10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Killeen, Texas (Bell County)
If you’re planning a trip to
Killeen, Texas or you’re new to the area, you might be wondering, “What is there to do around here?”
Good news:
Killeen and Bell County have a lot more going on than many people realize. From outdoor adventures and history to local food and family fun, you can easily fill a weekend (or several) without driving far.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Killeen, TX that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.
1. Explore Military History at the 1st Cavalry Division Museum
One of the most unique things about Killeen is its close connection to
Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), one of the largest military installations in the world.
Right near the base, the
1st Cavalry Division Museum brings that history to life.
- See real tanks, helicopters, and artillery up close.
- Walk through indoor exhibits about the division’s role in major conflicts.
- Great educational stop for families, veterans, and history buffs.
If you’ve never stood next to a tank before, it’s a bit like parking next to a two-story building on tracks. You suddenly realize just how massive these machines really are.
Before you go, check current base access rules, since they can change. But once you’re in, this is one of the top
free things to do in Killeen.
2. Relax, Walk, or Fish at Conder Park
Looking for something low-key to do in Killeen?
Conder Park is a local favorite.
You’ll find:
- Walking paths for a casual stroll or light jog
- Open green space for tossing a football or letting kids run around
- Playground areas
- Small pond where you can often see people fishing
On a mild evening, you’ll see families, soldiers, and college students all sharing the same space. It feels very “Killeen” — relaxed, friendly, and down-to-earth.
3. Hike, Swim, and Camp at Dana Peak Park on Stillhouse Hollow Lake
If you love the outdoors, you’ll want to head just east of Killeen to
Dana Peak Park on
Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
Here you can:
- Hike or bike miles of trails with lake views
- Swim in designated areas during warm weather
- Camp overnight in tent or RV sites
- Launch a boat or kayak from the ramp
The trails range from easy to moderate. Some have gentle hills and rocky sections, so bring good shoes and plenty of water, especially in Texas heat.
If you time it around sunset, the sky over the lake can light up with pink, orange, and purple — a classic Central Texas moment.
4. Discover Local History at the Bell County Museum (Belton)
About 25–30 minutes from Killeen, the
Bell County Museum in downtown Belton is worth the short drive.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on Native American history in the region
- Artifacts from early Texas settlers
- Hands-on displays that kids can touch and explore
This is a great spot if you’re curious about how
Bell County grew from frontier land into the community it is today. It’s also a nice air-conditioned break during hot summer days.
5. Enjoy the River Vibes at Chalk Ridge Falls Park (Near Belton)
If you ask locals for a pretty place to walk near Killeen,
Chalk Ridge Falls Park almost always comes up.
Located near the Stillhouse Hollow Dam, this park offers:
- Easy riverside trails shaded by trees
- A small waterfall that’s perfect for photos
- A fun suspension footbridge across the creek
The walk isn’t very long, but it feels like a mini escape from town. On hot days, you’ll see people cooling off by the water’s edge. Just wear shoes that can handle some dirt and possibly mud.
It’s one of the most
Instagram-worthy nature spots near Killeen, but still relaxed enough for families with small kids.
6. Sample Local Eats and Culture in Downtown Belton & Temple
When you’re ready for food and a bit of small-town charm, head to
downtown Belton or nearby
Temple.
In Belton, around the old courthouse square, you’ll find:
- BBQ joints serving brisket and ribs
- Tex-Mex restaurants with sizzling fajitas and enchiladas
- Cafés and coffee shops perfect for a slow morning
In Temple, you’ll find a slightly larger downtown with:
- Craft breweries and bars
- More restaurant choices
- Occasional live music and events
If you want a classic Central Texas evening, grab BBQ, then wander around the square, maybe catching some live music or a local event. This is a great way to experience the heart of
Bell County beyond the highway exits.
7. Hit the Water at Belton Lake
For bigger-lake fun, make your way to
Belton Lake, another popular spot near Killeen.
Depending on which area you choose (there are several parks around the lake), you can:
- Boat, jet ski, or paddleboard
- Swim at designated swim beaches
- Fish for bass, catfish, and more
- Camp or picnic by the shoreline
If you don’t own a boat, look into local marinas and rental outfits around the lake. Even a slow pontoon ride at sunset is hard to beat.
Belton Lake is one of the top
summer things to do near Killeen when the temperature climbs into the 90s and above.
8. Catch a Show or Event at the Killeen Arts & Activities Center
Killeen isn’t just about the outdoors. There’s also a growing arts scene centered around the
Killeen Arts & Activities Center and nearby venues.
Here and in the surrounding area, you can often find:
- Community theater performances
- Concerts and live music
- Art shows and cultural events
If you’re the type who likes to experience the local community, check what’s on the calendar during your visit. It’s an easy way to meet people and see a different side of Killeen beyond the big-box stores and chain restaurants.
9. Shop, Eat, and People-Watch Around the Killeen Mall Area
Sometimes, you just want simple, familiar fun: shopping, snacks, and maybe a movie. The
Killeen Mall area and surrounding shopping centers offer just that.
You’ll find:
- National clothing and shoe stores
- Chain restaurants and a few local spots mixed in
- Places to grab coffee, bubble tea, or dessert
Is it “touristy”? Not really. But if you’re stationed at Fort Cavazos, visiting family, or just passing through, this is where a lot of daily life happens. It’s convenient, comfortable, and good for an easy afternoon.
10. Take a Day Trip to Waco for Big-Name Attractions
If you’re staying in Killeen for a few days, consider a short
day trip to Waco, about an hour’s drive away.
In Waco, you can visit:
- Magnolia Market at the Silos – made famous by HGTV’s “Fixer Upper”
- Cameron Park Zoo – a family-friendly, well-shaded zoo
- Dr Pepper Museum – celebrating the classic Texas-born soda
- Cameron Park’s scenic overlooks and trails along the Brazos River
It’s an easy, straight-forward drive, and you can be back in Killeen by evening. This is a smart way to add some “big attraction” energy to your Central Texas stay while still using Killeen as your home base.
Tips for Visiting Killeen and Bell County
To make the most of your
trip to Killeen, Texas, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Beat the heat: Summers get hot. Plan hikes and outdoor activities early in the morning or closer to sunset.
- Bring water: Always carry water when you’re hiking near Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Belton Lake, or Chalk Ridge Falls.
- Check access: If you plan to visit anything on or near Fort Cavazos, verify ID and entry requirements ahead of time.
- Weekday vs. weekend: Lakes and parks are busier on weekends. For a quieter experience, try going on a weekday.
Final Thoughts: Killeen Is More Than a Military Town
Killeen sometimes gets labeled as “just a base town,” but once you start exploring, you’ll find:
- Peaceful parks and lakes
- Rich military and local history
- Small-town downtowns in Belton and Temple
- Easy day trips to bigger attractions in Waco and beyond
Whether you’re stationed here, visiting family, or road-tripping through Central Texas, you can build a full weekend (or longer) around these
10 things to do near Killeen, TX.
What Would You Add to This Killeen Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
Killeen or Bell County?
- What’s your favorite park, restaurant, or hidden gem?
- Did I miss a must-do Killeen activity?
Share your own tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers — and new locals — can discover even more things to do in and around Killeen, Texas.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Central Texas or moving to the Fort Cavazos / Killeen area. Your share might be exactly what they need to start exploring their new backyard.
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