Chisholm Trail. You never know when live music might be playing on the plaza. I’ve also seen Santa Claus perched in his chair on the plaza, welcoming the little ones up on his lap. It’s worth visiting during the holidays.
Travel Tip: Free parking is available on the streets if you’re lucky to find one, or there is parking in the Sundance Square Garages.
Live Music On Sundance Square Plaza
Enjoy live music on the plaza every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 to 10 pm, plus special performances during the week.
Tip: Follow its Instagram account for the latest live music news.
Circle Theatre
Circle Theatre is an award-winning theatre that presents innovative live theatre in an intimate setting year-round. Check out the latest performances at Circle Theatre.
Bass Performance Hall
For the last 25 years, Bass Performance Hall has been a Fort Worth icon and a vital part of the downtown live entertainment scene. It’s also within walking distance of restaurants on the square.
Scat Jazz Lounge
Enjoy this jazz speakeasy-style lounge in the basement of the historic Woolworth building (a successful five-and-dime from 1926 to 1990). Scat Jazz Lounge is a hidden gem in downtown Fort Worth—underground and off the beaten path, but jazz lovers will always find their way to live jazz music. Live music is available Thursday through Sunday. Visit the site for performances, ticket info, and where to park.
Tip: Look for the vintage sign at 111 West 4th Street to find this place.
Jubilee Theatre
Catch a live comedy, drama, musical, or original work at Jubilee Theatre – an African American performing arts theater aimed at a multicultural audience. There is a story of the history of this place starting from its inception in 1981. It’s a true gem to Fort Worth – be sure to read it – I think it will inspire you.
AMC Palace 9 Theatre
Enjoy a movie in this stadium seating theatre with AMC signature recliners, concessions options, wine & beer. AMC Palace 9 shows all the latest hits for the whole family. It’s a great way to rest after a full day of shopping and to catch one of the latest Hollywood movies.
Hyena’s Comedy Club
Hyena’s Comedy Club is the longest-running comedy club in Fort Worth. It features hilarious comedians and is open nightly. Check the website for performances, tickets, and where to park.
Reata Restaurant Rooftop Bar
Reata Restaurant is an upscale restaurant with a fantastic rooftop bar for parties, get-togethers, and drinks before dinner. It’s the perfect place for a date night or a special occasion. For many years, Reata Restaurant has been a popular hot spot in Fort Worth. I have been to many parties on the rooftop and spent one of my wedding anniversaries in the dining room. Look for valet parking and parking in nearby parking garages.
Sid Richardson Museum
The Sid Richardson Museum features permanent collections and special exhibits of paintings of the Old West and other late 19th and early 20th-century artists who worked in the American West. It sometimes offers special events for all ages. It is located in the square.
Fort Worth Water Gardens
One of Fort Worth’s signature attractions is the marvelous Fort Worth Water Gardens. Enjoy the sounds of the waterfalls and the beautiful flowers all year long. It is located across the street from the Omni Hotel. Free to roam.
Rooftop Cinema Club
See a movie at Rooftop Cinema Club, an open-air cinema. What a terrific way to take in a movie. It’s guaranteed a stunning view of Fort Worth, no matter when you go. The cinema is located on the terrace of The Worthington Renaissance Hotel.
Parking Information: Self-park at the hotel parking garage off Throckmorton Street. Complimentary Valet is also available for any patron who dines at Toro Toro Fort Worth before or after the show.
Be sure to get there early to enjoy the experience and to grab your seat. On rainy days, they do offer blankets or ponchos, but not always, so be sure to bring your own when the weather is brisk outside.
Holidays On The Sundance Square Plaza
Besides all the decorations and Santa Claus, sometimes they invite special guests to sign up for the plaza. Last year, Marie Osmond was there. Get the kids all dressed up and enjoy photos with Santa and hot chocolate.
Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival
Returning April 18-21, 2024, the Fort Worth Arts Festival outdoor event will be set up in Sundance Square on Main Street with over 200 juried artists from the local, regional, and national. Free.
Shops In Sundance Square
From casual women’s clothing to Western wear and trendy boutiques, you’ll have a fabulous time shopping for gifts and something for yourself. My favorite place to shop is Francesca’s. It’s hit or miss for me, but I usually find something when they have a good sale.
Restaurants In Sundance Square
Besides the Reata Restaurant I mentioned above, Sundance Square has many unique eateries, including upscale diners, a juice bar, barbecue joints, and Mexican restaurants. Some of these are definite must-tries! The best part is that if one has a long wait, you’ll find another great spot right down the street—or even next door. Here is a list of some of my favorites.
Buffalo Bros
Cold beer and hot wings here! It’s game day at Buffalo Bros, a modern sports bar setup for the biggest fans. It’s an excellent venue for watching your favorite team, with great food, a wraparound bar, and many beers on tap.
Simply Fondue
Reserve your spot for a leisurely and casual fondue dining experience at Simply Fondue. They make all their sauces, batters, and dressings from scratch daily. Enjoy selecting from the extensive wine list or trying a hand-crafted martini or specialty drink in a relaxed atmosphere. Simply Fondue is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Salata
For a light lunch, head to Salata, where you can build your salad or wrap. If you’re in a hurry, they also offer made-to-order salads. Their motto? “Go the extra mile with everything extra, or keep it light to feel just right. This is your life. Your recipe. So don’t let anyone tell you how to make a salad. Listen to your instincts. Trust your gut.” How brilliant — I couldn’t have said it better myself!
Waters Restaurant
Waters Restaurant is a fun, upscale restaurant that serves oysters by the dozen, wild-caught seafood, hand-selected wines, and even fresh halibut from Alaska. Happy hour is Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m., and the outdoor patio is a . Reservations are recommended on weekends.
Hotels In Sundance Square, Downtown Fort Worth
Staying overnight in the Sundance Square District puts you within walking distance of downtown Fort Worth’s best restaurants, art venues, bars, and clubs. You can check in along Main Street at Embassy Suites by Hilton Hotel Fort Worth Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Fort Worth Downtown, Worthington Renaissance, or Kimpton Harper Hotel. Other accommodations in the center of Sundance Square include Aloft Fort Worth Downtown and AC Hotel Fort Worth Downtown.
Travel Tip: Most, if not all, hotels offer valet parking. Some only offer valet parking, meaning there is nowhere close to park your car.
Whether you seek culinary delights, cultural scenes, shopping tours, or entertainment and arts you desire, things to do in Sundance Square offer unforgettable experiences to travelers of all interests. It’s such an icon in downtown Fort Worth that it has its own website – Sundance Square.
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