Fort Worth Botanic Gardens551

The Fort Worth Botantic Gardens are the oldest botanic gardens in Texas, and when the roses are in bloom it's a magical place with plenty of room for romping, picnicking, and spending some quality family time.

The Japanese Garden is well worth the additional entry fee - the koi pond is astonishing, with enormous fish extremely alert to the possibility of a feeding. Bring quarters for the fish food dispensing machines, located at strategic points around the pond, and the tide of copper, gold, and white leviathans swarms right to your feet. Sharp-eyed visitors might also pick out a big turtle or two, camouflaged by the green water.

The Gardens Restaurant is a little fancier than most small children can tolerate, but older kids might appreciate the sophisticated fare. The restaurant is open Tue-Sun 11am-2:30pm, and hosts a very popular Sunday brunch.

Kids ages four to eight can join the Green Thumb Club and take a series of fun gardening classes that include "quality time" with some of the local animals - from butterflies to armadillos! Summer camp is also available for students entering 4th and 5th grades.

Family membership is $75/year.