Stockyards Saloon Crawl with Food Tours of America

A fun, lively way to explore Fort Worth’s legendary Stockyards, the Stockyards Saloon Crawl with Food Tours of America promises a spirited mix of history, drinks, and cowboy charm. While it’s just a 2-hour experience, it packs in enough storytelling, local flavor, and authentic vibes to give you a real taste of Texas’ Wild West past.

What we love about this tour is how it combines lively bar stops with fascinating tales of outlaws, ghosts, and cowboys—plus a good dose of Texas hospitality. The guides’ knowledge is a definite highlight, making each stop feel personal and engaging. The included light bites and drinks offer great value without feeling rushed or skimpy. And for anyone curious about the Stockyards’ darker stories, this tour’s haunted hotel and underground speakeasy pique curiosity in a fun, accessible way.

That said, one thing to consider: the tour covers a lot in just a couple of hours. If you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely experience with plenty of downtime, this might feel a bit brisk. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy lively atmospheres and storytelling, not those seeking a slow-paced food or drink tour. Overall, if you want an energetic, fun intro to Fort Worth’s cowboy history with a dash of ghost stories and live music, this one hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Authentic Fort Worth experience: Combines history, local legends, and lively bar scenes.
• Knowledgeable guides: Share engaging stories about the Wild West, ghosts, and outlaws.
• Good value: Includes snacks, drinks, and insider stories for the price.
• Unique stops: From a haunted hotel to Texas’s oldest honky tonk, each venue tells a story.
• Short but memorable: Two hours packed with entertainment and history.
• Limited group size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring personal attention and a friendly vibe.

Exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards Saloon Crawl

Starting at Sidesaddle Saloon: A Modern Western Welcome

Kicking off at Sidesaddle Saloon, located right in Mule Alley, this spot blends contemporary Texas charm with classic cowboy decor. You’ll enjoy your first drink and a light bite—a simple yet satisfying appetizer—while soaking in the lively environment. The guide (often a local with a flair for storytelling) shares some background on the Stockyards’ history, giving you context for what’s to come.

The Sidesaddle Saloon isn’t just a trendy spot; it’s a hub of modern cowboy culture, with friendly bartenders and a lively atmosphere. Some reviewers mention that the guide, whose name is often given as “Mike,” is particularly knowledgeable, sharing stories of ghosts haunting this hotel and the area’s rugged past. Their storytelling style makes history feel alive, transforming a simple bar stop into a mini history lesson with a twist of fun.

Ghosts and Outlaws: Stories from the Past

After the initial stop, the tour meanders along the original brick walkways of the Stockyards, allowing you to appreciate the historic environment. You’ll learn about the ghosts that are said to haunt local buildings, including the hotel, which some guests describe as “creepy but fascinating.” The stories about outlaws who once stayed in these establishments, including Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, add an intriguing layer to the experience.

One reviewer notes that the guides do a good job of balancing storytelling with respect, emphasizing that these tales are part of the area’s colorful past. The haunted hotel, still standing today, is a highlight for those interested in the paranormal.

The Underground Speakeasy: Hidden Texas

The next stop takes you underground—literally—to a speakeasy vibe beneath one of the historic sites. Here, you’ll enjoy another drink, often paired with local stories or legends about Prohibition-era Texas. The atmosphere is intimate, with dim lighting and vintage decor, making it a perfect spot for a secretive sip. Guests have said that the underground setting adds a “mysterious, fun twist” to the tour, making it more than just a couple of bar stops.

The Oldest Honky Tonk: Live Music and Cowboy Dancing

The tour’s grand finale is at the oldest honky tonk in Texas, established back in 1884. Its legendary status is clear, as the place once hosted notorious figures like Butch Cassidy and Wyatt Earp. Today, it features live country music that gets everyone in a two-stepping mood. Visitors often mention the band as lively and talented, with many taking the opportunity to dance or simply soak in the historic ambiance.

Guests have appreciated the chance to toss back another drink here, listening to stories from the staff about the legendary patrons who once roamed these floors. The lively, authentic setting makes it clear why this honky tonk remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration, Group Size, and Comfort

This tour lasts around 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick but memorable evening. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group feels intimate enough to ask questions and chat comfortably with the guide. The tour is designed to be active but not exhausting—expect some walking between stops, but most venues are close together in the historic Stockyards district.

Price and Value

At $115 per person, the tour offers good value, considering it includes light bites and alcoholic beverages at each stop, along with a dedicated local guide. The inclusion of storytelling, historic insights, and access to unique venues like the underground speakeasy adds to the overall experience. Keep in mind that gratuities are not included, so if you appreciate your guide’s effort, a tip is appreciated.

Accessibility and Dietary Considerations

The tour is open to most travelers, and dietary restrictions can often be accommodated if communicated in advance. They ask that you inform them at least 48 hours before your tour if you need menu substitutions, though last-minute changes are not guaranteed.

Meeting Point and End Location

Starting at Sidesaddle Saloon on E. Exchange Ave, you’ll meet your guide there; the tour concludes at Hotel Drover in Mule Alley. Both locations are easily accessible, with public transportation nearby, for ease of planning.

What We Thought Overall

The Stockyards Saloon Crawl offers a spirited way to experience Fort Worth’s cowboy heritage without requiring a long commitment. The mix of lively venues, guided storytelling, and historic sites creates a fun, educational environment—perfect for history buffs, drink enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Texas’ Wild West legends.

The tour’s highlight is definitely the guides’ ability to tie together history, ghost stories, and lively local traditions. The inclusion of a haunted hotel and underground speakeasy adds adventurous notes that make this stand out from standard pub crawls.

While the 2-hour format is energetic and packed, it works well for those wanting a snapshot of the Stockyards’ legendary past. For a more relaxed experience, some travelers might prefer longer, more leisurely tours; but if you’re after a lively, authentic taste of cowboy culture, this tour delivers.

Who this Tour is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who love stories and lively atmospheres. History buffs will enjoy the detailed tales and historic venues, while casual visitors will find the combination of drinks, food, and entertainment very satisfying. It’s especially suited for groups or couples looking for a fun, social evening with a distinctive Texan flavor.

Those interested in legends, ghosts, and cowboy lore will find plenty to fascinate them, and the small-group format ensures a personal touch. It’s a perfect way to add some authentic Texas flavor to your Fort Worth adventures.

FAQ

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, non-alcoholic options may be available, and you can still enjoy the storytelling and food. Be sure to mention dietary preferences when booking.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 to 45 minutes, balancing enough time for drinks, bites, and stories without feeling rushed.

Are the venues accessible?
Most venues are close together, but the tour involves walking on historic brick walkways. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to discuss with the tour provider beforehand.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the tour locations is not included. You’ll meet at the first venue and end at the designated location.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire is suitable. If you want to get into the cowboy spirit, a hat or boots would be fun, but not necessary.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included in the tour price, so tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience.

To sum it up, the Stockyards Saloon Crawl with Food Tours of America is a lively, engaging way to experience Fort Worth’s cowboy spirit. It combines authentic stories, historic venues, and good food and drinks in a short, spirited package. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure, history, and good old-fashioned Texas hospitality, this tour promises a memorable taste of the Wild West that’s both fun and educational.