The video above walks through a full Sunday afternoon in the Fort Worth Stockyards, starting at the far end of Mule Alley and working up the hill through some of the best live music spots in the district. David Bridwell originally headed down for a gig at the Stockyards Armadillo, but a scheduling conflict freed him up to explore the area around Christmas time instead — and the result is a solid look at what a typical Sunday looks like for live music here.
Exploring Mule Alley
Mule Alley is a newer mixed-use development right across from the Cowtown Coliseum, built into what used to be old mule and horse barns. It's lined with brick streets and brick buildings, and the whole stretch is packed with restaurants, shops, and heritage brands. Hotel Drover anchors one end and is worth walking through even if you're not staying there — ranch-style architecture, restaurants, and a few shops inside. During the holidays, the lights and Christmas music playing along the alley give the whole area a great feel. Some of the spots along Mule Alley include the Biscuit Bar, Ala Swerte, Cowtown Winery, and Melt Ice Cream. For live music, Tannahill's is the big draw here as a larger venue space.
What Live Music Venues Are in the Fort Worth Stockyards?
On any given Sunday, you can hit multiple venues with live music without walking more than a few blocks. Here's what was going on during this visit:
- Second Rodeo Brewing — A brewery and beer garden at the edge of Mule Alley with multiple acts playing every single day. A great first stop as you move from Mule Alley into the main Stockyards strip. Copperhead Jones was performing here.
- White Elephant Saloon — A Fort Worth institution open since the 1970s, with history stretching back even further. Known as the site of the last gunfight in Texas. Live music every day of the week, with JD Monson playing on this particular Sunday.
- Little Red's Longhorn Saloon — A popular spot that draws a loyal Sunday afternoon crowd, heavy on dancing and regulars who clearly know each other. CW Sturgeon was playing classic country from the stage.
- Rhinestone Saloon — Sitting at the top of the hill, slightly removed from the main Stockyards chaos. They lean toward bands that play original music on weekends, which sets them apart. Austin Seals was performing here as the afternoon moved into evening.
- Tannahill's — A larger, newer live music venue along Mule Alley that hosts notable acts and adds a different energy to the Stockyards music scene.
A Good Sunday Route Through the Stockyards
If you're planning a Sunday in the Fort Worth Stockyards, a natural route is to start at Hotel Drover, walk Mule Alley, grab a beer at Second Rodeo Brewing, then head up the hill hitting White Elephant, Little Red's, and Rhinestone Saloon in order. Each place has its own character — from the big dancing crowd at Little Red's to the more laid-back original music at Rhinestone. Around the holidays especially, the whole district has an easy, walkable feel with plenty to see between stops, including horse-drawn wagons, vintage cars, and the horse statues right in the middle of the road. It's one of those areas where you don't really need a plan — just start walking and follow the music.