Visit The John Wayne Museum & 7 Other Must-Hit Fort Worth Hotspots

He walked tall. He talked slowly. He was tough as nails and not to be trifled with. With a towering presence and confident swagger, John Wayne personified American ideals at home and around the world: strength, integrity, and the tenacity to stand up for what’s right.

Whether you’re an ardent fan or just recognize his name, it’s hard not to feel inspired by the Western hero at the destination John Wayne: An American Experience. The museum is situated in Fort Worth, Texas, in the heart of the Stockyards National Historic District. Opened in 2020 and expanded last year, the 14,000-square-foot attraction offers a glimpse into the life of the straightforward superstar who appeared in 175 movies over his five-decade career.

“Through his films, he brought to life the spirit of the American West and became this larger-than-life symbol of courage and resilience,” says Amy Shephard, vice president of John Wayne Enterprises. “But beyond the big screen, he was also a family man, a patriot, and someone who lived by the principles he portrayed.”

Hundreds of artifacts and treasured possessions narrate the story of “The Duke.” From his fly-fishing lures and Academy Award for True Grit to his cherished box of sand from Iwo Jima, these items reveal the multifaceted nature of the man. Wayne’s beloved 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari remains a fan favorite. The forest green station wagon is customized with a taller roof so he wouldn’t have to remove his cowboy hat. More than a dozen of his cowboy hats are also in the museum, along with movie costumes that helped spread the iconic look of the American West worldwide—including his dashing cavalry uniform from The Horse Soldiers and his batwing chaps from The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.

The John Wayne Museum features a remarkable collection of firearms from several of Wayne’s most iconic films, like his large-loop Winchester Model 1892 carbine from True Grit. Many of these guns would be historic treasures even if The Duke had never handled them, such as the .44-caliber Remington 1861 New Model Army six-shooter. Manufactured in 1873, it was already an antique by 1930 when Wayne used it in his first silent film, The Big Trail. You’ll also find his personal Colt Single Action Army revolver (known as the “Peacemaker”) and his 12-gauge Remington Model 1889 double-barrel shotgun from Cahill U.S. Marshal.

Perhaps the most striking firearm is the 700-pound original 1890 Colt Gatling gun featured in the films War Wagon and Rooster Cogburn. It required special cranes and six men to position it, necessitating the removal of the museum’s doors from their hinges. The weapon is prominently displayed in front of 10 original works by Andy Warhol, a series of paintings depicting Western legends, including Wayne, Geronimo, and Teddy Roosevelt.

Whether onscreen or off, Wayne believed in fighting for a cause greater than oneself—and he deeply believed in America. He passionately supported the armed forces and made many trips overseas to visit troops during World War II and the Vietnam War. Take a moment to watch a video featuring Wayne’s spoken word album, “America, Why I Love Her,” which was nominated for a Grammy Award. His Congressional Gold Medal and Presidential Medal of Freedom are on display nearby. “It’s incredibly rare for someone to receive both of these highest civilian honors, which together symbolize his unwavering patriotism,” Shepherd says.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom was awarded by President Jimmy Carter, whose remarks attest to the actor’s influence. “John Wayne was both an example and a symbol of true American grit and determination,” Carter wrote. “Through his countless film roles, ‘The Duke’ still leads millions on heroic adventures on behalf of fairness and justice. He embodies the enduring American values of individualism, relentless bravery, and perseverance in pursuit of what is right. He was the quintessential patriot.”

Visitors often linger at the Gallery Wall, a collection of framed letters and drawings from celebrities, presidents, and perfect strangers. One young fan writes in a clumsy scrawl: “Dear John Wayne. Please help me. Should I be a policeman or a football player or a cowboy movie star when I grow up? I am 5. Your friend, Eric Swank.” Messages from Bob Hope, Nat King Cole, Carol Burnett, Jerry Lewis, and Elizabeth Taylor provide a glimpse of the good-natured humor that Wayne brought to his relationships.

Unfortunately, John Wayne was never able to open all his mail, passing away at the age of 72 after battling stomach cancer. During his final two-month hospital stay, he received 300,000 letters and get-well-soon cards that he never had the chance to read. This massive pile of fan mail constitutes the John Wayne Museum's most poignant display, a large wooden crate filled with bag after bag of unopened letters. At special events, Wayne’s family members unseal a letter or two and read the messages aloud. It’s a touching reminder that although John Wayne may be gone, his cultural impact endures.

“What makes him so enduring is that these values don’t go out of style—they’re part of what people look for in heroes and role models,” Shepherd says. “John Wayne’s legacy isn’t just about the movies; it’s about the ideals he embodied that inspire people everywhere.”

Before you leave the John Wayne Museum, take a selfie “onscreen” with the actor and explore the gift shop’s leather knife cases, cowboy hats, and shot glasses emblazoned with, “THE HELL I WON’T.” Whether you pick up a souvenir or not, you’ll no doubt find yourself walking a little taller and speaking a tad slower—just like the straight-shooting American icon, a hero for the ages: John Wayne.

John Wayne: An American Experience is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 2501 Rodeo Plaza in Fort Worth, Texas. For tickets and additional information, visit JohnWayneAE.com. 

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District has recently been revitalized into a vibrant entertainment destination with an authentic Western spirit. All the neighborhood’s attractions are within easy walking distance of the John Wayne Museum.

1) Mule Alley: Stroll down this brick-lined promenade and explore new restaurants, shops, saloons, and music venues housed in 100-year-old horse and mule barns. (mulealleyfortworth.com)

2) Second Rodeo Brewing: With live music daily and tables made from pick-up trucks, this indoor-outdoor hangout serves up house-brewed beers and a laid-back vibe. (secondrodeobrewing.com)

3) Billy Bob’s Texas: Learn how to line dance and visit dozens of bars inside the world’s largest honky tonk, which also has a barbecue restaurant and indoor bull riding. (billybobstexas.com)

4) Paloma Suerte: Nosh on tasty Tex-Mex from celebrity chef Tim Love in a lively space with killer brisket queso and Flintstone-sized short ribs. You can brand your boots next door at Tannahill’s Tavern. (palomasuerteftx.com)

5) Cowtown Coliseum: Catch live rodeo action every weekend at this 1908 landmark, including bull riding, bucking broncos, team roping, and barrel racing. (cowtowncoliseum.com)

6) Hotel Drover: Even if you don’t stay at this rustic-luxe Western hotel, pop in for a drink at the backyard bar or try the delicious burgers with branded buns at 97 West Kitchen. (hoteldrover.com)

7) Lucchese Bootmaker: Try on cowboy boots from John Wayne’s favorite boot brand. The Duke preferred a square toe and goat or alligator leather. (lucchese.com)