If you’re ever in Fort Worth, Texas, for a sporting event, make sure to check out the Truck Yard, a refreshingly unconventional spot just 12 miles from downtown and right off I-35. Designed with a playful junkyard theme – complete with old trucks, tires, truck beds and even a Ferris wheel – the Truck Yard is a place where kids can burn off energy while staying within sight, and adults can enjoy the outdoor setting with wide-screen TVs, creative cocktails and a well-stocked bar.

Last Saturday, Truck Yard was packed with University of Texas fans cheering on the Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma, followed by a sea of Tennessee orange as Volunteer fans like us gathered to watch UT play Florida. Although our Vols didn’t quite deliver the quick victory we’d hoped for, the fun, laid-back atmosphere more than made up for it. And despite the unexpected 98-degree heat, we were comfortably settled in this quirky setting, built for both relaxation and celebration.

Truck Yard is ideal for families. Kids roamed happily among the trucks and Ferris wheel, taking breaks only to nibble on wings or fries, while the adults indulged in the true offerings of the Truck Yard – namely, food trucks, drinks and a lively crowd. It’s the kind of place where you could introduce broccoli without a single taker. Dogs are also welcome (and according to the Truck Yard, are their “favorite patrons”), adding to the relaxed, bring-everyone vibe.

Though we were in Texas Longhorns territory, our Tennessee pride was in full force. Our family’s orange attire stood out proudly among the maroon and burnt orange, and we cheered without holding back as our game kicked off.

Food-wise, there’s always something new to try. Truck Yard’s rotating lineup of chef-driven food trucks offers a broad mix of Mexican, BBQ and American favorites, including names like Truck Yard’s Cheesesteaks, King Kong Tacos and Wings, and Taste of Louisiana. The bar is equally enticing, serving up house favorites along with cleverly named cocktails like the “Bubble Trouble,” “Porch Pounder,” “Novocain,” and “Texas Mule.” Regulars probably know each one by heart.

Wide-screen TVs are everywhere, inside and out, making game-watching a breeze. As the Longhorn fans trickled out and the Tennessee game took over, we found ourselves cheering louder and louder—one of the perks of an outdoor venue.

In the end, Truck Yard’s own description says it best: “an unpretentious backyard with a nostalgic vibe, free live music, chef-driven food trucks and a darn good bar.” If you’re in Fort Worth looking for a family-friendly spot to kick back, Truck Yard should be your first stop.

Melanie Staten is a public relations consultant with her husband, Vince.