Let’s take a drive down one of the most unique and essential connectors in the Dallas–Fort Worth area: Texas State Highway 97 Spur, better known to most locals as International Parkway through DFW Airport. If you’ve ever flown into or out of DFW, odds are you’ve spent a little time on this stretch—even if you didn’t realize it! In this post, we’re covering the 7-mile southbound journey from Grapevine to Fort Worth, moving straight through the heart of one of the world’s busiest airports. Along the way, we’ll point out some noteworthy sights, handy travel tips, and a little background on the roadway itself.
Starting Out: Grapevine and the Gateway to DFW
Our drive kicks off in Grapevine, a city that’s managed to balance suburban growth with a strong sense of history and local flavor. The adventure begins as we turn onto International Parkway (TX-97 Spur) from Interstate 635, just as Grapevine’s southern business corridor comes into view. If you’re in the area with a little extra time, Grapevine’s historic Main Street is a detour worth considering, with its wineries, shops, and the vintage Grapevine Vintage Railroad.
Almost immediately after joining the Spur, we reach the sprawling interchange with Texas Highway 114. This crossroads isn’t just a tangle of ramps—it’s a lifeline that connects travelers coming from Dallas, Irving, or even as far west as Trophy Club. If you glance to the east, you’ll spot Grapevine Mills, a massive shopping complex, and just beyond that, the shores of Grapevine Lake—one of North Texas’ most popular spots for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
Into the Heart of DFW International Airport
Rolling south, we’re officially on the main north-south artery through DFW International Airport. International Parkway is more than just a roadway—it’s a vital access route not only for travelers, but for thousands of airport employees and countless cargo shipments moving across Texas and beyond. The architecture is classic “big Texas”—wide lanes, modern overpasses, and plenty of signage to guide even the most jet-lagged of drivers.
On the right, you’ll notice the North Express Parking exit—a favorite for travelers looking for quick access to the terminals. If you’re flying out, these parking options can make your trip a lot smoother, and the skyline views from the lots are surprisingly photogenic, especially at sunset.
Driving deeper into DFW, there’s a real sense of scale that’s hard to put into words. Terminals arch into view on both sides, connected by a complex web of ramps and skybridges. Watch for the AirTrain zipping above the roadway, shuttling passengers from terminal to terminal—a handy tip if you’ve ever got a tight connection!
Exiting DFW: Toll Booths and the Road to Fort Worth
Before long, it’s time to say goodbye to the airport as we approach the southern toll booths. Yes, International Parkway is a toll road, so keep your TollTag or payment method handy if you’re just passing through. It’s a small price for the convenience and time saved by cutting straight through DFW rather than skirting around it.
Once you clear the tolls, the road seamlessly transitions into Texas Highway 183, one of the main corridors feeding into downtown Fort Worth and Arlington. From here, you can quickly connect to everything from Six Flags Over Texas to the famous Fort Worth Stockyards, depending on your next destination.
If you’re a fan of road trips, this is one of those drives that makes you feel like you’re at the center of the action—even if you’re just heading to the next city.
Note: The toll for passing through DFW is $6. If you stop and circle around the terminals a bit before leaving, the cost is only $2. The idea is to discourage people using this route as a pass-through.
See the south entrance/TX-97Spur north: https://youtu.be/QsWHVd5pR-s
🗺️ Route Map
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