It's no secret that Dallas boasts one of the best arts scenes in the country. Between its numerous museums and one-of-a-kind festivals like Aurora and Soluna, the downtown Arts District has continually been lauded (and voted) as one of the premiere destinations for art junkies.
But zoom out slightly and you'll discover an equally as reputable scene on the west side of the region. Fort Worth, which was dubbed one of America's most underrated cities in 2015, is home to an established arts scene anchored by museums that span everything from impressionist to modern works, and even a Hall of Fame for cowboys and cowgirls.
There seems to be something for everyone when it comes to art in North Texas, but with so many collections to pursue, where does one start?
GuideLive asked Foursquare rating and review app to pull proprietary data about the best museums in Dallas and Fort Worth, so you know which are worth your dollar (though some are notably free).
Note: This list encompasses Dallas and Fort Worth only, so if your favorite museum is somewhere in between, let us know of Twitter.
Dallas Museum of Art
Locally known as the DMA, this museum in downtown Dallas boldly became the first in America to offer free admission and free memberships in 2012. Patrons can view its permanent collections for no charge, however, traveling exhibits do require a ticket. The DMA is also known for special events, such as live music and late-night hours. (Rating: 9.5)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"The general admission displays are worth it, let alone the special exhibits. I'm particularly a fan of the paintings." -- user Tim Chipp
"You need at least 3 hours to enjoy it... But you could spend an entire day here. Much bigger than we had anticipated." -- user JenKudu
"It is very fun and interactive, great for taking the kids and then heading to the park across the street." -- user Yanira Rios
Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
Opened in 2002, the Modern is largely considered a work of art in itself. The building was designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, whose style comes through in the sleek lines and minimalist glass and concrete elements. Collections specialize in post-World War II works, including sculpture, video, painting and more. (Rating: 9.5)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"All of the shows are incredible, they have some of the best curators in the country." -- user Jason Willaford
"The movies they show here are great films that you would otherwise have to drive all the way to Angelika Dallas to see. My personal favorite was the French oddball comedy 'Micmacs.'" -- user Cooper Wiseman
"An ever-changing array of top-notch exhibits. The restaurant serves a wicked brunch." -- user Kate Jones
Nasher Sculpture Center
Opened in the Dallas Arts District in 2003, the Nasher provides an urban oasis for visitors to escape the bustle of the city. After meandering through the 55,000 square feet of indoor gallery space, be sure to explore the outdoor courtyard and gardens. Many of its exhibitions tend to be interactive and the museum often opens its doors for late-night family fun. (Rating: 9.3)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"Lovely gallery. Came for a Thursday night Till Midnight event to hear a great local band on the lawn." -- user Angela Skees
"Food's good. The garden area is amazing. Love the collections they have too." -- user Brigham Krebs
"Beautiful art. Late night at Nasher are awesome. I always have fun." -- user Mangat Rai
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Consider the Perot the quintessential 21st century museum. It boasts 11 permanent exhibit halls across five levels, plus a 3D movie theater and outdoor playground. Much of the museum is hands-on, making it a magnet for kids as well as kids at heart (though we highly recommend adults visit without little ones during Social Science events). The basement has space for a traveling exhibit too; right now, it's called Eye of the Collector. (Rating: 9.2)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"Great interactive, fun for the entire family. Plenty of hands on exhibits. The staff is very knowledgeable. They roam each exhibit/floor and offer interesting facts. A must see if you are in Dallas." -- user Nykia
"You don't have to be a kid to enjoy this museum. Super enjoyable and interesting for adults too." -- user Andrew Nilges
"It's a fun place to kill some time. However, it can get really crowded in some sections of the museum." -- user Natalie Burns
Kimbell Art Museum
Expect to find some of history's most influential artists at the Kimbell on any given day. El Greco, Rubens, Velazquez, Rembrandt, Goya, Monet, Matisse and Picasso all have a place on the walls of this Fort Worth museum. The traveling exhibitions are traditionally big talkers, too. Right now, catch The Brothers Le Nain: Painters of Seventeenth-Century France, described as the first major exhibition in the United States devoted to this family of artists. (Rating: 9.2)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"I like this museum. I wish it were bigger, though. It always has great collections and is def worth the time to come here." -- user Robby Gordon
"No. 1 destination for Fort Worth. Has very first #Michaelangelo painting." -- user Meranda Cochran
"Good for kids." -- user Evan Summers
Dallas Contemporary
Unlike many traditional museums, the Dallas Contemporary doesn't collect pieces or have a permanent collection. Instead, it features a rotating selection of "new and challenging ideas from regional, national and international artists," according to the website. Many times, that includes performances. (Rating: 9)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"They have the best events here... I always have a good time... See interesting things and I usually drink for free." -- user Karren Delilah
"Always a great experience whether an exhibition or an event... A must-see for locals and visitors." -- user Melissa Enriquez
Meadows Museum
Located on the Southern Methodist University campus in Dallas, the Meadows Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain. The experience starts out front of the building, where large-scale sculptures are displayed, including Wave, a continually moving piece designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. Inside reside iconic pieces from masters like El Greco, Velazquez, Rivera and more. (Rating: 8.9)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"Fantastic museum. Houses the most extensive collection of Spanish art outside of Spain. Definitely worth multiple trips." -- user Kristen Shear
"One of the best kept secret galleries of fine art in DFW - small yet intimate and full or truly amazing art treasures from many eras and styles." -- user Dane Miller
"They offer free drawing classes on some Sundays with cost of admission." -- user Ernest Cody
African American Museum
This museum, located in Dallas' Fair Park district, pays homage to the rich heritage of black art and history, and includes a research library. Collections include African art, African-American fine art, and folk art, alongside magazine, historical, political and community archives. (Rating: 8.9)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"The art pieces & paintings are historical & enlightening. Don't forget about the store. There are some interesting finds." -- user Diane Porter
"Great experience for me to continue to learn and grow in my culture." -- user Marcus G
Amon Carter Museum of American Art
Nestled in the walkable arts district near the Kimbell and Modern in Fort Worth, the museum opened in 1961 to house Fort Worth publisher Amon Carter's personal collection of more than 400 paintings, drawings and sculptures. It specializes in 19th and 20th century American works. (Rating: 8.8)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"The museum has a wonderful photographic collection with many examples of historic or alternative processes as well as gelatin silver or color processes." -- user Daniel Smith
"They've been having more photography exhibits as of late. Definitely go to one, and check out the permanent collection as well." -- user Huri Hampton
"Always free, always amazing." -- user Carrie Mabry
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza
Perhaps one of the most iconic buildings in downtown Dallas, the Sixth Floor Museum represents a slice of history on its own as the place from which Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President John F. Kennedy. It houses photographs, video, artifacts and preserved evidentiary areas that chronicle the legacy of JFK. (Rating: 8.8)
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What Foursquare users say about it:
"If you want to listen to the entire audio tour and watch the videos, plan to be there for at least 2.5 hours. It was an amazing museum. It held my attention the entire time." -- user Jen F
"Go up one floor to the 7th floor or take a couple of steps to right from the alleged sniper's nest. Set the conspiracy theorist within free and figure out your theory." -- user Ayaz Hyder
"They've done an excellent job bringing history to life here. Make sure you check out all the conspiracy theories too!" -- user Jeff Van Wyk
Foursquare is a rating and review app owned by the same company as Swarm, which encourages users to check-in at their favorite hot spots and offer tips for maximum enjoyment. There are more than 50 million active user between the two services.
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