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25+ Things to Do Near Fort Sill in Lawton, Fletcher, and More!


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View of Oklahoma landscape.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.gurdonark/Wikimedia

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Fort Sill, Oklahoma, is a National Historic Landmark and is the only remaining active fort built during the Indian Wars. Near the Wichita Mountains and Elmer Thomas and Bath Lakes, if the outdoors is what you love, this area will not disappoint. Small towns offer local shops and historic downtown views.

With so much to choose from, you will not run out of things to do near Fort Sill, OK.

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Oklahoma bucket list: Geronimo's grave more than 'yawn.'
Oklahoma bucket list: Geronimo's grave more than 'yawn.'

Top 5 Attractions on Base at Fort Sill

On Fort Sill, you’re never far from activities. The rich history of the base makes way for lively museums, while the natural landscape showcases the beauty of the area. From golfing to hiking to learning, there’s something for everyone without leaving the installation at Fort Sill.

Fort Sill Golf Club

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The Fort Sill Golf Club promotes a renovated 18-hole golf course, driving range, practice putting, golf clinics, and much more! Spend a day on the green at this beautiful club for a hole-in-one activity.

Looking for the best ways to spend free time at Fort Sill? While the installation is globally recognized as the Fires Center of Excellence, it also sits in the heart of Southwest Oklahoma's premier outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, and local entertainment.YouTube / MyBaseGuide

Geronimo’s Gravesite

Situated on Fort Sill in the Beef Creek Apache Cemetery, Geronimo’s final resting place sits with fellow warriors, chiefs, scouts, and family members. A five-foot-tall pyramid, you will not miss Geronimo’s Grave!

Medicine Bluffs

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Medicine Bluffs is a 310-foot cliff located right on Fort Sill. Native American tribes believed the site to be a place for healing, vision quests, and ceremonies, so visitors are asked to be respectful of the site’s deep spiritual significance, leaving no trace of their visit/hike.

U.S. Field Artillery Museum

The U.S. Field Artillery Museum displays the history of artillery from 1775 to the present through showcases of guns and ammo, small arms and uniforms, and other artifacts. The museum also offers outreach programs that include demonstrations, education, and procedures.

Twin Oaks Bowling Center

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Twin Oaks Bowling Center, located on base, features 36 lanes with automatic scorers, pool tables, league bowling, and a computer lab. A great place for unit parties and celebrations of all kinds, the bowling alley is the place to be!

Gangnam Style meal from an Oklahoma restaurant.
Gangnam Style meal from an Oklahoma restaurant.

5 Restaurants Near Fort Sill That Are Sure to Please

Just outside Fort Sill, Lawton, OK, has a wide variety of restaurants that will make even the pickiest eaters happy. You will find everything from traditional American cuisine to lively Mexican cantinas, making your dining out experience fun and flavorful. Stop by for a bite that’s sure to fill the void.

BackPorch DraftHouse

Serving up American favorites, Backporch Drafthouse offers a variety of craft beers, burgers, tacos, pulled pork, and more. Bring family out to eat, meet friends for social hour, or stop in to watch a game. With two locations in Lawton, OK, to serve you, you’re not far from good food and a friendly atmosphere.

S&B’s Burger Joint

S&B’s Burger Joint is an American classic serving up award-winning burgers and sliders. A variety of menu options from burgers and handspun milkshakes to wraps and salads, this burger joint in Lawton, OK, is a must for good vibes and good food.

Gangnam Style Korean BBQ

If you’re looking for Asian cuisine, Gangnam Style Korean BBQ in Lawton, OK, will not disappoint. Serving up Korean BBQ with love and a wide range of flavors, you will get a taste of authentic Korean cuisine.

Firo Fire Kissed Pizza

If pizza is what you’re craving, check out Firo Fire Kissed Pizza in Lawton, OK. Serving up artisan pizzas, fresh salads, and handmade gelato in a warm Tuscan atmosphere, you will not be disappointed!

Salas Urban Cantina

Get your traditional Mexican favorites with a twist at Salas Urban Cantina in Lawton, OK. You will find appetizers like “Bits of Mexico,” favorites like burritos and enchiladas, as well as some American favorites like their “Corner Burger” and BBQ Brisket sandwich. There is something for everyone at Salas Urban Cantina.

Check Out These Pet-Friendly Spots Near Fort Sill

Fort Sill and the surrounding communities understand the love some have for their four-legged friends. You will not find a shortage of places to adventure and eat with your furry friend in tow. When bringing your pup with you, please make sure your furry friend is up-to-date on vaccinations and stays on a leash where required.

Co-Op Park on Fort Sill

The Co-Op Park located on base at Fort Sill is a great way to experience nature trails with your pup on-leash for some outdoor exercise. The Co-Op Park is open 24/7.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is about a 30-minute drive from Fort Sill in nearby Medicine Park, OK. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it’s a great spot to explore trails and Mount Scott.

Lawtonka Trails

The Lawtonka Trails, located near Lake Lawtonka, are in nearby Medicine Park, OK. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore over 20 miles of hiking paths to take in the beauty of this Oklahoma landscape.

Whole (Furry) Family Approved Restaurants

Don’t want to leave your furry friend at home while you adventure around the city? Below are a few pet-friendly places you can stop to relax or grab a bite to eat.

Veridian Coffee

Veridian Coffee in Lawton, OK, is well-known for accommodating pups with pup cups and fur-friendly outdoor seating. You can enjoy coffee and pastries with a vintage vibe from this local coffee shop.

BackPorch DraftHouse

The BackPorch DraftHouse in Lawton, OK, serves up your American cuisine favorites like burgers and wings. And, with outdoor seating, you’re welcome to bring your four-legged friend along for a treat.

Bricktown Brewery

Bricktown Brewery in Lawton, OK, is a great place to grab a craft beer and pub food on a pet-friendly patio.

Make time to visit Medicine Creek bluffs.
Make time to visit Medicine Creek bluffs.

5 Favorite Activities for Couples and Friend Groups

From exploring nature with a picnic in the park, to live music and entertainment, couples and friend groups will find plenty of options for dates and making memories near Fort Sill, OK.

Picnic at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Plan a romantic picnic and take in the beautiful views at the Wichita Wildlife Refuge. Open sunrise through sunset daily. Plan your visit Monday through Thursday if you are looking to enjoy the park without the crowds.

Visit Medicine Park

Explore Medicine Park, a charming resort town for shopping and dining in a rustic, historic lake setting. With plenty of seasonal events, you will find something fun to do.

A Pigment of Your Imagination

A Pigment of Your Imagination is a great spot to explore your creativity for an interactive date night. You can bring your own beverage and follow the guided painting or use your own creativity for your canvas. Hours and prices vary depending on the activity.

Laugh Out Loud Lawton

Play the night, or day, away at Laugh Out Loud Lawton. This fun center features skating, mini bowling, laser tag, and an arcade, making your date a fun time at any time.

Apache Casino Hotel

Apache Casino Hotel in Lawton, OK, has much to offer for a date night. Whether you like casino games, exceptional dining, or live entertainment, the casino has much to offer for an exciting date.

5 Things to Do With Kids Near Fort Sill

The military-friendly area surrounding Fort Sill includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

  • Laugh Out Loud: This all-in-one center has all the family fun you need. Featuring a skating rink, mini bowling, laser tag, and inflatables, you can beat the rainy day blues here.
  • Elmer Thomas Park: A three-acre park in nearby Lawton, OK, where you can get the wiggles out, you will find a covered playground, picnic areas, and a spray park.
  • Snider Family Exotics: Only 30 minutes away in Fletcher, OK, you can get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals.
  • Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center: In nearby Medicine Park, you can explore the many exhibits at Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center. Featuring over 90 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, you’re sure to see your favorites here.
  • Tiger Safari Zoo: If you’re willing to drive a little further, about one hour away, you won’t be disappointed with the Tiger Safari in Tuttle, OK. This safari has it all, from animal encounters, a reptile building, axe throwing, and overnight camping!

Don’t Miss These Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place near Fort Sill that you won’t want to miss.

  • Freedom Fest is an annual summertime tradition at Fort Sill to celebrate America’s birthday. Located on base at Elmer Thomas Park, you will experience family activities, fireworks, food, and a drone show.
  • SillCon takes place each summer on Fort Sill. This is a two-day ultimate anime convention on base with guests, vendors, cosplay, and more.
  • The International Festival, typically held in late September in nearby Lawton, OK, celebrates the rich multicultural heritage of the area with food, live music, and art over the course of three days.
  • Lawton Rangers Rodeo is held annually on the second weekend in August in nearby Lawton, OK. You’ll see everything from steer wrestling, bronc riding, roping, barrel racing, and more.
  • Holiday in the Park takes place each year to kick off the holiday season at Elmer Thomas Park in Lawton, OK. Usually starting with a “Frost Your Fanny 5K” and a seasonal parade, you can get full of the holiday spirit here!
East shore of Lake Lawtonka showing Canada Geese and Mount Scott.
East shore of Lake Lawtonka showing Canada Geese and Mount Scott.

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Day trips to nearby cities, most under 90 minutes away, will keep you on the move and ready for adventures near Fort Sill.

Oklahoma City, OK

Drive time: 90 minutes

  • Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum: Honoring those who died, those who survived, and those whose lives were changed forever, this memorial and museum tells the story of the bombing that happened on April 19, 1995.
  • Bricktown Water Cruises: Take a water taxi down the Bricktown Canal, hearing the history of the canal and surrounding businesses. You can rent a private cruise or take a dinner cruise.
  • National Cowboy and Western History Museum: Want to get into the cowboy spirit? Visit this museum that shares the stories of the West with beautiful art and a full-scale town to explore.

Wichita Falls, TX

Drive time: 90 minutes

  • River Bend Nature Center: At this nature center, you will find everything from nature trails and gardens to a learning center and conservatory. One could spend a whole day exploring what this site has to offer.
  • Lucy Park: When the weather permits, you can enjoy the outdoor beauty of Lucy Park. You will find a swimming pool, disc golf, playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic shelters, and more.
  • Wichita Theatre of Performing Arts: Known for family-friendly musicals, the Main Stage brings Broadway-style productions to this local community.

Chickasha, OK

Drive time: 60 minutes

  • Visit the Iconic Leg Lamp: Drive by a 50-foot-tall tribute to the iconic holiday movie, A Christmas Story, on Chickasha Ave.
  • Muscle Car Ranch: Visit this 60-acre open-air vintage automotive museum, featuring classic cars, motorcycles, and Americana memorabilia. The site is also home to the annual music and truck event, TwisterFest.
  • Shannon Springs Park: In warmer months, you can visit the park to enjoy a splash pad, swimming pool, and paved walking trails. Visit during the holiday season to experience the nationally-recognized Festival of Light.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Fort Sill!

Whether you’re just visiting Fort Sill or PCSing here, you will find something to keep you busy or to help you relax. The stunning beauty of the natural landscape offers many outdoor adventures, but the history of the area can bring you inside on those cold days. Everything you’re looking for is just a short drive away, so start exploring today!

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BY DARLENA GARY

Military Spouse and Contributing Writer at VeteranLife

Army Veteran

A versatile storyteller with over eight years of experience in marketing, technical writing, and corporate communications, Darlena holds a Master’s in Technical Communications and has spent her career translating complex goals into compelling narratives. But her adaptability isn’t just a professiona...

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A versatile storyteller with over eight years of experience in marketing, technical writing, and corporate communications, Darlena holds a Master’s in Technical Communications and has spent her career translating complex goals into compelling narratives. But her adaptability isn’t just a professiona...

Expertise
Military Family SupportNon-Profitsinstallation guides

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