President John F. Kennedy’s final hours in Texas included a stop in Fort Worth. He spent his last night at the Hotel Texas, now known as the Hilton Fort Worth. On the morning of November 22, 1963, Kennedy delivered a short speech outside the hotel before leaving for Dallas. That appearance has since become part of American history.
History of Hotel Texas and JFK’s Last Speech
Hotel Texas opened in 1921 and quickly became one of Fort Worth’s landmark buildings. By 1963, it was a common stop for visiting dignitaries. Kennedy and Jackie stayed in Suite 850, with artwork borrowed from local museums hung in their room for the occasion. Hours later, Kennedy was on his way to Dallas, where the assassination occurred.
The JFK Tribute Memorial
In 2012, the JFK Tribute opened in General Worth Square, directly across from the Hilton Fort Worth. A bronze statue of Kennedy marks the spot where he addressed the crowd in 1963. The plaza also includes granite walls etched with photos, quotes, and panels describing his legacy.
Visiting Today
The JFK Tribute is free to visit and open to the public year-round. It sits at the corner of Main and 8th Streets in downtown Fort Worth. Visitors often combine the stop with a walk through Sundance Square, which is just a few blocks away. The Hilton lobby still displays photos and memorabilia from Kennedy’s final visit.
Fun Facts
| Photos documenting JFK’s and Jackie’s stay at the hotel and JFK’s final hours are displayed in the lobby and mezzanine. |
| JFK Presidential Suite 1530 is dedicated to JFK’s legacy. |
| Hotel Texas was added to the National Register of Historic Places in July 3, 1979. |
| Constructed from 1920 to 1921. |