Looking for a patriotic, family-friendly Texas escape? Head to Killeen! Located in Central Texas, Killeen is best known as the home of Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), one of the largest military bases in the world. With museums, nature parks, and diverse dining, it’s a welcoming and activity-rich destination for families, veterans, and road trippers alike.
Killeen, TX Highlights:
- For Military History Enthusiasts: Visit the 1st Cavalry Division Museum – Explore tanks, helicopters, and exhibits on U.S. military history.
- For Nature Lovers: Hike and paddle at Dana Peak Park – Located on Stillhouse Hollow Lake, perfect for swimming, hiking, and kayaking.
- For Families: Play and learn at Lions Club Park – Featuring sports fields, walking trails, and the Family Recreation Center with a pool and splash pad.
- For Shoppers: Browse Killeen Mall and local boutiques – Grab a bite and shop big brands and unique local goods.
- For Art Fans: Discover the Vive Les Arts Theatre – Catch a live play, musical, or children’s theater production.
When I like to visit Killeen, TX
The best time to visit Killeen is in the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for pleasant weather ideal for hiking, festivals, and outdoor activities. Summers are hot but great for water recreation at local lakes and pools.
Tips for getting to Killeen, TX
- If you are traveling by car: Killeen is located along US-190 (now I-14), about 1 hour north of Austin and 2.5 hours south of Dallas.
- By Plane: Fly directly into Killeen-Fort Cavazos Regional Airport (GRK), located just outside the city.
- By Bus: Greyhound offers service to Killeen, and local transportation includes HOP buses for in-town travel.
Where I like to stay in Killeen, TX
- Shilo Inns Killeen – Comfortable stay with an indoor pool, fitness center, and proximity to Fort Cavazos.
- Courtyard by Marriott Killeen – Centrally located with modern rooms and walking access to shops and restaurants.
- Residence Inn by Marriott – Extended-stay suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer visits or families.
Best Things to Do in Killeen, TX
1. Bell County Museum
The Bell County Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Bell County and to displaying that history for the education and enjoyment of the public.
The museum’s expansive collection contains over 12,000 historic and prehistoric items from Central Texas. Guests can view the interior of a settler’s log cabin or walk through the history of Bell County in the Passport Through Time exhibits.
The museum also contains the C.W. Buckellew Collection of buildings in miniature, and the Galt Site, dedicated to the prehistoric peoples of the Americas.
201 N. Main Street, Belton, TX 76513, Phone: 254-933-5243
2. Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area
Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area (BLORA) is the place to be for outdoor family fun, year-round! BLORA covers 89 acres next to beautiful Belton Lake, and in the summer, Sierra Beach is open for swimming.
The beach contains two 300-foot long water slides, a kiddie splash area, picnic areas, and playground equipment.
Boat rentals are available at Belton Lake Marina. The recreation area also contains a mountain biking trail, paintball facilities, basketball and volleyball courts, fishing, horseback riding, cottage rentals, and camping facilities.
BLORA is open year-round. Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty.
3. Carl Levin Park
Carl Levin Park is a 35-acre community park and recreational area in Harker Heights.
The park contains playground equipment, a basketball court, a fishing pond, grills and picnic tables, a three-quarter mile paved and lighted course for walking and running, and plenty of open space for outdoor play.
The park also contains pavilions of various sizes that are available to rent for gatherings, concerts, parties, and more.
The largest pavilion seats up to 200 people. In the summer, the Carl Levin Pool is open daily for swimming, parties, and swim lessons.
400 Miller’s Crossing, Harker Heights, TX 76548, Phone: 254-953-5657
Recommended Activities for Families
4. Mayborn Science Theater
The universe is on display at the Mayborn Science Theater! This massive 180-seat theater projects films onto a 60-foot domed screen, giving patrons a total-immersion experience!
Films and laser shows cover topics such as outer space, dinosaurs, the oceans, historic inventions, and more. After the film, guests can check out the theater’s exhibit room, hurricane simulator, and retro gaming room.
Shows are available to the public on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, Friday evenings, and all day Saturdays. The theater also hosts birthday parties, classroom field trips, and scout groups.
Central Texas College 6200 West Central Texas Expressway, Killeen, TX 76543, Phone: 254-526-1768
5. Pfeifer’s German Bakery
Since 2002, Pfeifer’s German Bakery has been making authentic hand-made German treats for the Killeen area. The owner has over 25 years of experience as a master baker in Germany and the United States. Pfeifer’s serves quality sweets and baked goods such as kuchen, puff pastry, hefekasten, cookies, rolls, and breads. They also offer a variety of German grocery items and meats such as bologna, bierschinken, bierwurst, blutwurst, and more. All employees speak German and are dedicated to making your experience a delicious and authentic one.
716 Indian Trail Ste 240, Harker Heights, TX 76548, Phone: 254-698-0211
6. Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor
The Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor is the place to go for cool treats in a fun environment! The shop prides itself on its friendly service and tasty ice cream. Cones, sundaes, banana splits, and shakes are all made with hand-dipped ice cream and a variety of toppings such as hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Guests are welcome to sample many flavors before making their choice. The parlor is decorated with classic rock n’ roll memorabilia.
4524 South W S Young Drive Ste 105, Killeen, TX 76542, Phone: 254-526-0340
Recommended Attractions
7. Stillhouse Hollow Lake
Stillhouse Hollow Lake is a 6,400-acre reservoir that is managed by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. The lake serves as flood control and a water supply for the nearby towns and communities. The lake is also a great place for boating, swimming, and fishing. Catfish, crappie, sunfish, and largemouth and smallmouth bass can all be caught here. The Corp of Engineers maintains two recreation areas along the lake: Dana Peak Park and Union Grove Park. Both parks have campsites with hook-ups, restrooms with showers, boat ramps, and beach areas. Campsite reservations can be made online, in person, or by phone.
3740 FM 1670, Belton, TX 76513, Phone: 877-444-6777
8. Bite the Bagel Deli Cafe
Authentic New York-style bagels, right in the heart of Texas. Bite the Bagel Deli Cafe serves fresh-baked, made from scratch bagels in a variety of flavors and toppings. The bagels are also used in their delicious breakfast sandwiches, many of which are available all day. Try a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel or a Reuben bagel. They even serve bagels and lox! Bite the Bagel also sells sub sandwiches, homemade soups, muffins, cinnamon rolls, and coffee and espresso. All of their menu items are made with fresh, high quality meats, produce, and cheeses.
2710 Clear Creek Rd., Killeen, TX 76549, Phone: 254-501-9774
9. Boulders Sport Climbing Center
Since 2000, Boulders Sport Climbing Center has offered a fun, positive atmosphere for adventurers who want to experience the thrill of rock climbing. First-timers and experienced climbers alike can practice on Boulders’ 40-foot climbing walls, free standing boulder, and 30-foot rappel tower. Climbing clinics and classes for all ages are taught by experienced, helpful climbers. Boulders also hosts special events such as birthday parties, lock-ins, summer camps, parents’ night out, team building exercises, and more. All climbers must take the introductory Orientation Class before climbing.
325 Indian Trail, Harker Heights, TX 76548, Phone: 254-690-9790
10. Vive Les Arts Theatre
Vive Les Arts Societe is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing art and culture to the residents of central Texas. The organization began in 1976 and in 1991 moved into its current 400-seat theater home. Vive Les Arts Theatre hosts various productions such as plays, musicals, and concerts. They hold acting workshops for children and adults and host a children’s theater camp each August. The theater building also contains the Meadows Gallery, which features works of art by local artists. Theatre performances and show times vary throughout the year.
3401 South WS Young Drive, Killeen, TX 76542, Phone: 254-526-9090
More Places to Eat in Killeen, TX
- Little Italy – Family-owned Italian restaurant with hearty pastas and warm hospitality.
- Petty’s BBQ – Local go-to for smoked brisket, ribs, and true Texas barbecue flavor.
- Taqueria Mexico Lindo – Affordable and authentic Mexican street food in a casual setting.
My favorite local events:
- Celebrate Killeen Festival (Spring) – Food, music, games, and fireworks at the city’s largest family-friendly celebration.
- Veterans Day Parade (November) – A patriotic tribute with marching bands and military honors in downtown Killeen.
- Holiday Under the Stars (December) – Lights, music, and seasonal cheer in Historic Downtown Killeen.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Killeen, Texas:
- Belton (20–25 min) – Visit the Bell County Museum, historic courthouse, and charming Main Street shops.
- Salado (30 min) – Art galleries, historic inns, and boutique shopping in a peaceful artist village.
- Chalk Ridge Falls Park (20–25 min) – Hike scenic trails, see waterfalls, and cross a suspension bridge over the Lampasas River.
- Temple (30 min) – Discover the Railroad & Heritage Museum, local breweries, and parks by the lake.
- Mother Neff State Park (30 min) – One of Texas’s first state parks, perfect for hiking and birdwatching along the Leon River.
Plan Your Trip