Things To Do
in Sherman

Sherman, Texas sits in Grayson County just north of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. The city blends a historic downtown with modern shops, eateries, and a strong sense of small-town charm. It is home to Austin College and a growing arts and culture scene anchored by museums and events.

Visitors can explore nearby lakes, wildlife refuges, and scenic trails in a relaxed Texan setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a coffee from a local café in the historic downtown area. Stroll through the charming streets, taking in the unique architecture and vibrant storefronts. Don’t forget to visit the Sherman Museum to learn about the rich history of this Texan city.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a cozy diner, head to the nearby Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site. Explore the home where President Dwight D. Eisenhower was born and enjoy the serene gardens surrounding it. Spend some time at the local shops nearby, picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a popular restaurant offering Texas-style barbecue. After your meal, catch a live music performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the local culture. Wrap up the night with a leisurely walk through the historic district, taking in the beautifully lit buildings.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife at Eisenhower State Park
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Eisenhower State Park. Explore the scenic trails that wind through the lush landscapes and along the shores of Lake Texoma. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you embark on your morning hike.

afternoon
:

After a refreshing picnic lunch by the lake, engage in some fishing or rent a kayak to enjoy the tranquil waters. The afternoon is perfect for swimming or relaxing on the sandy beaches, soaking up the sun. Don't forget to visit the park's visitor center to learn more about the local ecology.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset view over Lake Texoma while cooking dinner on the grill at one of the park's designated picnic areas. Gather around for s'mores and storytelling as the stars start to twinkle in the clear Texas sky. End the night with a peaceful walk along the waterfront, listening to the sounds of nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Cup of coffee$2-4
🏨Hotel room per night$70-150
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3-4
🛒Groceries for a week$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed, walkable downtown with historic charm
  • Proximity to outdoor recreation and lakes
  • Family-friendly with a college presence
  • Affordability compared to larger cities
  • Smaller nightlife and fewer tourist attractions
  • Limited public transit; requires driving
  • Hot summers can be intense
  • Some services concentrated around the town center

Places to Visit in Sherman

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic Downtown Sherman

Photogenic storefronts and classic architecture on Main Street, especially during golden hour.

Austin College Campus

Gothic revival buildings and green quad shot opportunities.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Trails

Natural light and wildlife provide compelling nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sherman

Sherman’s food scene centers on hearty Texan favorites, comfort food, and accessible Tex‑Mex options, with a friendly, casual dining vibe and a handful of locally owned eateries.

Sherman Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef Brisket

Smoked brisket with tangy barbecue sauce, commonly found at local barbecue joints.

Must-Try!

Chicken Fried Steak

Classic Texas staple: breaded steak fried crisp and topped with gravy.

Tex‑Mex Enchiladas

Warm tortillas filled with meat and cheese, often served with rice and beans.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sherman Farmers Market

Seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sherman experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild to cool winters; rain is most common in spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly greetings

A warm hello or handshake is common; casual, polite conversation is appreciated.

Dress and modesty

Casual, comfortable attire is typical; dress up a bit for nicer restaurants or events.

Tipping and personal space

Tip appropriately and give people space in public areas; be courteous in churches and during live performances.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, keep valuables secure, and follow local advisories for severe weather thanks to Texas’ seasonal storms.

Tipping in Sherman

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the US, 15–20% at restaurants is standard; tip bar staff and taxi drivers 15–20% as well.

Payment Methods

Cash, credit/debit cards are widely accepted; digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common at many places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Cool, dry to mild days are common; pack layers and a light coat; expect occasional rain.

Spring

Mild days with blooming flora; good for outdoor photography but watch for pollen and allergies.

Summer

Hot with high humidity; morning and evening outings are best; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Fall

Pleasant temperatures and fall colors; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Sherman at Night

Sherman’s nightlife is low-key, with casual bars, coffeehouses, and occasional live music, especially around the historic downtown area and college events.

Hiking in Sherman

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Trails

Reserved trails around wetland habitats with wildlife viewing opportunities.

Texoma Lakeshore Trails

Scenic shoreline walks and short hikes along Lake Texoma’s edge.

Airports

How to reach Sherman by plane.

Grayson County Regional Airport (GYI)

Small regional airport serving light aircraft and general aviation near Sherman.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Major international hub about 70-90 miles to the south; car or ride-share is common for intercity travel.

Dallas Love Field (DAL)

Smaller airport closer to central Dallas; good for domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sherman’s downtown area is fairly walkable with a compact core of shops and eateries; however, most outlying neighborhoods require a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are long-term families and retirees; a growing number of college students from Austin College.

College students

Austin College contributes a youthful demographic with arts and cultural interests.

Racial and ethnic diversity

The population is predominantly White, with growing Hispanic/Latino and other communities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American football (HS and college)

Routinely played and followed in local schools and events; a community staple.

Baseball/Softball

Common recreation and school sports; local leagues and summer programs.

Basketball

Popular indoor sport with rec centers and school teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Sherman experiences typical small-city traffic with occasional congestion on U.S. highways and around school zones; public transit is limited, so most visitors rely on a car or rideshare.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sherman.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for veggie-focused dishes and ask for meat-free options; many spots can accommodate with sides like salads and veggie plates.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local clinics provide primary care; for more extensive services, residents rely on nearby Denison and the Texoma Medical Center in Denison; urgent care centers are available in the area.

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