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If your idea of a spring break is soaking in the contrasting historic charm of a modern city, perhaps you should book tickets for Wichita Falls, Texas. Sandwiched between Dallas and Oklahoma City, the town is known for its deeply-rooted culture, bountiful nature, and diverse attractions.
From museums housing distinctive period artifacts to theatres hosting some of the best art productions, there is something to do for everyone in Wichita Falls. You can also visit a farmer’s market to pack yourself a picnic basket before heading to one of the renowned parks around town.
With endless things to do in Wichita Falls, this city is a true delight for tourists. Below are a few activities and attractions that you must check out on your trip to this part of Northern Texas.
The list of places to visit in Wichita Falls, Tx is nothing short of impressive. If you are a history buff, you can check out the museums covering the grounds of this city. But if you are looking to get away from the concrete jungle and embrace the marvels of nature, there are also several parks and lakes that you can visit.
Find information on such attractions and more below.
For History Buffs
Known for its marvelous architecture and historic tale, Kell House Museum is home to some of the most significant artifacts of the city. Built back in 1896, it was home to one of the city’s founding fathers, Frank Kell’s family till about 1980.
The local residents of Wichita Falls went on to preserve the true essence of this building and the golden times by turning it into a museum. The museum is home to original furnishings of the Kell family, decorative arts, historic costumes, textiles, and much more. One step into this beautiful structure and you will be transported back to the Victorian era.
Timings
Monday-Tuesday; Thursday-Friday: 10 AM to 3 PM
Saturday-Sunday: 2 PM to 4 PM
Closed on Wednesdays and all major holidays.
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges during renovations.
Proudly exhibiting Neoclassical architecture with cast stone and red brick, World’s Smallest Skyscraper is actually a running joke (formerly a means of embarrassment) among the locals in town.
It was in 1919 that a few investors decided to sign a contract with an individual named McMahon for a 480-foot skyscraper in the city. But what they overlooked was the fact that instead of foot, the measurements of scraper were mentioned in inches. Much to their surprise, they were delivered with a 40-foot red brick building in the bustling downtown of Wichita Falls.
It might have frustrated the investors and locals back then, but today, the building can be found on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. If you are looking for exciting but free things to do in Wichita Falls, Tx, what could be better than visiting such a legendary spot?
Timings
Can be visited any time of the day.
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges.
If you wish to witness something historic but quirky, perhaps a visit to the Wildcats Hockey Stadium is what you should consider. This historic establishment in the city is home to the minor league of Wichita Falls, the Wildcats.
If you are lucky enough to witness a game against the regional rivals, it is bound to become one of your most highlighted Wichita Falls attractions of the trip. The loud cheers, competitive atmosphere, and endless support provided to the bystanders to their respective teams is simply a sight to behold.
Timings
N/A
Entry charges (if any)
Tickets to the game can cost anywhere between $15 to $50.
Visiting a museum is indeed one of the top things to do in Wichita Falls and there is nothing better than one that educates tourists about the true history of the State they are visiting.
Sitting in the downtown area of the city, the Museum of North Texas History is ideal to get a brief overview and well-rounded history of North Texas. This museum has a total of 14 rooms where you are walked through World War II memorabilia, artifacts from Native America, cowboy attires worn by some of the State’s icons, and a lot more.
Timings
Thursday-Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM
Closed from Sundays to Wednesdays
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges.
For Art Aficionados
If you are someone who appreciates any form of art and are roaming around the city wondering what to do in Wichita Falls, Backdoor Theater is where your answer lies.
This theater opened its doors back in 1971 and has since been known for hosting some of the best art productions in the Texas region. This theater covers a wide range of genres, ranging from drama to comedy and even concerts, catering to every taste out there.
A few popular shows that take place on the Main Stage in this theater are Adam’s Family, Love/Sick, and a musical named The Great American Trailer Park, among others.
Timings
All shows start at 7:30 PM.
Click here to go through the 2022 season schedule.
Office hours
Monday- Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges if you are just visiting.
Click here to check out the ticket prices.
An art gallery hosting rotating exhibitions, Kemp Center for Arts is a spot in the city that welcomes people of all ages with open arms. The center is home to five galleries that showcase a variety of different art pieces, spread across different themes and concepts.
There is also a permanent ‘Art on the Green Sculpture Show’ with eight different sculptures covering the lawns just outside the center.
Apart from the displayed art, there are also several activities hosted by the center. These include storytelling performances, musical performances, and exhibitions of the art created by kids, among others.
Timings
Tuesday-Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM
Thursday Evenings: 5 PM to 7 PM
Saturday: 1 PM to 5 PM
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges. Donations are welcomed.
Where NYC has Broadway, Wichita Falls has its very own center of performing arts. This theater has been in the lives of the locals for centuries and now, visiting this center is turning out to be one of the best things to do in Wichita Falls for tourists.
The theater is known for offering an opportunity to the young generation of the city, aged between 8 to 12 years, to perform on stage. Apart from this, there are at least four theatrical productions that are annually hosted on the historic stage of this center.
Timings
The shows either start at 7:30 PM or 2 PM, depending on the day.
Click here to find the Main Stage schedule.
Click here to find the Dinner Stage schedule.
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges if you are just visiting.
Click here to check out the Main Stage ticket prices.
Click here to check out the Dinner Stage ticket prices.
If you enjoy different forms of dance, visiting the ballet theater and witnessing the powerful performances by highly skilled dancers should be at the top of your to-do list when in Wichita Falls.
The ballet theater was introduced to the locals in the 1960s and has been an integral part of their lives ever since. Their biggest production, the enactment of the renowned musical – The Nutcracker, has now turned into an annual tradition that is performed during the holiday season.
Not only that, this season, they are getting ready to bring an all-new premiere of Alice In Wonderland for the world to see. If you are not spending your Spring in Wichita Falls, but are there during the summer or holiday season, do not forget to check out their shows.
Timings
The shows either start at 7 PM or 1 PM, depending on the day.
Click here to find the schedule.
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges if you are just visiting.
Click here to check out the ticket prices.
For Nature Enthusiasts
If you are visiting Wichita Falls with your family, make sure to check out Lake Arrowhead State Park. Situated around a 20-minutes drive from the main city, this State Park offers everything you need to escape the bustling city life and embrace the solace that nature has to offer.
This site is known for the array of activities, with fishing, bird watching, swimming, and setting up a family picnic being the most popular choices.
The lake has scenic walking trails where you can hike and find yourself a spot to watch the sun go from yellow to hues of orange as it sets. You can even set up your tents on the campsites and spend the night under the twinkling stars, away from the daily hustles.
Timings
Open 24 hours.
Entry charges (if any)
$4 for anyone above the age of 13.
Another one of the things to do in Wichita Falls, Tx, if you are looking to take a break from screen time and give your eyes a fresh view, is to pay a visit to Lucy Park.
This Park has a lot more to offer than different species of tree. Lucy Park is nestled near the pristine Wichita River and is considered one of the natural wonders of the States. The park is home to a step-shaped pond where you can meet creatures like ducks and geese.
There is also a swimming pool, disc golf, and vast playgrounds that you must visit, especially if you have little ones traveling with you.
Timings
Everyday: 5 AM to 12 AM
Entry charges (if any)
$6 for adults
$5 for children
Fishing is one of the most famous things to do in Wichita Falls and Lake Kickapoo is the perfect spot for that. The man-made lake is home to several different species of fish and thus, often offers a delightful experience to anglers. Regardless of what season you decide to visit, you will find the lake restocked with the choicest of the fishes for you to catch.
Apart from fishing, you can even indulge in other relaxing activities, such as boating. Boating not only offers some of the most magnificent views of the pristine lake but also allows you to forget about your busy schedules, even if it’s for a moment. There are also campsites that you can check out.
Timings
Everyday: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges. Boating costs will be provided on the spot.
If you are visiting Lucy Park, you must also visit River Bend Nature Center, which is located right in the center. Roaming around this center is perhaps the most ideal thing to do in Wichita Falls for those who love nature, animals, and everything in between.
The Nature Center is an educational establishment that helps your little ones (and even yourself) learn everything about the marvels of nature. It is home to a variety of different species of both flora and fauna.
Think of this center as a mini zoo that houses animals like foxes, opossums, various amphibious creatures, arachnids, and more. You can even carry a picnic basket and relish a feast with your friends right in the middle of nature.
Timings
Monday-Friday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday: 12 PM to 4 PM
Entry charges (if any)
$6 for adults
$5 for children above 1 year of age and senior citizens
Click here to know more about the entry charges.
For Food & Wine Connoisseurs
If you are neither too fond of nature nor historic facts, but love to know how wines from different regions taste, we have one of the best things to do in Wichita Falls for you.
Wichita Falls Winery is owned by a local family and is renowned for using the rich agricultural history of the city to create a sweet-tasting, well-balanced wine.
There are barrels filled to the brim with local wine made with Texas or California grapes and a tasting room where you can witness how these wines were produced. You can even get yourself a bottle from their gift shop.
Just make sure you are scheduling an appointment before going.
Timings
Please contact the Winery for more details.
Entry charges (if any)
$1 for each wine you select
Agriculture has always been an integral part of Wichita Falls’ history. This is what makes Wichita Falls Farmers Market a unique but very crucial establishment in the neighborhood.
When you visit the market, you will get to see the bays of the market bustling with local farmers selling the freshest of their produce. For those who love to cook, it is nothing short of heaven on earth.
You’ll find a lot more than greens here. From cakes and jams to ceramics, plant herbs, pickles, and fresh fruits, you can find anything and everything on display here. Several fests are also hosted in the market.
Make sure you carry a big bag with you because you will come out with things that you didn’t even know you needed!
Timings
Mostly only opened on Saturdays, 9 AM to 1 PM
Entry charges (if any)
No entry charges.
Horseshoe Bend Cellars is another spot that wine connoisseurs must check out when in Wichita Falls. This is a local vineyard sitting just outside of the city, right between Horseshoe Lake and Wichita River.
When you visit the vineyard, you can taste a variety of different locally made wines while relishing munchies from a charcuterie board. You can take your glasses to the balcony and soak in the picturesque views of the Estate as you sip your wine.
This winery goes beyond the expectations of the tourists by hosting various other activities including murder mystery games, stargazing nights, and complimentary tours of the Estate.
Timings
Thursday: 3 PM to 7 PM
Friday: 2 PM to 7 PM
Saturday: 12 PM to 7 PM
Sunday: 1 PM to 6 PM
Closed from Mondays to Wednesdays
Entry charges (if any)
Please contact the winery for more details.
There is no dearth of things to do in Wichita Falls. From museums housing historic artifacts to wineries producing local wines and art galleries hosting different exhibitions, there is something for everyone in the city. Make sure to bookmark this guide to help you plan your itinerary for your vacation in Texas.
Wichita Falls, today a city in Northern Texas, was founded back in 1876. The name of the city is an amalgamation of the original inhabitants of the city i.e. Wichita Indians and the low-river falls that were washed away by a flood in 1886. The city was formerly famous for cattle ranching and for being an agricultural hub.
Also referred to as the ‘Gateway to Texas’, Wichita Falls is a city with modern architecture and old-world charm. Wichita Falls is known for its flourishing art scene, exciting outdoor activities, historic buildings, and sweet local wines.
Many of the renowned places that Wichita Falls is known for are the ones that have been a part of the city from its early days. For instance, Kell House Museum and Museum of North Texas History both have been a significant part of Wichita history.
There are also several theaters, such as Backdoor Theater and Wichita Falls Ballet Theater where some of the most powerful theatrical performances are showcased for the world to see.
Lastly, for those who love the outdoors, the city is filled with parks like Lucy Park and River Bend Nature Center, where one can witness the indigenous flora and fauna of the Texas region.
Time after time, Wichita Falls has found itself to be on the list of best places in the United States of America. A few of the reasons why Wichita Falls is considered to be a good area include:
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