19 Undeniable Differences Between The East And West Sides Of The Dallas – Fort Worth Metroplex
Dallas and Fort Worth may be sister cities located within 35 miles of one another, but don’t make the mistake that they are the same. These two anchors and surrounding cities and towns form the fourth most populated area in the country. However, a quick trip down one of the interstates connecting the east and west ends of the mighty Metroplex shows how very different the areas are. Here are 19 undeniable differences between the two in terms of history, personality, culture, and even lifestyle:
1. Both cities were established near the banks of the Trinity River, but the differences end there.
Dallas, to the east, ranks as the ninth in the U.S. with its population of over 1.3 million. Fort Worth, to the west, is ranked as the 16th largest, and it's the fastest growing city in the nation, with a population reaching nearly 900,000.
2. Dallas thrived as a railroad town and quickly developed a "big city" feel.
Fort Worth was established in 1849 as an Army outpost by the Trinity River. Its growth was attributable to its stop on the Chisholm Trail. It became a bawdy, gunslinger sort of Western town, with a legendary Hell's Half Acre. It became the center of cattle drives, and later, the ranching industry, earning it the nickname, "Cowtown."
Fort Worth became host of successful stock shows and exhibitions, and of course rodeos. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is its hallmark event, and is still held every January/February.
4. Dallas had to work hard to live down its "City of Hate" image following the John F. Kennedy Presidential assassination in 1963 and with periods of civil unrest.
The internationally-renowned Kimbell Art Museum is in the Cultural Arts District of Fort Worth, but don't be misled - both cities embrace and surround themselves with art of all kinds through countless caliber museums and arts festivals.
12. Some say Dallas has an inflated sense of self...
City leaders showed great wisdom in building the Dallas – Fort Worth International Airport in the Irving area, which is centrally located between the two cities. Also, The Dallas Cowboys Stadium and Texas Rangers Ball Park are in a more neutral spot in Arlington. While each city has distinctly different personalities and goals, locals agree that there’s nothing better than living in the Dallas – Fort Worth Metroplex!
Do you live somewhere in North Texas? If so, which city or suburb is your personal favorite? Any experiences or insights to share about living here? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
