Exploring the Diverse Neighborhoods of Wichita Falls, TX

Wichita Falls, TX is a city of around 100,000 residents located in north central Texas near the Oklahoma border. Known for its rich history and friendly community, Wichita Falls has several unique neighborhoods worth exploring. Here’s an in-depth guide to the major neighborhoods in Wichita Falls and what makes each one special.

Downtown

The heart of Wichita Falls is its charming downtown area. This neighborhood is home to many of the city’s main attractions and things to do.

Key Attractions

• Wichita Falls Museum of Art at MSU – Showcases American and European art.
• Wichita Falls Public Library – Modern library with programs for all ages.
• Farmers Market – Local produce and goods sold on Tue/Sat mornings.
• Wichita Theatre – Historic 1920s theater with live shows.
• Downtown Wichita Falls Farmers Market – Large Saturday farmers market.
• The Falls – Iconic flood control dam on the Wichita River.

Things to Do

• Shop and dine on Indiana Avenue – The main downtown street with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
• See the historic buildings – Downtown has many buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Attend artists receptions – Many downtown galleries host openings and events.
• Catch a show at Backdoor Theatre – This intimate theater puts on community productions.
• Stroll along the riverfront walkway – Paths line the Wichita River through downtown.

With its mix of arts, culture, dining, and shopping, downtown Wichita Falls has something for everyone!

Midtown

Directly west of downtown, Midtown is one of the most historic and culture-rich areas of Wichita Falls.

Key Attractions

• Kemp Center for the Arts – Multi-disciplinary arts center with exhibitions and classes.
• Hamilton Park – 27 acres with hiking trails, sports fields, and a skate park.
• Union Square – Mixed-use development with shopping and dining.
• Farmers Market – Tuesday and Saturday markets held at the center of Midtown.
• Midwestern State University – A four-year public university located right in Midtown.

Things to Do

• Attend festivals at Bud Daniel Park – Concerts and community events are held here.
• See a show at Backdoor Theatre – Catch improv and traditional productions here.
• Dine at one of the many restaurants – Gypsy Kit, Silo Neighborhood Bar & Grill, and more!
• Shop at boutiques like Goods Co. and Appleseed’s – Find unique gifts and souvenirs.
• Tour the Petroleum Building – See this historical 1927 skyscraper up-close.
• Enroll in art classes at the Kemp Center – Learn pottery, painting, jewelry-making and more.

Midtown has an unbeatable creative energy and deep sense of community.

Parker Square

Located near Midwestern State University, Parker Square is a popular dining, shopping, and residential area, especially for students.

Key Attractions

• Dining and nightlife on Taft Boulevard – Trendy restaurants and bars line this main street.
• Half Priced Books – New and used books, music, and movies.
• Parker Square Shopping Center – Shops like Marshalls, Shoe Carnival, Ulta Beauty and more.
• Proffitt’s Residential Housing – Upscale student apartments and condos.
• Corner Drug – Old-fashioned pharmacy and soda fountain.
• Washington Square and Fairway Apartments – More MSU student housing.

Things to Do

• Shop at boutiques like Apricot Lane Boutique, Emerald City, and Southern Chique.
• Grab a burger at The Gypsy Kit food truck park.
• Study with coffee at Starbucks or The Kava Konnection.
• Catch a movie at AMC Wichita Falls 10 movie theater.
• Check out pubs like The High Dive Bar and Stick’s Place.
• Look for deals at discount stores Ross and Burlington Coat Factory.

Convenient and lively, Parker Square offers dining, nightlife, and amenities tailored to college students.

Country Club Area

Surrounding Wichita Country Club, this upscale neighborhood northeast of downtown caters to Wichita Falls’ affluent residents.

Key Attractions

• Wichita Country Club – Exclusive club offering golf, tennis, fitness, dining and more.
• Lucy Park – Green space with playgrounds, swimming pool, and walking trails.
• Memorial Stadium – Historic high school football stadium.
• Kemp Center for the Arts – North building with galleries and art classes.
• Country Club East Shopping Center – Retailers like Talbots, Chico’s, and Apricot Lane.

Things to Do

• Play golf or tennis at the Wichita Country Club.
• Have Sunday brunch at the clubhouse restaurant.
• Walk or jog through the manicured neighborhood streets.
• Picnic and play in Lucy Park.
• Shop for high-end fashion and accessories.
• See touring Broadway shows at Memorial Auditorium.
• Take art classes at the Kemp Center North.

With amenities like the country club, Kemp Center, and boutique shopping, this area offers polished indulgences.

Southwest Parkway

Anchored by Sikes Senter Mall, the Southwest Parkway area is the main retail district in Wichita Falls.

Key Attractions

• Sikes Senter Mall – Enclosed mall with 100+ stores like Dillard’s, JCPenney, and AMC theater.
• Museum of North Texas History – Chronicles the history of the North Texas region.
• The Shops at Parker Square – Big box stores like Hobby Lobby, Best Buy, and Bed Bath & Beyond.
• Market Street – Large supermarket with international food options.

Things to Do

• Shop the latest styles at mall staples like Forever 21, Victoria’s Secret, Old Navy, and more.
• Catch a blockbuster movie in the recliners at AMC DINE-IN Sikes Senter 10.
• Browse home decor at Kirkland’s, Hobby Lobby, and World Market.
• Grocery shop for family meals at Market Street.
• Satisfy fast food cravings at the mall’s massive food court.
• See an IMAX film and local history exhibits at the Museum of North Texas History.

With every store you could need conveniently located right off the highway, Southwest Parkway is a shopper’s paradise.

Western Hills

Located northwest of downtown along Seymour Highway, Western Hills is among the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Wichita Falls.

Key Attractions

• River Bend Nature Center – Wildlife exhibits and biking trails.
• Lucy Park – 27 acres with tennis, playgrounds, and an off-leash dog park.
• Midwestern State University – A four-year public university.
• Sikes Lake – Boating, fishing, biking, and walks around this man-made lake.
• Falls Public Golf Course – Affordable 18-hole municipal golf course.

Things to Do

• Hike or bike the Circle Trail that loops around Sikes Lake.
• Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boats at Sikes Lake.
• Have a picnic in Lucy Park.
• Take the kids to the Giggling Goose for mini golf and arcade games.
• See wildlife like bison, deer, and bobcats at the nature center.
• Enjoy a round of golf at Falls Public Golf Course.
• Cheer on the MSU Mustangs at home games.

With ample green space and family entertainment options like Sikes Lake and Lucy Park, Western Hills is great for active families.

North Central

North Central offers affordable homes and easy access to both Sheppard Air Force Base and downtown.

Key Attractions

• Sheppard Air Force Base – Major base providing flight training and technical training.
• Lucy Park – Largest park in Wichita Falls with many amenities.
• Midwestern State University – Located just south in adjoining neighborhood.

Things to Do

• Watch a graduation ceremony at Sheppard Air Force Base.
• Enjoy low-cost flights on American Airlines from Wichita Falls Municipal Airport.
• Shop military discounts at the Base Exchange.
• Let the kids play at the huge Lucy Park playground.
• Attend aviation events like the annual AirSho.
• Take continuing education classes through MSU.

Close to both the Air Force base and university, North Central offers convenience and family-friendly attractions. Home prices are very affordable for Wichita Falls as well.

Eastside

Bordering downtown to the east, the Eastside neighborhood provides quintessential small town charm.

Key Attractions

• Midwestern State University – East side of campus.
• Piggly Wiggly – Beloved local grocery store chain.
• Town Square – Outdoor event space hosting concerts and markets.
• Farmers Market – Tuesday and Saturday open-air markets.
• Maplewood Avenue – Lined with historic homes and neighborhood eateries.

Things to Do

• Take an evening stroll around the quaint neighborhood streets.
• Tour the historic homes on Maplewood Avenue.
• Shop local produce and goods at the Farmers Market.
• Have breakfast at Vicki’s Lunch Van, a neighborhood staple since 1936.
• Catch a concert by local bands at Town Square.
• Enroll in summer art camps at MSU.
• Relax with a book and coffee at The Kava Konnection.

With its small town vibe and charming architecture, the Eastside neighborhood takes you back in time.

In Conclusion

From the bustling shops of Southwest Parkway to the University culture of Midtown, Wichita Falls is a city of diverse and lively neighborhoods. Exploring the unique communities within the city shows that Wichita Falls has something for everyone – families, students, artists, professionals, and more.

Whether you want to experience history, culture, entertainment, or wide open green spaces, there is a neighborhood perfect for you. The welcoming and friendly spirit of Wichita Falls shines through in each of its distinctive districts.