If you're after a patriotic, family-friendly Texas escape, let me point you toward Killeen. I’ve visited this Central Texas gem (just over an hour from more house) a few times, and it always surprises me with how much there is to do. As the home of Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), Killeen has a proud military history, but it also delivers on nature, food, and fun. Whether you’re traveling with kids, honoring a veteran, or just road-tripping through Texas, I think you’ll find Killeen as welcoming and activity-packed as I did.
Best Things to Do in Killeen, TX
Discovering Bell County’s History at Bell County Museum
Killeen surprised me with its quiet, authentic charm, and the Bell County Museum felt like its heart. Housed in a beautiful 1904 Carnegie Library building, the museum offered a deep dive into Central Texas history—stories of pioneers, soldiers, and communities that shaped the region. I wandered through exhibits on ranching and Native American artifacts, struck by how grounded and human it all felt. I remember thinking, "Sometimes the richest stories aren’t grand—they’re the ones built quietly, layer by layer."
What I Loved Most: The traveling exhibit on Texas women in history—it gave voice to stories too often overlooked.
My highlights? A visit to Pfeifer’s German Bakery afterward. I ordered a slice of bienenstich (bee sting cake) with honey-almond topping and custard filling. Paired with a coffee and warm service, it felt like a comforting step back in time.
Travel Tips:
- Address: 201 N Main St, Belton, TX
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 12 PM–5 PM
- Admission: Free
- Best For: History buffs, families, anyone who loves a well-curated local museum
Peaceful Afternoons at Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area
Sometimes all you need is open water and big sky. That’s what Belton Lake gave me—space to breathe. I walked the lakeside trails and watched birds skim the surface as families set up for picnics nearby. It felt like Texas at its most relaxed. "There’s beauty in slowing down," I thought, leaning against a weathered fence post as the sun began its descent over the hills.
What I Loved Most: Catching a few quiet moments at the boat ramp near dusk, when everything turns gold and still.
My highlights? Grabbing a post-lake cone at Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor. I chose the banana pudding flavor, topped with crumbled wafers—it was nostalgic in all the best ways.
Travel Tips:
- Address: 7999 Sparta Rd, Belton, TX
- Vibe: Family-friendly, laid-back, full of nature
- Activities: Swimming, fishing, boating, picnics
- Cost: Small entrance fee depending on area
Relaxing in the Shade at Carl Levin Park
Carl Levin Park was one of those simple local gems that made me feel instantly at home. Shaded trails, a calm pond with ducks drifting past, and cheerful families enjoying the sunshine—it had that lived-in charm. I walked slowly under the oaks, letting the day unfold naturally. "This is the kind of place where weekend memories are made," I found myself thinking.
What I Loved Most: Sitting on a bench near the water, watching kids play while the breeze rustled the trees—peaceful and real.
My highlights? Bringing along a takeaway croissant from Pfeifer’s to enjoy under the trees. Buttery, flaky, and just right.
Travel Tips:
- Address: 400 Millers Crossing, Harker Heights, TX
- Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures
- Good For: Families, couples, solo wanderers needing peace
Starry-Eyed Wonder at Mayborn Science Theater
Walking into the Mayborn Science Theater felt like stepping out of the everyday and into the cosmos. The planetarium’s massive dome wrapped me in deep space visuals—galaxies swirling above, constellations blinking to life. It brought back that childhood awe, the kind that makes you whisper “wow” without meaning to. I remember thinking, “There’s something comforting about realizing how vast the universe is—and how small my worries are in comparison.”
What I Loved Most: The immersive planetarium show on black holes—it felt like floating through the unknown.
My highlights? A stop at Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor afterward for a scoop of lavender honey ice cream. It was unexpected and completely perfect—like the day itself.
Travel Tips:
- Address: 6200 W Central Texas Expy, Killeen, TX (on the Central Texas College campus)
- Best For: Families, science lovers, date night
- Show Schedule: Varies—check their website for updated times
- Cost: Low admission fee
Lake Days at Stillhouse Hollow Lake
Stillhouse Hollow Lake felt like an open secret—peaceful, wide, and wrapped in natural beauty. I spent the afternoon skipping stones, wading through cool shallows, and watching the horizon glow as dusk rolled in. There was space to think, to breathe, to just be. I remember thinking, “Some places don’t need fanfare to feel special—just water, wind, and time.”
What I Loved Most: The overlook on the eastern bluff, where you can see the lake stretch endlessly beneath big Texas skies.
My highlights? Packing a picnic with a pastry from Pfeifer’s German Bakery—their apple strudel traveled well and paired perfectly with the lakeside view.
Travel Tips:
- Location: About 20 minutes south of Killeen near Harker Heights
- Activities: Kayaking, swimming, scenic walks
- Good For: Peaceful half-day getaway or sunset outing
- Tip: Bring bug spray if you're visiting near dusk