Military life opens doors to fascinating locations, and while the immediate surroundings may not initially spark excitement, there's always a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! While typical lists highlight local restaurants and events, why not uncover unique destinations and activities near your military base that offer a different kind of adventure?
Explore this list, and you might find something you’ve missed right in your own backyard!
1) Fort Campbell, Kentucky: Dinosaur World
After you’ve exhausted our list of activities for the whole family near Fort Campbell, take a two-hour drive up I-65 to Cave City to visit Dinosaur World. Dinosaur lovers both young and old can venture down the trail of this outdoor museum of prehistoric animals, hoping to spy a mighty T-Rex or a shy stegosaurus.
Future paleontologists will delight in the "fossil dig" and the "dinosaur eggs" found on the grounds. Named “best exit” by Southern Living Magazine!
See Dinosaur World directions and hours of operation.
2) Fort Carson, Colorado: Old Gold Camp Road Tunnels
If you’ve a taste for the spooky, this is the spot for you. The Old Gold Camp Road Tunnels in Colorado Springs’ Bear Creek Park, originally part of the Gold Camp rail system, are rumored to be haunted. Three of the original nine tunnels have collapsed, while the remaining six are replete with legend. One of the collapsed tunnels boasts an iron gate that would feel at home in a horror movie, demanding that you “keep out.”
Access to other tunnels is via dirt roads, which are open only to foot, bike, and motorcycle traffic, with one accessible by car. However, drive through at your own risk and also watch out for other searchers of the paranormal, as drivers often stop and turn off their headlights in hopes of catching a glimpse of a wayward spirit or two.
Get directions and learn which tunnels are accessible.
3) Joint Base San Antonio, Texas: The Quadrangle at Fort Sam Houston
Even if you've been in San Antonio for a long time, you might not have heard of the Quadrangle. Step through the gates of this old military fort and watch deer and peacocks wandering in the open.
This is the original fort at Fort Sam Houston and is also the location where Geronimo was held prisoner during the 1800s. While it’s on an active military installation, the Quadrangle is accessible to anyone presenting a valid driver’s license. Bring a picnic lunch, stroll through the Fort Sam Houston Museum on the grounds, and take a photo by the impressive clock tower.
Learn more about the Fort Sam Houston Museum and Quadrangle.
Quadrangle Clock Tower photo by Nan Palmero
4) Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia: Mount Trashmore Park
Outdoor enjoyment and recycling meet up in a unique way at this site. In nearby Virginia Beach, Mount Trashmore (yes, that’s name!) was created by compacting layers of clean soil with solid waste.
This former landfill also showcases environmentally friendly xeriscaping. The park features two man made “mountains,” multi-use paths, picnic shelters, playgrounds, a skate park, and even fishing.
Learn more about Mount Trashmore.
Norfolk honorable mention: Military finance blogger Kate Horrell recommends fruit picking in Pungo, South Virginia Beach. You’ll find produce like strawberries, blueberries, and peaches!
Photo from Mt. Trashmore Facebook Page
5) Fort Sill, Oklahoma: The Meers Store & Restaurant
The Meers Store & Restaurant, located in the foothills of the Wichita Mountains and about thirty minutes from Fort Sill, is known for its famous Meersburger. The Meersburger, a seven-inch diameter burger, is touted as the "best burger in Oklahoma."
While you’re in Meers, take time to visit nearby Medicine Park and the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. You may be surprised to see buffalo roaming the plains!
See hours and more information about the Meers Store & Restaurant.
Photo from Meers Store & Restaurant Facebook Page
6) Camp Pendleton, California: Julian Mining Company and Farm & Orchard
With gold and gem mining, U-Pick apples, berries, and pumpkins, a petting zoo, and hay rides, Julian Mining Company and Farm & Orchard is a favorite for families living in the San Diego area.
An easy drive of a couple of hours, plan to spend the day or even rent a cabin. Seasonal activities include archery, axe throwing, and apple cider making.
Julian Mining Company hours of operation and a list of activities.
7) Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island: White Horse Tavern
Legend has it that this oldest tavern still operating in the U.S. was once owned by a pirate! The White Horse Tavern opened its doors in 1673 and was originally a gathering place for politicians.
These days, visitors can still enjoy a drink along with classic New England cuisine, browse artifacts, and shop at the gift store. Note that there is a dress code for dinner (collared shirts) while lunch is more casual.
Find out more about the White Horse Tavern.
8) Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio: Walk Through the Original Air Force One
If you’re stationed at Wright-Patt, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is a familiar sight. But did you know that you can walk through the original Air Force One? This plane was the official aircraft for eight of our country’s presidents (Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, H.W. Bush, and Clinton).
History aficionados will note this plane carried John F. Kennedy’s casket from Dallas to Washington, DC, and was also where Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as president.
Get more information about the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
An overhead view of the Boeing VC-137C SAM 26000 (Air Force One) at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. (U.S. AF photo by Ken LaRock)
9) Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii: Surfing Lessons at White Plains Beach
When you're stationed in Hawaii, you’ll quickly tire of the touristy areas. Then it’s time to do some exploring! Doug Nordman, author, military retiree, and longtime Hawaii resident, recommends taking in local flavor by learning how to surf.
Doug says, “I’d have to go with surfing lessons on White Plains Beach at Kalaeloa. Plan far enough in advance to stay in one of the beach cabins. The surfing lessons are handled all week long by the lifeguards.”
When you're done riding the waves, grab an 'Ono bite at one of these Oahu Breakfast Spots.
Learn more about surfing lessons and more at White Plains Beach.
10) Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia: Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Near MCB Quantico in Fredericksburg, Virginia, take a visit back in time and see the Colonial version of medicine— equal parts science and quackery. Staff dressed in period costume will offer interesting recommendations for your ailments and describe in detail some of the medical remedies and procedures of that time period.
There’s even a display of leeches which were used in blood-letting. Mary Washington’s home, the Kenmore House (she was the mother of George Washington), is minutes away. History buffs will find plenty to peruse in this area!
Get more information about the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop.
Historic Fredericksburg/Photo from Flickr-Ken Lund
11) Fort Knox, Kentucky: Eckert’s Boyd Orchard
Image via White Gloves Optional. Used with permission.
About an hour from Fort Knox, Eckert’s Boyd Orchard makes for a perfect day of family fun, including U-Pick, a playground, and haunted hay rides. Kristen Smith of White Gloves Optional reminisces about her family’s time at Fort Knox and their visit:
“I was just thinking about how I missed this place. It's a little farther away than typically advertises around Knox, but just a wonderful, welcoming place. My husband’s number one request when I mentioned apple picking: apple cider donuts.
As a native New Yorker, apple cider donuts are a staple of fall activities (especially for someone who isn’t a huge pumpkin fan). Eckert’s Boyd Orchard boasted on their website that they were known for their apple cider donuts, which turned out to be the perfect end to our beginning-of-Fall day.”
Learn more about Eckert's.
12) MacDill AFB, Florida: Weeki Fresh Water Adventures
Just 45 minutes north of Tampa, take in some unique fresh water activities in Weeki Wachee Springs State Park if you’re looking for a break from the typical beach outing. Watch live "mermaids," swim, enjoy the waterslides, take a paddle adventure, learn about native animals at the Animal Show, or hop on the River Boat Cruise. This 538-acre park is a unique gem in Spring Hill.
Visit the Weeki Wachee site for hours and more details.
What’s unique about where you’re stationed? We'd love to hear about it! Share a fun outing idea with us, and who knows? We might feature it in an upcoming blog post!
