National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

Description:

• Opened in 2002 in a beautiful, Texas-style Art Deco building, the newest addition to Fort Worth's Cultural District recognizes not just cowgirls but the importance of an array of plucky women who shaped the American West. It's the only museum in the world honoring their pioneering spirit. A fun and educational visit for the entire family, the museum's interactive exhibits in three gallery spaces and a state-of-the-art theater depict cowgirls working their ranches, their role in the media and fashion (with displays of cowboy couture), and cutting horse and barrel-racing displays. A rotunda with 12 cool, glass murals that slowly change as you walk through the hall honors more than 150 notable Western women (from Dale Evans and the first woman to cross the Rockies to Annie Oakley and the artist Georgia O'Keeffe). The interactive exhibits are terrific for little cowpokes of both sexes; kids can hop on a (simulated) bucking bronco and get filmed (which can later be viewed on the Internet), have their pictures superimposed on old Western film posters, and listen to jukeboxes playing country tunes. Don't miss the gift shop, a great place to score such things as vintage suitcases, antique Western goodies, and rhinestone duds. Allow an hour or two.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010