Whether you’re a first-timer at the legendary Stock Show and Rodeo or a seasoned veteran, you know that getting to and from the Will Rogers Memorial Center during this 23-day-long event is no easy feat. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide of tips to help your group get to the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo with ease.
Traveling to the Stock Show and Rodeo with a group? Partybus.com can help! With a network of buses across Texas, we can find the right transportation for your group, whether you’re looking for a sprinter van for a family or a Fort Worth charter bus for your entire school or community organization. You can also choose from additional amenities to make the journey from Dallas or Fort Worth to Arlington even more comfortable for your group. Each bus comes with a driver to ensure you are dropped off at the Will Rogers Memorial Center. They’ll handle traffic and parking while you get ready to enjoy a day of family-friendly fun!
Call us at 877-563-2133 to learn more about bus rental pricing and the rental process, and we’d be happy to set you up with a free, no-obligation quote.
About the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo
Since 1896, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo has been a cornerstone event in Texas for local ranchers, farmers, and residents of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known as the oldest livestock show in the United States, it originally began as a way for Texas ranchers to buy and sell their livestock. It quickly evolved into a 23-day-long celebration complete with carnival rides, rodeo events, and livestock shows. The event is held every January and February at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth.
Admission & Passes
There are several ticket options for guests to enjoy The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo events.
General Admission
General admission allows access to most events such as livestock shows and carnival rides. Prices for adults (age 13 and up) are $12 and children (age 6-12) are $5. You can save a few bucks if you pre-purchase your general admission online – adults are $10 and children are $5. Admission for kids under 6 is always free. These general admission tickets do not include Rodeo events or concerts at the Will Rogers Auditorium.
Rodeo Tickets
These tickets include general admission to The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo events. Pricing varies depending on the day and event. Rodeo tickets for adults generally cost $20 – $40, depending on the day of the week and the popularity of the events. Those traveling with kids (ages 3-12) can expect to pay $10-20 on rodeo tickets.
Grounds Passes
Grounds Passes include general admission for each of the 23 days. They are $50 for adults and $20 for children, offering significant savings for groups and frequent visitors who plan on attending multiple events like concerts and livestock shows. Children under 6 don’t need a Grounds Pass.
Military and Senior Discounts
Military personnel and seniors (age 60 and over) receive $2 off general admission at the gate. Discounts may also apply to other ticketed events like concerts and rodeos.
How to Get There
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is centrally located in the Will Rogers Memorial Center just west of Downtown Fort Worth, a mere 15-minute drive down Lancaster Avenue. If you’re coming from Dallas, you can travel 30 to 40 minutes via I-30 W to get to the center. Those traveling from further out like Abilene and Waco, can expect a 2-3 hour drive to Fort Worth.
Parking
Parking near Will Rogers Memorial Center is ample and accessible. There are three parking lots on the grounds and additional public parking is available throughout the Cultural District in nearby lots. Depending on the event and popularity of the day, rates usually range from $10-$20. Parking will be especially challenging during concerts and rodeo events. Plan to get to the Will Rogers Memorial Center at least 2-3 hours in advance if you’re visiting on a day with a big event to secure a parking spot.
Group Transportation to the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo
Groups with lots of people may find that splitting up amongst multiple vehicles or taking rideshare options is inefficient. Coordinating everyone to get to the parking lots, pay their parking fees, and get to the main entrance can be frustrating and time-consuming. Larger groups will often find that it’s actually cheaper and more comfortable to rent a bus than to pay for multiple parking passes for cars.
With a private bus, a professional driver will handle the navigation and logistics so that everyone arrives together without the struggle. This will also eliminate the need for your group to find rideshare services after the event. Finding an Uber or Lyft to accommodate a group of ten or more can be difficult, and can even cause delays.
The buses in Partybus.com’s network are can have all kinds of comforts, including reclining seats, A/C, overhead storage bins, and a private restroom if needed. Your group can choose from a compact minibus or a full-sized charter bus and add amenities like free WiFi, TVs with DVD players, and a speaker or PA system for a truly enjoyable ride from Dallas or Fort Worth to the Stock Show and Rodeo.
When your bus arrives at Will Rogers Memorial Center, your driver can safely drop everyone off at the designated passenger loading zones. There are two designated drop-off areas, one at Gate 11 off of Gendy Street and the other at Gate 3 on Harley Avenue. After drop-off, your driver can find a designated parking space for buses free of charge while you and your group enjoy the Stock Show and Rodeo.
Things to do at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
The Stock Show and Rodeo has become an iconic Texas event, with so many things to do that you may have to plan multiple days or trips to experience all it has to offer. Along with rodeos, your group will also have access to events like petting zoos, horse shows, livestock shows, and carnival rides.
Must-See Events
If your group has a limited amount of time to explore the Stock Show and Rodeo, we recommend planning around these events:
Best of Mexico Celebración
A day dedicated to Mexican culture with live music, a livestock show, and family-friendly entertainment.
Mustang Magic
Watch professional horse trainers teach wild mustangs to follow directions and be ridden.
All Western Parade
This is a Fort Worth must-see. The parade happens every year in downtown Fort Worth. Groups can watch elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, drill teams, and horsemen travel through the Stockyards National Historic District.
Rodeo Performances
The rodeo is one of the most exciting parts of the Stock Show, and your group can watch everything from bull riding and barrel racing to team roping and steer wrestling.
Livestock Shows
A variety of livestock shows take place throughout the three-week event. You can watch everything from sheep to horses to cattle to swine get judged. The livestock shows offer a unique learning experience for those who aren’t familiar with farm life and animal breeding.
Carnival Midway
Thrill seekers will find plenty of carnival games and rides to keep them entertained, including a Ferris wheel. The midway offers a more relaxed and playful way to experience the Stock Show and Rodeo.
Pro Tips for Visiting the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo
Before heading to the show, consider these Partybus.com tips for traveling with a large group to the Stock Show and Rodeo:
- Purchase tickets online. This will not only help you get the best rates but will also save you time. Those purchasing tickets for rodeo events or concerts should buy online a couple weeks in advance to ensure you get tickets to a show that doesn’t sell out. General admission tickets are available for purchase at the gate.
- Bring your own snacks. While the Stock Show does have multiple concession stands and food options available, it’s more cost-efficient to bring a few items for your group. Pack a cooler of sandwiches, chips, and drinks for everyone and leave the coolers on your charter bus rental while you explore. Once you’re ready for a lunch break, enjoy your snacks in a designated picnic area or on your bus.
- Wear your best walking shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking to get to and from events, through the carnival midway, and around livestock shows. Pack an extra pair for those who forget theirs.
- Have a meeting place. The Will Rogers Memorial Center is very big. If your group plans on splitting up to see different things, pick a designated spot for everyone to regroup. That way, no one will end up lost.
- Reserve your charter bus early. The Stock Show and Rodeo is a popular event for groups traveling from out of town. Book your bus rental at least a month or two in advance to ensure availability, so you won’t be left to choose between unreliable public transportation or expensive rideshare services.
Book With Partybus.com Today
Get ready for some boots, brews, and bulls at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Start your trip off right with a comfortable charter bus rental for your group. Call the Partybus.com team 24/7 at 877-563-2133 to learn more about the rental process and book your bus.