25 Best & Fun Things to do in Killeen TX (Texas)
If you are looking for fun things to do in Killeen TX, you can’t go wrong with these best things to do in Killeen. From fabulous attractions to attractive restaurants, no shortage of fun will make your trip truly unforgettable.
The city of Killeen, Texas, has grown at an incredible rate over the past few years and now boasts all the amenities of a big city and the feel of a small town.
Whether you are on vacation or just visiting the area, from outdoor adventures and amusement parks to historical sites and cultural activities, there’s plenty to do in Killeen and around Killeen when you set out to find what’s here.
So if you are looking for fun places to visit in Killeen, Texas, you will want to check out our list of 25 best things to do in Killeen, TX.
25 Fun Things to do in Killeen TX (Texas)
#1. Eat at Manna BBQ
Manna BBQ is the first thing on our list of things to do in Killeen, TX. It’s a BBQ joint located in downtown Killeen on 6th Street.
There are a few tables outside so you can enjoy some of their famous BBQ while sitting outside and listening to music from local bands as they set up for their show at The Wire.
You can also sit inside next to one of their many TVs that play movies or sports games throughout each day.
Another option is to pick up one of their famous (or, should I say, infamous) $5.00 boxes, so you don’t have to commit to an entire meal if it’s not your thing.
My suggestion is to get there early because Manna gets pretty busy, and if you don’t get there early enough, you might have trouble finding a seat!
Their hours vary but typically, they open around 11 am and close when business dies down. Some days it could be 1 pm. On other days 4 pm depends on how long people want to wait in line!
But trust me…it’s worth every minute! It doesn’t matter what meat you order because everything is amazing, but if I had to choose my favorite meat(s), I would go with brisket or sausage.
They have such great flavor, and no matter how much sauce you put on them, it won’t take away from how good they taste!
If you haven’t tried Manna BBQ yet…what are you waiting for?!?! Get out there now!!! It’s worth checking out!!!
Address: 2020 W Stan Schlueter Loop Suit 102, Killeen, TX 76549
#2. Visit Camp Hulen
This weekend, Camp Hulen is seen as the romantic things to do in Killeen, TX, when visiting Texas from out of state. It’s a great way to experience nature and is free. Located on Lake Belton, Camp Hulen features walking trails and an aquatic center with canoeing and kayaking.
With lake access for only $1 per car at Lakeside Park, it’s a great day trip away from Austin. The views of Sunset Bay are priceless during sunrise or sunset when there are few people around (mainly in summer).
The park’s website says there are 20 miles of trails available, but that appears to be more hiking/mountain biking terrain than walking paths.
However, plenty of trees provides shade along most of these trails. If you’re looking for something different to do in Killeen, try Camp Hulen!
#3. Hang out at the Fort Hood Museum
The Fort Hood Museum (located at Fort Hood in Killeen) has a treasure trove of Fort Hood history and military equipment exhibits.
The museum also hosts events throughout the year that honor veterans, so it’s worth checking out before you leave town.
For example, at sunset on September 19th, a new exhibit, The Color of Freedom: Veterans Portraits, features 100 photos from World War II through Operation Iraqi Freedom taken by Bob Loeffler (long-time photojournalist for Time magazine).
The opening reception will begin at 7 p.m., and it’s free to attend with no reservations required. It’s one of 10 things to do in Killeen that shouldn’t be missed!
Address: 3701S S W S Young Dr, Killeen, TX 76542, United States
#4. Play Golf at Del Rio Country Club
One of our favorite places to play golf in Texas is at Del Rio Country Club. It’s a bit off the beaten path, so it doesn’t get as much traffic as other nearby courses.
Del Rio is set up nicely for golfers of all skill levels, and it has great scenery on every hole. The course itself is fun to play, but what we love about it are its amenities.
There’s an on-site pro shop where you can pick up some top-of-the-line equipment, and they have an indoor practice facility that makes it easy to work on your swing year-round.
The clubhouse serves a fantastic brunch on Sundays, and they have a great list of special events throughout the year, including live music and comedy nights. If you’re looking for something to do while visiting Killeen, check out Del Rio Country Club!
Address: 1524 US-90, Del Rio, TX 78840, United States
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#5. Go on a Hike
Want to have a great time without breaking a sweat? Hiking is an amazing way to spend quality time with your family or friends while doing something active.
You can take a hike any time of year (Texas weather permitting), and it’s one of the most popular activities in Central Texas; there are plenty of trails that crisscross Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas-Fort Worth.
If you’re new to hiking or want some help getting started, try joining up with a local Meetup group like Austin Hiking or Trail Adventurers, who will show you how to get started.
Just be sure to bring along plenty of water—and don’t forget your camera! You can add this to your list of things to do in Killeen, TX, for Christmas.
#6. Watch the Sunset at Reagan Park
There is something special about watching a sunset with a loved one. It’s one of those things that bring peace to your soul and allows you to see the world in a whole new light.
You can take it in by yourself or bring along your favorite person for an evening out under starry skies. Reagan Park offers stunning views of Lake Belton, and you can take in whatever beautiful weather mother nature has to offer on any given day.
Plus, there are plenty of options for dining close by, so you don’t have to worry about driving after dark. Pack up some snacks and drinks before heading out to enjoy them while taking in the scenery.
If you decide to pack a picnic dinner, make sure it includes lots of fresh fruit and veggies and lean protein sources like chicken breast or fish fillets instead of high-fat deli meats or other high-calorie options.
And if you do decide to get dressed up for dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, such as On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina or Joe’s Crab Shack, then be sure to choose a healthy option from their menus!
Address: W Reagan AveCopperas Cove, TX 76522, USA
#7. See a Show at Bell Auditorium
Bell Auditorium hosts several shows throughout the year. There’s something for everyone from ballet and symphony to rock ‘n’ roll and ballet.
The acoustics in Bell Auditorium are well-tuned for performances that range from classical piano to symphonic orchestra. See a show at Bell Auditorium if you want high-class entertainment without flying into Houston or Dallas.
There’s no better way to spend an evening than with a few hundred friends listening to live music performed by world-renowned musicians. Plus, its proximity to several restaurants and bars in downtown Killeen makes for an easy night out on the town.
If you’re planning on seeing a show at Bell Auditorium, be sure to make your reservations early, as seats fill up fast! If you have time before your show, consider grabbing dinner or drinks nearby one of these great restaurants: Big Lou’s Pizza (500 W Pleasant St) and JB’s Restaurant & Bar (501 E Central Texas Expy).
They offer delicious Italian food that will leave you feeling full and satisfied before your big performance. They also offer free parking behind their building.
As always, drink responsibly, and please remember that consuming alcohol may impair your ability to drive a motor vehicle safely. Don’t drink and drive; take advantage of Killeen Transit’s service for safe transportation home!
This weekend, you can add the Bell Auditorium to your list of things to do in Killeen, TX!
#8. Walkthrough Dinosaur Valley State Park
Dinosaur Valley State Park is a fantastic place to go on a day trip. It’s only three hours away from Dallas, and it has all sorts of prehistoric stuff for dinosaur enthusiasts (including fossils!).
The park is relatively small compared to other state parks in Texas, but its relative size doesn’t diminish how much fun you can have there.
Hiking trails are also fairly easy and suitable for any skill level. The main attraction of Dinosaur Valley State Park is Big Glen Rose Falls—it’s worth checking out if you’re in Killeen!
Make sure to stop by their gift shop on your way out and get some postcards or souvenirs for friends back home. You won’t regret it.
The best thing about Dinosaur Valley State Park is that it isn’t too far away from Killeen, so you can easily make a weekend trip out of visiting both sites.
If you want to be able to spend more time at Dinosaur Valley State Park, consider staying overnight at one of their campsites or cabins.
You’ll be able to wake up early and do more hiking before going into town and doing whatever else strikes your fancy!
1629 Park Rd 59. Glen Rose, TX 76043
#9. Shop at Target and Pueblo Rancho
Target is an all-American brand of retail stores. It is a U.S.-based chain of discount department stores with nearly 1,800 locations in 49 states. It’s seen as one of the cheap things to do in Killeen.
If you’re looking for a bargain, head over to Target or nearby Pueblo Rancho, where everything from groceries to clothes can be found for less than $1.75 each.
You might even find that certain items are being sold for half off or more! While you’re there, pick up some junk food for your dorm room and other essentials like toilet paper and shampoo.
You won’t want to spend money on such things when you get back home, so stock up while they’re cheap!
Just make sure not to buy too much since storage space is limited in college dorms. Also, don’t forget your student ID to get deals at local restaurants, bars, and clubs around town.
Address: 201 E Central Texas Expy Ste 300, Harker Heights, TX 76548, United States
#10. Altitude Trampoline Park
There’s nothing better than spending a Saturday night jumping on trampolines with friends and family. Located in Southwestern Fort Hood at 4314 Gateway Drive, Altitude is exactly what you need to get your blood pumping!
Join them for dodgeball tournaments on Wednesdays and Thursdays, or check out their open jump times. With activities like dodgeball, bungee runs, and adult foam pits to boot, you’ll find something fun to do here.
There are also arcade games on-site and pool tables in case you want to make a night of it. They even have special themed nights like Friday date nights and jump time events if you plan.
They are open from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday!
Check out this trampoline park here in Killeen! A perfect venue for birthday parties, group events, and other family-friendly activities. It has plenty of space and variety.
Address: 901 S Fort Hood St, Killeen, TX 76541, United States
#11. Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor
If you love ice cream, you’ll want to check out Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor in downtown Killeen. The shop has delicious flavors of frozen treats to enjoy year-round; even if it’s freezing outside, your taste buds will appreciate indulging in one of their hot fudge sundaes.
With unique flavor combos like macadamia nut and strawberry cheesecake ice cream, you will discover something new that keeps your taste buds wanting more.
You might even get adventurous and order a sundae with cookie dough or brownie bits blended into your favorite flavor!
The parlor also serves up milkshakes and offers a kid’s menu so everyone can join in on the fun. For great food at an affordable price, stop by Rock and Roll Ice Cream Parlor next time you’re in Killeen.
Address: 4524 S W S Young Dr Ste 105, Killeen, TX 76542, United States
#12. Stillhouse Hollow Lake
If you’re looking for a place to boat, fish, or spend time outdoors in central Texas, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is great.
This artificial lake has a surface area of 3,212 acres and is connected to Stillhouse Creek. There are three state parks around Stillhouse Hollow Lake – two in Bell County and one in Coryell County – each park offering its amenities.
The parks also offer numerous campsites, lakeside cabins, and homes for rent. Additionally, there are several public beaches at which visitors can swim.
For those who want to do more than sunbathe on their day off, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular activities on Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
Finally, if you’d like to try fishing while visiting Stillhouse Hollow Lake, you can purchase your license from nearby businesses: Gander Mountain – Temple; Bass Pro Shops – Temple; Cabelas – Temple, etc.
#13. Bite the Bagel Deli Cafe
Bite The Bagel is a great sandwich shop to grab lunch or even breakfast. This deli has all of your favorites and will make any sandwich on their menu with whatever ingredients you like.
They have good bagels and bagel sandwiches that include generous amounts of meat, cheese, and delicious condiments!
They’re open Monday through Friday from 6 am to 4 pm, on Saturday from 7 am to 3 pm, and closed on Sunday.
As you’d expect, the company makes excellent fresh-baked bagels, deli sandwiches, Italian bread, desserts, soups, specialty coffees, gourmet salads, and subs.
All their dishes are prepared daily, guaranteeing that their sandwiches and bagels are made from only the freshest ingredients.
All of the items listed on their menu are prepared with high quality and fresh produce, cheeses, and meats, and they have it in mind that you’ll be getting the best possible dining experience when you visit.
Be sure to add this to your list of Killeen, TX, and it’s also one of the things to do near Fort hood.
Address: 2710 S Clear Creek Rd Ste 101 KILLEEN TX, Killeen, TX 76549-6689
#14. Boulders Sport Climbing Center
Boulders Climbing Center offers over 18,000 square feet of climbing with 12 top rope walls and 35 boulder problems, all set on 45 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an expert climber, there is something for everyone at Boulders! Beginners can take a free class on climbing safety basics and techniques and then get hands-on coaching from our experienced staff to help them take their skills to new heights.
The adventure continues as we offer everything from multi-pitch guided climbs to private instruction. The Boulders Sport Climbing Center offers exclusive events like lock-ins, team-building exercises, parent night outs, and birthday parties.
Before starting their ascent, all visitors go through an Orientation Class. This is the perfect place to put your climbing skills to the test with various difficult walls.
Address: 325 Indian Trail, Harker Heights, TX 76548, United States
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#15. Visit the Great Escape of Central Texas
There’s plenty to do in Killeen that doesn’t involve sitting behind a desk. Grab your significant other and head over to an escape room.
Escape rooms are a fun new trend in entertainment where teams of two to eight people get locked in a room for one hour and must solve puzzles and decipher clues with only their brains, wits, and teamwork skills as weapons.
Each escape room is unique. There are three themed rooms at The Great Escape of Central Texas: Lockdown, Mission Impossible, and Heist Inc.
The escape room aims to promote collaboration and creative thinking among peers while also creating a stimulating atmosphere.
Guests and visitors are given a time restriction to complete a series of riddles or solve mysteries to exit the chamber. The games are set in various circumstances and imaginary locations.
This is probably one of the best places to visit in Killeen, Texas, if you like solving riddles and mysteries. This list of entertaining things to do in Killeen that you should add to your list of things to do in Killeen, Texas, Today.
Address: 4400-1 E Central Texas Expy suite c, Killeen, TX 76543, United States
#16. Vive Les Arts Theatre
A great way to do something new and exciting in Killeen is to head to Vive Les Arts Theatre. This multi-purpose performing arts venue shows plays, musicals, and other events throughout each year.
You can learn more about what’s playing by visiting their website or checking out their Facebook page. Vive Les Arts Theater is located at 2027 S WS Young Dr, in Building 1600 on Lackland Air Force Base.
Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 pm, and matinees are performed on Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3:00 pm.
Tickets range from $18-$40 for regular performances and $15-$25 for children under 12. Military personnel gets a discount on valid ID tickets (military discounts vary). Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Killeen, Tx!
Address: 3401 S W S Young Dr, Killeen, TX 76542, United States
#17. Mayborn Science Theater
The Mayborn Museum Complex is one of the largest museums in Central Texas. The Mayborn focuses on natural science and history exhibits.
Some highlights include a 3D film theatre and rotating art gallery featuring works from regional artists. There is also a fossil prep lab where kids can dirty their hands with real dinosaur bones!
Throughout most of October, various events for Halloween, including an indoor trick-or-treat trail.
Open year-round and free to visit, and there’s always something to do at the Mayborn. All ages are welcome! Don’t forget to put this on your list of things to do in Killeen, TX.
Address: Bldg No. 152, Bell Tower Drive, On the Campus of Central Texas College, 6200 W Central Texas Expy, Killeen, TX 76549, United States
#18. Hike through Bosque Park
Bosque Park has amazing trails that weave through forested areas and along riverbanks. You’ll see turtles sunning with tree roots, dragonflies hovering over lily pads, and deer drinking from small ponds.
It’s peaceful but still very much part of downtown Killeen – so don’t forget your camera! The longest trail runs about 2 miles (from 10th Street Bridge down to Willow Creek).
Another favorite is the nature walk which winds around several duck ponds past live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. A perfect afternoon activity that’s great for all ages!
#19. 1st Cavalry Division Museum
The 1st Cavalry Division Museum is located at Fort Hood and has a nice collection of historical pieces from World War II, such as military vehicles and uniforms.
The museum also contains exhibits exploring the recent history and including weapons from today’s fighting forces. This museum is free to visit for all active-duty service members.
A passport or ID card is required to get in. Hours are 9 am-4 pm Monday through Friday, and 10 am-3 pm on Saturday. Admission varies based on age and if you’re an active member of the military.
Address: 105 Trooper Lp, Fort Hood, TX 76544, United States
#20. Stonetree Golf Club
With two nine-hole golf courses on-site, Stonetree Golf Club offers some of Killeen’s best golf. Courses vary in difficulty, so guests of all experience levels can enjoy a great game.
The club also features a putting green and offers a variety of leagues and tournaments to get more than just your typical game in.
The Stonetree Golf Club is an 18-hole play course in Killeen, Texas, with a par of 72 and 6,693 yards of golf. Golfing is fun here, and if you like golf, this is one spot you won’t want to miss when you come.
The Stonetree Golf Club is a private golf club with a two-tiered driving range, a large putting green, a short game area, and five sets of tees for players of all skill levels.
It has a variety of tree species, several fountains, and tiny lakes. It’s also a great location to meet other golfers, test your abilities, and take on new challenges. Make time to visit the golf club, which is open all year.
Address: 1600 Stonetree Dr, Killeen, TX 76543, United States
#21. Pfeifer’s German Bakery
Pfeifer’s German Bakery offers a unique bakery experience. The store specializes in German pastries and bread.
Try one of their freshly baked chocolate-covered bananas or some other delightfully authentic baked goods.
You can even have your order shipped to you if you live out of town! Pfeifer’s is open Monday through Friday from 5:30 am to 3 pm, and Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm.
It’s best to call ahead before making a special trip—the place can get crowded, and there might be a line! Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Killeen TX, this weekend.
Address: 716 Indian Trail # 240, Harker Heights, TX 76548, United States
#22. Killer Tacos & Burgers
Killer Tacos & Burgers serves up delicious tacos, burgers, and other classic Tex-Mex dishes at an affordable price.
You can eat on location or take your food to go. If you want something quick, cheap, and tasty while in Killeen, Killer Tacos & Burgers should be on your list of places to visit in Killeen!
This restaurant is located on Fort Hood Street between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Red River St., so it’s easy to find!
It’s open from 7:00 AM until 10:00 PM every day except Sunday when they close at 8:00 PM. Killer Tacos & Burgers also offers a full bar with beer, wine, margaritas, mojitos, sangria, frozen drinks like daiquiris and pina Coladas, plus their version of Happy Hour; every day from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM!
Address: 610 N Fort Hood St, Killeen, TX 76541, United States
#23. Carl Levin Park
If you’re looking for a park that is both peaceful and engaging for everyone in your family, Carl Levin Park might be just what you need.
With two playgrounds and two covered pavilions with picnic tables to choose from, there are plenty of opportunities to spend quality time together as a family.
If you also want to get out on your own or enjoy a little alone time, there are five miles of hiking trails to enjoy nature in one of its many forms.
Bring along binoculars if bird watching is something you enjoy; many species make their homes here year-round. Carl Levin Park in Harker Heights is a 35-acre leisure area and community park. You should include it in your list of things to do in Killeen since it offers a lot.
Grills, picnic tables, a fishing pond, adequate room for outdoor activities, a three-quarter-mile paved path, and a light course for walking and jogging are all interesting things to discover here.
The Park also includes huge tents of various sizes available for hire for events such as parties, concerts, and meetings.
Address: 400 Millers Crossing, Harker Heights, TX 76548, United States
#24. Go Bowling at Killeen Bowlerama
Bowlers rejoice! The Killeen Bowlerama provides a place for you to go bowling. If you’re looking for something fun to do in Killeen, Texas, look no further than your local bowling alley on a Friday night.
You can get into a sporting match of your creation for less than $5 per person per game (after 4 pm).
Come during the weekday happy hour and bowl three games for just $9! Going bowling in Killeen saves money, but it’s also tons of fun with friends or coworkers.
Or if you need some alone time or some alone time with your special someone, bowl at Killeen Bowlerama by yourself. You never know who you might meet while trying to knock down those pins!
Address: 922 N 38th St, Killeen, TX 76543, United States
#25. Jokers IceHouse Bar & Grill
Experience some of Texas’ finest beers at Jokers IceHouse Bar & Grill. The bar boasts more than 300 varieties of beer from around the world and is known as one of central Texas’ oldest watering holes.
Suppose you aren’t in a beer mood, no worries. The menu also includes wine and cocktails, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Jokers is a family-friendly establishment with live music on certain nights and weekend brunch every Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
When you visit Jokers IceHouse Bar & Grill, don’t forget to take a picture of your favorite drink with our signature floor-to-ceiling bar.
As one of Killeen’s oldest establishments, we understand that people like to do things their way. For an authentic night out in Killeen, stop by Jokers IceHouse Bar & Grill for good drinks and great company!
Address: 7900 S Clear Creek Rd, Killeen, TX 76549, United States
Plan Your Trip to Killeen Today!
If you are searching for things to do in Killeen, TX, this article has everything you need to know. It’s an excellent place for visitors and locals, and the weather is always perfect.
Killeen is the perfect destination for people who love adventures. With an array of attractions and activities, it’s no wonder that it has become the fastest-growing city in Texas.
So, start preparing to tour Killeen on your next vacation. You’ll love it and enjoy the places to visit in Texas.