Looking for a historic North Texas escape with small-town charm? Head to Sherman! This welcoming city blends rich history, local culture, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Whether you're exploring antique shops, enjoying live music, or relaxing by the lake, Sherman offers the perfect weekend getaway just north of Dallas.

Sherman, TX Highlights:

  • For Families: Play and relax at Herman Baker Park – Enjoy nature trails, a scenic pond, disc golf, and playgrounds for all ages.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike or picnic at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge – Explore trails, birdwatch, and take in serene views of Lake Texoma.
  • For Kids: Learn and interact at Harber Wildlife Museum – See an impressive collection of animal dioramas and global exhibits.
  • For an Adventure: Paddle or fish at Lake Texoma – Launch a boat, fish for bass, or rent kayaks for a fun-filled day on the water.
  • For Shoppers: Browse boutiques in Downtown Sherman – Explore antique stores, art galleries, and local goods along historic streets.

Best Time to Visit Sherman, TX

The best time to visit Sherman is during the spring and fall (March–May and September–November) for mild weather, colorful scenery, and lively festivals. Summers are warm and great for lake days, while winters are generally mild and quiet.

How to Get to Sherman, TX

  • If you are traveling by car: Sherman is located on US-75, about 1.5 hours north of Dallas and 45 minutes from McKinney or Denison.
  • By Air: The nearest major airport is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 1.5 hours south by car.
  • By Bus: Limited Greyhound and regional bus services stop nearby; a car is recommended for local travel.

Where to Stay in Sherman, TX

  • Hilton Garden Inn Denison/Sherman – Modern hotel with a pool, restaurant, and easy highway access.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sherman – Convenient and comfortable lodging with breakfast included.
  • Old Iron Post Airbnb Lofts – Stylish boutique stays in downtown Sherman near shopping and dining.

Best Things to Do in Sherman, TX

Spot Birds and Wildlife at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge

Spot Birds and Wildlife at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge

© CheriAlguire/stock.adobe.com

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge is located in northwestern Grayson County, Texas, on the Red River, on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma. Established as a haven for migratory birds, especially waterfowl, and other wildlife, this National Wildlife Refuge consists of water, marsh, and upland habitat. The Canada goose, with the population that can exceed 7,500 during fall, winter, and spring, is clearly the predominant species. Other species include the snow goose, greater white-fronted goose and a few of the smaller Ross's goose. There are plenty of recreational opportunities in the refuge. Visitors can observe wildlife and hike year around and hunt and fish in the open season. The refuge can also be toured by a private vehicle with help of a virtual interpreter.

Refuge Rd, Sherman, TX 75092, Phone: 903-786-2826

If You Love Smooth Sounds, Visit the Sherman Jazz Museum

If You Love Smooth Sounds, Visit the Sherman Jazz Museum

© Sherman Jazz Museum

Sherman Jazz Museum in Sherman, Texas was founded by Bill Collins III in 2010 to promote the education, preservation and enjoyment of Jazz. The museum is housed in a former Masonic lodge, a Neo-Classical Revival building used by the Masons for 60 years. The museum exhibits include a large number of vinyl albums with liner notes. The Ella Fitzgerald, Big Band and Dance Band room features a large mural of Ella Fitzgerald, big bands’ artifacts and music and a number of trumpets once belonging to outstanding artists such as Doc Severinsen and Dizzy Gillespie. Among exhibits is recording equipment including the beautiful phonograph machines. One of them is a Thomas Edison original cylinder player.

201 E Lamar St, Sherman, TX 75090, Phone: 903-893-5673

Sip, Savor, and Relax at Cellarman’s Pub and Brewery

Sip, Savor, and Relax at Cellarman’s Pub and Brewery

© Cellarman’s Pub and Brewery

Cellarman's is a lively, fun pub opened in 1998 in Sherman, Texas, with 200 seats, 33 draughts, 100 bottled beers, great food and even better atmosphere. Their 1400 square foot brewery is attached to the pub and produces fine craft beers and sodas with particular attention to freshness, flavor and quality, bringing new beers from time to time. The star of their kitchen is their wood-fired stone oven that produces fabulous gourmet pizzas and other goodies. The menu includes great burgers, sandwiches, gyros, oysters, salads, fish and chips and more. The full bar offers more than 200 spirits, a single malt scotch bar, excellent selection of wines and specialty mixed drinks.

2130 Texoma Pkwy, Sherman, TX 75090, Phone: 903-813-0994

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Sink Your Teeth Into Flavor at Cackle and Oink BBQ

Sink Your Teeth Into Flavor at Cackle and Oink BBQ

© Joe Gough/stock.adobe.com

Cackle and Oink Barbecue is a popular roadside eatery in Sherman, Texas, with unpretentious cozy dining space, counter-serve and multiple award-winning barbecued food. You will know that the food is good by the tantalizing smell that will greet you at the always full parking lot. They call their style a hybrid or a melting pot of techniques and flavors. They start by dry rubbing and marinating their meats before smoking it over an applewoood fire for many hours. Their best seller is baby back ribs, which won multiple awards across the country. They also sell pulled pork, beef brisket, pulled chicken, turkey breast, hot links and jalapeno sausage, with large number of sides and four house-made sauces.

3210 Texoma Pkwy, Sherman, TX 75090, Phone: 903-891-3200

Explore Rare and Exotic Collections at Harber Wildlife Museum

Explore Rare and Exotic Collections at Harber Wildlife Museum

© Harber Wildlife Museum

Dorothy and Lacy Harber always dreamed of opening their own wildlife museum which would make it possible to share their remarkable collection of wildlife-related exhibits and African artifacts with the public. Specifically, they wanted to share their enthusiasm for conservation, preservation and wildlife education with interested people of all ages. Finally, the pair has been able to realize their dream and the Harber Wildlife Museum is now open to the public. Inside you will find a large number of extremely realistic exhibits of wild animals from all corners of the globe. Children are handed a scavenger hunt sheet on arrival to make it even more fun and educational.

Harber Wildlife Museum, 4703 Texoma Parkway, Sherman, TX 75090, 903 771 1134

If You Crave a Challenge, Conquer Downtown Escape Rooms

If You Crave a Challenge, Conquer Downtown Escape Rooms

© SPD/stock.adobe.com

If you are ready to spend an hour having fun and exercising your brain, round up some of your friends and family and book an escape room experience at Downtown Escape Rooms. There are four themed escape rooms to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. If you are a first-timer, Uncle Gil’s Will is the easiest and will get you ready to take on the more difficult challenges of The Cabin, The Cabin II and Blackbeard’s Challenge. Your group will need to work together as a team in order to solve puzzles, crack codes and unravel clues to enable you to beat the room and escape within 60 minutes.

Downtown Escape Rooms, 107 S. Travis Street, Sherman, TX 75090, 903 815 1495

Where to Eat in Sherman, TX

  • Sage Café – Southern-style breakfasts, sandwiches, and daily specials in a friendly, cozy spot.
  • Cellarman’s Pub & Brewery – Classic American fare, local brews, and a relaxed pub atmosphere.
  • The Loaded Bowl – Comfort food favorites like mac & cheese, burgers, and barbecue with Texas flair.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Hot Summer Nights Concert Series (June–July) – Free live music every Thursday in downtown Sherman’s Lucy Kidd-Key Park.
  • Sherman Arts Fest (September) – A family-friendly arts and music festival with crafts, food trucks, and live performances.
  • Stroll on the Square (seasonal) – Downtown wine walk featuring local artists, live music, and tastings.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Sherman, Texas:

  • Denison (15–20 min) – Explore Eisenhower Birthplace, charming downtown shops, and art galleries.
  • Lake Texoma (25–30 min) – Perfect for boating, camping, and exploring scenic shoreline parks.
  • Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge (20–25 min) – Great for hiking, birdwatching, and peaceful nature walks.
  • Bonham (30 min) – Visit the Sam Rayburn House Museum or Bonham State Park for hiking and fishing.
  • Van Alstyne (25–30 min) – Browse antique shops and dine in quaint cafés along Main Street.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Sherman located?
    • Sherman is a city in Grayson County, Texas, established in 1846 as a county seat.
  • What historical figures were associated with Sherman?
    • During and after the Civil War, north Texas outlaw bands led by Jesse James and William Quantrill spent time in Sherman.
  • What is a notable educational institution in Sherman?
    • Sherman is home to Austin College, the oldest college in Texas operating under its original charter.
  • What outdoor activities are available near Sherman?
    • Sherman is located south of Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoirs in Texas, famous for its champion bass fishing, sailing, camping, and hiking.
  • What museums can you visit in Sherman?
    • Sherman is home to the Sherman Jazz Museum and Outlaw Trails Museum.
  • What wildlife refuge is near Sherman?

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, perfect for outdoor activities. Hampton Inn Sherman – A comfortable stay with easy highway access. Explore Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge – A great spot for birdwatching and nature walks.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and sunny, ideal for lake trips and local festivals. Hilton Garden Inn Denison/Sherman – A modern hotel with great amenities. Visit Lake Texoma – Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming at this popular summer destination.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and colorful foliage, perfect for scenic drives and fairs. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sherman – A budget-friendly option for fall travelers. Attend the Sherman Arts Fest – A great event featuring live music, crafts, and food vendors.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for holiday charm and cozy stays. LoneStar Inn & Suites – A simple and affordable stay for winter visits. Explore downtown Sherman – Enjoy holiday shopping, historic architecture, and local dining.

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