Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Weatherford, TX

  • Published 2022/10/21

Nestled just 20 minutes’ drive away from the DallasFort Worth metroplex, Weatherford is a beautiful, scenic city rich in history and culture.

The city grew to prominence after the implementation of railroads in the late 19th century.

With the growth of railroads and cattle drives throughout the region, Weatherford became a significant stop along the cattle trails going from Northern Texas to Kansas.

Then, the city inspired “Lonesome Dove,” one of the most famous western novels ever written.

Visitors who enjoy history and spend time in the rustic surroundings can explore Weatherford’s western architecture and frontier history.

Today, Weatherford has become a thriving community and hosts one of Texas’ most popular annual festivals.

Each July, thousands gather in Weatherford for the Parker County Peach Festival, which showcases attractions from local farms and many other fun-filled activities for both children and adults alike.

Make sure you don’t miss these top attractions when visiting Weatherford, Texas!

Visit the Parker County Courthouse

Exterior of Parker County Courthouse

xradiophotog / Shutterstock.com

It was architect W.C. Dodson who originally designed the building in 1886.

The architect modeled the beautiful courthouse after his other buildings at Hood, Lampasas, and Hill Counties.

It went through over a decade of restoration efforts.

That continued with the Historic Courthouse Preservation Program in the early 90s and in 2002.

Thanks to its 2004 renovation, the courthouse opened its doors once more, offering guided tours to give insight into history and culture.

Aerial view of Parker County Courthouse

Bradly Hulce / Shutterstock.com

Individual tours are available to those interested, though groups may book reservations in advance to ensure everyone has room.

This beautiful building offers history and holiday displays.

There is a venue room that regularly hosts its annual Christmas party in December (the tree alone reaches 30 feet into the air!).

There are live performances and other events throughout the year as well.

Dine at Los Vaqueros

Los Vaqueros is a true Fort Worth original.

It’s a casual restaurant owned by the Valentine family in Weatherford, Texas.

The two opened their Mexican cuisine restaurant in 1983, and it used to be in Fort Worth.

After relocating to their present location at the Northbrook Golf Club in Weatherford, it’s now a favorite old-fashioned Mexican restaurant, where patrons line up outside the door for a more contemporary place of culinary delight.

Here are some of the best appetizer dishes: toasted meat tacos, chile con carne tamales, and avocado enchiladas.

The menu is laden with meaty, cheesy, and chili flavors from the plate-spanning platters served at dinner.

You have your choice between corn tortillas or crisp fried shells for both your enchiladas and chalupas.

Spanish rice is a popular staple to fill the gap on your table alongside that flavorful bean and cheese dip perfectly paired with whatever you consume.

At the restaurant bar, diners can choose from various beers served alongside sangria or house margaritas.

Have a Beer at Antebellum Ale House

Exterior of the Antebellum Ale House

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re in Weatherford for a chill place to relax with some tasty craft beer and flatbread pizza, Antebellum Ale House has something for everyone.

Their friendly and skilled staff always gives unparalleled customer service, making their customers feel right at home from the second they come in.

With a menu that features some of Texas’ best craft beers and cocktails, it is certain that when you visit Antebellum Ale House, you’ll be spending time with some of the finest brews in the Lone Star state.

The ambiance of this bar won’t disappoint you!

Antebellum Ale House prides itself on its 45 craft beers on tap and incredible house infusion cocktails made using locally distilled spirits by hard-working bartenders.

If you’ve got a hankering for a bit to crunch on while you enjoy your cocktail, the bar staff is serving up flatbread pizza that is causing quite a stir.

So if you’re in Weatherford, Texas, be sure to visit the bar and restaurant for a good time.

Experience the Wave Pool at Splash Kingdom Wild West

Hudson Oaks’ Splash Kingdom is one exciting family water park.

The Western theme appeals to a wide range of people, and this particular attraction has something for everyone.

The waterpark is 220,000 gallons bigger than the average swimming pool and features a wave pool measuring 145 feet long.

There’s a 700” long lazy river ride and exhilarating waterslides as well.

You have the three enclosed and two open slides called Snake Pit.

‘The Good’ is a side-by-side, single four-lane, racing mat slide.

And there’s ‘The Bad and The Ugly,’ double rider or two single tube slides, one fully enclosed air and the other open.

The new WildRider is a FlowRider that allows you to create whatever type of wave you desire for some riding action.

Dine at Zeno’s on the Square

Zeno’s on the Square brings forth a brand new but traditional Italian culture right into the heart of Weatherford.

Executive chef Massimiliano Zubboli and restaurateurs Monica and Zeno Russo brought together some of Italy’s most treasured recipes to create unique dishes that are nothing short of amazing.

The coveted Italian dining spot became famous for its mouthwatering Pasta di Casa, Chicken Napule, and Filetto al Barolo entrees.

Mushroom fettuccine, lemon ricotta-stuffed ravioli, cioppino, seafood carbonara, and shrimp gnocchi are but a few of this restaurant’s specialties.

Other classic dishes include cotoletta Milanese or veal saltimbocca.

The bar offers its patrons a large selection of hand-picked Italian wines.

For those who might not wish to indulge in alcoholic beverages, you might fancy their tea.

Explore Chandor Gardens

A gazebo at Chandor Gardens

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A combination of Chinese and English architecture (three-and-a-half acres in area) surrounds you when you enter the exotic Chandor Gardens.

The gardens are alive with sound and movement: the rushing of water, the chirping of birds, and the gentle sway of nature.

You get to explore the expansive network of winding paths encompassing a variety of features, including various pleasant ponds, running streams, rock formations, and other forms of scenery.

You will also see a large fountain that is one of the largest wall fountains in existence today.

A flower on Chandor Gardens pond

Mindy Wilk / Shutterstock.com

Its quiet and calming focal point is only made better during the evening when lit from within, making for a more dramatic outdoor experience.

If you happen to be in Weatherford, don’t miss out on visiting Chandor Gardens and enjoy one of the oldest, beautiful gardens outside of any urban area in North America!

Located near Weatherford’s Historic District and within easy reach of Fort Worth, Chandor Gardens is a scenic location for special events.

Take a Hike at Holland Lake Park

Well-situated in a scenic area of Weatherford is Holland Lake Park.

Deemed by many as one of the best parks in town, this 1+ mile long and nature-filled trail area allows joggers and hikers the chance to get out, stretch their legs, enjoy some time outside and admire Mother Nature at the same time.

After that, it’s time to refuel!

The park offers several picnic areas for you to sit back and relax with your loved ones after a hard day’s work.

Or you could venture into the history contained within the Double Log Cabin.

With its traditional antique décor and signature museum-style lighting, the historic building serves as a good place for young and adults to learn more about life centuries ago.

There are interactive exhibits that allow visitors more insight into Texas’ history than ever before!

The park borders Camp Holland, where scout troops often camp out under the stars!

Thrill-seekers enjoy the waters of Holland Lake for swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing events sponsored by youth organizations.

Explore Clark Gardens

Exterior of Clark Gardens Chapel

Sultry, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you think that The Chandor Gardens are the only place in Weatherford to experience beautiful horticulture and design, then you’re wrong!

Clark Gardens is also a must-see destination!

It’s another beautiful place to see flora and fauna during a visit to town.

Clark Gardens change with each season and feature their blooms uniquely throughout spring, summer, and fall.

And there’s also the breathtaking flowers and the attraction of birdlife.

Ducks at Clark Gardens

Sultry, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You’ll enjoy tranquil walks along the park’s pathways, brimming with various waterfalls.

All of these different features are wheelchair-friendly, making it easy for anyone to navigate through the garden!

Pay the National Vietnam War Museum a Visit

The museum opened its doors to the public in 1999.

This is a place to remember and honor the lives of the five million people who sacrifice during the Vietnam War.

It features many artifacts from soldiers who fought and died in one of history’s most bitter conflicts.

The museum shows visitors what soldiers endured while serving by putting them in rooms that simulate the spartan lifestyles of those soldiers.

The Semper Fi Vietnam Memorial Garden is just outside.

It features a 300” Moving Wall with trees arranged in such a way as to emulate the real one found at Washington, D.C.

You can also enjoy peace in the garden’s meditation and contemplation areas.

They boast open space that leads to the trail system down to the 20-mile moderately trafficked point-to-point North Texas treasure trail.

Enjoy Rock Climbing at Mineral Wells State Park

Weatherford is a twenty-minute drive to Mineral Wells State Park.

The adventure park allows for so many outdoor activities that could easily keep you occupied all day.

If you seek an escape for the day without completely overhauling your schedule, the plenty of outdoor activities to do in the park will certainly entice you, such as hiking, swimming, boating, or rock climbing.

You can hike the Red Waterfront Trail if you want to take in all the views as you weave your way through some breathtaking scenery.

Then, you’ll find a place called Penitentiary Hollow.

It’s where you can enjoy rock climbing and have a good time scaling large faces.

Check Out Vintage Cars

Display at Vintage Car Museum, Weatherford

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Weatherford, Texas, is home to this car lover’s dream that opened its doors in August 2016.

Vintage car lover Tom Moncrief devoted many years of his life amassing his impressive collection.

His car museum features a collection of approximately 15 automobiles.

Display at Vintage Car Museum, Weatherford

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tom also exhibits a few of his personally owned vehicles and a rotating display of vintage cars owned by the folks at Fort Worth.

A lot of the vehicles in this museum have interesting stories behind them.

An example is President Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1964 Lincoln Continental Convertible, which he used for his station wagon on vacation at his ranch.

1919 Ford model in the Vintage Car museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Get to Know the Comanche

Take a tour of the Doss Heritage and Culture Center, which introduces you to the story of the Comanche people who once ruled The Lone Star State.

The trip is full of interesting stories of famous people, like Broadway star Mary Martin whose son Larry Hagman played JR Ewing in ‘Dallas,’ a famous TV series.

DHCC’s exhibits always have something new and exciting to offer.

Their rotation system keeps each visit different from the last one, so you will never feel bored.

And there are even special events that take place here throughout the year.

One particularly popular event here is Parents’ Night Out, which gives working parents a way to unwind, knowing their children are safe.

The Doss Heritage and Culture Center also host a series of evening lectures on the Texas region’s history, spanning from areas that are no longer within state borders to battles fought within its current boundaries.

Have a Bite at Oaxaca

Visit Weatherford’s Oaxaca if you want to experience exciting flavor combinations in delectable Mexican cuisine.

The Ramos family in Weatherford runs the now-six-year-old, Chihuahuan-style eatery.

They serve up a slew of made-fresh-from-scratch dishes that allows for customers to have an array of dining options to choose from.

No matter what your Mexican food cravings are, they’ve got you covered with their classic Tex Mex dispensary.

They serve an extensive selection of mouthwatering dishes, including banana-wrapped tamal, Huitlacoche quesadillas, and homemade mole.

There is also a full bar at the site for serving up classic Mexican beers.

The restaurant’s brunch menu includes catering from breakfast favorites using different tortillas, such as tacos and enchiladas.

After your meal, be sure to leave enough room for dessert because you wouldn’t want to miss the wide selection of sweet treats made fresh daily.

Shop at Weatherford Farmers Market

Exterior of Weatherford Farmers Market

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the bustling heart of the Peach Capital of Texas lies the Weatherford Farmers Market.

It’s an open-air market with food vendors, produce stands, and all the other curiosities you might be looking for.

This flea market is a shopping experience focusing on local/handmade, artisan, and sustainable foodstuffs and products.

In the spring, people who come here have access to fresh plants from March’s warm month.

During summer, you can expect a variety of freshly harvested locally sourced produce, including Parker County peaches, the region’s specialty.

During the late fall and early winter, you’re going to find firewood, Christmas trees, and local pecans in the market.

Sip Coffee at The Full Cup

In this charming coffee shop & book store, one can find many books for great prices.

The Full Cup has its tables and ceilings covered with book pages.

As soon as you enter, it’s like setting foot on a small sanctuary in the middle of busy London but without losing any of its main appeals.

It has so much character!

You can buy new books here if you want.

Or, maybe just read some of their books.

They serve delicious coffee, vegan food options, and even baked goods.

Learn History at the Museum of the Americas

Through a comprehensive collection of antiques, crafts, and folk art from the late 19th and 20th centuries, the Museum of the Americas showcases the vibrant and varied legacy of the original peoples of the Americas.

The Museum of the Americas seeks to foster appreciation and awareness of other peoples, their histories, the beauty they produce, and their efforts to maintain their cultures.

The particular designs of the items that people manufacture for everyday use, religious rites, and trading reflect the rich traditional culture of those people.

Discover the Plains Indians’ graphics, the sculptures of the Northwest Coast Indians, the colorful clothes, the intricate molas, the whole tiny Mexican hamlet, and a Mexican shrine from the 19th century.

Visit The Museum of the Americas to go on a time travel adventure!

Spend a Fun Day at Canyon West Golf Club

An award-winning Par 72 golf course, Canyon West Golf Club, twists over 6,653 yards of Parker County’s rolling foothills.

Steep tee boxes with panoramic views of counties, lakes, a wildlife sanctuary, and a waterfall created from 500,000 tons of local limestone rock are part of the Canyon West Golf course’s layout.

Five flat-screen TVs in the magnificent wrap-around bar and clubhouse area provide a welcoming sports bar ambiance.

A driving range and putting green are part of their comprehensive practice facility, which is accessible to the public and open all year during the same times as the Pro Shop.

The Canyon West Golf Club pool is a pleasant place to spend a sunny afternoon, allowing members and visitors to enjoy the beautiful Texas weather all year.

Play Various Games at Film Alley

At Film Alley Weatherford, a family-run amusement park open for almost 90 years, there is plenty to see and experience.

Enter the Redemption Arcade after the show and bowling to play some of the newest games, including Jurassic Park, Sink It, Transformers, Typhoon, Wizard of Oz, Down the Clown, and more.

When you approach the arcade, there are kiosks where you can purchase game cards in whichever denomination.

Gaming cards are credited with points and exchanged for goods at the Redemption shop.

They provide a complete bar and cuisine, including pizza, burritos, salads, and many other things!

Have your upcoming birthday, gathering, or business event at Film Alley!

Stroll around and Search for Items to Buy at Friends By Choice Boutique

In 2015, Friends By Choice Boutique first opened its doors.

Consignment merchandise was all they had when they first started, but everything shifted after one stroll to the market!

Since then, they have expanded their boutique area and now include dozens of vendors selling apparel, shoes, candies, wax melts, sunglasses, jewels, and even products for your children.

They are widely renowned for their wide selection of cozy t-shirts!

Their line offers clothing in sizes small to 3X for the typical fashionable woman.

The excellent goods from Friends By Choice Boutique, which has locations in Weatherford and Mineral Wells, Texas, are sent to all 50 states!

Enjoy and Be Thrilled at Parker County Axe Co.

One of their “Axeperts” will direct you to a designated lane and give you a quick security briefing as soon as you arrive at Parker County Axe Co. and check-in.

All respondents should be 18 years old and above and sign a release to join.

You will receive instructions on how to correctly manage and throw your axe if you have never done so.

Axe throwing at full throttle into a hardwood target or striking your first bullseye are both exhilarating experiences, so be ready to have fun.

The Parker County Axe Company is ideal for various occasions, including birthdays, business gatherings, team-building exercises, etc.

Rent out a room or the entire facility!

Final Thoughts

A well-established city, Weatherford offers residents and tourists an enticing variety of diverse opportunities for enjoyment.

If you happen to be in Weatherford, there are many attractive options and local treasures to pursue.

You can enjoy tasty treats at Los Vaqueros, annual festivals, such as the Annual Parker County Peach Festival, or hiking trails in Holland Lake Park.

I hope that this list of things to do in Weatherford, TX, gave your ample inspiration for your future journeys and that you get a chance to visit some of these places.

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