Join us in Fort Worth, TX October 6-9, 2025
Click Here For: Life Member Exclusive Tours
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Longhorns to Lions: Fort Worth Zoo
Discover the wild side of Texas at the Fort Worth Zoo, where adventure meets conservation! Consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the US, it is home to over 540 species from around the globe. The Fort Worth Zoo’s, Museum of Living Art (MOLA), a premier, award-winning herpetarium, brings guests eye-to-eye with some of the most exotic and endangered species on the planet. In both the Predators of Asia and Africa and Elephant Springs habitats you will stroll through lush exhibits, witness majestic wildlife up close, and learn how we’re working to protect our planet’s most incredible creatures. From playful penguins to towering giraffes, every visit is a chance to connect with nature. This tour includes round-trip transportation from the conference hotel, admission to the zoo, and $20 In Zoo bucks that you can use for lunch or at the gift shop. Whether you're involved in 4-H, natural resources, environmental education, or community development, this experience will leave you inspired with new ideas—and maybe a few animal selfies too.
October 6, 9:15 am - 2:30 pm
Cost: $75.00
Includes: Transportation, $20 Zoo Bucks, Zoo Admission
Capacity: 24 adults
Botanic Trails of Texas: Fort Worth Botanical Garden Tour
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Fort Worth Japanese Garden on this half-day tour. Nestled within the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, this 7.5-acre traditional strolling garden is more than a serene escape—it’s a living example of sustainable landscaping, environmental education, and cross-cultural connection. Featuring koi-filled ponds, winding paths, and iconic elements like the Moon Bridge and Karesansui Dry Landscape Garden, the space offers inspiration for Extension professionals working in horticulture, Master Gardener programs, and cultural or youth engagement. This all-inclusive experience includes round-trip transportation from the conference hotel, admission to the garden, and a boxed lunch. After the tour, take time to explore the Treasure Tree Gift Shop, where you'll find a curated selection of Japanese-inspired gifts, including tea sets, bonsai trees, and handcrafted items made in Texas. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or seeking a peaceful retreat, this tour offers a perfect blend of education, culture, and relaxation.
October 6, 9:15 am - 2:30 pm
Cost: $75.00
Includes: Transportation, Lunch, Botanic Garden Admission
Capacity: 24 adults
Cowtown Legacy: Exploring Agriculture’s Roots at the Fort Worth Stockyards
Step into the heart of Texas heritage with a behind the scenes guided tour of the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards. Take the Orange Line Bus down to the Stockyards, where your journey begins with a docent-led Historical Walking Tour through century-old livestock pens, the Livestock Exchange Building, and the famed Exchange Avenue. Hear stories of cattle barons, cowboys, and trailblazers who helped shape Western agriculture and rural livelihood. This tour offers relevant touchpoints for those working in agricultural education, youth programs, and rural leadership. Test your navigation skills and team-building savvy in the 5,400-square-foot Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, then gather along Exchange Avenue for the world's only twice-daily cattle drive, a dynamic showcase of animal handling, ranching heritage, and public engagement. At the conclusion of the cattle drive, attendees are welcome to return to the hotel with a tour guide or continue exploring the Stockyards at their own pace. With plenty of local shops, dining spots, and attractions to enjoy, you’re invited to soak in more of Fort Worth’s unique charm before heading back on your own schedule.
October 6, Departs at 9:00 am
Cost: $25.00
Includes: Transportation and Stockyards Tour Ticket
Capacity: Unlimited
Behind the Brand: AT&T Stadium the Home of the Dallas Cowboys
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and you’ll see exactly why when you step into the world of the Dallas Cowboys with the exclusive Owner's Experience Tour at AT&T Stadium. This half-day adventure offers access to some of the stadium’s most restricted areas, including the field, Owner’s Club, and private suites—spaces rarely seen by the public. Led by a seasoned guide, you'll explore the field, locker rooms, post-game interview room, and more, gaining insider insights into the inner workings of this iconic venue. A highlight of the tour is an innovative experience featuring an AI-powered hologram of Jerry Jones, where the lifelike projection answers your questions and shares stories about his life and the legacy of the Cowboys. As part of your package, you’ll receive one professional photo print and a discount to use at the AT&T Stadium Pro Shop—perfect for picking up exclusive Cowboys gear and souvenirs. Lunch and round-trip transportation from the conference hotel are included. Whether you're a football fan, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about one of the largest stadiums in the country, this tour promises a memorable and behind-the-scenes look at a world-class venue.
*Field access and tour stops are based on availability.
October 6, 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Cost: $130.00
Includes: transportation, lunch, and owner's experience tour ticket
Capacity: 28 adults
Life Member Tour Options
Life member tours are booked in the regular registration process.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8
Cost: $45.00
Capacity: 28 adults
Option 1: From the Farm to the Federal Reserve: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
11:15 am - 3:00 pm
Did you know that currency paper is composed of 75 percent cotton and 25 percent linen? Visitors to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s Western Currency Facility, which is one of only two facilities that print all U.S. currency, will learn that and much more as they walk through two floors of interactive exhibits and displays and watch an informative 15-minute theater film showcasing currency history and the intricate art of currency manufacturing. The self-guided tour also allows visitors to watch how billions of dollars are printed from an enclosed walkway, which is suspended above the production floor!
After the tour, participants will have the opportunity to stop by the visitor center and the Money factory Gift Shop where they can purchase souvenir items such as uncut currency sheets. This tour will have a special lunch (included in conference registration) prior to departure. Round trip transportation is included.
Option 2: Spirits of the South: The Acre Distilling Co.
The Acre Distilling Co. is officially inviting our retirees to see firsthand how they craft their award-winning spirits from grain-to-glass in their downtown Fort Worth, Texas facility. Named for former Acre patrons, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, participants will have the opportunity to sample 7 of their signature spirits ranging from whiskies and flavored vodkas to moonshines and cordials during a world-renowned Tour and Tasting! The tasting comes with a 15% discount on bottles purchased and enough Fort Worth history to keep you coming back for more!
The distillery is located in historic Downtown Fort Worth in what used to be the notorious "Hell's Half Acre" red light district - "The Acre" if you were a local. From the late 1860s until Prohibition in 1920, the Acre hosted guests like Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holiday, Bat Masterson and Longhair Jim to name a few. Today they host a more savory lineup, featuring their award winning collection of spirits!
Participants will also enjoy a light lunch of flatbread pizza and crudité in the Acre’s Hell’s Half Acre Bar as part of the tour. Their award-winning craft cocktails or fine wine will be available for purchase.
