Wichita Falls, TX
- About the city
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine & Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Medical Facilities and Healthcare
Wichita Falls is a city in North Texas known as the "Gateway to Texas." It's home to Sheppard Air Force Base, Midwestern State University, and the quirky "World's Littlest Skyscraper," offering a blend of military history, culture, and unique attractions.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Wichita Falls, Texas .
- Administrative Role: The city is the county seat of Wichita County .
- Country and Region: It is located in the state of Texas, USA, approximately 15 miles south of the Oklahoma border . Texas is the second-largest U.S. state, known for its distinct culture, oil industry, and vast landscapes.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Official Name: The city was officially titled Wichita Falls on September 27, 1872 .
- Nicknames: It is informally known as "Falls Town" . It also brands itself as the "Gateway to Texas" due to its location near the Oklahoma border .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding: The city was officially founded with a sale of town lots on September 27, 1872, at what is now the corner of Seventh and Ohio streets . It was officially incorporated on July 29, 1889 .
- Age: As of 2026, the city is 154 years old since its official founding.
- Legend: According to legend, the land for the city was acquired in a poker game in 1837 by John A. Scott of Mississippi, whose heirs later developed the townsite .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 33°53′49″N 98°30′54″W .
- Position: The city is nestled in the North-East corner of the Panhandle/Plains area of North Texas . It is about 15 miles south of the Oklahoma border, 115 miles northwest of Fort Worth, and 140 miles southwest of Oklahoma City .
- Elevation: The center of the city is at an elevation of 289 meters (948 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Wichita Falls is a diversified city with a strong economy built on several pillars:
- Military: It is home to Sheppard Air Force Base, the U.S. Air Force's largest technical training wing and the host of the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training program, the world's only multi-nationally staffed flying training program .
- Education: The city hosts Midwestern State University, known for its liberal arts, business, and medical programs .
- Manufacturing: It has a strong manufacturing history and continues to be a center for aerospace, aviation, and various other industries .
- Healthcare: It serves as a regional healthcare hub for North Texas and Southern Oklahoma .
Population and Demographics
- Population: The city's population was 104,553 according to the 2010 census, and it remains a principal city of a metropolitan statistical area with a population of approximately 151,000 . More recent estimates for the Wichita Falls metro area place the population at around 148,978 .
- Classification: It is a mid-sized city and the 38th most populous city in Texas .
- Demographic Feature: The city has a significant international flavor due to the NATO flight training program at Sheppard Air Force Base, which brings military personnel from 17 different NATO countries to the community .
"Visiting Card" of the City (In Short)
Wichita Falls is a pleasant and comfortable family-oriented city that serves as the "Gateway to Texas." It is known for its strong military presence at Sheppard Air Force Base, its unique "World's Littlest Skyscraper," and its resilient spirit, having rebuilt from devastating tornadoes. Visitors enjoy its extensive trail system, cultural venues, and the man-made falls that pay homage to the city's name .
Climate and weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Wichita Falls experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) . It is characterized by very hot summers, mild winters, and a pronounced temperature range. It is one of the sunniest cities in the region, with a notable drop in humidity during the summer months .
Average Temperatures by Month
The city has a wide annual temperature variation. The table below shows the average maximum (daytime) and minimum (night-time) temperatures throughout the year .
| Month | Avg. Max (°F) | Avg. Min (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 52 | 28 |
| February | 57 | 32 |
| March | 66 | 41 |
| April | 77 | 50 |
| May | 82 | 59 |
| June | 91 | 68 |
| July | 97 | 73 |
| August | 95 | 72 |
| September | 86 | 64 |
| October | 77 | 52 |
| November | 64 | 41 |
| December | 55 | 30 |
- Hottest Month: July and August, with average daytime highs around 97°F and 95°F, respectively . The record high temperature is 117°F (47°C), set on June 28, 1980 .
- Coldest Month: January, with average daytime highs near 52°F and overnight lows around 28°F . The record low is -12°F (-24°C), set on January 4, 1947 .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 27.89 inches (708 mm) .
- Wettest Month: September is typically the wettest, with an average of 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain . May and June are also wet months .
- Driest Month: February is the driest, with an average of 1.4-1.5 inches (36-38 mm) of rain .
- Snowfall: Snowfall is sporadic and averages about 4.1 inches (10 cm) per season, mainly in January, February, and December .
- Average Humidity: The average relative humidity is around 64% .
Sunshine and UV Index
- Sunny Days: The city enjoys a high number of sunny days, with plentiful sunshine throughout the year, especially in summer .
- Sunshine Hours: Daily sunshine hours range from 6 hours in November, December, and January to 11 hours in June and July .
- UV Index: The UV index is very high from May through August, reaching a maximum level of 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Tornadoes: Wichita Falls is located in "Tornado Alley" and has a history of significant tornadoes, most notably the devastating F4 tornado on April 10, 1979, known locally as "Terrible Tuesday," and an F5 tornado in 1964 .
- Extreme Heat: The city is prone to extreme summer heat. In 2011, it became the first city in Texas to record 100 days with temperatures of 100°F (38°C) or higher in a single year .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Wichita Falls are during the mild seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November).
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up nicely from the mid-60s to low 80s°F, with blooming landscapes. This is a great time for outdoor activities, though it can be one of the windier and rainier periods .
- Summer (June-August): This season is characterized by extreme heat, with frequent highs above 95°F. While outdoor activities can be challenging, it's a good time for water-based recreation at places like Lake Wichita. Humidity is lower than in other parts of Texas, making the heat more bearable .
- Autumn (September-November): Temperatures gradually cool from the 80s°F in September to the 60s°F by November. It's a pleasant time for visiting, though September can still be warm and is often the wettest month .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are generally mild, with daytime highs in the 50s°F, but nights can be cold, often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is light and sporadic .
Landmarks
The Falls of the Wichita River
The city's namesake feature is a must-see. The original natural waterfall on the Wichita River was washed away by a flood in 1886 . After nearly a century of visitors coming to see falls that no longer existed, the city constructed an artificial, multi-tiered waterfall in Lucy Park .
- Location: Beside the Wichita River, visible to south-bound traffic on Interstate 44 .
- Description: The recreated falls are 54 feet (16 m) high and recirculate at 3,500 gallons per minute . It's a popular spot for photos and a symbolic tribute to the city's history.
The World's Littlest Skyscraper (Newby-McMahon Building)
This is arguably the city's most famous and quirky landmark, a four-story structure that stands just 40 feet (12 m) tall .
- Location: 701 La Salle Street (on the corner of Seventh and La Salle streets) in downtown, part of the Depot Square Historic District .
- History: It was built in 1919 during the oil boom. According to local legend, a Philadelphia "building engineer" swindled investors by presenting blueprints showing dimensions in inches instead of feet, resulting in a building comically small for its intended purpose . It was featured in Robert Ripley's Ripley's Believe It or Not! and the nickname has stuck ever since .
Sheppard Air Force Base
While an active military installation, it is a defining feature of the city .
- Significance: It is the largest and most complex training base in the Air Force . It houses the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training (ENJJPT) program, which brings a significant international population to Wichita Falls .
- For Visitors: The base has a small museum and hosts an annual air show, offering the public a chance to see its operations and aircraft.
Kell House Museum
This historic house museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of the city's founding fathers.
- Location: 900 Bluff Street.
- Description: The Kell House is a neoclassical-style home built in 1909 for Joseph Alexander Kemp and his wife, Louise (Kell) Kemp, who were key entrepreneurs in the city's early development . It is furnished with original family artifacts and offers tours that tell the story of early 20th-century Wichita Falls.
River Bend Nature Center
A natural oasis within the city, perfect for families and nature lovers.
- Location: 2200 3rd Street.
- Features: The center features the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Native Plant Conservatory, one of the largest butterfly houses in Texas. It also includes several acres of native habitat with trails, a canopy walkway, and the S.S. Crichton, a replica of a 19th-century steamboat, offering educational exhibits on the area's natural history .
Transport
Main Airports
- Wichita Falls Regional Airport (SPS): This airport is serviced by American Airlines, providing direct connecting flights to and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) .
- Kickapoo Downtown Airport (KIP): This airport serves the general aviation needs of the community, handling small jets and helicopters .
Major Highways
Wichita Falls is a significant regional transportation hub, with one of the largest freeway mileages for a city of its size .
- Interstate 44 (I-44): The city is the western terminus of I-44 .
- U.S. Highways: Major U.S. highways leading to or through the city include U.S. 277, U.S. 281, U.S. 82, and U.S. 287 .
- State Highways: State Highway 240 ends in Wichita Falls, and State Highway 79 runs through it .
Public Transport
- Local Transit: The Wichita Falls Transit System, known as Falls Ride, provides public transportation for city residents .
- Intercity Bus: The city's Travel Center is serviced by Greyhound Bus Lines, handling intercity bus travel needs .
Local Cuisine & Culinary Traditions
While Wichita Falls may not have a globally recognized signature dish, its culinary scene is a delightful mix of classic Texan comfort food and hidden local gems that offer a true taste of the region.
Pelican's Restaurant
A standout in the local dining scene is Pelican's Restaurant, a relaxed establishment known for its steaks, seafood, and inviting atmosphere . The restaurant is a local favorite, praised for its perfectly cooked ribeye steaks, fresh seafood options like seared ahi tuna, and delicious starters such as smoked salmon dip and seafood gumbo . Patrons frequently commend the attentive and personable service, noting that the staff goes above and beyond to ensure a fine dining experience . The ambiance is described as cozy and welcoming, with dim lighting and a mellow vibe that makes it a popular choice for special occasions and date nights .
Scott's Drive-In
For a taste of classic American roadside fare, Scott's Drive-In is a cherished local institution . This spot is renowned for serving up juicy, flavorful hamburgers that embody the spirit of a traditional drive-in. It represents the heart of Wichita Falls' casual dining, offering a no-frills, delicious meal that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved part of the community's food culture .
Bricktown Tap House & Kitchen
Offering a more contemporary casual dining experience is Bricktown Tap House & Kitchen . Located on Midwestern Parkway, this spot features a diverse menu that includes shareable plates like beer-battered avocado fries with habanero mango aioli and Watonga cheddar curds . They are known for their hearty salads, such as The Best Fried Chicken Salad, and a selection of burgers made with Creekstone Farms Black Angus Beef . With its wide array of choices, Bricktown Tap House provides a modern taste of Texan comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Gutierrez Family Restaurant
The city's culinary diversity is highlighted by establishments like Gutierrez Family Restaurant, a go-to spot for authentic Mexican flavors . Known for its genuine tacos, this family-owned restaurant brings the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine to North Texas, offering another layer to the city's food landscape .
Museums
Wichita Falls is home to a couple of distinct museums that offer rich insights into both the world of art and the unique history of the North Texas region.
Wichita Falls Museum of Art at MSU Texas
The Wichita Falls Museum of Art at MSU Texas serves as a cultural hub for the university and the wider community . Situated on the campus of Midwestern State University by Sikes Lake, the museum aims to enrich lives through visual art experiences for all ages . It features five art galleries that host year-round changing exhibitions, drawing from its growing permanent collection . Beyond the galleries, the museum grounds offer an outdoor experience with the Priddy Pavilion and a trail around Sikes Lake, where visitors can view outdoor sculptures and local wildlife . A unique feature is its "The Art of Seeing Art" educational program, a six-step guide designed to help visitors of all ages engage deeply with artworks . Admission is free, with a suggested donation, making it an accessible cultural destination .
Museum of North Texas History
For a deep dive into the region's past, the Museum of North Texas History is an essential stop . Located in the heart of downtown, this museum feels like a "living scrapbook" of North Texas, offering an authentic and genuine look at the area's heritage . Its extensive collection covers a wide range of topics, from Native American history and the transformative oil boom to cowboy culture and military memorabilia . A standout exhibit is "Jenny to Jet," which features a Curtiss JN4-D "Jenny" aircraft . The museum also houses more quirky collections, including vintage dolls and an impressive array of cowboy hats, which add to its unique charm . It is a family-friendly and wheelchair-accessible space where visitors often find themselves spending hours exploring the detailed stories of the people who built their lives in this corner of Texas .
Sport and Sports Legends
Wichita Falls has a rich, though varied, sports history, particularly known for its deep roots in baseball and a dedicated following for junior ice hockey.
Historic Baseball Teams
Wichita Falls has a long and storied history with professional baseball, stretching back to the early 20th century . The city was home to several minor league teams, most famously the Wichita Falls Spudders . The Spudders name was used by multiple teams over several decades, competing in prestigious leagues such as the Texas League (1920-1932), the West Texas-New Mexico League (1941-1942), and the Big State League (1947-1953, 1956-1957) . Other teams included the early Wichita Falls Irish Lads and Drillers, cementing the city's place in the baseball history of North Texas . Several baseball figures, such as outfielder Tom McBride and pitcher Gary Dotter, are noted as having died in Wichita Falls, further connecting the city to the sport's legacy .
Wichita Falls Wildcats
In more recent decades, the city's primary sports identity has been tied to junior ice hockey. The Wichita Falls Wildcats are a Tier II junior ice hockey team that competes in the South Division of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) . The team plays its home games at the Kay Yeager Coliseum, a 7,380-seat arena in the city . The franchise has a nomadic history, originating as the Vail Avalanche in 1993 before moving to become the Butte Irish and then the Wichita Falls Rustlers, finally adopting the Wildcats name in 2004 . The Wildcats have been a competitive force in the NAHL, notably finishing as the Robertson Cup Championship runners-up in the 2015-16 season after a stellar 44-11-5 record . The team has also served as a development ground for players who went on to professional careers, with notable alumni including Zach Trotman, who was drafted by and played for the Boston Bruins in the NHL, and Cal Heeter, who played a game for the Philadelphia Flyers .
Midwestern State University Mustangs
The city is also home to the Midwestern State University Mustangs, the athletic teams representing MSU Texas . The Mustangs compete in the NCAA Division II as members of the Lone Star Conference . They offer a variety of sports, providing local fans with college football and basketball, which are part of the vibrant student life and community entertainment options in Wichita Falls .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Wichita Falls is anchored by a prominent public university that serves as a cornerstone of higher education in the North Texas region.
Midwestern State University (MSU Texas)
Midwestern State University (MSU Texas) is the city's premier institution of higher learning . Founded in 1922 as Wichita Falls Junior College, it has grown significantly over the past century . A pivotal moment in its history came in 2021 when it became the fifth member institution of the prestigious Texas Tech University System (TTU System) . This affiliation is a testament to its growth and exceptional reputation across the state. MSU Texas holds a unique distinction as the only university in Texas to be a member of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges (COPLAC), which champions high-quality liberal arts education in the public sector .
The university's 255-acre campus is nestled in a residential area and comprises 70 buildings . With a student population of around 5,784, including representation from 44 states and 54 nations, it offers a diverse and vibrant community . MSU Texas is acclaimed for its rigorous undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in the liberal arts, as well as its medical, teaching, and business programs . The university is deeply integrated into the city's fabric, with its students enjoying local amenities and its campus, located by Sikes Lake, being home to the Wichita Falls Museum of Art, making it a cultural and educational hub for the entire region .
Medical Facilities and Healthcare
Public health services in Wichita Falls are centered around community health initiatives provided by the local health district.
Wichita Falls-Wichita County Health District
The primary public health facility in the city is the Wichita Falls-Wichita County Health District, located at 1700 Third St . This facility serves as the main provider of public health services for the city and county. A key service offered at this location is the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program . This federally funded program provides crucial support to pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as families with children under five. Services include access to healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling with registered dietitians, breastfeeding support from lactation consultants and peer counselors, and free nutrition classes . The health district is a vital resource for the community, focusing on preventative care and nutritional well-being for families in Wichita Falls .