Tired of going to the movies? Sick of the same old parties? Believe it or not, there’s more to do in Cowtown and its surrounding areas than you think. Here are a few ideas to broaden your horizons and spice up your Saturday.
Four Star Coffee Bar
3324 West 7th St., Fort Worth
Just five minutes from campus, hidden beneath a deceiving faÂade, lies what I consider one of the most underrated, best-kept secrets in our area. With daily service of breakfast, lunch and fine desserts, combined with fresh roasted coffees, specialty drinks and smoothies, I’m sorry to admit that this place blows Starbucks away. Hand-painted tables and a myriad of artwork combined with classical music set a modern tone with a relaxing atmosphere. A cozy corner with couches provides a great place to study. Workers are extremely friendly, welcoming customers as they enter and chatting with the regulars. The food is fantastic, and its sweet tea is amazing. Local bands play on Friday and Saturday nights until midnight. This is the trendy place to be any day of the week. Check out fwculture.com/fourstarcoffeebar.htm.
Central Market Cooking School
4651 W. Freeway, Fort Worth
Who doesn’t love Central Market? But did you know they have even more to offer than their fabulous foods? From cakes and pies to gourmet tamales and sushi, Central Market chefs can teach you how to cook. The culinary school is located on the second floor of both the Fort Worth and Dallas stores. Entering the school feels like walking on the set of “Emeril Live.” Nationally recognized chefs lead the classes in learning and perfecting their cooking skills and developing a repertoire of recipes. The experience is relaxing and invigorating at the same time. There are a variety of classes to choose from and prices are reasonable ($40- $75). For more information visit: centralmarket.com .
Medieval Times
2021 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas (Exit Market Center Blvd.)
Travel to a land of kings and queens, knights and shining armor – and it’s just 30 minutes away. This place is more than just a fun restaurant. Tables circle around a large arena where the jousting tournament takes place. The hearty meal includes soup, lots of meat, potatoes and dessert. It does not, however, include utensils. While man-handling its meals, the audience cheers on its team knight in a tournament complete with live horses, weapons and very dramatic music. The show is entertaining, engaging and pretty realistic. This is definitely more thrilling than just another dinner out. The more people in your party, the cheaper – and more fun. Check out medievaltimes.com.
Trail Dust
2300 E. Lamar Ave., Arlington
Can’t get enough of Billy Bob’s? Imagine all the two-stepping you can handle plus delicious barbecue and a full bar, all inside an old country-western saloon. Welcome to Trail Dust. If this place isn’t a Southern classic, then I don’t know what is. With live country music every night, a huge dance floor and enthusiastic servers, Trail Dust is the perfect place to give visiting relatives a shocking dose of Texas. The food is fantastic, and the crowd lively. A giant slide in the middle of the restaurant keeps children (and college students) entertained all night. If you’re looking for a little good old-fashioned fun, this is the place for you. Just don’t wear a tie, or they’ll cut it off and nail it to the wall. Boot scoot to traildust.com for more information. Trail Dust is located in Arlington right off the exit for Six Flags.
Dallas World Aquarium
1801 N. Griffin St., Dallas
As one of Dallas’ premier attractions, the aquarium has an impressive array of enchanting creatures. This makes for a popular afternoon date or maybe an elementary school field trip. Either way, it’s a captivating experience with its indoor rainforest and coral reef ecosystems, glass shark tunnel and multitude of endangered species. Tickets are $15.95, but, if you get there an hour before it closes, they’ll let you in for half price. And an hour is all you need to see everything. Visit dwazoo.com to plan your next underwater adventure.
