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

? 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 

 while making the most of your time in North Texas.

For an easy night out near Sheppard AFB, 

 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.

What does an Airman do in their free time? RC flyers, of course. 

 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.

30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita, Texas

 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.

 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.

 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.

 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.

 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.

 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.

Everything is Bigger in Texas! Except, apparently, the 

 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.

You know what really is bigger in Texas, though? This shovel. 

 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.

Live music just makes food taste better, and 

 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

 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.

 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.

. 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.

 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.

For the pups who endure military life right along with you, the 

 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 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.

 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.

 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.

 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 

 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 couple that golfs together stays together, and 

 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.

 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.

For a date night that feels a little more special than dinner and a movie, 

 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.

 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.

What is more intimate than a quiet nature walk and a picnic? 

 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.

 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.

 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.

, this walkable district is great for families looking for restaurants, live entertainment, and a little city energy.

 From NASCAR and IndyCar events to racing experiences, dirt track events, and special events throughout the year, 

 is an easy way to turn a Fort Worth trip into something loud, memorable, and very Texas.

, home of the 82nd Training Wing and the 80th Flying Training Wing. Located in Wichita Falls, Texas, Sheppard is one of the Air Force’s major training installations and is known as the Air Force’s “Logistics University.”

Sheppard has a long history of preparing Airmen and allied partners for service. Originally established during World War II, the base has grown into a major training hub that supports Air Force technical training, international pilot training, mission support, medical services, and quality-of-life programs for service members and families. Its location in North Texas also makes it a unique duty station, with quick access to Wichita Falls, nearby small towns, and larger cities like Dallas-Fort Worth and Oklahoma City within driving distance.

If you are PCSing, be ready for a practical North Texas assignment with a strong training mission, a close military community, and plenty of resources at the 

 to help you settle in. You will want to prepare for hot summers, changing weather, and the usual PCS checklist: housing, schools, base access, medical care, employment, and temporary lodging. Continue reading for our guide to Sheppard AFB and what you can expect as you prepare to make Wichita Falls your new home.

The Sheppard AFB Main Gate is on Sheppard Access Road, right off TX-240/Burkburnett Road, on the southwest side of the base. It’s the 24-hour gate, and Google Maps has it labeled as “

You will want to visit the Sheppard AFB Welcome Center, whether this is your next duty station, training stop, or weekend visit: a little arrival intel goes a long way.

Getting to Sheppard AFB From Popular Cities

Take I-35E North toward Denton, then connect to US-287 North toward Wichita Falls. As you get close to Wichita Falls, follow signs toward Sheppard AFB / TX-240 / Burkburnett Road and use GPS for “

Take US-287 North straight toward Wichita Falls. Once you reach the Wichita Falls area, follow signs for Sheppard AFB and enter through the 

 off TX-240/Burkburnett Road and Sheppard Access Road.

Take I-44 West/Southwest toward Lawton and Wichita Falls. Continue across the Texas state line, then take the Sheppard AFB/Missile Road area exit and follow local signs to the 

 or the Missile Road Gate, which is located directly next to the 

Welcome to Sheppard AFB! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

Want to Visit Sheppard AFB? Here's How to Get Base Access

Visitors age 16 and older who do not have a DoD-issued photo ID must be sponsored by an eligible DoD ID card holder to receive a visitor pass at the Sheppard AFB Welcome Center. During business hours, visitor passes are processed at the Visitor Control Center on a walk-in basis. Passes may be issued for up to 30 days at the 

Visitors should bring a valid, unexpired, 

 driver’s license or state-issued photo ID. First-time registration may also require a Social Security card. If your ID is not REAL ID compliant, you may need supporting documents such as a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card. All visitors are subject to a background check before being granted unescorted access.

Non-U.S. citizens must have a valid reason for entry, a valid passport and visa, and must complete additional screening, including criminal history and AFOSI background checks. Foreign visitor requests require at least 14 business days for processing and generally cannot be sponsored directly by a U.S. citizen or DoD cardholder, except in limited circumstances. For foreign visitor pass questions, contact your DoD sponsor, organization, or the Visitor Control Center at (940) 676-2066 or (940) 676-7441.

To access the installation you are required to present one of the following:

DoD ID card holders may enter with their valid DoD-issued identification.

Visitors age 16 and older who do not have a DoD ID will need a visitor pass sponsored by an eligible DoD credential holder.

Bring a valid, unexpired photo ID, such as a state-issued driver’s license or state ID card.

Your driver’s license or state ID should be REAL ID compliant.

If your ID is not REAL ID compliant, bring supporting documents, such as a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card, along with your state-issued photo ID.

First-time visitor registration may require a Social Security card, so bring it with you if you are requesting base access for the first time.

Non-U.S. citizens must bring a valid passport and visa, have a valid reason for entry, and complete additional screening before receiving a visitor pass.

All visitors should be prepared for a background check before being granted unescorted access.

Sheppard AFB Welcome Center keeps base access fairly simple: the Main Gate is your go-to 24/7 entrance, the Missile Road Gate handles weekday traffic and visitor access, and the Hospital Gate is currently closed.

The Sheppard AFB Main Gate is on Sheppard Access Road, right off TX-240/Burkburnett Road, on the southwest side of the base. It’s the 24-hour gate and Google maps has it labeled as “

The Missile Road Gate is located directly next to the 

at 210 Missile Road, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311. This gate can only be accessed Monday-Friday 0600-1730.

When arriving at Sheppard AFB, your first step is to follow your unit’s reporting instructions and check in with your sponsor, CSS, or gaining unit. If you arrive after duty hours or on a weekend, 

 to report to the 24-hour arrival point at the 

 and then report to their unit’s UPC/CSS the next duty day. Temporary lodging is available through the Sheppard Inn, and PCS families are encouraged to make reservations early.

Newly assigned military members are also required to attend Sheppard Right Start, the installation’s mandatory newcomer orientation. Right Start is normally scheduled through your unit CSS and gives newcomers information about base services, local resources, safety, housing, medical care, and support programs. Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. 

Be sure to hand-carry important documents such as orders, IDs, medical records, school records, housing paperwork, and travel receipts so you have what you need during in-processing.

Once settled at Sheppard AFB, there are a few base amenities and facilities worth knowing.

, also known as the Sheppard Clinic, provides on-base medical care for eligible beneficiaries. Services include primary care, pediatrics, pharmacy, lab and X-ray, dental, optometry, mental health, immunizations, women’s health, and other support services. The clinic does not have an emergency room or urgent care, so emergencies should go through 911 or the nearest emergency room.

 527 Tuskegee Airmen Ave., Building 500, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311

 helps service members get a head start on housing before a PCS. Through HEAT, you can connect with the housing office at your next duty station, ask questions, and request assistance before you arrive.

 310 H Avenue, Bldg 373, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311 

Need a new military ID, dependent ID, or help updating your DEERS information? The 

 office is the place to handle ID cards, enrollment updates, and other must-do admin tasks that keep military life moving.

426 Tuskegee Airmen Ave, Bldg 402, Room 101 Sheppard AFB, TX

 have a way of showing up right when military life gets busy. 

The Sheppard AFB Financial Services Office

 can help with pay, travel vouchers, allowances, and other finance-related questions that come with PCS moves, TDYs, and everyday service life.

426 5th Ave Bldg 402, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311

Legal questions can pop up at the most inconvenient times, especially during a PCS, deployment, or major life change. 

 can assist eligible members with services such as powers of attorney, notary services, wills, and general legal assistance.

Whether you’re stocking up after a PCS, grabbing weeknight dinner supplies, or just trying to avoid another takeout run, the 

 is a helpful stop for everyday grocery needs. Eligible shoppers can find food, household staples, and military-friendly savings right on base.

130 Community Center Dr, Sheppard AFB, TX 76311

Need to grab groceries, fuel up, replace a uniform item, or make a quick “how did we forget that?” stop? 

 area is a convenient on-base stop for everyday essentials, quick meals, caffeine runs, and errands. With options like Starbucks, Popeyes, GameStop, and Panda Express, it is an easy place to grab coffee, pick up a meal, browse, or make a quick “how did we forget that?” stop.

Dorothy Vetterl

Military Spouse & Contributing Writer

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30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita, Texas

Welcome to Sheppard AFB! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

30+ Things to Do Near Sheppard AFB in Wichita, Texas

Welcome to Sheppard AFB! Your Guide to Base Access, Amenities, and More

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