Take a full-circle journey around the eastbound half of the Fort Worth loop as we drive 35 miles along Interstate 820, a key bypass route encircling the western DFW metroplex. Starting on the city’s southwest side, this drive showcases not only the evolution of Fort Worth’s infrastructure but also offers glimpses into its neighborhoods, industrial corridors, and major interchanges that keep traffic flowing across one of Texas’s most important urban areas.
We begin our journey at the southwestern terminus of I-820, where it meets Interstate 20 near Benbrook. From here, the route travels north as the Jim Wright Freeway, quickly merging into the urban rhythm of Fort Worth. Just a few miles in, we encounter the interchange with Interstate 30, a major junction that connects west Fort Worth with Arlington and Dallas. As we continue, the highway gently curves northeast, taking us across Lake Worth, a scenic highlight along the loop. If you have time on a future visit, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge nearby is worth checking out for hiking trails and native wildlife.
Now officially heading east on I-820, the loop transitions into a more suburban feel as we drive through the communities of Lake Worth, Haltom City, and North Richland Hills. We cross interchanges with major routes including US-377 (Denton Highway) and the massive stack interchange with Interstate 35W, which connects Fort Worth to Denton in the north and Waco to the south. Traffic volumes increase noticeably here, as I-820 serves not just as a bypass but also a vital artery for local commuters.
Continuing through the northeastern quadrant of Fort Worth, we pass through a dense corridor of shopping centers, business parks, and established residential areas. At the interchange with Texas Highway 183 and TX-121, the highway turns sharply to the south. As we curve southward, the eastern leg of the loop takes us through Eastchase and Handley, neighborhoods with rich local history and increasing development. We soon pass another major junction with Interstate 30, creating a rare double-crossing with this east-west interstate. South of I-30, the road begins to widen as it approaches its final stretch. You’ll pass a few industrial zones and open greenbelts before the highway gently curves southwest.
Our journey comes full circle as we rejoin Interstate 20 on Fort Worth’s southeast side, just a few miles from where we began. This interchange marks the conclusion of our looped ride around the eastern arc of Interstate 820. Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or just curious about Fort Worth’s beltway system, this drive offers a comprehensive look at how the city connects.
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