How to Get Around Fort Worth Without a Car

Fort Worth, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its rich Western heritage, world-class museums, thriving culinary scene, and dynamic urban core. While often associated with sprawling suburbs and car-centric infrastructure, Fort Worth is increasingly becoming a more accessible and walkable city for residents and visitors who choose to live without a personal vehicle. Whether you’re a student, a digital nomad, a senior citizen, or an eco-conscious traveler, navigating Fort Worth without a car is not only possible—it’s practical, cost-effective, and increasingly supported by expanding public infrastructure.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to moving around Fort Worth without relying on a car. From public transit routes and bike-sharing networks to ride-hailing alternatives and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, you’ll learn how to plan efficient, reliable, and affordable daily commutes. We’ll also highlight real-world examples, essential tools, and best practices to help you confidently navigate the city on foot, by bike, or via shared mobility services.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understand Fort Worth’s Public Transit System: Trinity Metro

The backbone of car-free transportation in Fort Worth is Trinity Metro, the regional public transit authority. Trinity Metro operates fixed-route buses, the TEXRail commuter line, and the CityLine BRT (Bus Rapid Transit), which together connect major employment centers, shopping districts, medical facilities, and cultural landmarks.

To begin, download the Trinity Metro app or visit their website to access real-time bus tracking, route maps, and schedules. The system is organized into numbered routes that serve specific corridors. For example:

• Route 1 (North/South): Runs from the T&P Station in downtown through the Cultural District, Fort Worth Central Station, and into the southern neighborhoods.
• Route 10 (East/West): Connects the Fort Worth Convention Center, the Stockyards, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center.
• TEXRail: A 26-mile commuter rail line linking downtown Fort Worth with DFW Airport and Grapevine, with stops at T&P Station, Medical District, and Las Colinas.
• CityLine BRT: A high-frequency bus service running along the North Central Expressway corridor, with dedicated lanes and frequent departures every 10–15 minutes during peak hours.

Plan your trip using Trinity Metro’s online trip planner. Input your origin and destination, and the system will recommend the optimal combination of routes, including walking distances and transfer points. Most buses operate from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on weekdays, with reduced service on weekends.

Utilize the CityLine BRT for Fast, Reliable Commutes

If you’re commuting between downtown Fort Worth and the northern suburbs, the CityLine BRT is your most efficient option. Unlike regular buses, CityLine features off-board fare payment, level boarding, and signal priority at intersections—making it faster and more reliable than traditional bus service.

Key stops include:

• Downtown Fort Worth (Main Street Station)
• Fort Worth Central Station (intermodal hub with TEXRail)
• North Richland Hills
• Haltom City
• Richland Hills

CityLine buses run every 10–15 minutes during peak hours (6–9 a.m. and 3–6 p.m.) and every 20–30 minutes during midday and evenings. Fares are affordable: $1.50 for a one-way trip, with free transfers within 90 minutes. Day passes are available for $4, and monthly passes cost $45.

Take Advantage of TEXRail for Regional Travel

TEXRail is a game-changer for car-free residents who need to reach DFW Airport, Grapevine, or the Las Colinas business district. The rail line connects directly to Fort Worth Central Station, making it easy to transfer to buses or walk to nearby destinations like the Fort Worth Convention Center or the Kimbell Art Museum.

Trains run every 30 minutes during peak hours and hourly during off-peak times. The ride from downtown to DFW Airport takes approximately 35 minutes. A one-way fare is $2.50, and you can pay via the Trinity Metro app, ticket vending machines, or contactless payment at station turnstiles.

For travelers, TEXRail eliminates the need for expensive airport shuttles or rideshares. For commuters, it provides a stress-free alternative to I-35 traffic.

Walk Between Key Neighborhoods and Districts

Fort Worth’s downtown and adjacent districts are surprisingly walkable. The Cultural District, which includes the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Kimbell Art Museum, and the Amon Carter Museum, is connected by the 1.2-mile Cultural Trail—a paved, pedestrian-friendly path lined with trees, public art, and benches.

Similarly, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District offers a highly walkable experience. You can stroll from the cattle drives (held twice daily) to the Stockyards Museum, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and numerous restaurants and shops—all within a 10-minute walk.

Other walkable areas include:

• West 7th Street: A lively corridor with restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues, connected to downtown via the Trinity River trails.
• Hyde Park: A charming, tree-lined neighborhood with cafes, a farmers market, and proximity to the Trinity River Corridor.
• North Side on Lamar: A pedestrian-friendly district with coffee shops, bookstores, and art galleries.

Use Google Maps’ walking directions to plan safe, scenic routes. Many streets in these areas have wide sidewalks, crosswalks with countdown timers, and ADA-compliant access.

Use Bike Share and E-Bikes for Short Trips

Fort Worth launched its bike-share program, Fort Worth Bike Share, in 2021. Operated by Lime, the system includes over 150 electric-assist bikes and 30 docking stations across downtown, the Cultural District, and the Near Southside.

To use:

1. Download the Lime app.
2. Locate a nearby bike using the app’s map.
3. Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it.
4. Return the bike to any designated station or park it responsibly in a bike rack (no lock required).

Fees are $1 to unlock and $0.30 per minute. E-bikes are ideal for hilly areas like the Trinity River trails or longer commutes to the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), which is accessible via a 3-mile bike ride from downtown.

Fort Worth also has over 100 miles of bike lanes and shared-use paths, including the popular Trinity River Trail system. For safety, always wear a helmet, use lights at night, and follow Texas bike laws, which require cyclists to ride with traffic and use hand signals.

Use Ride-Hailing and On-Demand Services Strategically

While not a replacement for daily transit, ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft fill critical gaps—especially during late-night hours, inclement weather, or when carrying heavy items.

Best practices:

• Use Uber Pool or Lyft Shared to reduce costs (up to 40% cheaper than solo rides).
• Combine ride-hailing with transit: Take a bus to a major hub (like Fort Worth Central Station), then use a ride-share for the “last mile” to your final destination.
• Set up ride alerts for events: During concerts at the Bass Performance Hall or Cowboys games at AT&T Stadium, demand spikes—plan ahead or use the app to check estimated wait times.

Fort Worth also offers GoZone, a demand-responsive transit service for areas with low bus ridership. Available by reservation, GoZone operates in neighborhoods like Fairmount, Pleasant Grove, and Fairhaven. Book rides via phone or the Trinity Metro app up to 24 hours in advance. Fares are $2 per trip.

Plan for Special Needs and Accessibility

Trinity Metro provides ADA-compliant services for riders with disabilities. All buses and trains are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, priority seating, and audio/visual announcements.

Eligible residents can apply for Trinity Metro’s Paratransit Service, a door-to-door service for those who cannot use fixed-route transit due to a disability. Applications require documentation, but once approved, riders can schedule trips up to seven days in advance.

For seniors and those with mobility challenges, many downtown locations offer curb-to-curb assistance. Don’t hesitate to ask bus drivers for help with boarding or route information—they’re trained to assist.

Plan Weekly and Monthly Routines

Efficiency comes from routine. Map out your weekly schedule:

• Monday–Friday: Use CityLine BRT for work commutes; pair with TEXRail if traveling to DFW or Grapevine.
• Wednesday: Visit the Fort Worth Central Library or the Fort Worth Public Market—both within walking distance of the Cultural District.
• Weekends: Bike or walk to the Stockyards for Saturday morning cattle drives and Sunday brunch.
• Evenings: Use Uber Pool or Lyft Shared to return from restaurants on West 7th or the Near Southside.

Use a digital calendar to set reminders for bus schedules. Many routes have infrequent service after 8 p.m., so timing is critical.

Best Practices

Always Have a Backup Plan

Public transit can experience delays due to traffic, weather, or mechanical issues. Always have a secondary option ready: a ride-share app open on your phone, a friend’s contact number, or knowledge of a nearby bike-share station.

Download Offline Maps and Schedules

Cell service can be unreliable in tunnels or remote areas. Download Trinity Metro’s route maps and Google Maps offline for the neighborhoods you frequent. This ensures you can navigate even without data.

Carry a Small Backpack with Essentials

Keep a compact bag with:

• A portable phone charger
• A reusable water bottle
• A compact umbrella or light rain jacket
• A foldable tote bag (for groceries or purchases)
• A small notebook or phone note with emergency contacts and transit numbers

Travel During Off-Peak Hours When Possible

Buses and trains are less crowded between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays. Traveling outside rush hour improves comfort and reduces the chance of missing a connection due to overcrowding.

Use Multi-Modal Trips for Maximum Efficiency

Combining modes—walking to a bus stop, taking CityLine to Fort Worth Central Station, then biking the last mile—is often faster and cheaper than relying on one method alone. Plan trips that blend walking, biking, and transit for optimal results.

Learn Local Etiquette and Safety Tips

On buses and trains:

• Let passengers exit before boarding.
• Keep conversations quiet and avoid loud music.
• Keep bags off seats and out of aisles.
• If you’re carrying a bike on the bus, use the front rack and secure it properly.

For walking and biking:

• Use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
• Wear reflective clothing at night.
• Be aware of vehicles turning right on red—many drivers don’t expect cyclists or pedestrians.

Stay Informed About Service Changes

Trinity Metro occasionally adjusts routes for construction, events, or seasonal demand. Subscribe to their email alerts or follow their social media channels for real-time updates. Major changes are announced at least 30 days in advance.

Tools and Resources

Trinity Metro App

The official app provides real-time bus tracking, trip planning, fare payment, and service alerts. Available on iOS and Android. Features include:

• Live bus locations on a map
• Push notifications for approaching buses
• Mobile ticketing (no need to carry cash)
• Accessibility filters for ADA-compliant stops

Google Maps

Google Maps has excellent transit integration in Fort Worth. Select “Transit” mode to see step-by-step directions combining walking, buses, and trains. It also provides estimated walking times and alerts for service disruptions.

Fort Worth Bike Share (Lime)

Available via the Lime app. Shows real-time bike availability and station locations. Offers discounted monthly passes for frequent users.

City of Fort Worth Mobility Dashboard

Visit fortworthtexas.gov/mobility for interactive maps of bike lanes, sidewalks, and transit corridors. The dashboard also includes data on pedestrian safety and future infrastructure projects.

Fort Worth Public Library Transit Passes

Fort Worth Public Library cardholders can check out a free 30-day Trinity Metro pass. Visit any branch and ask at the service desk. This is an excellent resource for students, job seekers, and low-income residents.

Transit app alternatives

Apps like Moovit and Transit offer similar features to Trinity Metro’s app and sometimes include user-reported delays or crowding levels. Try multiple apps to compare accuracy.

Local Community Groups

Join Facebook groups like “Fort Worth Car-Free Living” or “North Texas Bike Commuters.” These communities share tips, organize group rides, and alert members to transit disruptions or safety concerns.

Fort Worth Urban Trails Map

Download the official Fort Worth Urban Trails Map from the city’s Parks & Recreation website. It highlights over 120 miles of multi-use paths, including the Trinity River Trail, the Clear Fork Trail, and the Southside on Lamar Greenway.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Student Commuting to TCU

Jessica, a 20-year-old student at Texas Christian University (TCU), doesn’t own a car. She lives in the Near Southside neighborhood and takes the Route 1 bus to Fort Worth Central Station, then transfers to the CityLine BRT to the TCU stop. The entire trip takes 35 minutes and costs $1.50. She uses the Lime bike-share app to ride from the TCU bus stop to her dorm, saving 15 minutes over walking. On weekends, she walks to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, which is a 10-minute stroll from her bus stop.

Example 2: A Retiree Visiting the Cultural District

Robert, 72, retired and lives in the Fairmount neighborhood. He uses Trinity Metro’s Paratransit service to get to Fort Worth Central Station, then takes the Route 1 bus to the Cultural District. He visits the Kimbell Art Museum every Tuesday and the library on Thursdays. He carries a foldable cane and uses the bus’s priority seating. He says, “I didn’t realize how much I could do without a car until I started using the bus. I’ve met new people and saved hundreds each month.”

Example 3: A Remote Worker Exploring the City

Diego works remotely from a co-working space on West 7th Street. He bikes to work each morning using the Trinity River Trail. At lunch, he walks to the Fort Worth Public Market for fresh produce and coffee. On Fridays, he takes the TEXRail to Grapevine to visit a friend, then returns via CityLine. He uses Uber Pool only once a month—for late-night dinners. “I feel healthier, spend less, and see more of the city than I ever did when I drove,” he says.

Example 4: A Visitor Exploring Fort Worth in 48 Hours

Emma, visiting from Chicago, stays at a downtown hotel. She walks to the Stockyards for the morning cattle drive, takes the Route 10 bus to the Modern Art Museum, bikes to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden via the Trinity River Trail, and takes the TEXRail to DFW Airport for her evening flight. She spent less than $20 on transit and didn’t need a rental car. “I felt like I saw the real Fort Worth—not just the tourist spots,” she says.

FAQs

Is it really possible to live in Fort Worth without a car?

Yes. Thousands of residents live car-free in Fort Worth. With the expansion of CityLine BRT, TEXRail, bike-share, and walkable neighborhoods, daily needs—from work and groceries to healthcare and entertainment—are accessible without a personal vehicle.

How reliable is Fort Worth public transit?

Trinity Metro buses and trains are generally reliable, especially on major corridors like CityLine and TEXRail. Service frequency is higher during peak hours. Delays can occur due to weather or traffic, but real-time tracking apps help you adjust your plans.

Can I take my bike on the bus or train?

Yes. All Trinity Metro buses have front-mounted bike racks that hold two bikes. TEXRail trains allow bikes at all times. Folding bikes can be brought on board as luggage.

Are there any discounts for students, seniors, or low-income riders?

Yes. Students with a valid ID receive a 50% discount on fares. Seniors (65+) ride for free with a valid ID. Low-income residents can apply for reduced-fare passes through Trinity Metro’s Income-Eligible Program. Library cardholders can also check out free 30-day passes.

What if I need to travel late at night?

Most buses stop running by 10:30 p.m. For late-night travel, use Uber or Lyft. Some events at the Bass Performance Hall or Dickies Arena offer special shuttle services—check event websites for details.

Is Fort Worth safe for walking and biking?

Many downtown and neighborhood areas are very safe for pedestrians and cyclists, especially during daylight hours. Stick to well-lit, high-traffic areas at night. Avoid isolated trails after dark. Always lock your bike, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

How long does it take to get from downtown to DFW Airport without a car?

Approximately 35 minutes via TEXRail. Add 10–15 minutes for walking to the station and waiting for the train. Total time: 45–50 minutes.

Can I use a credit card to pay for transit?

Yes. Trinity Metro accepts contactless payments via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit/debit cards with tap-to-pay capability at ticket vending machines and on buses equipped with fare readers.

Are there electric vehicle charging stations for e-bikes or scooters?

Lime e-bikes are self-charging via solar-powered docks. No public charging is required. For personal e-bikes, some coffee shops and libraries offer free charging outlets.

What’s the future of car-free transit in Fort Worth?

The city is investing heavily in multimodal infrastructure. Planned projects include expanded bike lanes, pedestrian bridges over highways, and new BRT corridors connecting the eastern and western suburbs. Fort Worth aims to become a “complete streets” city by 2030, prioritizing safe access for all users—walkers, bikers, and transit riders alike.

Conclusion

Getting around Fort Worth without a car is no longer a niche lifestyle—it’s a practical, sustainable, and increasingly popular way to live and explore the city. With a well-connected public transit network, expanding bike infrastructure, walkable neighborhoods, and affordable ride-hailing options, Fort Worth offers more mobility alternatives than ever before.

By understanding your options, planning your routes, and using the right tools, you can reduce expenses, lower your carbon footprint, and experience the city in a deeper, more personal way. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting a museum, or meeting friends for dinner, you don’t need wheels to get there.

Start small: Try walking to the nearest bus stop this week. Download the Trinity Metro app. Ride a bike on the Trinity River Trail. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy the journey—not just the destination.

Fort Worth is changing. And so can your relationship with the city—without ever turning the key in your ignition.