Cross Timbers Travel Guide

Explore Cross Timbers, a beautiful region of Texas with our travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, this guide has everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to Cross Timbers

Nestled in the Prairies and Lakes region of Texas, the Cross Timbers is a scenic and historic area with plenty to offer both locals and visitors. With a mix of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this part of the state. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, our Cross Timbers travel guide has you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Cross Timbers

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Worth Stockyards: Get a taste of the Wild West at the Fort Worth Stockyards, home to weekly rodeos, historic architecture, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
  • Log Cabin Village: Travel back in time at the Log Cabin Village, an outdoor museum featuring authentic log cabins from the 1800s.
  • National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame: Celebrate the women who helped shape the American West at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which includes exhibits on famous cowgirls and their achievements.
  • Vintage Flying Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will love the Vintage Flying Museum, which features restored planes and aircraft memorabilia.

Natural Attractions of Cross Timbers: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Possum Kingdom Lake: With crystal clear water and stunning cliff formations, Possum Kingdom Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Dinosaur Valley State Park: Get up close and personal with prehistoric giants at Dinosaur Valley State Park, home to fossilized dinosaur footprints and scenic hiking trails.
  • Cedar Hill State Park: located southwest of Dallas, Cedar Hill State Park is home to 13 miles of hiking trails that crisscross the windswept, rolling hills and hardwood forests of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cross Timbers

  • Eisenhower State Park: With over 4 miles of hiking and biking trails, Eisenhower State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Cedar Ridge Preserve: With trails ranging in length from half a mile to 1.2 miles, the Cedar Ridge Preserve offers something for hikers of all skill levels.
  • Lake Mineral Wells State Park: Home to over 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, Lake Mineral Wells State Park offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Cross Timbers: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: take a trail ride with any of the local outfitters
  • Wine Tasting Tour: Tour the wineries of Granbury, which has become a prime spot for Texas vintages in recent years.
  • Brewery Tour: Take in the beer scene in Fort Worth and Granbury with a brewery tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cross Timbers

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Fort Worth Stockyards, enjoy a rodeo show, and dine at the famous Joe T Garcia’s Restaurant
Day 2 Visit the Vintage Flying Museum, and spend the afternoon in Arlington with Six Flags over Texas, and enjoying the city’s food and craft beer scene
Day 3 Explore the Dinosaur Valley State Park, hike, and discover the fossilized dinosaur footprints
Day 4 Go on a scenic drive through the Cross Timbers landscape and enjoy the beautiful views
Day 5 Take a wine tasting tour in Granbury, visiting local vineyards and wineries
Day 6 Spend the day at Possum Kingdom Lake, enjoying swimming, boating, and water sports
Day 7 Go on a brewery tour, and try some of the local craft beer at one of the many breweries in the area

Food and Drink Scene of Cross Timbers

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Fried Steak: A classic Texan dish inspired by German-style schnitzel, served with creamy gravy and mashed potatoes or on a sandwich.
  • Chili: A hearty stew made with beef, chili peppers, and spices.
  • Tex-Mex: A fusion of Texas and Mexican cuisine, with popular dishes including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas.

Local Beverages

  • Texas Wine: Texan wine is quickly becoming known for its quality, with many local vineyards producing award-winning wines.
  • Texas Beer: The craft beer scene has exploded throughout the Lone Star State, with many breweries offering a wide variety of flavorful brews.

Where to Stay in Cross Timbers: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Hilton Fort Worth: Located in the heart of downtown Fort Worth, the Hilton offers a luxurious stay with easy access to city attractions.
  • The Baker Hotel and Spa: An iconic local landmark, The Baker Hotel has undergone a multi-million dollar renovation and now features a spa, pool, and upscale dining.
  • The Iron Horse Inn: A historic bed and breakfast located in Granbury, the Iron Horse Inn offers quaint lodging in a scenic setting.

What to Buy in Cross Timbers: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cowboy Boots and Hats: Traditional cowboy attire is a popular souvenir item in the Cross Timbers area.
  • Texas Wine: Take home a bottle or two of locally produced wine as a souvenir and gift.
  • Western Artwork: From paintings to sculptures, there are many local artists who specialize in cowboy and western-themed artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Cross Timbers

The Cross Timbers has a rich history and culture, shaped by its unique mix of Native American, cowboy, and Mexican influences. Many residents are proud of their Texas heritage and enjoy celebrating it through food, music, and local festivals.

Best Time to Visit Cross Timbers

The best time to visit Cross Timbers is during the spring months of March to May or the fall months of September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cross Timbers

Do:

  • Do visit local museums and attractions: Take the time to explore the area’s rich history and culture.
  • Do enjoy the food scene: Try some local favorites, such as chicken fried steak, barbecue, or Tex-Mex.
  • Do take advantage of outdoor activities: With scenic hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and more than 300 days of sunshine each year, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and bug spray: The Texas sun can be intense, so protect your skin and repel bugs while enjoying outdoor activities.
  • Don’t neglect to hydrate: It’s essential to stay hydrated in the Texas heat, so drink plenty of water.
  • Don’t be rude to locals: Texans are known for their hospitality, so be polite and respectful when interacting with locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cross Timbers

The Cross Timbers area is relatively safe, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take common sense precautions such as locking vehicles when leaving them unattended, not leaving valuables in plain view, and avoiding unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Cross Timbers

Visitors to the Cross Timbers area should be aware of the potential for sunburn and heat exhaustion, particularly during the summer months. It’s essential to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Visitors with chronic medical conditions should bring their medications with them or have a plan in place in case of a medical emergency.

Getting to Cross Timbers: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cross Timbers

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
  • Forney Army Air Field
  • Mineral Wells Airport

Bus Stations Near Cross Timbers

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Fort Worth
  • Jefferson Lines in Dallas

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Many major car rental companies operate out of nearby airports and cities.
  • Rideshare Services
  • Taxis

How to Get Around in Cross Timbers

The best way to get around the Cross Timbers area is by car. However, there are also public transportation options such as buses and taxis available in larger cities.

Where to Go Next from Cross Timbers: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dallas: Located just 45 minutes away, Dallas is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Cross Timbers area.
  • Austin: Known for its arts and culture scene, Austin is a vibrant and eclectic city located about three hours south of the Cross Timbers.
  • San Antonio: Famous for the Alamo, the River Walk, and other historic landmarks, San Antonio is a great choice for a longer excursion.

Conclusion

The Cross Timbers is a beautiful and historic area of Texas that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this part of the state. Use our comprehensive travel guide to plan your Cross Timbers adventure today.



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