30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita, Texas
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Sheppard AFB is located in Wichita Falls, Texas, in the heart of North Texas. While this assignment may be best known for training, technical schools, and hot Texas summers, the surrounding area has plenty to offer once you start exploring. From parks, trails, splash pads, and local restaurants to wine festivals and rodeos, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time both on and off base.
Whether you are looking for something family-friendly, pet-friendly, budget-friendly, or just a fun way to get out of the house for a few hours, this list has something for service members, spouses, kids, couples, and furry friends. With so much to choose from, you may be surprised by these Sheppard AFB things to do!
5 Places in Wichita Falls That Are Military Friendly
Who doesn’t love a good military discount? Pair that with a fun activity, and you have the perfect excuse to get out, explore, and enjoy the local area without stretching the budget too far.
Here are a few military-friendly things to do near Sheppard AFB where your military ID may help you save while making the most of your time in North Texas.
AMC Sikes Senter 10
For an easy night out near Sheppard AFB, AMC Sikes Senter 10 is a convenient spot to catch a movie, enjoy reserved seating, and relax in heated recliners. Even better, AMC lSikes Senter 10 offers military discounts, so bring your military ID and ask about the discount at the box office.
Wichita Falls RC Park
What does an Airman do in their free time? RC flyers, of course. The Wichita Falls RC Airpark is a newly renovated city facility operated with help from the Wichita Falls Radio Control Club, giving RC flyers and aviation fans a place to enjoy aircraft, covered work stations, bleachers, and shaded viewing areas near Sheppard AFB.
It is a fun, military-friendly outing for anyone who loves planes, wants a low-key hobby, or simply enjoys watching aircraft soar across the Texas sky.
Castaway Cove Waterpark
Castaway Cove Waterpark is a fun way to cool off near Sheppard AFB, with attractions like Cliffhanger, Storm Watch Tower, Buccaneer Bay, Shipwreck Beach, Nellie’s Rolling River, Pirate’s Plunge, Hideaway Harbor, and more.
Even better, the park offers discounted military admission with a valid military ID, making it a fun and budget-friendly option for families looking to beat the Texas heat.
High Caliber Gun Range
High Caliber Gun Range offers a clean, climate-controlled indoor range with ten 25-yard electronic retrieval lanes, firearm rentals, and training options.
It is a practical spot for service members, veterans, first responders, or anyone looking to practice safely, and they offer discounted range fees and rentals for military members, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders with valid ID.
Balance Yoga + Barre
Balance Yoga + Barre is a military-friendly wellness option, offering yoga, barre, and movement classes for anyone looking to stretch, reset, and find a little calm during military life.
The studio offers discounted membership options for military members and families, making it a great place to unwind, build strength, and take care of yourself between errands, work, and everyday life.
5 Things to Do When You Want the Full Texas Experience
You’re in Texas now, so it only feels right to lean into the experience: yeehaw and all! From rodeos and roundups to rich history and ranch traditions, there is a lot of opportunity for wide-open North Texas fun. Here are five Sheppard AFB things to do when you want the full Texas experience.
Wichita County Mounted Patrol
The Wichita County Mounted Patrol brings a true North Texas rodeo experience to Wichita Falls, with a proud history of community service dating back to 1957. The organization hosts family-friendly events like the Championship Rodeo, Queen Contest, and Youth Rodeo Series, featuring rodeo favorites such as mutton bustin’, junior barrels, goat tying, and more.
If you want to experience local Western tradition while supporting a community-focused organization, this is a great event venue to keep on your Sheppard AFB bucket list.
Texas Ranch Roundup
The Texas Ranch Roundup is a Wichita Falls tradition and a great way to experience Texas ranch culture up close. Known as the original ranch rodeo, this event was designed to recreate the large cattle roundups of the late 1800s and early 1900s, bringing together historic ranches, rodeo competition, ranch cooking, kids’ activities, a tradeshow, and live entertainment.
Held at Kay Yeager Coliseum, it is the kind of event that makes you feel like you are really leaning into your North Texas assignment.
Museum of North Texas History
The Museum of North Texas History is the perfect place to learn about topics from frontier life and cowboy culture to military history, aviation, and the people who helped shape the region.
This is a great museum to visit if you want to understand the area beyond the gate, especially with exhibits like Jenny to Jet connecting early aviation history to Sheppard AFB’s pilot-training story. Even better: the museum offers year-round Blue Star Museum complimentary admission for military personnel and their families with ID.
World’s Littlest Skyscraper
Everything is Bigger in Texas! Except, apparently, the World’s Littlest Skyscraper. Officially known as the Newby-McMahon Building, this tiny downtown Wichita Falls landmark has a quirky backstory tied to an oil-boom-era investment scheme and now makes for a quick, fun photo stop.
Swing by, snap a picture, and enjoy one of the strangest little pieces of local history.
The Largest Shovel in Texas
You know what really is bigger in Texas, though? This shovel. The Largest Shovel in Texas is a quirky roadside stop in Wichita Falls, standing about 15 feet tall at 7001 US Hwy 281, and it is exactly the kind of oddball photo op that makes a local bucket list more fun. Is it random? Absolutely! But that is part of the charm.
5 Restaurants Near Sheppard AFB That Are Sure to Please
Exploring a new duty station is always better when food is involved. Whether you are looking for Texas barbecue, a casual date night spot, or somewhere to feed the family after a long day, the Wichita Falls area has plenty of places worth trying.
Come hungry, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for more Sheppard AFB things to do.
The Iron Horse Pub
Live music just makes food taste better, and The Iron Horse Pub brings both to downtown Wichita Falls. Known as Wichita Falls’ only authentic Irish-American pub and a longtime live music venue, it is a great spot to grab drinks, catch a show, and enjoy a night out.
Check their upcoming events before you go so you can pair your meal with the right soundtrack
Half Pint Taproom
Half Pint Taproom & Restoration Hall is the kind of downtown spot where “just grabbing a bite” can easily turn into craft beer, brick oven pizza, and staying a little longer than planned.
With authentic brick oven pizza, appetizers, craft beer, cocktails, wine on tap, and a live entertainment space, it is the best place for dinner, drinks, or a casual night out. Come for the pizza, stay for the taproom energy.
Fox Hill Restaurant & Gardens
Fox Hill Restaurant & Gardens is a farm-to-table dining spot in Wichita Falls that feels a little more special than your average dinner out.
Located in a restored 1920s home with organic urban gardens, seasonal ingredients, and patio seating overlooking the garden, it is a great choice for food lovers, date nights, or anyone looking to enjoy a slower, more intentional meal near Sheppard AFB. Think fresh food, pretty surroundings, and a reason to make a reservation.
Hook & Ladder Coffee and Wine
Hook & Ladder Coffees and Wine Co. is where coffee date meets wine night. Located in a historic 1884 building, this urban winery and coffee roaster offers single-origin coffees, hand-selected wines, artisan flatbreads, charcuterie, and a cozy local atmosphere.
Whether you need caffeine, a glass of wine, or a casual bite, this is an easy place to add to your food-and-drink list.
Pelican’s Surf Club
Pelican’s Surf Club is a longtime Wichita Falls favorite for fresh seafood, aged Angus steaks, weekly chef features, martinis, and fine wines. Family-owned and independently operated for more than 20 years, it is a great pick when you want something a little nicer without leaving town.
What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places Near Sheppard AFB?
Our pets are family too, and they make the PCS moves right alongside us. Once everyone is settled, they deserve a little adventure of their own. Luckily, there are many Sheppard AFB things to do that involve a walk in the park, a pet-friendly patio, or a new favorite place to sniff around town.
Here are a few pet-friendly spaces where your four-legged family members can enjoy the assignment too.
Outdoor Spaces
City of Wichita Falls Off-Leash Dog Park
For the pups who endure military life right along with you, the Wichita Falls Off-Leash Dog Park is a well-earned chance to run, sniff, and make a few new four-legged friends. Located inside Lake Wichita Park, the facility has separate areas for large and small dogs, so your furry family member can burn off energy in a safe space. Just bring the leash for the walk-in, follow the posted rules, and let your dog enjoy their own little Texas adventure.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Wichita Falls is more than a campground; it is a full family getaway with cabins, RV sites, tent sites, and extended stays.
It includes endless amenities like pools, a water park, mini golf, jumping pillows, playgrounds, sports courts, gem mining, themed activities, and on-site dining. It is also dog-friendly, so your four-legged family members can join the adventure instead of missing out on the fun.
Lake Arrowhead State Park
Lake Arrowhead State Park is a great place to give your dog their own North Texas adventure, with trails, open prairie views, camping, fishing, boating, and plenty of space to explore.
Leashed dogs are welcome in Texas state parks, so bring water, waste bags, and a sense of adventure while you enjoy the trails and lake views together.
Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants
8th St. Coffee House
8th St. Coffee House is a downtown Wichita Falls staple and a cozy spot to grab coffee, pastries, smoothies, breakfast, or lunch. With indoor and outdoor seating, it is an easy place to meet a friend, bring your fur-family, or get a little work done.
Established in 2012, this local coffee shop has become a favorite for its welcoming atmosphere and community feel.
Horseshoe Bend Cellars
Horseshoe Bend Cellars is a kid- and dog-friendly winery in Iowa Park, making it a great daytime stop if you want to sip wine, enjoy a charcuterie board, and bring your four-legged family member along for the outing.
The tasting room offers wine tastings, sangrias, wine by the glass or bottle, charcuterie boards, and pretzels, all with quiet countryside views near the Wichita River and Horseshoe Lake.
For an adults-only evening, keep an eye on their events calendar and Facebook page for popular murder mystery dinners, painting nights, wine pairings, and other special events.
5 Things For Couples to Do in Wichita Falls
Military life can turn even the strongest couples into teammates managing calendars, moves, deployments, and daily logistics, which is why making time to reconnect matters. Enjoy a quiet walk, a no-phone dinner, a shared laugh, or a new local adventure; small moments together can help strengthen your relationship during a busy assignment.
Here are five Sheppard AFB things to do to help you step away from the to-do list and enjoy each other again.
The Champions Course at Weeks Park
The couple that golfs together stays together, and The Champions Course at Weeks Park is a great Wichita Falls date idea for pairs who enjoy time outside.
This 18-hole municipal course features more than 7,300 yards of golf, multiple tee boxes, a driving range, pro shop, and Weeks Park Grill, making it easy to turn a round of golf into a full afternoon together. Whether you are both experienced golfers or just looking for a fun way to spend time outdoors, this is a relaxed local option near Sheppard AFB.
Wichita Falls Brewing Company
For a laid-back date night, Wichita Falls Brewing Company has more than just cold beer on tap. Their events calendar includes trivia nights, music bingo, live music, comedy, patio hangs, and . . . what!? . . . beer yoga, making it a fun spot for couples who like their outings with a little personality. Check their current lineup before you go, because there always seems to be something brewing downtown.
Wichita Theatre
For a date night that feels a little more special than dinner and a movie, Wichita Theatre provides live entertainment in downtown Wichita Falls. Couples can catch Broadway-style productions on the historic Main Stage or make it a full evening with dinner and a show at Stage 2 Dinner Theater.
Check the current schedule before you go, because the lineup includes musicals, concerts, comedies, and other live performances throughout the year.
The Depot
The Depot is the kind of place you go when dinner is over, but you’re not quite ready to call it a night. Grab a Prohibition-era cocktail, challenge your date to pool, darts, or shuffleboard, and settle into the speakeasy-style atmosphere downtown. It is an easy pick for date night, a group hangout, or one of those “let’s just go somewhere fun” evenings.
Sikes Lake
What is more intimate than a quiet nature walk and a picnic? Sikes Lake is a simple but sweet date-night option in Wichita Falls, with peaceful views, walking paths, and plenty of space to slow down together without needing a big plan. Pack a picnic, take a stroll, and enjoy an easy outdoor date.
Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway
Although there are many Sheppard AFB things to do, sometimes you just need to step away. One of the perks of being stationed near Sheppard AFB is that you are within driving distance of several bigger cities when you need a change of scenery. So plan a day trip, weekend getaway, or family adventure to see all Dallas, Fort Worth, and Oklahoma City have to offer.
Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth, Texas is where cowboy culture and city life shake hands, making it a fun escape from the Sheppard AFB area without committing to a long road trip. Spend the day watching the cattle drive at the Stockyards, exploring museums, grabbing barbecue or Tex-Mex, or wandering through Sundance Square.
Drive time: 2 hours
- The Fort Worth Stockyards: The Fort Worth Stockyards are the place to go when you want the full cowboy-culture experience, complete with Western shops, restaurants, live music, rodeo events, and the famous twice-daily cattle drive.
- Sundance Square: Centered around Sundance Square Plaza, this walkable district is great for families looking for restaurants, live entertainment, and a little city energy.
- Texas Motor Speedway: From NASCAR and IndyCar events to racing experiences, dirt track events, and special events throughout the year, Texas Motor Speedway is an easy way to turn a Fort Worth trip into something loud, memorable, and very Texas.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas, Texas is an easy weekend trip from Wichita Falls when you want big-city energy, shopping, dining, museums, sports, and plenty of things to do. Located about 2 to 2.5 hours from the Sheppard AFB area, it is a great option for a concert, date night, family outing, or quick change of scenery.
Drive time: 2 hours-2.5 hours
- Reunion Tower: Reunion Tower is one of Dallas’ most iconic landmarks and a fun stop if you want skyline views. Head up to the GeO-Deck for 360-degree views from 470 feet above the city, then make it a date, family outing, or a quick “we made it to Dallas” photo.
- Dallas Zoo: The Dallas Zoo is ideal for a Dallas day trip, especially if you have kids who need room to explore after the drive from Wichita Falls. As the oldest and largest zoo in Texas, it spans 106 acres and is home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 406 species, making it a full-day adventure for animal lovers of all ages.
- Frontiers of Flight Museum: Would this really be a list for an Air Force base if we did not mention the Frontiers of Flight Museum? Located at Dallas Love Field, this aviation and space museum explores the story of flight from early aviation to modern spacecraft, with more than 40 exhibits including the Apollo 7 Command Module and a Wright Flyer replica.
Devol, Oklahoma
Never heard of Devol, Oklahoma? Today is your lucky day. Just across the Red River from the Sheppard AFB area, this small Oklahoma town is home to casino stops where you can try your luck, grab a meal, and enjoy a quick change of scenery. Whether you are planning a date night, a friends’ night out, or just want to say you crossed state lines for dinner, Devol is an easy nearby option to keep on your list.
Drive time: 30 minutes
- Comanche Red River Hotel Casino: Roll the dice at Comanche Red River Hotel Casino in Devol, Oklahoma, an easy getaway from the Sheppard AFB area. This casino stop offers slots, table games, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and event space, making it a fun option for a date night, friends’ night out, or quick change of scenery across the Red River.
- Apache Lonestar Casino: Play your hand at Apache Lonestar Casino in Devol, Oklahoma, another easy casino stop just across the Red River from the Sheppard AFB area. With slot machines, table games, promotions, live entertainment, and dining options like Lonestar Bar & Grill, it is a convenient spot for a quick night out or a low-key weekend outing.
- Kiowa Casino & Hotel: Try your luck at Kiowa Casino & Hotel in Devol, Oklahoma, a 24/7 casino stop just across the Oklahoma/Texas border from the Sheppard AFB area. With hundreds of slots, cards, table games, hotel accommodations, and dining options like Winners Circle Cafe, it is an easy place to play, grab a bite, and make a night of it.
5 Things For Kids to Do Near Sheppard AFB
Still living out of boxes after a PCS? Or maybe you are finally starting to feel settled? Every parent knows the words “I’m bored” are bound to show up eventually.
Luckily, the Sheppard AFB and Wichita Falls area has plenty of kid-friendly options to help little ones burn energy, explore, learn something new, and make fun memories along the way. Here are five Sheppard AFB things to do with kids when you need an easy outing.
River Bend Nature Center
River Bend Nature Center is a great place to take the kids for fresh air, hands-on learning, and a chance to explore the natural environment of Texas through exhibits, programs, events, and outdoor fun.
With family-friendly activities like nature programs, Science Saturday, Nature Tots, Adventure Club, BugFest, and summer camp, this is an easy Wichita Falls outing to keep in your back pocket near Sheppard AFB.
Dr. Park’s Splash Pad
Need to get the kids out of the house to burn off some energy? Take them to Dr. Park's Splash Pad and let the water do the entertaining. It is free, fun, and an easy way to help everyone cool off, burn energy, and survive a Texas summer afternoon.
Wichita Falls Farmer’s Market
The Wichita Falls Farmers Market is a great family-friendly market offering fresh produce, local foods, artisan goods, and a chance to support local farmers and makers. It is also a fun outing for kids, with a free Kids Club that includes hands-on activities and market-themed fun during select events. Bring the family, grab something fresh, and let the kids feel like part of the local community.
Maniac’s Mansion
Maniac’s Mansion is basically childhood nostalgia with a cover charge: classic arcade games, cartoons, board games, memorabilia, and a cereal bar all packed into one quirky spot.
The arcade features 30+ classic games set to free play, so kids can live the dream while adults relive the glory days of Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Mortal Kombat, Super Mario Bros., and more. It is weird, fun, colorful, and exactly the kind of place that makes a Sheppard AFB weekend feel a little less ordinary.
Backdoor Theatre
For kids who love to perform Backdoor Theatre is a great option! Families can catch local shows throughout the year, while young performers can get involved through youth programs like Youth Troupe, Summer Theatre Academy, and the Summer Youth Musical. It is a fun way for kids to build confidence, try something new, and feel connected.
Don’t Miss These Seasonal Events!
The Sheppard AFB things to do happen all year long! We’re sharing five seasonal events happening near Sheppard AFB that are worth adding to your calendar. From family fun to local favorites, these are the events you won’t want to miss.
Red River Wine Festival
The Red River Wine & Beer Festival is one of Wichita Falls’ favorite annual events, bringing together Texas wines, craft beer, spirits, food vendors, merchandise, live entertainment, and plenty of local flavor.
It is a fun night out for adults looking to sample, shop, listen to music, and support a community event that gives back to local charities. You can also follow the Red River Wine & Beer Festival Facebook page for bonus events and updates throughout the year.
Christmas City Lights Festival and Parade
City Lights Festival & Parade is a festive holiday tradition in downtown Wichita Falls and a great way to kick off the Christmas season near Sheppard AFB. Families can enjoy Santa Land, a holiday market, food trucks, local shopping, and a lighted parade through the red-brick streets downtown.
The event is free to attend, making it an easy seasonal outing for service members and families looking for holiday lights, community fun, and a little Texas Christmas charm.
Hotter N’Hell Hundred
Hotter’N Hell Hundred is one of Wichita Falls’ biggest summer traditions, bringing cyclists and spectators downtown for a weekend of endurance rides, gravel rides, races, food, entertainment, and community energy.
Known for its legendary 100-mile ride in serious Texas heat, the event is a fun seasonal experience whether you are riding, cheering from the sidelines, or just enjoying the Finish Line Village.
Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB!
If you are PCSing to Sheppard AFB, you will find plenty of ways to stay busy, get outside, or slow down and enjoy the area. From parks, live music, golf courses, rodeos, and quirky Texas stops to easy day trips across North Texas and southern Oklahoma, there are more Sheppard AFB things to do than you might expect. Everything you need for a fun outing, family adventure, date night, or quick change of scenery is within reach, so start exploring and make the most of your time at Sheppard.
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BY DOROTHY VETTERL
Contributing Writer at VeteranLife
Dorothy Vetterl is an associate attorney with a background rooted in public service and community support. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Democracy, Justice, and Civic Engagement from Ferrum College before going on to earn her J.D. from George Mason University's Antonin...
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Dorothy Vetterl is an associate attorney with a background rooted in public service and community support. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Democracy, Justice, and Civic Engagement from Ferrum College before going on to earn her J.D. from George Mason University's Antonin...
