Looking for cheap Flights to Wichita Falls, Sheppard, Texas, USA (SPS) airport?

Wichita Falls, accessible via budget flights to Wichita Falls at SPS airport (Sheppard Air Force Base/Wichita Falls Municipal Airport), is a captivating city in North Texas, celebrated for its quirky "World’s Littlest Skyscraper," its significant World War II aviation history, and its authentic Texas frontier spirit. This unique blend of architectural curiosities, military legacy, and regional heritage makes Wichita Falls an intriguing and essential travel destination.

The Newby-McMahon Building, famously dubbed the "World’s Littlest Skyscraper," is the city’s standout landmark. Standing at just 40 feet tall, this four-story structure was born from a 1919 scam, making it a fascinating architectural oddity and a must-see photo spot. The Museum of North Texas History offers an immersive dive into the region’s past, with exhibits spanning Native American heritage, pioneer life, the oil boom, and military contributions, providing a rich narrative of North Texas culture.

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Falls in Lucy Park, a man-made waterfall recreating the city’s namesake, offering a serene escape within an urban setting. Nearby, Sheppard Air Force Base, a key training hub for the U.S. Air Force, shapes the city’s identity, though public access is limited. Its influence is felt through local pride and economic impact. Wichita Falls’ culinary scene shines with classic Texas BBQ, zesty Tex-Mex, and hearty comfort food, delivering an authentic taste of the Lone Star State.

With its one-of-a-kind skyscraper, deep historical roots, and vibrant Texas charm, Wichita Falls invites travelers to uncover its unique stories and warm hospitality. Book airfare deals to Wichita Falls and discover this hidden gem in North Texas.

Why Visit Wichita Falls, Texas

Wichita Falls offers a distinctive mix of quirky attractions, rich history, and Texas flair. The "World’s Littlest Skyscraper" is a must-see for its bizarre backstory, while the Museum of North Texas History captivates with its comprehensive look at regional heritage. Outdoor lovers can relax at Lucy Park’s waterfall, and foodies will savor authentic BBQ and Tex-Mex. Affordable discount tickets to Wichita Falls make it accessible for families, history buffs, and solo travelers seeking an offbeat destination with small-town charm, vibrant festivals like Hotter’N Hell Hundred, and proximity to outdoor recreation.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 104,000 (2023 estimate)
• Founded: 1876
• Area: 72 square miles
• Key Highlight: World’s Littlest Skyscraper, a 40-foot architectural curiosity
• Notable Event: Hotter’N Hell Hundred, annual August cycling event
• Fun Fact: Named for a waterfall that no longer exists naturally
• Local Treat: Texas-style brisket
• Landmark: Museum of North Texas History

Geographic Location & Climate

Wichita Falls is located in Wichita County, North Texas, 130 miles northwest of Dallas and 50 miles south of Lawton, OK. Situated on the Wichita River at an elevation of 950 feet, it features flat plains and rolling hills. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers (average high 96°F) and mild winters (average high 55°F). Annual rainfall is 30 inches, with rare snow (~2 inches). Spring and fall (60-80°F) are ideal for outdoor activities, while summer suits park visits and winter offers mild urban exploration.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Wichita Falls, Texas

Total Population

Wichita Falls’ population is 104,000 (2023), with a 0.5% growth from 2022, driven by military and education sectors.

Age Distribution

Median age is 34.5 years; 22.3% under 18, 10.2% 18-24, 28.6% 25-44, 24.9% 45-64, 14.0% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 67.8%, Hispanic 18.4%, Black 10.7%, Asian 2.1%, Two or More Races 2.7%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 50.2%, females 49.8%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.4; family households 61.3%, non-family 38.7%; 26.1% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Growth of 3.8% since 2020, projected to reach 108,000 by 2028, supported by military and healthcare stability.

Economy & Living Standards In Wichita Falls, Texas

Major Industries & Employers

Military, healthcare, and education dominate; top employers:

• Sheppard Air Force Base, 1810 J Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76311
• United Regional Health Care System, 1600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls ISD, 1104 Broad St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Midwestern State University, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• North Texas State Hospital, 6515 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• City of Wichita Falls, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Work Services Corporation, 1401 Holliday St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Howmet Aerospace, 2500 Alcoa Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
• Walmart Supercenter, 5131 Greenbriar Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• AT&T Call Center, 4105 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 3.8%; jobs focus on military (30%), healthcare, and education, with seasonal tourism boosts.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $50,120; cost of living 83.5% of U.S. average; median home value $142,300.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 14.2%; challenges include limited job diversity and rural healthcare access.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Wichita Falls’ military presence and low costs attract small businesses; opportunities in healthcare, agribusiness, and tourism, with tax incentives and rural grants.

Health & Wellness In Wichita Falls, Texas

General Health Overview

Health metrics are average; life expectancy is 76.9 years, supported by United Regional.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (34%), diabetes, and heart disease; addressed by community wellness programs.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness, 3912 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Wichita Falls YMCA, 1010 9th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Anytime Fitness, 3916 Call Field Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Core Fitness Wichita Falls, 1401 Holliday St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Yoga Studio Wichita Falls, 1601 Lucile Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Mental Health Resources

• Helen Ross McNabb Center, 1001 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• United Regional Behavioral Health, 1600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Red River Behavioral Health, 1500 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Counseling, 4312 Call Field Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• North Texas Mental Health, 2400 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Public Health Initiatives

Wichita County Health Department runs vaccination clinics, diabetes education, and rural mental health outreach; YMCA promotes active living.

Hospitals & Clinics In Wichita Falls, Texas

Hospitals & Emergency Services

• United Regional Health Care System, 1600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• North Texas State Hospital, 6515 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• CommunityMed Urgent Care, 3210 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Clinics of North Texas, 501 Midwestern Pkwy E, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• Express Care, 4701 Southwest Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• FastMed Urgent Care, 1700 Kell Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Specialty Medical Centers

• United Regional Cancer Center, 1600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Heart Clinic, 2101 9th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• North Texas Orthopedics, 1511 10th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Advanced Eye Care, 4000 Weeks Park Ln, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

United Regional Virtual Care app; Red River Behavioral Health offers telepsychiatry; most clinics support virtual consultations.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Wichita Falls, Texas

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Callfield Road Veterinary Clinic, 4107 Call Field Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• A Caring Heart Veterinary Hospital, 3117 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Wichita Falls Veterinary Hospital, 2308 Kell Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76309

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Petco Veterinary Services, 4313 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Archer Road Animal Hospital, 2501 Archer Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Animal Health Center, 1101 Scott Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• PetSmart Grooming, 3201 Lawrence Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Paws & Claws Grooming, 1413 33rd St, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• Wichita Falls Pet Resort, 4501 Southwest Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76310

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Lucy Park, 100 Sunset Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• Lake Wichita Park, 5205 Fairway Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Weeks Park, 4101 Weeks Park Ln, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Local Government & Public Services In Wichita Falls, Texas

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Wichita Falls City Hall, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

County Government Services

• Wichita County Courthouse, 900 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Public Records and Licensing

• Wichita County Clerk, 900 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls City Clerk, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Wichita Falls Planning Division, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita County Planning, 900 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Wichita County Tax Office, 600 Scott Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Finance Department, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Wichita Falls Police Department, 610 Holliday St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Fire Department, 1005 Bluff St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita County Sheriff, 900 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Courts and Legal Aid

• Wichita County Courthouse, 900 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Municipal Court, 611 Bluff St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas, 1711 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Public Works and Utilities

• Wichita Falls Public Works, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Utilities, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Wichita County Elections, 600 Scott Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• M.D. Anderson Library, 3010 Archer Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: Ted Cruz (R), John Cornyn (R) House Representative (TX-13 District): Ronny Jackson (R)

Education & Libraries In Wichita Falls, Texas

Public School Districts

Served by Wichita Falls Independent School District.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Fannin Elementary, 3100 5th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• West Foundation Elementary, 1701 Southwest Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Barwise Middle School, 3807 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Rider High School, 4611 Cypress Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Wichita Falls High School, 2149 Avenue H, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Charter and Private Schools

• City View ISD, 1025 City View Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
• Christ Academy, 5105 Stone Lake Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Wichita Christian School, 1615 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76302

Colleges and Universities

• Midwestern State University, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308; Majors: Business, Nursing, Education
• Vernon College (Wichita Falls Campus), 4105 Maplewood Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76308; Majors: Technical, Healthcare

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Wichita Falls Public Library, 600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• M.D. Anderson Library, 3010 Archer Rd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Flights & Travel Logistics In Wichita Falls, Texas

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 21-45 days ahead for discount tickets to Wichita Falls; February and October offer lowest fares; avoid Hotter’N Hell Hundred week.

Airlines That Serve Wichita Falls, Texas

SPS served by American Eagle; larger airports like DFW (2 hours) offer Delta, United.

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

SPS is primary; alternatives: DFW (2 hours), OKC (2 hours). Drive via US-287; no direct Amtrak; Greyhound to Wichita Falls.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at SPS (limited, Enterprise); Uber/Lyft ($10-15 downtown); taxis ($12-18); no public transit.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for hot summers; book skyscraper tours early; try brisket; visit Lucy Park; rent a car for mobility.

Ready to explore Wichita Falls? Book airfare deals to Wichita Falls, Sheppard, Texas, USA (SPS) airport and save up to $144 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Wichita Falls, Sheppard, Texas, USA (SPS) may offer cheaper flights and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Where to Stay In Wichita Falls, Texas

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Days Inn by Wyndham, 1120 Central Fwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
• Quality Inn & Suites, 1740 Maurine St, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
• Super 8 by Wyndham, 1307 Kenley Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76306

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Inn at Wichita Falls, 100 Central Fwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
• Courtyard by Marriott, 3800 Tarry St, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Hampton Inn Wichita Falls, 4217 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Hilton Garden Inn, 3110 Kell Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Holiday Inn Express, 5300 Kell Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• La Quinta Inn, 1128 Central Fwy N, Wichita Falls, TX 76305
• Comfort Inn, 4414 Westgate Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Downtown Lofts, Various, e.g., 800 Ohio Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• VRBO Lake Houses, Near Lake Wichita, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Home2 Suites by Hilton, 4240 Kell Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Getting Around In Wichita Falls, Texas

Public Transportation Overview

Limited public transit; Falls Ride offers $1 bus service, covering downtown to mall.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at SPS (Avis, limited); Uber/Lyft $8-12 for local trips; taxis $10-15.

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown scores 75/100 walkability; Lucy Park and Lake Wichita trails bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free downtown parking; 30 mph in city; watch for Hotter’N Hell cycling routes; use mall lots for events.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Wichita Falls, Texas

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Copper Breaks State Park (1.5 hours); Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (1 hour).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Lucy Park, 100 Sunset Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• Lake Wichita Trail, 5205 Fairway Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Weeks Park Trail, 4101 Weeks Park Ln, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Wildlife Viewing

White-tailed deer, armadillos, hawks, bass, catfish in lakes and parks.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Lake Wichita, fishing, 5205 Fairway Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76310
• Wichita River, kayaking, near 100 Sunset Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76302

Camping and RV Parks

• Wichita Bend RV Park, 2500 Seymour Hwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Coyote Ranch Resort, 14145 US-287, Wichita Falls, TX 76310

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring birdwatching, summer fishing, fall cycling, winter park walks.

History & Heritage In Wichita Falls, Texas

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1876; named for Wichita River; grew with railroads and oil boom.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Sheppard AFB established (1941). Sad: 1979 tornado; 1964 flood.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-1979 tornado: FEMA aid, downtown rebuilding, community resilience programs.

Historical Landmarks

• Newby-McMahon Building, 511 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Kell House Museum, 900 Bluff St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Museum of North Texas History, 720 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Railroad Museum, 500 9th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, 712 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Local Folklore and Legends

Tales of skyscraper scam; Wichita Indian spirits; Sheppard AFB ghost stories.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Wichita and Comanche lands pre-1800s; settlers arrived 1870s; oil boom in 1910s spurred growth.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Wichita Falls, Texas

• J.D. McMahon: Skyscraper scam artist, infamous developer.
• Frank Kell: Railroad magnate, Kell House namesake.
• Greta Van Susteren: Journalist, born in Wichita Falls.

Arts & Culture In Wichita Falls, Texas

Performing Arts Venues

• Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Memorial Auditorium, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Wichita Falls Art Association Gallery, 600 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• MSU Juanita Harvey Art Gallery, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Local Artists and Artisans

Western painters, sculptors, and musicians at Hotter’N Hell Hundred events.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Hotter’N Hell Hundred, 1000 5th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Art & Soul Festival, 1300 7th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Downtown Wichita Falls Concerts, 711 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Backdoor Theatre, 825 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Food & Drink In Wichita Falls, Texas

Restaurants by Cuisine

• BBQ - Branding Iron, 104 E Scott Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301; Specialty: Brisket
• Tex-Mex - El Chico, 3916 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308; Specialty: Enchiladas
• American - McBride’s Steakhouse, 501 Scott Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301; Specialty: Ribeye
• Italian - Olive Garden, 3916 Kemp Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308; Specialty: Pasta
• Mexican - Casa Mañana, 609 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301; Specialty: Tacos

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Branding Iron uses local beef; Wichita Falls Farmers Market sources pecans, beef.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Wichita Falls Brewing Co., 701 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Horseshoe Bend Cellars, 4301 US-287, Iowa Park, TX 76367

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Farmers Market Food Trucks, 807 Austin St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Gyros & Kebobs, 3101 5th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Limited; Gidget’s Sandwich Shack offers vegetarian wraps; Walmart has gluten-free products.

Shopping & Leisure In Wichita Falls, Texas

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Wichita Falls Farmers Market, 807 Austin St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Downtown Wichita Falls Shops, 711 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Sikes Senter Mall, 3111 Midwestern Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Parker Square, 1108 Southwest Pkwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Antique Stores and Markets

• Antique Emporium, 1210 8th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls Flea Market, 807 Austin St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Museum of North Texas History Gift Shop, 720 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Kell House Museum Store, 900 Bluff St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Events & Entertainment In Wichita Falls, Texas

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Hotter’N Hell Hundred, 1000 5th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Wichita Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 711 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Wichita Falls Farmers Market, 807 Austin St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Downtown Art Walk, 711 Indiana Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• MSU Mustangs Athletics, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308
• Weeks Park Tennis Center, 4101 Weeks Park Ln, Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Christmas in the Park, 100 Sunset Dr, Wichita Falls, TX 76302
• FallsFest, 1000 5th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301

Nearby Destinations In Wichita Falls, Texas

Popular Day Trips

• Burkburnett, TX (15 min): Boomtown history
• Lawton, OK (50 min): Fort Sill Military Museum

Hidden Gems in the Region

• River Bend Nature Center, 2200 3rd St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
• Lake Arrowhead State Park, 229 Park Rd 63, Wichita Falls, TX 76310

Scenic Drives and Routes

• US-281 to Archer City: Rolling plains views
• TX-79 to Lake Arrowhead: Lakeside scenery

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, 32 Refuge Headquarters, Indiahoma, OK 73552
• Copper Breaks State Park, 777 Park Rd 62, Quanah, TX 79252

Audience-Specific Guides In Wichita Falls, Texas

Family Travel Tips

Visit Lucy Park, tour skyscraper, stay at family-friendly hotels, attend FallsFest.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Explore Museum of North Texas History, bike Lake Wichita, dine at Branding Iron, join Art Walk.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at McBride’s, stroll Lucy Park, stay at Hilton Garden Inn, visit River Bend Nature Center.

Business Travel Essentials

Near SPS airport, meeting spaces at MSU, quick dining, Wi-Fi at Hampton Inn.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant museums, wheelchair rentals at United Regional, Falls Ride accessible buses, TX Relay services.

Natural Resources

Wichita River water, catfish, pecans, cotton, oil, prairie grasses.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 1, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.