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21 Top Things to Do in Waco, Texas

This midsize central Texas town has a surprising slew of one-of-a-kind activities, from shopping and museums to outdoor pursuits and sporting events.

Courtesy of Waco CVB

Don't forget to add Waco's plethora of attractions and activities to your Texas itinerary.

As the county seat and home to Baylor University , Waco boasts high-quality museums, historic landmarks, and options for dining and nightlife at the fingertips of residents and visitors alike. Two of the college's most famous alumni – Chip and Joanna Gaines, hosts of the hit HGTV reality show "Fixer Upper" – have transformed the city into a home decorating mecca with a slew of shops geared toward their chic, modern farmhouse lifestyle brand.

Located right in between Dallas and Austin , many of the town's top attractions, landmarks and recreational spaces are located beneath the shade of live oak trees lining the broad Brazos River, the 11th longest river in America, which winds its way through downtown, en route from New Mexico to the Gulf of Mexico.

With so many interesting things to see and do in Waco, this guide will keep you busy on a memorable, family-friendly getaway to one of the Lone Star State's most underrated destinations.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

Mark Randolph | Courtesy of Waco CVB

Fans of the HGTV show "Fixer Upper" flock to this destination shopping district, where they can immerse themselves in a collection of boutiques showcasing housewares, gifts, garden supplies and apparel curated by the show's design darlings, Chip and Joanna Gaines. The couple's empire also features Silos Baking Co., a cafe specializing in cupcakes and lemonade that helps keep patrons fueled throughout their shopping spree.

The more than 2-acre site, which includes an outdoor stage and a half-dozen food trucks, also serves as the backdrop for a variety of community events such as live music performances and a farmers market. Visitors applaud the area for being both charming and family-friendly, thanks to an expansive lawn where kids of all ages can play a game of tag or cornhole while parents rest at a shady picnic table. The historic silos, formerly part of a cotton oil mill facility, anchor the complex and add photogenic interest.

Round out your visit with a stay at Magnolia's Hillcrest Cottage, a one-bedroom guesthouse renovated by Chip and Jo themselves, furnished in their classic Magnolia style. But be forewarned that the entire market and all of its counterparts are closed on Sundays.

Address: 601 Webster Ave., Waco, TX 76706

Waco Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk

Getty Images

Take a stroll or bike ride along the Waco Riverwalk, a 7-mile paved path that hugs the bank of the Brazos River and connects several city parks in downtown Waco. You'll pass under several bridges along the river, including the historic Waco Suspension Bridge, constructed in 1870 by the same company that built the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.

Today this pedestrian-only landmark hosts many community events and festivals. Bronze sculptures commemorating the Chisolm Trail – a popular route for cattle drives following the Civil War – can be found around the bridge, as part of the highly photographed "Branding the Brazos" project. Travelers say the iconic structure is usually a nice place to visit at night when the lights are on.

The Hilton Waco hotel is located across the street from Indian Spring Park, which anchors the west side of the bridge.

Baylor University

Courtesy of Baylor University

More than 20,000 students study at this picturesque 1,000-acre campus situated along the Brazos River in the heart of Waco. Although the private Christian institution is well known for its research and master's programs, one of Baylor University's most popular attractions is the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat, which houses the school's live black bear mascots. Visitors are welcome to view the bears in their outdoor habitat free of charge. Other notable campus destinations include the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center, McLane Student Life Center and the Burleson Quadrangle.

You can explore at your own pace with the help of a self-guided walking audio tour, available by downloading the Baylor University app on your phone. The tour starts from the Wiethorn Undergraduate Admissions Center and covers more than 2 miles in about 45 minutes.

For overnight accommodations, the on-campus boutique apartment hotel called 1700 South 2nd offers two-bedroom condos with full kitchens and living rooms.

Address: 1311 S. Fifth St., Waco, TX 76706

McLane Stadium

Overlooking the Brazos Riverfront in East Waco, McLane Stadium is home to the Baylor University Bears football team. In the offseason, the venue's state-of-the-art audio-visual technology is put to good use at a multitude of concerts and other entertaining events. Fans applaud the $26 million facility, built in 2014, for its modern design, ample restroom facilities and good variety of concession options, as well as its several gift shops for purchasing festive attire in the school's signature green and gold colors. Its horseshoe shape also offers spectators a pleasant view of the Brazos River from the stands. This setup has created an opportunity for the unique tradition of "sailgating," where boaters convene by the dock right outside the stadium on game days.

Guided tours of the facility are available for a fee and last about 90 minutes, giving visitors access to the field, press box, locker room and more.

The budget-friendly Red Roof Inn Waco is conveniently located just around the corner from the stadium, offering a free stay for one pet and a complimentary breakfast spread.

Address: 1001 South Martin Luther King Blvd., Waco, TX 76704

Cameron Park

This 400-acre city park is an urban oasis of outdoor activity boasting a 20-mile National Recreation Trail system, a 23-hole disc golf course, numerous parks and playground areas, and a plethora of geological and manmade landmarks to explore. Cameron Park's location at the confluence of the Bosque and Brazos rivers creates a lush landscape with awesome scenery. A wildflower garden called Miss Nellie's Pretty Place is a prime picnic spot, particularly in springtime, and visitors adore the well-kept park's variety of trails.

More adventurous types can hike to Emmons Cliff to gaze at the river from atop a towering limestone bluff, or attempt to climb Jacob's Ladder, a historic staircase with nearly 100 rickety steps. The park, with its network of challenging, multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking, plays host to competitive events such as triathlons each year. The trails also provide access to other attractions, including the Waco Riverwalk, which travels along the waterfront into downtown.

Address: 2601 N. University Parks Drive, Waco, TX 76708

Cameron Park Zoo

Located on the south side of Cameron Park, this award-winning facility prides itself on creating natural habitats for more than 1,700 animals across 52 acres. Visitors to Cameron Park Zoo appreciate the variety of animals and abundance of shady trees along the walkways; they also note that the animal enclosures seem spacious and well maintained.

Main highlights at the zoo include its exhibits, such as the Brazos River Country adventure, featuring a 50,000-gallon aquarium, where guests will learn about the geography, flora and fauna of the Waco watershed. Patrons get up close and personal with otters, jaguars, alligators and other species who thrive in the Texas wilderness. The Asian Forest exhibit offers a drastic change of scenery in a jungle setting populated with orangutans, Komodo dragons and Sumatran tigers. Parking at the zoo is free.

One option for unwinding after your visit is a stay at the Courtyard Waco hotel, located just over 1 mile from the zoo; its family-friendly amenities include an outdoor swimming pool.

Address: 1701 N. Fourth St., Waco, TX 76707

Waco Sculpture Zoo

Pedestrians and cyclists exploring the Brazos River corridor will discover a unique collection of public art in the form of 28 animal sculptures. Scattered across the milelong stretch between the Cameron Park Zoo and Baylor University's campus, the sculpture subjects represent wildlife that either can be viewed in real form at the neighboring zoo (e.g., elephant, giraffe, lion, meerkat) or are native to the surrounding central Texas region (e.g., fox, whitetail deer, box turtle).

Visitors say this array of artwork is a great addition to the already lovely riverfront area and that kids are especially entertained by the surprise "zoo." The works were created by a group of artists from across the country, including two local sculptors, and commissioned by the nonprofit Creative Waco. The artists used a variety of materials and methods to interpret their assignment; often the animals are arranged in interesting ways, such as the bronze "Wise Elephant" sitting thoughtfully on a bench or the aluminum "Bats Taking Flight" that swirl upward into the sky. A map with details about each piece can be found at on Creative Waco's website .

Dr Pepper Museum

Did you know that Dr Pepper is the oldest major soda brand in America – and that it was first created in Waco? You'll learn all that history and more about the unique soft drink at the Dr Pepper Museum, located in a historic bottling factory downtown. Spend some time browsing the building's three floors of exhibits that traverse the history and science of soda manufacturing and contain interesting memorabilia like a 1940s delivery truck.

To make your visit more interactive, you can head to the on-site Liquid Lab for the Make-A-Soda experience, where you can concoct your own soda flavor (for an additional fee, which includes a take-home soda bottle and souvenir hat), or the Taste-A-Soda experience, in which a Soda Sommelier will provide a flight of six soda samples. Other activities offered include a guided paranormal tour of the premises or a mystery game you can play through the ClueKeeper app on your phone.

Admission includes a free Dr Pepper soda. Travelers say this attraction is a fun way to spend a couple hours but warn there is no on-site parking.

Address: 300 S. Fifth St., Waco, TX 76701

Historic Waco Foundation house museums

Courtesy of Historic Waco Foundation

This organization manages three historic home sites in the downtown area to give guests a glimpse of Civil War-era architecture and artifacts, as well as a deeper understanding of Waco's heritage.

With construction beginning in 1858, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House was one of the first brick homes in Waco. The structure underwent several additions over the years as families came and went; the current Greek Revival facade was completed in 1868. The McCulloch House features a similar architectural style and was occupied by members of the same family for more than a century. The grand East Terrace House, complete with a ballroom and Italianate villa-style design details, was finished in 1874.

These museum sites showcase original furnishings, family heirlooms and artifacts, such as lamps and paintings. A entry fee at each site includes a guided tour with volunteer docents, whom visitors commend for being extremely knowledgeable; children younger than 6 years old and military members get complimentary access. For an overnight stay nearby, the SpringHill Suites Waco is just two blocks from the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House and features an outdoor pool.

Note: The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House was closed for renovations as of July 2023.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

The Texas Rangers department is the oldest and perhaps most revered state law enforcement agency in the country, having served and protected the people of the region since 1823. The 30-acre Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum complex honors the esteemed agency's contributions to Western heritage and history with a collection of 20,000 artifacts thoughtfully displayed in exhibits spread across several galleries. Visitors can browse rooms full of firearms, badges, saddles and uniforms used by the rangers throughout the ages, in addition to an impressive collection of fine art paintings and sculptures depicting early Western life. The on-site Hall of Fame gallery features portraits of the 31 notable rangers honored as inductees.

Families with children can download activity sheets to help them navigate the exhibits like a scavenger hunt or a search for bandits. Visitors recommend spending at least two hours exploring this information-rich facility, including watching the 45-minute documentary that is shown each hour.

If you want accommodations near the museum after your visit, the Residence Inn Waco , with its indoor pool and hot tub, is located less than half a mile away.

Address: 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Located about 6 miles northwest of downtown Waco, this protected archaeological site was established in 2015 and comprises 108 acres of tranquil forestland along the Bosque River where the fossil remains of numerous prehistoric creatures, most notably a herd of Columbian mammoths, were discovered in 1978. Researchers have posed several theories, including flood or drought, to explain how the animals – which also included a camel, giant tortoise, alligator, pygmy antelope and saber-toothed cat – died nearly 70,000 years ago.

Although the remains found through 1990 have been relocated to the Mayborn Museum Complex downtown, park visitors can explore the climate-controlled Dig Shelter, an active excavation site showcasing most of the recent fossil discoveries. Hourlong guided walking tours lead guests across the elevated walkway overlooking this fascinating facility to see bones, artwork and other educational artifacts. Tours leave every 30 minutes from the Welcome Center, and no reservation is required.

Visitors also mention the on-site nature trails and recommend kids ask for an activity book at the Welcome Center to earn a junior ranger badge. Be sure to take a short stroll down the Eagle Scout Trail where you might spot wildlife like roadrunners and deer. The nearby Bed and Breakfast on White Rock Creek offers charming suites in a rural setting.

Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive, Waco, TX 76708

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Mayborn Museum Complex

Located on the Baylor University campus, this educational facility features five permanent exhibits dedicated to the natural and cultural history of the central Texas region, including models of the original fossil collections excavated from the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Included in the admission fee is access to the on-site Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village, where visitors can step back in time with a stroll around nine historic structures replicating rural farm life in the late 1800s. Families with children will find fun activities geared toward hands-on learning at the Jeanes Discovery Center, full of interactive exhibits including live animal displays.

Visitors recommend planning to spend two to three hours exploring the facility in its entirety. Note that the museum is closed on major holidays, as well as during Baylor University home football games. Less than a mile from the Mayborn Museum Complex, the Hotel Indigo Waco-Baylor provides classic amenities with local flare.

Address: 1300 S. University Parks Drive, Waco, TX 76706

Armstrong Browning Library and Museum

Devoted to the lives of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum houses the world's largest collection of books, letters and more materials related to the Brownings. This attraction is perhaps most sought out for its regal Italian Renaissance architecture, which visitors describe as "exquisite" and "majestic."

Upon entry to the grandiose three-story structure, located on the Baylor University campus, visitors can marvel at the 62 stained-glass windows decorating the building. Be sure to take your time while meandering through the library's multitude of rooms, halls and exhibits to appreciate the attention to detail that was paid during construction in the mid-1900s, from the gleaming wood tables in the John Leddy-Jones Research Hall to the elaborate ceiling in the McLean Foyer of Meditation.

The library is free and open to the public. Guided tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis or with a reservation.

Address: 710 Speight Ave., Waco, TX 76706

A day on Lake Waco

Built in 1965 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flooding prevention and water conservation, this artificial reservoir located west of downtown also provides ample space for recreational activities like boating, fishing, hiking and hunting. Visitors appreciate the numerous scenic parks surrounding the shoreline for sunbathing, picnicking and paddling; most of these are free to enter, but a few require payment of a small facility fee.

The 180-acre wetlands area, which is open to the public and situated on the northwest corner of the lake, features nearly 3 miles of hiking trails and serves as a habitat for an abundance of native plants, amphibians, butterflies and 140 bird species. Anglers on Lake Waco will find an abundance of largemouth bass, catfish and crappies.

Daily pontoon boats rentals are available from Waco Lake Rentals, while paddleboards and kayaks can be rented at Lake Waco Marina. Campgrounds are located at the Airport, Midway, Reynolds Creek and Speegleville parks.

Waco Tours River Cruise

Get a fresh perspective of the city with a relaxing, two-hour pontoon boat ride down the beautiful Brazos River that winds through downtown Waco. You'll cruise to some of the town's top sights, like the Waco Suspension Bridge and Cameron Park, while catching a breeze from the water. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including alligators. You'll likely also encounter kayaks and canoes floating along the city's Brazos Bridges Paddling Trail.

Travelers rave about the friendly, funny and knowledgeable guides who entertain with interesting tidbits about the city's history and geography along the way. Fun fact: Both of the couples who founded the company had their homes renovated and featured on Waco's famous reality TV show, "Fixer Upper."

Tickets start at $79 per person. Tours depart from McLane Stadium and do not operate in the winter.

Shopping at Spice Village

Housed in one of the city's landmark buildings, this 30,000-square-foot downtown shopping district is known for its charming, rustic atmosphere and extensive collection of unique boutiques. Built in 1908, the historic complex was once occupied by McClendon Hardware Co. but is now part of the River Square Center development, which hosts Spice Village and its more than 60 independently owned shops. These stores specialize in anything from custom pillowcases and garment bags to olive oil and salvaged barnwood decor.

Visitors say Spice Village is an excellent place to find the perfect gift but warn you could easily spend several hours browsing through the multitude of offerings here, so plan accordingly.

Complete your boutique experience with an overnight stay at the Pivovar hotel, located half a mile away with a Czech-style beer garden and spa.

Address: 213 Mary Ave., Waco, TX 76701

The Amazing Fixer Upper Tour by Brazos Tours

Courtesy of Brazos Tours

Die-hard fans of the reality home design TV show will adore this guided tour of the homes, design shops and landmarks regularly featured on "Fixer Upper." Typical stops include visits to Harp Design Co. and JDH Iron Designs – and sometimes even an in-home tour of one of the latest house projects. Guests are endlessly impressed with the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, who provide stories about the inner workings of the show and its hosts.

Tickets for adults cost $39 for a 2.5-hour tour in a modern van vehicle. Round out the experience with a stay in one of the show's homes, known as the Three Little Pigs House, and receive a complimentary seat on the tour.

Brazos Tours also offers wine tours and a haunted adventure through Waco.

Waco Downtown Farmers Market

Locals and travelers alike love visiting this charming open-air market held on Saturdays mornings in the parking lot across from the McLennan County Courthouse downtown. The sense of comradery and community at the Waco Downtown Farmers Market, which has been in operation for more than 10 years and flourished from just a few farmers to include up to 80 vendors on special event weekends, makes it a top-rated, family-friendly attraction.

Thanks to Texas' long growing and grazing seasons, vendors can convene here year-round to sell foodstuff such as artisan cheeses, homemade jerky, pickles, jellies, baked goods and locally grown produce that varies by season. Marketgoers especially love the gorgeous bouquets of cut flowers from 6G Heritage Farm and recommend that you go in hungry to enjoy the array of food truck offerings such as tacos. Sporadic special events throughout the year add entertainment in the form of live music, craft goods and more.

The market site also serves as a perfect jumping-off point for exploring some of Waco's best dining and drinking options nearby, like Southern Roots Brewing Company, also known for its pizza, and Hecho En Waco, a popular Mexican restaurant.

Address: 500 Washington Ave., Waco, TX 76701

Hawaiian Falls Waco Waterpark

Central Texas is notorious for its intense summer heat, but when temperatures become unbearable Wacoans head to this 10-acre water park located 5 miles north of downtown. One of the best water parks in Texas , Hawaiian Falls houses myriad waterslide rides, a lazy river, a wave pool and more, the intensity of which is rated from 1 to 5 on the "Shaka Meter," referring to the friendly hand signal used by surfers on the beaches of Hawaii. The Tsunami slide has earned a 5 – meaning it is the most thrilling of all – for shooting participants on their backs through a winding water tunnel and into a pool below.

On the other end of the spectrum is Keiki Kove, rated a 1, which provides an interactive water playground for children 12 and younger. Guests appreciate the additional amenities like shaded cabanas and miniature golf.

Ticket prices vary by visitor height; book online to take advantage of discounted rates. The water park is only open from May to September. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Waco North is nearby with an indoor pool to continue the water fun after hours.

Address: 900 Lake Shore Drive, Waco, TX 76708

Heart O' Texas Speedway

From monster truck shows to stock car shootouts, Heart O' Texas Speedway, a car racing track north of Waco, provides an evening of fun and entertainment for the whole family. Motor aficionados are especially impressed by the variety of class types and state-of-the-art track facilities. Races are held on Friday evenings from March through September. An annual fireworks show during the Fourth of July weekend is an especially popular time to attend. An on-site concession stand sells burgers, fries, hot dogs and a variety of snacks, in addition to a separate Beer Stand for adult beverages.

Address: 784 N. McLennan Drive, Elm Mott, TX 76640

Waco Wine Tours

Courtesy of Waco Wine Tours

The guided Vintage Tour through the central Texas countryside allows you to experience some of Waco's best vineyards in one afternoon. Guests, who visit up to three different wineries in an air-conditioned shuttle bus, frequently gush about the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides. At Valley Mills Vineyards, visitors can sample a wide variety of red and white wines made from 100% Texas-grown grapes, such as tempranillo and viognier. The Red Caboose Winery specializes in sustainable practices, such as by using solar or wind power, to produce award-winning Old World-style wines like lenoir and zinfandel.

The 3.5-hour excursion includes wine tastings, water and a picnic lunch. Private tours and brewery tours are also available. The Vintage Tour departs from and returns to the Residence Inn Waco.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Texas
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Texas
• The Top Water Parks in Texas
• The Best Small Towns to Visit in the U.S.
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South

15 Top Texas Wineries to Visit

Tags: US Vacations , Travel , Vacations , Texas , Texas Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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26 Amazing Things to do in Waco, Texas

Waco, located in Central Texas, is a charming Texan small town with plenty of attractions. 

Because of its location, it is famously known as the Heart of Texas! 

The small town shot to fame because of the HGTV show Fixer Upper.  

Magnolia Market at the Silos, founded by the show’s star couple, is located in downtown Waco, TX.

But the town’s many attractions are spread far beyond the star attraction.

Wondering what is there to do in Waco besides Magnolia? 

Visitors can find prehistoric fossils, museums, amazing murals, panoramic views, hiking trails, and kayaking on their trip to Waco, Texas! 

Because of its many kid-friendly attractions, Waco makes an excellent family vacation destination in Texas.

Waco makes a great day trip from Dallas or even an excellent Austin day trip .

Best Things to do in Waco, Texas

From art galleries and cultural attractions to zoos and state parks, Waco has a variety of attractions for all types of visitors. 

Take a cruise along the Waco River, see giant mammoth fossils, and visit the sprawling Baylor university campus. 

Here are our favorite things to do in Waco, Texas on your next trip! 

See the Mammoth skeletons at Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is one of our favorite things to do in Texas with kids .

It’s one of the few national monuments preserving paleontology sites in the U.S.

Admission to this monument is free, but access to the dig shelter requires an entry fee.

Waco Mammoth National Monument features extremely well-preserved skeletons of giant Columbian mammoths.

These are the remains of Columbian mammoths that once roamed this area!

Seeing the gigantic fossils in person at the Waco Mammoth National Monument is a pretty incredible experience.

Read: Ultimate Visitors Guide to Waco Mammoth National Monument

Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum

The amazing Dr. Pepper Museum is another of our favorite things to do in Waco Texas.

Dr. Pepper was invented and bottled right here in Waco.

This museum features the history of Dr. Pepper and other soda brands like 7-Up, A&W Root Beer, Fanta, Hires Root Beer, and Vernor’s Ginger Ale!

And of course no trip is complete without tasting the favorite beverage.

The whole family will enjoy this interactive museum!

Travel Tip! Looking for brunch places in Waco, Texas to visit on your vacation? Read our Ultimate Guide to Brunch in Waco now.

Shop at Magnolia Market at the Silos

Magnolia Market at the silos is the most popular of all the Waco attractions.

This market brings out droves of people from far and wide to grab a cup of joe, some locally made crafts, and even take pictures in front of the iconic silos.

For amazing things to do at the Silos including Joanna’s famous cupcakes, read our post on Visiting Magnolia Market in Waco, Texas .

Magnolia Market at Waco’s Silos is definitely one of our favorite things to do in Texas.

Go for a stroll in the cultural district of Waco downtown

Downtown is the cultural heart of Waco, TX.

It features several art galleries, museums, theaters, shops, and restaurants.

Our favorite gallery downtown is Cultivate 7Twelve. Other great choices include Studio Gallery, Texas Fine Artists, and Frames Etc.

This area also hosts several festivals such as the Food Truck Showdown, Wine & Food festival, Deep in the Heart film festival and more.

Grab dinner or coffee after strolling through the arts district!  

Hunt for the downtown murals

If you love amazing murals, then Waco is the city for you!

In the city’s bustling downtown, you will find several amazing public artworks that are perfect backdrops for Instagram photos.

Some of the famous murals include the Dr. Pepper mural inside the museum Courtyard, the welcome to Magnolia silos mural, the city with the soul mural, and the Greetings from Waco mural outside Twisted Root Burger Co.

Looking for these delightful murals is a treasure hunt in itself and you will never know what you will find!

See the McLennan County Courthouse

An often forgotten gem in the heart of downtown is the McLennan County Courthouse.

This majestic building was inspired by the St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome and has splendid Beaux Arts Renaissance Revival style architecture.

The courthouse dome has a statue of the Greek god Themis and soaring eagles around the base.

The building is definitely worth a visit and one of the best things to do in Waco for art and architecture lovers.

Shop the Waco Downtown Farmers Market

Also located in downtown Waco, right in front of the courthouse, you will find the Farmers Market.

This market is held on Saturdays and features fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.

Be sure to stop at the market and grab some goodies to eat on your next Waco trip!

Check out the local breweries, distilleries, and wineries

Did you know, Waco is also a hub for local breweries, wineries, as well as distilleries!

They are, undoubtedly, one of the top things to do in Waco, Texas for couples.

Some of our favorite places to stop include the Balcones Distillery, Southern Roots Brewing Company, Waco ale company, and Brotherwell Brewing.

You can find the tasting rooms in Waco downtown or even take a tour of the vineyards outside of downtown.

Many of these are family friendly and even offer entertainment such as food trucks, outdoor games, and more.

Admire the Waco suspension bridge

The historic Waco suspension bridge is another of our favorite things to do in Waco TX.

The bridge was built in 1870 and has become an icon of Waco.

It was built to carry cattle over the Chisholm Trail across the Brazos River and was then used for vehicular traffic.

Today, it is a pedestrian only bridge that has a panoramic view of Waco.

It is a great place to watch the Independence Day fireworks in the city.

Surrounding the bridge you will find two large parks – Indian Spring Park & Martin Luther King Junior Park.

They are great for taking a walk and admiring the views of the bridge.

A number of Chisholm Trail sculptures, artworks, and monuments are located near the bridge.

The bridge address is 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, Texas 76701.

See the Waco sculpture zoo

The Waco sculpture zoo is a unique Sculpture Garden located along the banks of the Brazos River.

Here you can see metal sculptures of 28 animals that can be seen in the Cameron Park Zoo.

The sculptures are located over a mile-long path .

Kids love seeing the animals and taking a photo with them.

Cruise down the Brazos River

One of the popular Waco attractions is the relaxing cruise down the Brazos and Bosque rivers.

The cruise is a little over 2 hours and is a great way to learn about the city’s history, wildlife, and iconic buildings downtown.

The tours are offered by Waco Tours River Cruise.

Other companies such as Waco River Safari and tours also offer Scenic Wildlife tours.

Enjoy kayaking in Waco

Waco is one of our favorite places to go kayaking in Texas .

In downtown, you will find two excellent paddling trails — the Bosque Bluffs trail and the Brazos Bridges paddling Trail.

These easy trails are perfect for beginner kayakers.

You can rent canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards from various places downtown and enjoy an amazing day on the Waco rivers.

Take a sunset stroll on the Waco Riverwalk

If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Waco, then take a stroll along the Waco Riverwalk.

This Scenic Trail located on the Riverbanks is 7 miles long.

It continues from Cameron Park to Baylor University and even passes under Waco’s suspension bridge.

The trail is especially beautiful at twilight when you can admire views of the river as well as Downtown Waco.

Spend a day on the water at Lake Waco

Lake Waco, created by the Lake Waco Dam on the Bosque River, is a must visit for outdoor lovers.

The lake offers excellent spots for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping, bird watching, and mountain biking!

Families can enjoy the soft sandy beaches at Airport Beach and Twin Bridges.

Besides these, the six day use parks surrounding the lake also have covered picnic tables, group shelters, barbecue grills, and play areas for kids.

The Lake Waco Marina has kayaks and paddleboards for rent.

See elephants and rhinos at the Cameron Park Zoo

The Cameron Park Zoo in Waco TX  is a world-class zoo that is home to over 1,000 animals from all around the world.

It has exhibits for chimpanzees, elephants, tigers, orangutans, reptiles & amphibians, monkeys and more.

Enjoy hiking at Lake Waco Wetlands

Lake Waco wetlands is an ecological nature preserve located on the North West side of Lake Waco.

The park has a 1 mile boardwalk surrounded by trees, marshes, and wildlife such as deer, blue herons, turtles, and more.

You can also hike around the trails to enjoy the views of wetlands and learn about the ecosystem.

The research and education center has several interesting exhibits for kids.

Best part? The Preserve has free entry all year long!

Enjoy the thrilling rides at Hawaiian Falls Water Park

Visiting Waco on a hot summer day and looking for ways to beat the heat?

Hawaiian Falls Water Park in Waco TX is a favorite summer destination for families.

With several water slides, rides and attractions to choose from, this is a great place to enjoy.

The park also has a wave pool for swimming & lazy river ride for paddling.

They offer season passes as well as tickets day-by-day.

Go on a barbecue trip in Waco

Love barbecue? Then do not leave Waco without visiting one of our favorite joints in the city!

Waco is home to several amazing BBQ joints including the famous Honky Tonk Kid, Guess Family BBQ, Jasper’s Bar-B-Q, and Helberg Barbeque.

On slow days you can get seated immediately and enjoy your food while on weekends you will have to wait in line for hours and be lucky enough to get the Smoked Meats you desire!

Try the famous beef brisket, ribs, sausages, Fried Chicken, and more!

Enjoy the Waco culinary scene

Besides BBQ, Waco is also famous for other foods including burgers!

Try the amazing burgers at Twisted Root Burger Co.; visit Lula Jane’s for breakfast, or the famous deli sandwiches at Schmaltz’s.

Other great places to eat in Waco include the Silos Baking Co., George’s Restaurant, and Clay Pot.

Read our post on Best Places to Eat in Waco, Texas for more details.

Shop for Texan souvenirs at Spice Village 

Spice village, located in downtown Waco, is a great place to shop while in town.

Here you will find an excellent collection of over 50 small shops and boutiques located under one roof.

You can also pick up souvenirs like t-shirts, hats, jewelry, wooden toys and Texan themed decorations for your home at Spice Village.

Enjoy live music performances in the city

The Waco Cultural District is also a great place to listen to live music performances.

You will find events being held in many of the venues and bars downtown as well as attend music festivals such as Brazos Nights.

Take a living history lesson at the Homestead Craft Village

Waco’s Homestead Heritage is a living history center that was built to commemorate the Waco community.

It allows visitors to observe, understand, and appreciate how people lived in the 1870s by providing an open-air village with over 20 craftsmen who work in traditional ways.

Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is a museum that pays tribute to the legendary athletes from Texas.

Here you can visit interactive exhibits, watch videos of their games, and learn about their personal life stories.

The Hall also has a gift shop for sports lovers where you can buy souvenirs and memorabilia.

Take the kids to the Mayborn Museum Complex

The Mayborn Museum located on Baylor University’s campus is a must stop while in Waco.

This is a natural science and cultural history museum that focuses on Central Texas.

With several hands-on exhibits spread over 5 floors, kids will love learning about the animals, dinosaurs, space and nature at this museum.

Kids can see amazing exhibits such as a humpback whale skull, a gigantic sea turtle fossil, and Mammoth skeletons, making the natural history museum a hit with families.

The museum is located at 1300 S University Parks Drive.

See the bears at the Baylor Bear Habitat

Looking for unique or weird things to do in Waco, TX?

Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat at Baylor University is home to Lady, an American black bears who is the university’s mascot.

The Baylor Bear habitat is designed to provide the bears with a naturalistic environment where they can forage, play, and explore.

Visitors can tour the habitat and see the bears on a visit.

Learn about the history of Texas Rangers at Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

Another of our favorite things to do in Waco Texas!

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is located on the edge of Waco and offers a great glimpse into the history of Texas Rangers.

Here you can learn about their famous battles, read stories from real Texas Rangers, try old-fashioned handcuffs & learn about Bonnie and Clyde!

Kids especially love the cool exhibits at this museum.

Visit the Armstrong Browning Library

The Armstrong Browning library and museum, located on the Baylor University campus, is an essential visit for literary lovers.

The library contains the world’s largest collection of works by Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

Works include personal letters, manuscripts and first editions of books by the Victorian poets.

The library also has amazing architecture and is free to visit.

Travel tip – Have less time to explore Waco? Enjoy guided tours? Waco has a variety of amazing tours including the Classic Waco tour, Fixer Upper tour, and the Texas experience tour!

Best time to visit Waco

Waco is a pleasant town to visit all year round and the best time of year depends on what you want to do.

If you’re interested in seeing the beautiful wildflowers and bluebonnets in Central Texas , we recommend visiting Waco from March to April.

Water activities peak in summer while during the holiday season you can enjoy Christmas lights in Waco.

Another best time to visit Waco is during autumn when you can enjoy beautiful foliage and pleasant temperatures.

The average temperature ranges from 56 degrees Fahrenheit in January to 88 degrees Fahrenheit in July.

Where to stay in Waco , TX

Waco has a variety of accommodations available for everyone.

You will find hotels, resorts, motels, RV parks, tent camping sites, and more in the city.

Waco even has several houses on Airbnb and other vacation rentals and some of these have even been featured in the show the Fixer Upper.

We recommend picking a place to stay that is close to downtown and all the major attractions for your stay.

Day trips near Waco, Texas

Looking for great things to do near Waco, Texas?

Explore these amazing locations on a day trip or weekend getaway: Austin, Dallas, or even San Antonio!

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Austin makes a great day trip from Waco TX.

You will find several things to do in Austin including exploring amazing museums and parks, attending live music events, and visiting the Texas State Capitol building.

Dallas is a bustling metropolis with a lot to offer.

Here you will find an eclectic mix of culture, entertainment, and history. 

Dallas is home to several world-class museums and the largest urban arts district in the United States.

Take a day trip from Waco to explore Fort Worth.

History fans will love a trip to Fort Worth Stockyards where history comes alive with old-fashioned saloons, shops and restaurants.

The city is filled with several heritage sites including the Kimbell Art Museum, The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, and the Amon Carter Museum.

Glen Rose is known as the dinosaur capital of Texas!

Take a day trip from Waco TX to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park where you can hike to see several dinosaur tracks.

Visit the Dinosaur World if you want to experience more of this slice of prehistoric history and see life size sculptures of dinosaurs.

With its diverse attractions, Waco makes the ultimate day trip or weekend getaway for all types of travelers.

We hope you liked our guide to fun things to do in Waco Texas.

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1 thought on “26 Amazing Things to do in Waco, Texas”

There is a great Rick and morty mural on waco dr and 18th… 24 stop smokeshop …. People come from every were to see it and take pictures… It’s a great addition to this list.

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33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Waco (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 23, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Waco is a beautiful city known for some of the wildest and most fascinating events in recent state history, many involving religious occurrences or natural disasters.

It is also known for the many Waco attractions related to popular television, sports, and higher education.

But what should you add to your vacation list?

Here are our picks for the top 33 best and fun things to do in Waco, Texas.

Table of Contents

1. Waco Mammoth National Monument

Rockin’Rita / flickr

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is probably the most famous among places to visit in the city, which is why it’s at the top of this list.

Its story is steeped in history and it is the world’s first known and discovered Columbian mammoth nursery herd and the biggest collection of this species to have been found dead from one natural disaster.

What is that natural disaster?

A mudslide that occurred a whopping 68,000 years prior!

The discovery that would lead to the site’s uncovering was made by two random individuals!

These two men were walking along the Bosque River, looking for arrowheads, in 1978.

As they scoured the area, they spotted a bone that was unusually large in size.

They brought it to the Baylor University near the river, and this led to an archaeological dig that would unveil this amazing collection of 24 Columbian mammoth remains from the ice age.

It is believed that sudden floods and a mudslide resulted in the death of all these beautiful creatures at once.

The nursery herd of mammoths, comprised of 19 adult females and their offspring, are hypothesized to have been caught in floods.

Given the positioning of the fossils, it is further inferred that the adults tried to save their young by raising them above the mud, but failed.

Since it was first discovered, the site has revealed other mammal species too, like a large cat and a prehistoric camel.

Some appear to have died in the first mudslide, and others are dated later.

Though some of them and 16 of the mammoths were brought to be held at Baylor for protective storage against deterioration, many fossils are still available to view at the site itself.

The pavilion where the rest of the fossils are is climate-controlled, holding the still dirt-caked fossils beneath.

It opened in 2009, and you can walk along the pavilion to gaze down upon the remains in their magnificence.

The excavation site itself is off-limits and more digs are continually occurring, as it is believed that many more fossils may be unearthed in this general area!

In 2015, the mammoth site was declared a National Monument.

Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States

2. Armstrong Browning Library

BrianKhoury / flickr

The Armstrong Browning Library is a bit of a hidden gem, but it’s also easily among the best things to do in Waco, Texas.

It was set up to study the work, lives, and legacy of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, two famous English writers.

Their poems and writings are studied as literary classics today.

The Armstrong Browning Library is home to the largest collection worldwide of Browning works.

Multiple exhibits have been set up that tell tales of the prolific and talented couple, as well as the stories of those close to them.

Twice or thrice annually, the Armstrong Browning Library does something amazing – they prepare temporary exhibits that feature rare book, artwork, and stained glass collections dating back to the 1800s!

Even the building of the Armstrong Browning Library is fascinating.

It is designed in the Italian renaissance style, with lots of regal gold accents and beautiful shows of opulence.

Entry to the library is free and there is a gift store for souvenirs and a garden to relax in.

It’s easily a must-visit for literary lovers in Waco!

Address: 710 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States

3. Spice Village

Spice Village

Spice Village is situated in the downtown area of Waco, near to the more commonly known Magnolia Market a few streets away.

Set in a restored Waco Hardware Building warehouse that dates back to 1908, it is home to 60 unique boutique stores.

Each shop is fascinating and may sell modern or vintage items, with arrays including accessories, houseware, apparel, gifts, home decor, pet items, and antiques.

Spice village opened in 1997 and has since been welcoming quirky and curious shoppers of all kinds.

The variety here is so vast that it’s just a lot of fun to browse every one of the quaint, welcoming stores to find treasures and curiosities that will tickle your fancy.

Bold, vibrant colors across Spice Village also makes it one of the more photographable Waco attractions.

Address: 213 Mary Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States

4. Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute

LunaseeStudios / Shutterstock

Did you know that Dr Pepper is the oldest major soft drink syrup and concentrate manufacturer in the country?

In fact, it was in Waco, Texas, that the soda was first produced and sold in America.

It’s even considered the “national” drink of Texas, so it makes sense that the Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute is one of the tourist attractions not to be missed!

The museum is situated in a building that was once the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company, and it opened up in 1991 for visitors.

The bottling company itself was the first building that was made for the purposes of Dr Pepper bottling and the structure has lots of history itself, dating back to 1906 and being used for Dr Pepper until the 1960s.

Believe it or not, the Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute is not actually operated or even owned by the parent company of Dr Pepper or the Dr Pepper Snapple Group, though it does receive some financial support from them!

It’s actually a private non-profit organization with a mission of entertainment and education.

Its aim is to teach visitors and the public about the economics of the country and the history of industries.

The Dr Pepper Museum preserves, collections, exhibits, and interprets all sorts of items related to the legacy and life of Dr Pepper.

It is a part of the National Register of Historic Places and is packed with fun features like an old-school soda fountain, a gift store packed with souvenirs, and three exhibition floors.

On the other hand, the W.W. Clements Free Enterprise Institute aims to educate youth about the economic systems of the United States, using the soft drink industry as an example and model of manufacturing, developing, marketing, and other steps in production and consumption.

It also hosts an exhibit regarding the late W.W. Clements and his life philosophy.

Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701, United States

5. Magnolia Market at the Silos

Anyone who watched HGTV has probably heard of the Magnolia Market at the Silos , and for many people, it’s among the best when it comes to places to visit in Waco due to its fame and pop culture significance alone!

Magnolia Market at the Silos was founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, a pair of stars of HGTV.

It is a community space and retail store with a unique concept.

It sits on 2.5 acres of land and boasts a large barn and two silos.

The market itself sells a wide range of different products, ranging from furniture and home decor to merchandise for the hit HGTV show Fixer Upper.

There is also a bakery on site that sells all sorts of treats and baked goods made with Joanna’s own favorite recipes.

For mood options, head to the lawn to sit down for a picnic or buy something from the food truck.

There are also fun activities and games held on the lawn!

Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States

6. Waco Downtown Farmers Market

Waco Downtown Farmers Market

In this city in Texas this weekend?

Don’t miss the Waco Downtown Farmers Market !

Since 2011, this farmers market has been providing locals and tourists alike with fresh produce and plenty of other offerings.

This includes plants, fresh drinks, alcoholic beverages, gourmet treats, artisanal cheeses, handicrafts, and more!

As you browse, you’ll be treated to live music that serenades you as you shop.

In the area, there are also lots of great stalls to buy lunch or brunch that you can then enjoy at the picnic tables that overlook the McLane Stadium and Brazos River.

With between 35 and 40 vendors setting up shop each Saturday, you’ll get the full local taste of food trucks, artists, farmers, and other locals providing all sorts of unique wares!

It’s undeniable that this downtown farmers market should be on your list of what to do!

Address: 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States

7. Cameron Park Zoo

FocusFantastic / Shutterstock

The Cameron Park Zoo is situated within its titular Cameron Park, taking up 50 acres of space.

It was established in the year 1955 and is home to over 1,700 different animals from about 300 unique species.

It aims to provide fun, family-friendly recreation and education to the public with its diverse exhibited animals!

Animals displayed at the Cameron Park Zoo are all housed in natural environments.

There are lemurs, Komodo dragons, orangutans, lions, otters, and even Sumatran tigers, as well as numerous animals from Africa and Asia.

There are also lots of animals here that are native to Texas.

Open year-round, the Cameron Park Zoo hosts a number of animal-themed activities and can even cater to private events like weddings, parties, and sleepovers.

It’s definitely one of the points of interest in Waco to bring your family to!

Address: 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707, United States

8. Waco Hippodrome

Waco Hippodrome

The Waco Hippodrome first opened as a vaudeville theater in the year 1914.

Today, it has evolved, turning into a movie theater and live event space, though one thing hasn’t changed – it’s still a spot for entertainment in Texas and one of the places to go if you’re in the mood for a performance or film!

Over the last century, the hippodrome has undergone its fair share of reconstructions, name changes, and alterations, but its historical significance has only grown.

Its current repertoire involves live theater, first-release movies, trivia nights, stand-up comedy shows, classic films, film festivals, dance performances, concerts, and more.

This hippodrome sits on Austin Avenue and provides full-service in-theater dining!

There is also a full-service bar that looks out over the street beautifully and a restaurant on the mezzanine.

Address: 724 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States

Looking for more thrill outside Waco? Here are some of the best things to do in Austin and some San Antonio attractions for a memorable vacation!

9. Waco Suspension Bridge

Hundley Photography / Shutterstock

The Waco Suspension Bridge stretches across the Brazos River and is one of the city’s crucial landmarks.

It’s one of the reasons that the city grew and became well-known, moving from a little town to a thriving, bustling metropolis.

Before its creation, it was dangerous and difficult to cross the river, and ferries were the only real way to get to the other side.

The bridge used almost 3 million bricks in its construction, which took place in 1870.

The process was grueling and time-consuming, as its construction site was in a remote spot.

The closest town with skilled artisans was more than 200 miles away and the closest railroad was 100 miles away!

Despite the struggle, work was eventually completed, making it the first suspension bridge in Texas.

In 1971, more than a century later, the city government decided that it was time to make a switch, and the bridge was closed to vehicular travel and only open for foot traffic and pedestrians.

This was due to the modernization of building techniques that meant newer, more efficient, and safer bridges were now an option.

Today, this suspension bridge is one of the city’s best tourist draws.

It sits between Martin Luther King, Jr. Park and Indian Spring Park and is often host for community events, activities, and festivals.

Address: 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States

10. Mayborn Museum Complex

Mayborn Museum Complex

The Mayborn Museum Complex was opened in 2004 on the grounds of Baylor University, Waco.

It is a family-friendly natural history museum that is fun and engaging to kids while providing information and education to visitors of all ages!

Packed with activities, the Mayborn Museum Complex mostly makes use of walk-in dioramas, interactive exhibits, and hands-on attractions for its permanent showcases.

It has 16 discovery rooms, all uniquely themed, geared towards children.

It also boasts a historic village that spans 13 acres as an open-air attraction brought in from Liberty, Texas.

Other loved things to see at the Mayborn Museum Complex are the mammoth showcases, the Design Den that allows for all sorts of innovative and exciting hands-on creations, and the Cabinet of Curiosities that is packed with items brought in from the Strecker Museum.

Address: 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States

11. McCulloch House Museum

McCulloch House Museum

The McCulloch House Museum is owned by the Historic Waco Foundation and is one of the best ways to get an authentic glimpse into the forgotten older life of this Texas city.

The house itself was built by Josiah Caldwell, a local physician in 1866, as a home for himself, his wife, and their five children.

Changing years would see a number of renovations that added space, rooms, and architectural features.

The McCulloch House was a crucial part of the city’s social scene.

Locals, celebrities, and tourists would know of it and stop by, and it is now a museum open to the public.

Apart from numerous family heirlooms, the house also boasts an interesting thing to add to your list of what to see: watercolor paintings made by a local artist named Charles H. Cox.

Address: 407 Columbus Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States

12. Waco Tours

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Waco that will let you experience the city in a more local fashion, look no further than the Waco Tours .

It’s a great way to get shown the area by a local who truly knows the heart and soul of the city!

There are multiple tour types available for you to choose from.

The standard tour is called the Classic Waco tour.

This tour lasts two and a half hours and brings you throughout the city’s most notable attractions.

It’s a good option to get your bearings on tourist locations and eateries, and you may even get some discount coupons when the tour is over.

Another popular tour is the Texas Experience Tour, where you’ll ride on horseback to learn all about cowboy history and culture.

A River Cruise brings you along the Brazos River at sunset so you can relax and enjoy the view.

You also have the option of bundling tours together for a lower price and more experiences.

Whatever you choose, it’s a great way to get a feel of the city!

Address: 215 S University Parks Dr Suite #104, Waco, TX 76701, United States

Want to explore more of Texas? Why not check out Dallas and Galveston? If you plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Dallas and some Galveston attractions for the thrill you seek!

13. Cotton Belt Trail

Cotton Belt Trail

If you’re looking for a place to get some exercise in Waco, try the Cotton Belt Trail.

Basically, if you don’t want a full park experience and only need a single trail, this is a good option.

It runs for about two and a half miles and is situated along the picturesque South Bosque River.

Aside from being one of the more nature-driven Waco attractions, the Cotton Belt Trail also offers beautiful, stunning sites that make it a great place for photographers.

Interestingly, the trail is set on the run of an old railway line.

This gives it a little extra whimsy and charm!

14. Texas Sports Hall of Fame

C5 Media / Shutterstock

Sports lovers in Waco should definitely stop by the Texas Sports Hall of Fame .

As its name suggests, it honors local athletes who have left a significant mark on the world of sports and athletics.

In fact, this is the first state to have its own Sports Hall of Fame, so it’s one of the tourist attractions you shouldn’t miss!

Constructed in 1951, this Sports Hall of Fame was created by a sports editor.

Getting inducted requires becoming nominated for a ballot and then receiving the highest votes.

Among the inductees named are those who have played for the Houston Astros, Baylor University, San Antonio Spurs, Texas A&M, and Dallas Cowboys.

Visitors to this Sports Hall Of Fame will be able to view all sorts of fun, interactive exhibits, with video clips showcasing the biggest sporting moments in history and even exhibits that let you compare yourself to sports greats!

There’s no denying that this is one of the spots in the city that any sports fan shouldn’t miss!

Address: 1108 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States

15. Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits

Whether you’re into coffee, alcoholic beverages, or both, Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is one of the best places to visit for artisanal and gourmet offerings of the sort in Waco.

The unique company is popular among locals and tourists alike and offers a selection of artisan cocktails and delicious rare coffees!

The coffee menu at Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is packed with iced and hot drinks alike, each made with American-roasted coffee beans.

The bar, on the other hand, provides handcrafted cocktails and delicious spirits in impressive variety.

Often, special events, live music, and other activities are hosted here, too!

Address: 508 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States

16. Earle-Napier-Kinnard House

Earle-Napier-Kinnard House

The Earle-Napier-Kinnard House dates back to the year 1868 when only 700 individuals lived in this city in Texas, which was then nothing more than a village.

It serves as an exemplary specimen of Greek revival design, with beautiful architecture that will take your breath away.

It boasts a pale pink exterior made of brick, pillared porticos, and a banister that looks like ironwork but is actually wooden!

There’s more fun to be had with the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, too, as much of the original furniture still remains inside.

You can take a guided tour for 30 minutes if you make an appointment in advance, or simply pay the admission fee and explore on your own.

There’s also a children’s playhouse outside which is also historic, added to the home in 1881.

If you’re into architecture, history, or curiosities in general, add a trip to the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House to your list of what to do in Waco!

Address: 814 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76706, United States

17. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum

Frank Bodden / flickr

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum is the Texas Rangers’ official museum and has been since 1968, as appointed by the state’s Public Safety Department.

Since that year, it has been sponsored by the city of Waco and is now one of the top points of interest in the state, welcoming over three million guests since its grand opening.

The Hall of Fame and Museum takes up 30 acres and was actually first named Fort Fisher, after a Ranger camp that was set up in the closeby area.

It boasts a traditional hill country design to match the 19th-century state trend.

The museum itself has two mission statements, both involving the education and instilling of appreciation for the Rangers and the objective of serving as a historical archive of the Rangers and their history.

The Hall Of Fame is a fantastic memory to the Rangers who have contributed to the service of this law enforcement organization.

It also has a memorial roll of all Rangers that have passed away during their duties between the years 1823 and 2004.

Address: 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706, United States

18. East Terrace Museum

East Terrace Museum

The East Terrace Museum is yet another fun house museum in Waco, looking out over the stunning Brazos River.

This historical home has magnificent Italianate architecture and was once owned by an industrialist named John Wesley Mann.

Part of what makes it among the more fascinating places to see is that its design is rather unusual for the state.

Within the house, a lot of the original furniture it held remains, a reminder of the past and what life in those times was like.

Some of the more notable pieces of furnishings include a pier mirror in a Victorian style and a beautifully crafted wooden desk.

Private tours are by appointment only, but the house is open for admission on Sunday afternoons, so why not head there this weekend?

Address: 100 Mill St, Waco, TX 76704, United States

19. Red Men Museum and Library

Larry D. Moore , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Red Men Museum and Library is owned by the Texas Red Men Foundation, Inc. and has the purpose of holding and showcasing a wide range of artifacts from history and boasting a library that is centered on the history of Waco, the Civil War, and the Second World War.

For history nuts, it’s one of the places to visit, for sure!

The building that houses the Red Men Museum and Library is specifically constructed to bear resemblance to the Monticello plantation of Thomas Jefferson.

It holds a number of fun and interesting exhibits, like a complete National Geographic magazine collection that scales from 1888 to now, a desk that was once owned by famous former Vice President Aaron Burr, and a bugle discovered on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Address: 4521 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76711, United States

20. Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool

Hans Watson / flickr

The Branch Davidian religion, though it still exists now, had the height of its popularity and notoriety in the 1990s.

It is now mainly known only as The Branch because of the unfortunate negative legacy of one of its former leaders: the titular David Koresh.

David Koresh is perhaps most known for the 51-day standoff that he held with the FBI at the site of what is now simply the Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool in Waco, Texas.

That pool is all that remains of the event, which ended in tragedy, and that pool is one of the more unusual things to see in the city.

In February 1993, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms had suspicions that Davidians were collecting and illegally stockpiling weapons.

The FBI and local police tried to enter the compound of the Davidian building in Mount Carmel in an attempt to test their suspicions, and that’s when Koresh and his followers opened fire on them.

The ATF and even the military were called in to help.

It took 51 days for the standoff to be resolved, which required tear gas to be thrown into the compound to force the Davidians out of hiding.

Gunfire, grenades, and armored vehicles were used, eventually resulting in 76 deaths of the Davidians, including Koresh.

Fire from the battle eventually caused the entire complex to be burned to the ground, leaving only what we now call the Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool, made of poured concrete and custom-fitted.

It lays empty now most of the time, with a monument close by with the names of the deceased.

Address: 1781 Double EE Ranch Road, Waco, TX 76705, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do near Lubbock  & some of the top things to do in Fredericksburg, TX ?

21. Lake Waco

Carie Andrews / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for relaxing stuff to do that is famous not just in the city, but across Texas, then Lake Waco is a great option.

This man-made lake is a reservoir that offers lots of water-related activities and outdoor excitement but in a laid-back and accessible manner.

The lake boasts seven ramps for boats and a marina, making boating one of its chief popular things to enjoy.

Hiking trails, walking trails, and campsites add to the variety of options for ways you can spend your time here.

No matter what the season, there’s sure to be something that this lake offers for recreation!

Address: 3801 Zoo Park Drive, Waco, TX 76708, United States

22. Hawaiian Falls Water Park

Hawaiian Falls Waco

If you’re looking for good vacation spots , the Hawaiian Falls Water Park is easily one of the best things to do in Waco for fun this weekend!

It’s a great spot for family-friendly, summer excitement with your kids.

It’s one of Waco’s most famous water parks and is known throughout the state, offering 10 acres packed with excitement!

Among the things that you can do at the Hawaiian Falls Water Park include the Keiki Kove for kids, the two 65-foot slides that free fall down, a high-speed mat called the Pineapple Express, the Kona Kooler for floating and relaxing, and even Cabana rentals!

Address: 900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States

23. Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat

Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat

The Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat is one of the best tourist attractions in Texas for people who love bears – and animals in general!

It is even home to Baylor University’s two black bear mascots, a pair of biological bear sisters named Lady and Joy!

Their full names are Judge Sue “Lady” Sloan and Judge Joy Reynolds.

Lady is named after 12th Baylor President Dr. Robert B. Sloan’s wife (the “First Lady” and Joy is named after 11th Baylor President Dr. Herbert H. Reynolds’s wife, Joy.

Bears who live at the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat all get to thrive in natural habitats with waterfalls, caves, and trees.

Most days, the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat is open from morning to night, with special events and the weather occasionally changing its operation times.

It is a Class C Zoo as licensed by the USDA.

Address: M P Daniel Esplanade, Waco, TX 76706, United States

24. McLane Stadium

Tricia Daniel / Shutterstock

McLane Stadium is the football stadium of the one and only Baylor University, and it is the home stadium of the titular Baylor Bears.

Watching a game at this stadium is a lot of fun, and even if there isn’t one playing, this is still one of the places to visit if you’re a sports fan thanks to the offered tours of the grounds.

Each tour takes about 90 minutes, bringing you through the locker rooms, press room, and other similar spaces.

You’ll also learn all sorts of behind-the-scenes knowledge as well as informational tidbits about the McLane stadium’s history.

Address: 1001 S M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704, United States

25. Lake Waco Wetlands

Timothy Welter / flickr

The Lake Waco Wetlands are so named because of the aforementioned lake’s impact after it was raised by 7 feet.

In 2001, the wetlands were made in Texas to protect the ground around them.

It is a crucial habitat for many species of flora and fauna, including insects.

Spanning 180 acres, the wetlands hold all sorts of fascinating spots.

The plant nursery, which takes up 6 acres of land, is one of them, as a home for aquatic flora like water lilies, bulrushes, and duck potatoes.

The rest of the wetland can be easily explored via raised walkways and paths, and there are even birdwatching platforms raised above the ground that offer great observatory views of the entire expanse.

While you’re at the wetlands, something you should add to your list of what to do is to check out the education and research center.

It teaches guests all about the importance of the habitat the wetlands provides as well as the different species that call it home.

Address: 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Road., China Spring, TX 76633, United States

Planning a road trip around Texas? We’ve got you covered! Why not visit Houston, El Paso, and Fort Worth? If you do plan a trip, here are some Houston attractions , some fun things to do in El Paso , and some fun things to do in Fort Worth !

26. The Findery

The Findery

The Findery is one of the many points of interest in Waco, Texas that is actually mostly a unique and interesting store.

Located on the corner of 8th and Webster, The Findery sells all sorts of fun and interesting items.

It sits in the Percy Medicine Building, which is about a century old!

Multiple vendors sell their wares at The Findery.

It mixes classic, vintage, modern, and handmade items in one eclectic and curious mesh.

The Findery’s main vendor is Jute, which is also the owner of the outlet.

It sells home decor and furniture in a mix of industrial and vintage styles for both function and elegance.

Other vendors, such as Hinge, Wild and Free, Serenity, and Congress Clothing, sell jewelry, gifts, clothing, and candles.

Address: 501 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706, United States

27. Harp Design Co.

Harp Design Co.

Waco, Texas is the home of HGTV’s Fixer Upper.

If you’re a fan of Jo and Clint’s show, you’ll know that Clint makes all sorts of pieces that go wonderfully with Jo’s designs.

It’s at Harp Design Co. that Clint’s works are showcased, displayed, and even sold.

It’s one of the best places to go if you love their talent!

Pieces here are all one-of-a-kind, made with exquisite craftsmanship and unique perspectives.

Custom furniture, woodwork, and novelty furniture are all on display.

Next door to the site, you’ll see a home that is now a Bed and Breakfast.

That was once Clint’s house!

Address: 808 N 15th St, Waco, TX 76707, United States

28. Carleen Bright Arboretum

Carleen Bright Arboretum

The Carleen Bright Arboretum is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Waco, Texas, and is also one of the few natural ones.

It is, essentially, a nature preserve, with 16 acres of ground to its name, 8 of which are beautiful botanical gardens.

Four different zones are present at the Carleen Bright Arboretum.

They are a nature trail that leads through a forested area, an eastern garden, a western garden, and a special wedding lawn with a pavilion.

Events of all kinds are hosted in different venues on site throughout the year.

Address: 9001 Bosque Blvd b, Woodway, TX 76712, United States

29. Homestead Heritage Craft Village

Homestead Heritage Craft Village

Looking for some nice places in the US ?

You can’t go wrong with the Homestead Heritage Craft Village in Texas.

Located 16 miles from Waco, it’s full of fun things to see that it’s worth the extra travel time and is a common spot for tourists in the city to head to.

It’s free to enter and is a great hub for learning, shopping, and sightseeing.

Walking through Homestead Heritage Craft Village gives you a unique glimpse into local culture and artistry, and you’ll get the chance to talk to all the artisans, who are excited to discuss their craft.

Whether you’re after baskets, pottery, furniture, baking mixes, sweet treats, or delicious meals at Cafe Homestead.

The latter has a pretty big waiting list and is famous for its scrumptious offerings.

Planning to buy some crafts?

Be ready to spend a lot!

Items sold here are far from “affordable” due to their high quality, unique touches, and handmade charm.

They’re worth the money, but not for those on a budget!

Address: 608 Dry Creek Rd, Waco, TX 76705, United States

30. Waco Civic Theatre

Waco Civic Theatre

The Waco Civic Theatre is the best place in the city to catch live performances, whether during the day or at night.

It was formed by residents as the Waco Little Theatre in the 1920s, with its original iteration running its business from 1925 to 1936.

In 1945, the Little Theatre cooperated with the Drama Department of Baylor University to draw up plans for what would become the Civic Theater.

After its creation, it would go on to be considered one of America’s best-designed buildings of its kind in 1963.

Renovations and additions are added continually, even till now, ensuring it is always up-to-date but never loses its old-fashioned charm.

Many different kinds of shows are put on here, ranging from local art events, hilarious stand-up shows, children’s theatre troupe shows, and even Broadway musicals.

It has been host to productions like Steel Magnolias, The Wizard of Oz, Shakespeare in Love, and Newsies.

Address: 1517 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710, United States

31. Lev’s Gathering Place

Robert Rogers / Baylor University

A trip to Lev’s Gathering Place may be unorthodox, but it’s clearly one of the most fun things to do in Waco.

It’s an especially nice treat for those who like gospel music, but it’s a pretty entrancing experience no matter your religious beliefs or musical taste.

Lev’s Gathering Place is a listening room that is home to the Black Gospel Music Restoration Project’s (BGMRP) whole archive.

The project is carried out by Baylor University and has a pretty interesting history.

It all started when Robert Darden, a gospel music scholar, and journalism professor, wrote an opinion article in the New York Times.

In it, he lamented the slow and steady loss of gospel records of history.

This prompted Charles Royce, an investment banker, to contact Baylor and Darden with financial offerings that would be enough to save and preserve those records.

The BGMRP was officially established in 2007 and has worked to save and record as much gospel music from the genre’s golden age as possible.

It relies on donations and loans to transfer vinyl records to digital files, restoring the timeworn sound to high-quality delight.

It now has thousands of 45s, 78s, and LPs from all sorts of famous voices and artists, such as Mahalia Jackson, and even many from less renowned performers like the Mighty Wonders.

Records are handled by engineers in a basement room, then returned to owners.

If they have no owners, they are carefully stored in a climate-controlled environment.

All of the BGMRP’s music is available to listen to online, as well as its details and information.

Some of the collection has even made its way to Washington DC ‘s National Museum of African American History & Culture.

For a more intimate listening experience, head to Lev’s Gathering Place, which is in Baylor University’s library.

Stained glass windows and pews allow for an engrossing and immersing listening experience through headphones and iPad kiosks.

It’s truly a delightful experience all around.

Address: 1312 S. 3rd St, Waco, TX 76706, United States

32. Martin Museum of Art

Martin Museum of Art

The Martin Museum of Art is one of the most fun and wonderful Waco attractions for art lovers.

It is, once again, operated by Baylor University, Waco – specifically its art department.

It is home to about 1,300 works of art in its permanent collection alone, and its temporary exhibits provide even more to admire.

Works displayed range from those from known artists to those from lesser-known talents.

Multiple events are held yearly and the Martin Museum of Art also hosts classes on studio artistry and art history.

Admission is free, which is a big bonus!

Address: 60 Baylor Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States

33. Lee Lockwood Library and Museum

Lee Lockwood Library and Museum

The Lee Lockwood Library and Museum is one of the tourist attractions that provides something a little out of the ordinary.

Once upon a time, it was the Waco Scottish Rite of Freemasonry’s headquarters, and that’s what the building was actually originally built for!

The Lee Lockwood Library and Museum has three floors packed with all sorts of exhibits, each one providing fascinating facts about Freemasonry and its history, both pertaining to the United States and the rest of the globe.

Some history of Waco is also discussed here.

Admission to the Lee Lockwood Library and Museum is free.

It is also possible to rent out spaces within for private events, with halls that can host up to 500 people at a time.

This is undoubtedly one of the greatest hidden gems in the city.

Address: 2801 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76707, United States

Exploring other areas of Texas? Why not check out some of the best things to do in South Padre Island ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Waco

Waco is packed with all sorts of exciting sights and spots, ranging from the artistic to the historic and from the sporty to the unusual.

There are HGTV famous locations, museums packed with specific historic facets, natural areas for relaxation and exploration, and lots of opportunities for shopping and dining.

You’ll have no shortage of things to enjoy and discover here, so buckle up.

With any luck, this list has helped you determine which of the top things to do in Waco, Texas you’ll be adding to your itinerary for your next vacation!

Happy travels!

40 BEST Things to Do in Waco, TX (Unique Local Attractions!)

Explore the top 40 things to do in Waco, TX! From the Magnolia Market to Waco Mammoth National Monument, find unique local attractions for travelers.

Waco Texas has become one of the most popular travel destinations over the last decade due to the popularity of the television show Fixer Upper. Waco offers enough that it will keep you busy for days. You can mountain bike or hike in Cameron Park, explore downtown where you’ll find the Magnolia Market, and browse wonderful antique stores and shops.

Waco offers several attractions, 5 historic homes, 7 recreational venues, and 9 art organizations that offer theater and music. If you visit the Visitor Information Center of the Waco Convention and Visitors Bureau, they’ll have some great information for planning your trip!

With the number of things to do in Waco, it's impossible to complete everything all in one day. From the most popular attractions to Waco’s hidden gems, you'll want to add these to your list to get the most out of your vacation. You'll discover restaurants, museums, music venues, shopping, distilleries, tours, water activities, and more!

No matter what you have planned, Waco has much to offer. Let’s dive into the 40 best things to do in Waco, TX.

40 Top Things to Do in Waco

Visiting Waco can seem overwhelming at a glance and you may have some trouble deciding where exactly to start on your trip. Below, we’ve put together an extensive list of things to do in Waco to make your trip an unforgettable one.

1. Waco Mammoth National Monument

Map It : 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708  | Phone:  (254)-750-7946 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Free

Standing over 100 acres sits the Waco Mammoth National Monument along the Bosque River. The monument is surrounded by oak, and cedar trees, and offers an escape from the busy city life to give you a glimpse into the lives of mammoths and other animals of the ice age. When you arrive at this park, you will start your visit to the Welcome Center.

If you want to join a guided tour, they are conducted every 30 minutes, no reservations are needed. Tours can last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour with a small tour fee.

You’ll be led down a path with your tour guide to the dig shelter where mammoth fossils are still in their original position. During your tour, you will learn about the ice age, how fossils were discovered, and why this is one of the most important finds in North America.

What you’ll need to know: If going on a tour to the dig shelter, you will need to pay a small fee. When going on a tour, it is always recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes.

2. Waco Suspension Bridge

Map It : 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701 | Phone:  (254)-750-5980 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 6 AM-2 AM |  Entrance:  Free

The Suspension Bridge in Waco is one of the oldest bridges still standing in Texas today. Built in 1870, it was one of the first bridges to stretch across the Brazos River. Today, it is a pedestrian-only bridge and is a great place where you can view the river.

The Suspension Bridge is flanked by two Waco parks, the Indian Spring Park and the Martin Luther King Jr. Park. It is the center point of many festivals in Waco along with other events that serve the community.

What you’ll need to know: Make sure to bring a camera along as this Bridge is a popular spot for photo fanatics. If you time it just right, you can catch an amazing photo opportunity at sunset.

Related Read: 25 BEST Things To Do in Dallas, TX With Kids

3. Cameron Park Zoo

Map It : 1701 N 4th Street, Waco, TX 76707  | Phone:  (254)-750-8400 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 11AM-5 PM  |  Entrance:  Adults: $13, Children (3-12): $10, Seniors: $12, Children 2 & Under: Free

The Cameron Park Zoo is the perfect activity to add to your to-do list with the entire family. While exploring the zoo you’ll be able to start your journey at Gibbon Island and encounter White-Handed Gibbons. You’ll be able to continue to the Bald Eagle Habitat and meet their national bird.

At the Zoo, there are endless exhibits to explore that will be sure to put smiles on your child’s face. You’ll be able to take a break from the electronics and immerse your kids into a wild 3D animal adventure that they’ll never want to end.

What you’ll need to know: If you are military, you can receive a 10% discount as long as you show valid identification. It’s highly recommended when visiting the zoo with snall children to bring a stroller as you will be doing a lot of walking.

4. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

Map It : 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76707 | Phone:  (254)-750-8631 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $8, Children (6-12): $4, Seniors: $7, Children 6 & Under: Free

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is located on the banks of the Brazos River. This museum preserves the history and inspired the appreciation of the Texas Rangers which is a legendary symbol of the state of Texas. At the museums, you’ll learn about the timeline of the Texas Rangers in a year-by-year format.

You’ll also learn about interesting criminal cases, oral histories and biographies, books published, and more! The 31 Texas Rangers made significant contributions to the development of service and gave their lines in the line of duty.

What you’ll need to know: The Museum offers guides and self-guided tours throughout the year. It is always recommended when doing a tour that you wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

Related Read: 20 Best Hiking Trails in Dallas, TX

5. Cameron Park

Map It : 2601 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76708 | Phone:  (254)-750-5980 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 6 AM-12 AM |  Entrance:  Free

Cameron Park is one of the largest parks that you’ll find in the state of Texas. It is located right next to the Brazos River and has an oasis of towering trees, two rivers, breathtaking cliffs, and a National Recreational Trail System. This 400-acre park can come alive with events, parties, festivals, and more!

On your visit, you will see hikers and bikers that share the park, along with golfers and picnic goers. You will see families, school trips, and couples who may be out for a nice morning or evening stroll. There’s so much to explore at Cameron Park!

What you’ll need to know: If you plan to go hiking on the trail, pets must be on a leash and you must pick up after your pet. When hiking, you’ll want to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, bring water, food,  sunscreen, and bug spray.

6. Mayborn Museum Complex

Map It : 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706 | Phone:  (254)-710-1110 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 1 PM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $10, Children (2-12): $8, Seniors: $9

The Mayborn Museum is built up of a natural science and cultural history museum that focuses on central Texas. It has walk-in dioramas that include the Waco Mammoth site, and exploration stations for geology, paleontology, archaeology, and natural history.

During your visit, in addition to seeing the natural exhibits, you’ll see two floors of themed discovery rooms that encourage hands-on learning for any age and the historic village that is located on the Brazos River. Grab the family, and enjoy a fun day of learning!

What you’ll need to know: To assist in the upkeep of the facility, it is recommended that you make a donation. Museums that are free rely solely on donations from visitors to keep it running in great condition.

7. Dr. Pepper Museum

Map It : 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701 | Phone:  (254)-757-1025 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Thursday: 10 AM-5:30 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-7 PM, Sunday: 12 PM-5:30 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $10, Children: $8, Seniors: $8, Children 4 years & under: free

If you’re looking for a unique museum to explore with the family, you’ll want to explore the Dr. Pepper Museum. The museums include the original 1906 bottling plant, the historic Kellum-Rotan building, a courtyard that connects the two buildings, and the two dedicated parking lots. The Museum is a perfect example of important American architecture and accurately preserved structures.

The collection at this museum holds one of the finest collections of soft drink memorabilia in the world, they aren’t just Dr. Pepper related. This museum is frequently called upon to open the collections and archives to academic research, the motion picture industry, and other museums.

What you’ll need to know: Parking is available at the lot across the street for a fee for $10 per day.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Austin, TX

8. Visit Baylor University

Map It : 1311 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706 |  Phone:  (800)-229-5679 | Website  |  Hours:  Open 24 Hours |  Entrance:  Free

If you want to check out what Baylor University is like, stop by for a tour just to get a glimpse of their college life. Baylor University is a private research university located in Waco. It is the oldest continuously operating University in Texas and one of the first educational institutions west of the Mississippi River.

Baylor’s University athletic team is known as the bears and they are a member of the Big 12 Conference in the NCAA Division I. This is a beautiful campus so if you love academics it’s worth stopping by to take a look around.

What you’ll need to know: You’ll want to call ahead to schedule a your due to safety reasoms of the campus. When scheduling a tour, it’s important to wear a good pair of walking shoes as the campus is very large.

9. Go to McLane Stadium

Map It : 1001 S M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704 |  Phone:  (254)-710-1000 |  Website  |  Hours:  Times Vary |  Entrance:  Ticket Prices Vary

If you want to get a glimpse of Baylor University’s sports team stadium, you can schedule to take a tour of McLane Stadium. When visiting their website, McLane Stadium has different times and days where you can have a tour of their stadium. They offer tours that will appeal to people of all ages.

The tour guides will ensure you will leave knowledgeable of McLane Stadium and Waco, Texas. The tour is 90 minutes long and will show you were the Baylor Bears play their sporting events.   All public tours will start in the Bruiser’s Locker Room and you’ll go through seeing the Baylor Locker Room, Presidential Level, Press Box, Recruit Lounge, and Suite and Field Access.

What you’ll need to know: You can purchase public tour tickets directly on their website located here . When condicting a tour, it’s recommended that you wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

10. Visit Valley Mills Vineyards

Map It : 1686 FM1687, Valley Mills, TX 76689 |  Phone:  (254)-848-4343 |  Website  |  Hours:  Open Daily: 12 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Visit Valley Mills Vineyards if you want to taste wines made from 100% Texas-grown grapes. When you enjoy one of their wines, you are supporting Texas agriculture and a family-run business that is dedicated to delivering you a superior product. Their red wines are aged from 12-24 months in French and American oak barrels.

Their white wines are fermented and aged in stainless steel and released within 6-12 months of harvest. You’ll be able to visit their tasting room for bottles and glasses, but it is encouraged to make an appointment. Appointments are also encouraged for all tours and reserve tastings.

What you’ll need to know: After your tour, you are welcome to stay longer and use the $20 tasting towards a bottle. When conducting wine tastings, it’s always important to drink responsibly.

Related Read: 28 Romantic Getaways in Austin

11. Waco Hippodrome Theatre

Map It : 724 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-296-9000 |  Website  |  Hours:  Time and shows vary |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you want to see a show during your visit, grab the family and head on over to Waco’s Hippodrome Theatre. The Hippodrome is over 100 years old and newly renovated. It hosts a variety of entertainment like classic films, live music, concerts, plays for children, and more.

They have a cozy and intimate large-scale space that will accommodate almost any event. If you’re looking for the best venue to see your favorite show, this is it.

What you’ll need to know: You can visit their website and view their current events here . This theater is appropriate for people of all ages depending on the shows available.

12. Armstrong Browning Library and Museum

Map It : 710 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706 |  Phone:  (254)-710-3566 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Friday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Free

If you’re looking for a free and educational activity, you can head over to the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum. This museum is dedicated to the study of the lives and works of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett. It houses the world’s largest collection of Browning material and other rare 19th-century collections.

The Armstrong Browning Library prepares two or three exhibits a year that is drawn from its collection of letters, manuscripts, and books from the personal library. Some of their past exhibits include The Brownings in Our World, White Star Lines: Titanic Connections at the Armstrong Browning Library, and the King James Bible Exhibition.

What you’ll need to know: There is visitor parking available for this location. If the visitor parking is full, you’ll want to call ahead to see if there are any pay-to-park areas.

13. Texas Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Map It : 1108 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706 |  Phone:  (254)-756-1633 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Adults: $8, Seniors: $7, Students: $4, Children 5 & Under: Free

If you have a love for sports, The Texas Hall of Fame Museum is home to more than 400 Texas legends and was the idea of a sports editor at The Beaumont Enterprise. Located in Waco, the museum was opened in 1993 and is home to over 6,000 pieces of sports memorabilia. The Museum is the first hall of fame in the nation with memorabilia from each inductee that dates back to the first induction in 1951.

For educational purposes, interactive exhibits and educational curriculum / tours are available. You can browse the directory of inductees located here .

What you’ll need to know: If you are military and show valid identification, you can get in for free. When conducting a museum tour, it is always recommended to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

14. Waco Winery and Vineyards

Map It : 6826 E State Hwy 6, Waco, TX  |  Phone:  (254)-875-2375 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Thursday: 2 PM- 10 PM, Friday & Saturday: 2 PM-12 AM, Sunday: 3 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

This is a locally owned winery and tasting room that features Texas wine, local art, and local music. This is a great spot if you want to come and relax with a beautiful rooftop view of historical downtown of Waco. It is located just three blocks from sought-after Magnolia and other local shops and restaurants.

What you’ll need to know: People who visit normally stay for around 1-2 hours. The winery is also a great space for photo-worthy opportunities.

15. Visit the Waco Farmer’s Market

Map It: 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-307-1884 |  Website  |  Hours:  Saturday: 9 AM-1 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Come spend your Saturday morning at the Waco Farmer’s Market. The market is open every Saturday and features the best local agricultural producers and artisan vendors. When visiting their website, you can click their “What’s in Season” tab to find out what produce is available in the market for that month.

Over the years, the Market has increased their nutrition incentive programs and has added Double Up Food Bucks and WIC Farmer’s nutrition program. Each weekend, the market hosts up to 80 vendors.

What you’ll need to know: The market is open every Saturday unless it’s a major holiday. The market is also open whether its rain or shine.

16. Have a Drink at Bare Arms Brewing

Map It:   2515 LaSalle Ave, Waco, TX 76706 |  Phone:  (254)-759-8480 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Thursday: 12 PM-10 PM, Friday & Saturday 12 PM- 12 AM, Sunday: 12 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices vary

Bare Arms Brewery is Waco’s first craft brewery and has been voted number one by the locals every year. They offer seasonal specials and one-of-a-kind that can only be found in their specific taproom. While enjoying a pint, you can play different games during a night out with friends.

On Wednesday night, Bare Arms Brewing has trivia night. If you’re lucky to try one of their dishes, you’ll want to try the Smokey Chicken Salad with bacon and perfectly toasted sourdough. Beer, trivia, and great food, what could go wrong?

What you’ll need to know: Bare Arms Brewery also carries a food menu, with $1 tacos being their most popular event! If you visit their website, you can get a list of events for each day of the week.

17. Make a Splash at Hawaiian Falls

Map It:   900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 7670 8 |  Phone:  (254)-892-0222 |  Website  |  Hours:  Saturday & Sunday: 10:30 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $14.99

Hawaiian Falls is Waco’s most-desired waterpark for families. This waterpark spans over 10 acres  and is filled with exciting new rides and aquatic adventures. When it comes to fun in the sun, your family will have the time of their lives.

To explore everything this waterpark has to offer, you’ll want to come early. Some of their attractions include Kona Bay, Breaker Bay, Kona Kooler, Pineapple Express, and Tikitower Slides.

What you’ll need to know: Parking is free unless you opt for VIP parking, in which you’ll need to pay a small fee. When visiting the water park, remember to keep your belongings in a secure location.

18. Visit Brazos Bluffs Ranch

Map It:   7007 Gholson Rd, Waco, TX 76705 |  Phone:  (254)-722-9182 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 8 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Prices for activities will vary

Brazos Bluff will give you a unique experience during your visit at the point where the Balcones Fault and the Brazos River meet. You’ll get lost in wildlife and outdoor adventure while taking advantage of their proximity to downtown Waco. The Magnolias Silos, Cameron Park Zoo, and Waco Mammoth National Monument are very close.

During your visit, you’ll find that they offer horseback riding, lodging, wagon rides, and camping. Since 2011, guests have enjoyed the ranch that is operated by Lem and his wife.

What you’ll need to know: For $5, you can buy insurance just incase you need to cancel your trip. Cancellation insurance is recommended to have especially if you are booking as a large party.

19. Complete an Escape Room

Map It:   711 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-294-7550 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Thursday: 2 PM-8 PM, Friday: 12 PM-10 PM, Saturday: 11 AM-10:45 PM, Sunday: 2 PM-6:45 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $20

Grab your friends and check out the Waco Escape rooms that build a story or theme and will invite you to test your wits. You’ll be challenged using clues, puzzles, and maddening mysteries in the rooms. Each escape room is very unique and you never know what to expect.

These escape rooms want every player to experience satisfaction when it comes to different ideas so you’ll always find something new popping up. This is an activity all of your friends will love.

What you’ll need to know: Escape rooms normally last around sixty minutes and is recommended to play with four to six people. Make it a goal to see how many escape rooms you can complete!

20. Visit the Magnolia Market

Map It:   601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706  |  Phone:  (254)-235-0603 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you’re a fan of Fixer Upper, you’ll want to stop by the Magnolia Market in Waco. Chip and Joanna designed this gorgeous space to make welcoming for tourists all over the world. Each season in the market is ushered in with a new collection of products with an inspiring visual.

Whether you’re stopping by with family or friends, you’ll have to take a photo in front of the infamous Magnolia sign! This is the perfect opportunity to grab some gorgeous decor items for your home.

What you’ll need to know: The Magnolia Market is least busiest and more enjoyable on a Tuesday. This is a heavily-visited area so you’ll want to make sure you’re enjoying your visit.

21. Take a Trip to Brazos Valley Cheese

Map It:   206 Halbert Ln, Waco, TX 76705 |  Phone:  (254)-723-4777 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

The Brazos Valley Cheese store has many types of cheese, so if you’re cheese obsessed (like we are), you’ll want to head on over! Alongside the cheese that they make in-house, they also carry cheeses made by Brush Creek Creamery. In addition to cheese, they also carry items such as jelly, texas chocolates, hot sauce, local honey, and more.

I f you visit and would like to assemble your cheese boards, they carry handmade cheeseboards and wooden cheese knives made by local craftsmen. You can stop by their store to try a few samples and watch them make cheese and visit their underground cave.

What you’ll need to know: You can stop by almost any weekday between 10 AM and 3 PM to watch them make cheese. Once you’re finished watching the cheese-making process, you’ll want to purchase some for the road.

22. Go on a Waco Pedal Tour

Map It:   1526 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-307-8489 |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Saturday: 3 PM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $35

If you want to try a unique way of touring Waco, you’ll have to try out a Waco Pedal Tour. Tuesday through Saturday you can jump on any of their tours that run at 3 PM, 6 PM, and 9 PM. Tours are available as both public and private experiences and their biggest bike can fit up to 16 people.

If you’re looking for something more custom, you can reach out and check out their custom tours. Their daytime bar crawl tour is a great way to see the downtown corridor and enjoy favorite local treats, challenges, and landmarks along the way. They also have a happy hour and late-night bar crawl tour available.

What you’ll need to know: You’ll want to arrive fifteen minutes before your tour begins to sign a waiver. When doing the night bar crawl, remember to always drink responsibly.

23. Spend the Day at Waco Surf

Map It:   5347 Old Mexia Rd, Waco, TX 76705 |  Phone:  Not Available |  Website  |  Hours:  Tuesday-Friday: 12 PM-6 PM, Saturday-Monday: 11 AM-7 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $99

If you want to learn how to surf, Waco Surf offers beginner surfing lessons. The beginner lesson is slow, gentle, and great for beginners. The ways are small and are recommended for people just learning to surf, slower paddlers, and people who don’t know how to angle waves just quite yet.

The session has two wave options, gentle bubbling whitewash and a slow 1-2 foot wave that’s great for progressing and standing up. There is a maximum of 20 people per session and a soft top board rental is included in the price.

What you’ll need to know: You can pre-book your surf lesson right on their website. Before arriving for your lesson, make sure you have the proper surfing attire.

24. Get Something Sweet at Hey Sugar Candy

Map It:   324 S 6th Street, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-424-9010 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday: 11 AM-5 PM, Tuesday-Thursday: 11 AM-6 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-8 PM, Sunday: 11 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Have you been out and about exploring all day and have a sweet tooth? Grab the family and come check out the Hey Sugar candy store. They carry ice cream, candy, and even retro soda.

You can even choose to gift someone a sweet gift basket. You can customize your gift basket the way that you’d like or choose from one of their special creations.

What you’ll need to know: You’ll want to make sure you have the right address because they have 7 different locations.

25. Go on a Waco Adventure Tour

Map It:   215 S University Parks Dr Suite #104, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-300-8725 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday: 9 AM-7 PM, Tuesday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 1 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

The Waco Adventure Tours were rated the number four top overall experience in the United States by Trip Advisor. Their 2.5-hour tour will give you a little taste of everything in Waco. They’ll show you the highlights of Fixer Upper to downtown and share about Waco’s rich history.

The tour guides giving this tour are fun, will make you laugh, and are experts on Waco. They will show you where to eat, where to shop, and the best things to do to make the most of your time.

What you’ll need to know: The Waco Tours Mercantile welcomes tour guests to relax in their family room area. When completing a tour, it is recommended to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

26. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

Map It:   5701 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710 |  Phone:  (254)-845-8004 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Thursday: 4 PM-8 PM, Friday: 4 PM-9 PM, Saturday: 10 AM-9 PM, Sunday: 10 AM-7 PM |  Entrance:  $25.99

The Urban Air Trampoline Park is the ultimate indoor adventure park where kids of all ages can explore many attractions, challenge their bodies and mind, and have the time of their lives. They will provide you with a safe place to jump, soar, race, climb, and play. From challenging climbing walls for the experienced to indoor climbing challenges that offer fun.

They also have attractions where you can compete with friends and family like laser tag and virtual games. You can even join a game of dodgeball or challenge your friends to a slam dunk contest.

What you’ll need to know: If you purchase a membership, memberships are only valid for the park. Please make sure to keep all belongings in a secure location.

27. Waco Axe Company

Map It:   1526 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-300-6697 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday: Call for booking, Tuesday-Thursday: 5 PM-10 PM, Friday: 5 PM-12 AM, Saturday: 12 PM-12 AM, Sunday: 2 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Starting at $20

If you need to work on your practice, we recommend adding Axe throwing to your list of things to do. People will throw axes, one or two-handed toward a target. Based on if you land on a target you will be awarded points.

As long as you follow the safety rules, axe throwing is completely safe. Their coaches and staff are trained to keep you as safe as possible through your experience as well as make sure you have a great time. During your visit, you will need to wear close-toed shoes to participate.

What you’ll need to know: Coaches are with you the entire time to make sure you are having a fun and safe experience. When axe throwing, it’s important to wear closed-toe shoes.

28. Rent a Jet Ski at Waco Lake Rentals

Map It:  4600 Skeet Eason Rd, Waco, TX 76708  |  Phone:  (254)-242-2243 |  Website  |  Hours:  Saturday & Sunday: 8 AM-7 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you’re wanting to spend a day on the water, you can head over to Waco Lake Rentals and rent a jet ski. Waco Lake Rentals strives to give everyone an affordable chance to have a safe and fun time on the lake around the area. Waco Lake Rentals also rent out pontoon boats that can seat up to 10 people.

The pontoon boats are equipped for towing tubes, cruising around, or just floating. When you go out on the water, you’ll have a great time, and they’ll take care of the rest.

What you’ll need to know: You must be twenty-three years or older to reserve a pontoon boat. A $500 fee is also required.

29. See a Movie at Regal Jewel Stadium 16

Map It: 7200 Woodway Dr, Woodway, TX 76712  |  Phone:  (844)-464-7342 |  Website  |  Hours:  Movie times vary |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

Regal Jewel Stadium 16 is Waco’s go-to movie theater. If on your trip you’re experiencing rainy weather, this is the perfect place to be. This is a theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating, and a concession stand.

What you’ll need to know: This movie theater is wheelchair-accessible. Please check the theater’s website to view available showings.

30. Putters Mini Golf

Map It: 320 S 2nd St, Waco, TX 76701  |  Phone:  (844)-464-7342 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Friday: 4 PM-2 AM, Saturday & Sunday: 12 PM-2 AM |  Entrance:  Ages 12 and over: $7, Ages 12 and under: $5

Putters are Waco’s first mini golf and arcade sports bar that is perfect for all ages. This is a kid-friendly establishment until 8 PM, then after that, you must be 21 or over to enter. During the day, they have mini golf and arcades, with the arcade games starting at 25 cents.

What you’ll need to know: If you visit their website, you can read up on their different deals going on Monday thru Friday. If mini golfing with small children, there is no such thing as losing!

31. Explore the Downtown Cultural District

Map It: 712 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701   |  Phone:  (254)-300-8677 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday-Friday: 8 AM-5 PM |  Entrance:  Free

Waco’s Downtown Cultural District that will want to be explored during your visit. Creative Waco is a non-profit organization that has a mission to grow and support a thriving cultural and creative community. Waco’s cultural life is enriched by its museums, zoo, Brazos free concerts, theater, art and film festivals, and so much more.

The downtown cultural district also hosts the Waco Chalk Fest to enjoy chalk murals that are made by 59 local artists and feature 150 vendors. Depending on the current events, people of all ages may enjoy the downtown cultural district.

What you’ll need to know: You can become a Creative Waco donor by donating  here . The Downtown Cultural District is best visited during the summertime.

32. Waco River Cruise

Map It: 215 S University Parks Dr Suite #104, Waco, TX 76701    |  Phone:  (254)-300-8725 |  Website  |  Hours:  Monday: 9 AM-7 PM, Tuesday-Saturday: 9 AM-5 PM, Sunday: 1 PM-6 PM |  Entrance:  $79

Grab your friends and family and find another way to explore Waco by scheduling a Waco River Cruise Tour. This is the number one ranked the best tour in North America. You can sit back and relax on their peaceful and informative cruise along the Brazos River. This will be one of the most memorable times during your visit to Waco.

This river cruise tour will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. Your captain and guide will welcome you, entertain you, and share intriguing stories about the river. You will see the gorgeous landscape, wildlife, and iconic sites of Waco.

What you’ll need to know: There is a 4-person minimum required for their tours to take place. In the event of slight inclement weather, it’s recommended to have a poncho.

33. Go on a Waco Ghost Tour

Map It: 320 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76701  |  Phone:  (254)-870-1412 |  Website  |  Hours:  Thursday-Saturday: 6 PM & 8 PM |  Entrance:  $30

If you’re a night owl, you’ll want to check out Waco’s Haunted Ghost Tour. Waco offers two different ghost tours that are The Haunts and Legends Mobile Tour of Waco and The Downtown Waco Haunted Walking Tour. The tours are not the same and you will hear about various haunts and legends and even might experience some yourself.

Whether you’re a believer, skeptic, or somewhere in between, these tours are intriguing, interesting, and very spooky. Your tour guide will lead a protective meditation at the beginning of the tour as well as offer sage energy cleansing at the end.

What you’ll need to know: You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking around outside in dark and wet elements. Stay close to your group and tour guide at all times.

34. Go Horseback Riding

Map It:   1256 Armadillo Dr, Waco, TX 76712 |  Phone:  (254)-265-1496 |  Website  | Hours:  Open Daily: 8 AM-8 PM |  Entrance:  $60 per hour

Add horseback riding to your list of things to do that may be out of the ordinary for a trip to Waco. LA Ranch Performance Show Horses offers horse boarding, horse training, horseback riding lessons, and more. They offer the top performance horses and offer Horse and Rider the opportunity to perform and show.

All ages are welcome here and your family will truly love the barn. The horseback riding teachers are very knowledgeable and visitors have left great reviews.

What you’ll need to know: If you plan on horseback riding, make sure you wear appropriate shoes. As any activity, you will need to sign a riding waiver.

35. Go on a Guided Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour

Map It:   One AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011 |  Phone:  (817)-892-4000 |  Website  | Hours:  Tour times vary |  Entrance:  $35

The things you can do inside AT&T Stadium are endless, that includes being set up on an amazing stadium tour. These stadium tours appeal to people of all ages and interests and are available daily. During your tour, you can take an afternoon to throw the ball on the field and admire different works of art.

Guided tours are the ultimate stadium experience. Your tour will begin at the Main Club area and includes the private suite, print media press box, the Dr. Pepper star bar, and the Ford Motor Company Fountain. After you’ve seen these areas, your guide will take you down to the event level where you’ll see the stops on the self-guided tour.

What you’ll need to know: If you plan to book a group tour, you must book at least one week in advance. As always, when participating in a tour, you’ll want to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

36. Whiskey Tasting at Balcones Brewery

Map It:   225 S 11th Street, Waco, TX 76701 |  Phone:  (254)-775-6003 |  Website  | Hours:  Tuesday-Saturday: 12 PM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you love distilleries, you can stop by Balcone’s Brewery for a whiskey tasting and distillery tour. If you opt for the tour, they will walk you through their distillation process that creates world-class whiskeys in the heart of downtown Waco. You’ll start at their grain silos and finish with a sampling of their whiskey, learning what makes Balcones unique.

It’s worth noting that the distillery can’t accommodate infants or children on their tours. All guests must be 19 to join a tour and 21 to taste their spirits.

What you’ll need to know: Balcones tours and whiskey tastings fill up fast, so you’ll want to book your spot immediately. For whiskey tastings, you must show valid identification.

37. Shop at The Findery

Map It:   501 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706  |  Phone:  (254)-235-1777 |  Website  | Hours:  Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-6 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you’re wanting to do some shopping in the Waco area, you’ll want to stop by The Findery. The Findery has a collection of fine home furnishings, home decor, boutique items, and in-house craft beer and wine bar. You’ll find everything that you’re looking for all in one place.

They are a unique and inspiring combination of antique, modern, and found. Their boutique is uniquely stocked and they promise you’ll leave inspired. From uncommon finds to pieces for your closet, The Findery will easily become your favorite place.

What you’ll need to know: If you order online, you can get free shipping for orders over $75.

38. Eat at Milo Restaurant

Map It:   1020 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76702 |  Phone:  (254)-235-1243 |  Website  | Hours: See website as hours vary |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

If you’re looking for a place to eat with delicious beverages and food, you’ll want to stop by Milo’s Restaurant. The Milo Restaurant delivers southern food that is scratch-made using the best, Texas-sourced ingredients of the season. They blend traditional recipes with bold and inspiring flavors. Their menu is also crafted to satisfy those who crave the taste of home or adventure.

If you’re wondering if this restaurant allows dogs, you’re in luck. Yes, they do allow dogs within their patio seating area. However, you must follow the restaurant rules when bringing your pup to the table.

What you’ll need to know: The Milo Restaurant sources seasonally from different farmers, so their prices are subject to change. If you aren’t a fan of their dog policy, there is indoor seating available.

39. Visit Milk Bottle Cookies

Map It:   218 S 11th St, Waco, TX 76701  |  Phone:  (801)-921-0312 |  Website  | Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-9 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

There’s nothing like exploring a new town and finding a yummy spot that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Milk Bottle Cookies began through love for sweets and a grandpa. He stored crystal candy dishes that were filled with chocolates throughout his house. The owners became inspired by this family story to open up their shop.

Milk Bottle cookies have a wide range of cookies with different flavors. You’ll find flavors like chocolate chip, Cookies n cream, rice crispy treat, and a Cinnamon Toast Crunch sandwich. You can also purchase cookie bundles and beverages.

What you’ll need to know: If you want to place a bulk order of cookies, you must give at least twenty-four hours notice. Milk Bottle cookies is the perfect bakery if you want something sweet for a birthday party or larger event!

40. Midway Park RV Campgrounds

Map It:   2330 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76710 |  Phone:  (254)-756-5359 |  Website  | Hours: Open Daily: 6 AM-10 PM |  Entrance:  Prices Vary

One of the best ways you can spend summertime in Waco is at the RV Campgrounds. Lake Waco has RV, tent, and group camping facilities, and camping is only permitted in designated areas only. Midway park has 37 campsites and is open all year round.

32 sites that have water and electric hookups, and 11 that have sewer hookups.  The campground also has 5 tent sites, with other parks that include hot showers, an accessible playground, and a boat ramp.

What you’ll need to know: You can use their boat launching ramp and pay a fee of just $5 per day. As always, when visiting a campground and RV park, it’s important to be considerate of your neighbors.

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Top Things to Do in Waco, TX

Places to visit in waco, explore popular experiences, ways to tour waco.

Fixer Upper Tour + City Tour

Top Waco Fixer Upper/City Tour: 5 Star, Award Winning, Affordable

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• Waco Mammoth National Monument
• Waco Suspension Bridge
• Cameron Park Zoo
• Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
• Cameron Park
• Brazos Park East
• Cottonbelt Trail
• Midway Park RV Campground, U.S. Corps of Engineers
• McLane Stadium
• Brazos Tours

15 Top-Rated Things to Do in Waco, TX

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Waco, Texas, in the central part of the Lone Star State, is a small town compared to its northern and southern neighbors of Dallas and Austin , but it has great attractions and things to do and some quirky stops that make a visit here fun and memorable.

The Brazos River , which runs through town, makes a nice view both morning and night, especially from the iconic suspension bridge that was built in 1870, flanked by the famous "Branding the Brazos" sculptures.

The Baylor University campus is a central part of the city, as evidenced by its large footprint in Waco and by the number of buildings, attractions, research facilities, and sporting venues that are here to enjoy.

It is easy to spot one of the top visitor experiences, Magnolia Market at the Silos, from almost anywhere downtown. Waco also has impressive sports, science, and historical attractions, like the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and Museum . The more whimsical side of Waco appears at places like the Dr. Pepper Museum, where you can experience everything related to the iconic American soft drink brand.

With the Brazos River and Lake Waco in close proximity, you can enjoy outdoor recreation on the water, or birding at the nearby Lake Waco Wetlands. A Waco Adventure Pass can save you money on admission to six of the major attractions.

Start planning your Waco itinerary by reviewing our list of the top things to do in Waco, Texas.

1. Shop in Magnolia Market at the Silos

2. dr. pepper museum, 3. waco mammoth national monument, 4. waco suspension bridge and branding the brazos sculpture, 5. texas ranger hall of fame and museum, 6. cameron park zoo, 7. river cruise on the brazos river, 8. birding at the lake waco wetlands, 9. mayborn museum, 10. cameron park, 11. texas sports hall of fame, 12. branch davidian memorial, 13. waco downtown farmers market, 14. outdoor recreation at lake waco, 15. baylor university, where to stay for sightseeing in waco, tx, waco, tx - climate chart.

The Magnolia Market at the Silos is one of the highlights of Waco. The complex is owned by the television celebrities Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV's Fixer Upper TV series. The complex is easy to spot from anywhere in town by the two 120-foot-tall historic grain silos that stand above many of the local buildings.

The Magnolia Market complex is an upscale outdoor venue, sectioned into areas that feature small shops in a village-style atmosphere, outdoor sitting space, a bakery, a home store inside a renovated grain building, and green space for family activities.

The historic area was the site of the Brazos Valley Cotton Oil Company in the 1950s. The area around the market is being renovated, and the site itself is a destination, where you can plan a day shopping, grab a coffee, or just sit in the outdoor pavilion next to the fireplace in comfortable patio chairs.

There are spaces for visiting families to entertain the kids, like a small softball field and cornhole games. Food trucks and picnic tables are located throughout the complex, so it is easy to stay for a while and grab a bite to eat.

Address: 601 Webster Avenue, Waco, Texas

You might find yourself singing the old Dr. Pepper jingle " I'm a Pepper, You're a Pepper..." as you walk through the nostalgic Dr. Pepper Museum in downtown Waco. The outside of the building is as interesting as the inside. Walk the grounds before to see Dr. Pepper murals and an original 20,000-pound concrete advertising sign that was painted in 1940 then salvaged and moved to the museum.

Also outside is an original 1940s Dr. Pepper delivery truck and one of the only remaining neon signs from a Dallas production plant. The Dr. Pepper Museum has three floors of memorabilia, collections, and exhibits covering the historical milestones of the famous soft drink. The soft drink was discovered in Waco by a pharmacist at the Old Corner Drugstore on 4 th Street in Waco in 1885, and it still has an important presence in the city today. You will find many unique novelty items in the gift shop, from Dr. Pepper flavored Jellybeans to retro T-shirts.

Address: 300 South 5th Street, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://drpeppermuseum.com/

Long before the city of Waco became a thriving Texas town, it was a prominent landscape for Columbian mammoths during the Ice Age. The relics and fossils discovered in the region make the Waco Mammoth National Monument an exciting place to visit.

The National Park Service site has two main buildings that showcase information and artifacts that have been uncovered during archaeological digs. Since it is a working paleontological site, you can see the bones of mammoths from a suspended view into a dig site in one of the climate-controlled buildings.

You can also see bones from other animals that were either discovered in the area or that were known to inhabit the region during the Ice Age. These include animals like saber-toothed cats, ground sloths, and even camels that once roamed North America.

The first discovery of this archaeological site happened as two men stumbled on a bone by the Bosque River in 1978. Since then, efforts have been underway to unearth and preserve one of the largest concentrations of mammoths discovered from the Pleistocene Epoch . There are several walking trails around the site that offer short walks, with the longest being the half-mile Eagle Trail. A kid-friendly dig site is available for younger visitors to experience what it is like to unearth their own fossils.

Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Road, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/waco/index.htm

A photo-worthy stop in the heart of Waco is at the iconic Suspension Bridge and the Branding the Brazos sculptures. The bridge itself was built in 1870 and is one of the most recognizable symbols of Waco. At the time of its construction, it was the longest single-span suspension bridge that existed west of the Mississippi.

Waco's suspension bridge is remarkable to see, not just for its architecture, but also for the "Branding the Brazos" sculptures that surround the entrance to it. The towering sculptures include three cowboys and 25 cattle in an artistic and life-sized cattle drive.

Two parks surround the suspension bridge: Indian Spring Park to the west and Martin Luther King Jr. Park to the east. The parks connect to the Waco Riverwalk along the Brazos River, which enables a view of the suspension bridge from below. The Riverwalk winds along both banks of the river.

Address: 101 N University Parks Dr Doris Miller Park, Waco, Texas

Many people have heard of the Texas Rangers but do not know their history or significance to law enforcement in America. As one of the oldest law enforcement arms in the country, the famed Texas Rangers have served the public for nearly 200 years. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum pays tribute to some of the most notable rangers, and offers an educational visit through several centuries of their service.

During your visit to the museum, walk the Hall of Fame to see inductees, and browse some of the collections related to the Texas Rangers that are on display. The center has many related exhibits that showcase more than 20,000 artifacts, including photographs, artwork, and artillery.

A fun experience for kids is a program that enables them to become Junior Texas Rangers and become a permanent part of legendary Texas history.

Address: 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://www.texasranger.org/

The Cameron Park Zoo is one of the Waco highlights, especially for families. It is a natural habitat zoo, meaning that the animal enclosures are designed with natural elements to mimic the native habitats. The zoo is located in Cameron Park, so it is easy to make a full day of your visit. Plan a half day at the zoo then the rest of the day visiting the recreation areas just outside the zoo grounds.

The 52-acre zoo features more than 300 species of animals. Listen closely as you enter the park, and see if you can identify the white-handed gibbons calling out from Gibbon Island. The African Savanna, with giraffes, white rhinos, elephants, and other animals, is a popular place to visit in the zoo. Get in the best position for a photo from the Treetops Deck, where you will feel like you are on an African safari.

Be sure to stop by the Brazos River Country area in the zoo to see the 50,000-gallon aquarium and learn about the wild animals that live in and around the river. Cameron Park Zoo has many more sections to explore with animals from North and South America and Asia.

Address: 1701 North 4th Street, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://www.cameronparkzoo.com/

Since the Brazos River is such a centerpiece of Waco, it makes sense to plan a river cruise along the waterway as a relaxed way to learn more about the history of the area and the importance of the river to the city.

The Waco-Tours Brazos River Cruise is a two-hour boat trip down the river. You will see local wildlife, like native birds, and experience some of the iconic Waco landmarks from a different perspective. During the day, see the beautiful topography along the Brazos River that makes the area unique, like cliff sides and lush forests.

An evening boat tour gives you the best of the sights illuminated, like the suspension bridge. The river cruise is a seasonal tour, so it does not run in the winter. Official site: https://www.waco-tours.com/

One of the most spectacular and free outdoor experiences, especially for birding in Waco, is at the Lake Waco Wetlands Research Center. The small research facility is a tucked-away paradise that sits on the Central Texas Flyway , so it is a natural stopping point for many species of migrating birds. More than 186 bird species have been identified in the area, including great egrets and the American coon. The manmade wetlands are not associated with Lake Waco, but its name is derived from the effort to replenish wetlands after Lake Waco water levels were raised in 2005. That project destroyed the natural wetlands that existed, so an effort was put in place to relocate, restore, and re-home the wildlife that relied on it.

Water for the wetlands comes from the North Bosque River. The wetlands cover 180 acres, with the rest of the 300-acre site being forest and tree farms.

The Lake Waco Wetlands has information on local plant and animal species, and details about the water research that is done at the facility. You can walk the three-mile loop trail through the wetlands to see wildlife and plant life.

Anglers can fish in the wetlands, as it is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. Address: 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Road, Waco, Texas

Official site: www.lakewacowetlands.com

The Mayborn Museum on the Baylor University campus is a great place to visit with kids. The natural history museum has many hands-on exhibits that focus on Central Texas, and cover elements like archaeology, geology, and paleontology.

The museum inspires discovery, much like those made that are on display in the engaging exhibits, like the large dioramas throughout the facility. What makes this facility fun to explore is that each of the 16 discovery rooms has a theme, shared through interactive exhibits like walking next to a dinosaur.

One of the best features of the museum is the Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village on the banks of the Brazos River. There are several buildings in the historic village designed to bring to life what this community was like in the 1890s.

Address: One Bear Place #97154, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://www.baylor.edu/mayborn/

There's no doubt you will spend time in Cameron Park while in Waco, as it encompasses a significant amount of the city. The urban park is 416 acres and is one of the biggest municipal parks in the state. Cameron Park has a nice layout and ample signage, so it is easy to navigate.

You can access the Waco Riverwalk alongside the Brazos River, which has seven miles of multi-use paths. Cameron Park has an abundance of outdoor recreation, from hiking and fishing to frisbee disc golf. There are many playgrounds for children, designated fitness areas, and paddling areas on the river.

While enjoying the walk along the river take a close look at the various animal sculptures on display as part of the Waco Sculpture Zoo. The 28 animal sculptures were designed by various artists from around the United States. For a spectacular overlook, go to the Lover's Leap section of the park, where you will get the vantage point from the high cliffs over the Brazos River. It is a nice drive through the park if you just want to sightsee, as the winding roads meander through many different areas, including the Cameron Park Zoo.

Anyone who is a sports fanatic will want to plan a stop at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. With more than 6,000 items of sports memorabilia, it was the first such Hall of Fame dedicated to sports in the United States.

The Hall of Fame section honors more than 300 notable sports figures, from baseball legend Tris Speaker, the first inductee, to K.S. "Bud" Adams Jr., the founder of the Tennessee Titans. The museum is nicely laid out into several galleries that you can pick and choose to visit depending on your interests.

The Southwest Conference Gallery and the Cotton Bowl exhibit are some of the most spectacular sections. They are laid out like a football field, with multiple rows of exhibits. There are also galleries in the museum dedicated to Texas tennis and Texas high school sports.

Address: 1108 S. University Parks Drive, Waco, Texas

Official site: https://www.tshof.org/

Your visit to Waco would not be complete without a visit to the Branch Davidian Memorial site located just outside of downtown. The site is privately owned and was the location of the deadly Waco siege in 1993 at the Branch Davidian compound, where 82 people died.

Though this was a somber event in American history, it is an important event that many people who remember the siege can put into context with a visit to the site where the compound once stood.

While there is little left on the grounds, the memorial just beyond the front gate gives insight into the vast number of casualties, including the many women and children who were followers of Branch Davidian leader David Koresh. A few people still live on the compound, but it is mostly a quiet place of reflection of the tragic events that unfolded on that site.

A rebuilt church sits on the back of the property alongside a few remnants, like an abandoned swimming pool. There are small markers and memorials discretely located off the sides of the dirt road, pointing out some of the debris that you can still see in the dirt. You are not likely to see many people while you are here, except for another occasional visitor.

The gates to the complex are open during certain hours, and there is a request for a $5 donation. The site is quiet and inspires contemplation. It is a profound and powerful place to visit. Doing some research on the siege events before you go will make your visit even more worthwhile.

Address: 1781 Double EE Ranch Road, Waco, Texas

If your stay in Waco includes a Saturday morning, be sure to head down near the courthouse for the Waco Downtown Farmers Market. The lively market is a tradition, with local vendors set up outside selling everything from meats and cheese to jams, fresh produce, and specialty products.

Stroll the grounds to see the nearly 80 vendors that are set up each week. The market is able to operate year-round because produce can be grown in Texas throughout the year, as opposed to many states where farmers markets can only run from May to October.

The market vendors are all local artisan and agricultural merchants who come here from within 150 miles of Waco. Address: 500 Washington Ave., Waco, Texas

Official site: https://wacodowntownfarmersmarket.org/

Lake Waco is a great place to plan a day of water sports and outdoor recreation. The man-made reservoir is located on the western border of Waco. The lake is popular for bird-watching, kayaking, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and hiking. There are sandy beaches at Twin Bridges Beach and Airport Beach.

The Lake Waco Marina has paddleboards and inflatable kayaks available to rent. The lake is a great place to walk and look for local wildlife, or to stop for a picnic in one of the shelters. There are a number of camping sites available at Lake Waco if you want to make a weekend out of it.

Baylor University makes up a large portion of the city of Waco, and its campus holds some fantastic things to do while you are in the city. It is a private research facility and the oldest continuously operating university in the state.

The university campus is beautiful for a walk. One of the best ways to see it, and learn about the buildings and Baylor University's history, is with a downloadable Walking Audio Tour app. If you search for Baylor University Guidebook and look for "Walking Tour," you can download a map to explore at your own pace.

Another highlight on Baylor's campus is the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum. It is a 19th-century research facility dedicated specifically to the history and study of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The library is free to visit, and you can see rare collections of materials, from artwork to manuscripts, related to the poets.

Baylor University has many buildings and events that are available to the public, offering some nice additions to your visit.

Official site: https://www.baylor.edu/

The downtown area is walkable, with many shops and restaurants all within a few blocks. If you stay at a hotel in the downtown area, you can walk to many of the top tourist attractions and have the best views of the river. You can find budget hotels just outside of downtown. Here are some suggestions:

Mid-Range Hotels

• The Hilton Waco is centrally located by the convention center, with great views of the suspension bridge and Brazos River.
• For families or business travelers, Home2 Suites is a downtown hotel that has suites, a pool, and free breakfast.
• Hotel Indigo Waco - Baylor is a modern and pet-friendly hotel, with a pool, that is close to several restaurants and attractions.

Budget Hotels

• The Super 8 by Wyndham Waco University Area , located near Baylor University, is a budget hotel that is pet friendly and comes with free breakfast.
• The Comfort Suites Waco North is an all-suite hotel, located near several restaurants, with a pool and free breakfast.
• The Red Roof Inn Waco is another budget and pet-friendly option, located within walking distance of Baylor University and within a mile of downtown.

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39+ Memorable Things to Do in Waco, Texas (must-see!)

Farmhouse shopping. Old school antiqueing. Friendly service in the heart of Texas.

Waco, Texas, is not just the home of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ real estate empire, though they have contributed to the city in meaningful ways with their renovations and the famous “Magnolia Silos” complex featuring shopping, eateries, and family hang-out space.

No, Waco is way more than that, a place in central Texas that has everything from incredible boutique shopping to the best sweet tea around to residents who will make you feel like you’ve been friends for years.

Waco also has some of the best restaurants Texas has to offer and considered one of the best places to live in Texas!

In this guide on the best things to do in Waco, we’ll cover everything from the kid-friendly things to do to the outdoorsy adventures to the best Waco history.

These Waco attractions are all must-dos, though you probably won’t have time for them all in one weekend, so come back again if you don’t have more time, or extend your trip to stay for a full week of Waco fun.

This is what to do in Waco, brought to you by people who love the charm and love for Texas that can be found around every corner here.

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How to get around Waco

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Waco is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

Where to stay in Waco

From renovated VRBOS to boutique hotels, here are the best places to stay in Waco on every budget!

• ($) Comfort Suites Waco North – this comfy hotel will put you right next to Baylor University, with amenities including free WiFi, and indoor pool, and a free hot breakfast. Pets are allowed if you’ve got Fido with you, and because they’re suites, you can fit a family of 4-6 more comfortably than a hotel. Click here to check prices and read reviews.
• ($$) Aloft Waco – this mid-range hotel is super funky, has the perfect vibe for couples, teens, and college students, and the beds are some of the best you’ll ever sleep in. Unwind at the bar when you get back from your day of sightseeing or sit by the outdoor fireplace in the cooler months. Click here to check prices and read reviews.
• ($$$) Pivovar Hotel – with a four-star rating and a location right next to Magnolia Market, this boutique downtown Waco hotel is perfect for a girl’s getaway or special trip. Relax in the handcrafted furniture or spend your time in the hotel restaurant for food that’s out-of-this-world. Click here to check prices and read review.
• Vacation homes

1. Shop at the Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market

Want something fun to do in Waco on a Saturday morning?

Head to the Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market, which has been going for over 11 years!

Here, you’ll find food trucks, local vendors selling crafts, fresh produce, plants, and more.

You’ll find it at South University Parks Drive, and it really brings out the community each and every Saturday to hang around, support local businesses and get to know each other in the Texas sun.

It also runs on a Tuesday afternoon seasonally in case you want to come back for more!

Don’t forget your walking shoes and your reusable bag to bring home all of your goodies!

2. Visit the Waco Suspension Bridge

Built in 1870, the Waco Suspension Bridge is a true site to behold, and you don’t even have to worry about cars as it’s only open to foot traffic.

Spend your time meandering across and learn a little bit about its history!

As you walk across, you’ll cross the Brazos River, which used to be a much more dangerous affair as it had to be done by ferry instead of bridge.

While it wasn’t easy to build the bridge, thanks to the nearest resources being hundreds of miles away, it was eventually completed and was actually the first major suspension bridge in Texas.

It’s been foot-traffic only since 1971, almost 100 years after it was built, and there are newer bridges today that keep the city moving.

However, it still stands as a tribute to the first bridge that really put Waco on the map and let it flourish the way it did.

3. Explore the Fort House Museum

The Fort House was one of the most historic homes in Waco, built by a man named William Fort who moved to the town from Alabama.

It stands out for its style – Greek Revival – and you’ll notice that there are columns out front, as well as cypress shutters.

It’s been passed through different hands over the year and had different additions and changes, but it was put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970!

For years, it was a museum for Waco visitors to learn about the Fort family and the history of Waco, but it has now been purchased by Chip and Joanna Gaines!

4. Cool down at Hawaiian Falls Waco

In the hot summer months in Waco, there’s nothing better than a water park.

Kids love them, parents love them, and Hawaiian Falls loves visitors to its 10 acres of water attractions.

It’s one of the best water parks in Texas and you can pack so much fun into a single day.

Want some thrills?

Stare down at the 65-foot slides, Monsoon and Typhoon, and then hold your breath as you plunge your way down.

If you want to race family and friends, grab a mat and head to the Pineapple Express.

Little toddlers can hang out in Keiki Kove which has a child-friendly lazy river and some slides perfect for their age group, and the whole family can finish the day with a relaxing journey around the Kona Kooler river.

Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen!

5. Discover the The Texas Collection

If you’re a history buff, the first place you should visit in Waco is the Texas Collection.

This is an incredibly collection of documents important to Texas history, and you’ll find it at the special collections library at Baylor University.

6. Relax at the Waco Winery Tasting Room

Waco isn’t just a place for sightseeing, but also a hub of wineries, restaurants, and bars to hang out and relax.

One of the best for wine lovers is the Waco Winery Tasting Room.

Here, you’ll find some incredible local wines, as well as a tasting room with a rooftop patio (yes please to those views!).

Enjoy the sun or the nighttime breeze and let the friendly staff help you find new wines to love.

There’s also regular live music, as well as easy-to-book birthday party and celebration events if you want to rent out the space to really take the time to celebrate with friends and family.

7. Uncover the Waco Mammoth National Monument

If you want to get deep in the heart of Waco history, you need to head to the Waco Mammoth National Monument.

The history here goes allllll the way back to 67,000 years ago, when it’s likely that a flood took out a herd of mammoths near the river.

These fossils were discovered in 1978 by two men named Paul Barron and Eddie Bufkin who were actually looking for other fossils.

Baylor University helped to uncover and classify the fossils, and today they have been kept as part of the paleontological site.

The mammoth site can be visited 7 days a week, but is only accessible by guided tour as obviously these fossils are incredibly important and need to be preserved and displayed appropriately.

There’s a picnic area if you want to eat some lunch before or after your tour, and this is a fun thing to do in Waco with kids!

8. Experience the Historic Waco Foundation

A group of volunteers established the Historic Waco Foundation in 1967 and help to teach future generations about the history of the area through their guided tours of different historic homes.

Among these are the McCulloch House, the Earle-Napier-Kinnard House and the East Terrace House.

They’ve taken great care to preserve original furniture and objects and to use these homes as teaching tools while maintaining their history.

9. Browse through Spice Village

If you want a shopping experience like no other, head to Spice Village in Downtown Waco!

It’s not far from Magnolia Market and it’s a treasure trove of boutique shops with everything from T-shirts to cat toys to home decor on sale.

It’s colorful, funky, perfect for finding gifts, and has a ton of Texas-themed products as well.

This is the kind of place you go to browse and then come out with 8 things you didn’t know you needed, which we’re all for.

10. Visit the McCulloch House Museum

As mentioned previously, the McCulloch House Museum is owned by the Historic Waco Foundation and acts as a glimpse into Waco’s past.

The house’s origins date back to 1866, when it was owned by a man named Josiah Caldwell who was a Waco physician.

There, he lived with his wife and five children, and today, the house is kept in as authentic a condition as possible to show what it would have been like to be part of Waco’s social scene back then.

Family artifacts and heirlooms are placed around the house, and you can see it all by guided tour.

11. Head to Richland Mall

Richland Mall is one of the best malls in the area, featuring all of the classic mall stores like Claire’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

It’s got your standard Auntie Anne’s and food court and air-conditioning, which means it’s the perfect place to walk around and kill some time or to spend hours as a teen, feeling that “freedom” without parents!

12. Spread out in Cameron Park

One of the best things to do in Waco outdoors is to go to Cameron Park!

If you’re thinking of a small local park, then think again, as it’s one of the biggest parks in Texas.

Walk along the trail systems, weaving in and out of the landscapes, or take the kids to the playground and splashpads for an afternoon of fun.

There are also natural scenery like cliffs, two flowing rivers, and lots of trees dotted about (pro tip: sit under one of them for some shade while you eat a picnic!)

It’s also home to the zoo!

For one of the best views of Waco, head to Circle Point within the park.

To get your steps in (but really), walk the staircase called Jacob’s Ladder that has 100 steps to the stop.

There’s 400 acres to explore, so get your sunscreen and walking shoes on and let’s get going.

13. Marvel at the Armstrong Browning Library

Literature lovers, listen up.

The Armstrong Browning Library is the go-to place in Waco if you’re familiar with famous names in literature, as it houses the world’s largest collection of Browning material.

“Browning,” of course, refers to the last names of Victorian poets Roberet and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

Wander through the collections of rare art pieces, and marvel at the beauty of the beautiful itself with an Italian renaissance style.

It’s totally free (yay!) and the museum is open from Monday to Saturday.

14. Go Antiquing around Waco

If you love antiquing, then there’s no doubt you’ll love Waco.

There are incredibly popular antique stores including Laverty’s Antiques Furnishings, Savage Finds Antiques & Oddities on 6th Street, and LaSalle Shoppes on La Salle Avenue, but you can also find others throughout the city.

See if you can find the perfect antique for your home or office, or just keep your wallet stashed away and browse all of the historic goods.

It’s also a great way to see the city as you go antique store to antique store!

15. Meet friends at Cricket’s Waco

There’s nothing better than meeting friends and family at Cricket’s Draft House and Grill.

Relax with games like shuffleboard, challenge each other to the pool tables, or just sit back and talk while digging into fantastic pub style food, burgers, fries, and more.

The dinner menu is expansive if you’re there in the evening hours, and there’s also a late night menu if you’re just there for some drinks and a couple of snacks before calling it a night.

Locals love it, visitors love it, and you can really embrace the fun vibes and good eats here.

16. Chow down at Bubba’s 33

Every city has the “wing and beer place” and Bubba’s 33 is that for Waco.

You’ll feel like a true Texan as you chow down on the amazing wings, burgers, beer, and taste test other options like chicken nachos and shrimp.

They’ve got plenty of places to watch whatever game is on, and sports fans flock here during important games and matches to experience the friendly vibe and cheer their team on.

If you’ve got kids, there’s a menu for them as well to suit their taste, and families are more than welcome.

17. See a show at the Waco Hippodrome

Check the schedule at the Waco Hippodrome before your visit to see if there are any shows on during your stay.

It has a live event space, as well as a movie screen, and you’ll find everything from music nights to film festivals here throughout the year.

Dig into Waco’s cultural venues with a visit to the Hippodrome.

18. Celebrate at La Fiesta Restaurant & Cantina

Texas and “Tex Mex” go together, like, well, they just do.

The best place for incredible Tex Mex in Waco is La Fiesta Restaurant & Cantina.

You’ve got the works, from enchiladas to burritos to nachos to out-of-this-world guacamole, but you’ve also got a fun vibe and live music.

The recipes are family-created, incredibly delicious, and served up by super friendly staff.

They serve both lunch and dinner and make sure you have a designated driver because the margaritas are some of the best around.

19. Book a ticket to the Waco Civic Theatre

If you’re wanting to see a Broadway musical or large scale production while in Waco, it’s best to check out the Waco Civic Theatre.

This theatre is one of the best-designed in the entire US (seriously, it won an award for it!) and it has humble beginnings in the 1920s when it started as the Waco Little Theatre.

This is really the place that visiting productions visit, and they’ve hosted everything from Steel Magnolias to Newsies to the Wizard of Oz over the years.

20. Learn about soda at the Dr. Pepper Museum

Yes, it’s true, Dr. Pepper has its roots in Waco!

If you’re soda fans, you’ll adore this museum which tells you all about the history of the soft drink, dating back to the building that was a bottling factory for Dr. Pepper back in the day.

You’ll learn about Dr. Pepper itself, as well as where it fits into the landscape of American soda history (seriously, it’s a thing!).

Check out the historic toys, ads, and bottles that they’ve kept on hand, and if you’re thirsty, you’ll be happy to know that you get a Dr. Pepper drink included with your admission because, duh!

21. Take the kids to Mayborn Museum Complex

If you’ve got kids, put the Mayborn Museum Complex to the top of your Waco bucketlist.

From interactive exhibits to beautiful dioramas featuring Waco’s culture, there’s something for families with kids of all ages.

Wander around the historic village with its wood frame buildings, or stand up next to a mammoth to see just how big they really were!

There are also rooms for the little ones in the Jeanes Discovery Center where they can play pretend and learn about everything from the weather to life as a pioneer.

22. Play horseshoes at Brazos Park East

Want to take the boat out onto the water or challenge your friends to a game of horseshoes?

Brazos Park East is conveniently located along the Brazos River, with plenty of boat ramps if that’s your style.

There’s also a dedicated area for horseshoes players, so dust off your tossing skills and see who can win!

This is a great park for gorgeous views, and you may come across events like food and drink festivals or fun runs as it plays host to a lot of different activities throughout the year.

23. Go Horseback Riding

You have to travel just a smidge out of Waco to visit Woodway, where you’ll find Woodway Park on Lake Waco.

There are horseback riding trails, as well as running trails to help you get your steps in.

Wander around the lake or pack a picnic and take in the views.

There’s plenty of open space to run and burn off some energy, as well as some covered pavilions in case the weather changes.

There’s even disc golf nearby if you’ve got your frisbee with you!

24. Let Waco Tours take you around

Sometimes, the best way to see a place is to let a local take you around.

And if you don’t know any yourself, don’t worry!

Waco tours offer the best Waco sightseeing tours, with a few different options depending on what you’re most interested in.

They’ve got the Classic Waco Tour, of course, which really takes you to all of the major Waco sights in about 2 and a half hours, or they offer a Texas Experience tour which will have you feeling like a Texan on horseback (literally, they can do the tour on horseback) in no time.

There are also cruises by water if you want to see the sights along the Brazos River.

25. Catch a game at McLane Stadium

Love college football?

There’s no better place to experience it than McLane Stadium, home to the Baylor Bears.

Games are family friendly, and you’ll be surrounded by the roar of enthusiastic crowds who love Baylor and the Bears and what they mean to the community.

You can also take a public tour when games aren’t on, which take about an hour and a half and let you into areas you can’t go without being on the tour like the locker rooms and press rooms.

26. Discover the Texas Sports Hall of Fame

Whether you’re a fan of basketball players, football players, baseball players or more, you’ll find the Texas sports icons commemorated in the Texas Sport Hall of Fame.

Built in 1951, this museum features people from around the state, ranging from those who have played for universities like Baylor to Dallas Cowboys players.

It’s not an easy task to get inducted, as you have to be one of the top vote getters on the ballot.

Sports fans in Waco shouldn’t miss this!

27. Stop by the Waco Tourist Information Center

For all of your Waco visitor needs, the Tourist Information Center is the place to start.

They’ve got plenty of maps, brochures, and information about everything you should do based on your own travel interests.

There’s also plenty of Waco gear for sale if you want to get a gift for a Baylor grad or buy a souvenir to commemorate your trip.

28. Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

If you haven’t heard of the Texas Rangers, you should know that they are an iconic part of Texas’s history and members of their police force.

The Rangers are really synonymous with the American West, and Waco is proud to have them serve and be a part of the local community.

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is for them, the people that have dedicated their time and lives to supporting the local communities that they protect.

There’s a whole exhibit on the history of the Texas Rangers, including artifacts and old articles.

Plan to see the museum in about 2 hours, as there’s plenty to uncover, and it’s open every day of the week so you can fit it in your travel plans easily.

At the end, purchase a souvenir from the gift shop and don’t forget to take advantage of the military discounts!

29. Walk the Cottonbelt Trail

Want to get those steps in so you can indulge in the BBQ later?

Walk the Cottonbelt Trail, which take about 2.5 miles along the South Bosque River.

It’s absolutely gorgeous, and it has plenty of history as it was built on top of an old railway line.

Cyclists are also welcome, as well as walkers, runnings, and rollerbladers.

Take your time and take your camera as there are some great photo ops!

30. Step foot on campus at Baylor University

To visit Waco is to visit the home of Baylor University, a huge part of this city’s identity.

You’ll usually come across Baylor students, parents, and faculty during your time in Waco if school’s in session, and you can actually step foot onto their campus and walk around if you want to explore on your own.

The university dates back to 1845 and has some history plaques dotted around so you can learn more about Baylor’s past.

And, of course, you’ve got to get a picture with Judge Baylor and by the Pyfer bear sculpture!

31. See the animals at Cameron Park Zoo

Cameron Park Zoo is a fantastic place to see some of the many animals that reside here, including orangutans and Komodo dragons!

It’s located inside beautiful Cameron Park, so you can combine it with a visit to the park if you want.

Children under 3 go free, and children under the age of 12 get discounts so if you’ve got the kids in tow, this is a good place to go for some family-fun.

32. Topgolf

33. tejun the texas cajun robinson, 34. collin street bakery, 35. buzzard billy’s, 36. lee lockwood library and museum, 37. cottonland castle, 38. pinewood coffee bar, 39. rufi’s cocina, pin for later.

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Top Things to Do in Waco

Things to do in waco, explore popular experiences, ways to tour waco.

Fixer Upper Tour + City Tour

Top Waco Fixer Upper/City Tour: 5 Star, Award Winning, Affordable

Horseback Riding on Scenic Texas Ranch near Waco

Waco Wine Tours

Wacky Waco Scavenger Hunt

Amazing Brazos River Morning or Sunset Boat Adventure in Waco

Sunset Horseback Ride With Scenic Views, Campfire, S'mores, Games

Waco's Haunts and Legends Mobile Ghost Tour

Waco & Magnolia Market at the Silos Day Tour

Waco Foodie Tour

Cultural & theme tours.

Top Attractions in Waco

Other Top Attractions around Waco

Tours & Sightseeing

Luxury & Special Occasions

What travelers are saying.

• Waco Mammoth National Monument
• Waco Suspension Bridge
• Cameron Park Zoo
• Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
• Cameron Park
• Brazos Park East
• Cottonbelt Trail
• Midway Park RV Campground, U.S. Corps of Engineers
• McLane Stadium
• Brazos Tours

The 17 Best Things to Do in Waco, Texas

If you’re looking for a great getaway spot, look no further than Waco, Texas! This charming town has something for everyone.

From fabulous restaurants to interesting museums, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best things to do in Waco.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco, Texas is home to the Waco Mammoth National Monument , a site that contains the remains of 22 Columbian mammoths.

These Ice Age animals were first discovered in 1978, and they have been delighting visitors ever since.

The best way to see the mammoths is to take a guided tour of the site. During the tour, you’ll learn all about these massive beasts and how they ended up in Waco.

6220 Steinbeck Bend Rd Waco, TX 76708 , (254) 750-7946

Waco Suspension Bridge

The bridge was built in 1870 and is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the state of Texas. The bridge spans the Brazos River and is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and photography.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kasper Creations | Waco Photographer (@kaspercreations)

Visitors can also take a walk or bike ride across the bridge to get a breathtaking view of the river and downtown Waco.

The Waco Suspension Bridge is a truly unique experience and should not be missed when visiting Waco, Texas.

Cameron Park Zoo

Embark on a wild adventure at Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, TX, where over 1,700 majestic animals from across the globe await to enchant you. Imagine stepping into the heart of a living storybook, where lions roar with regal might, tigers prowl with silent grace, and giraffes stand tall like ancient sentinels.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Park Zoo (@cpzoo)

The African Savannah Exhibit is a jewel in the zoo’s crown, offering a window into the soul of the wilderness. Dive into a treasure trove of knowledge with educational programs that sparkle with fun.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

Discover a piece of Lone Star history at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum in Waco, Texas.

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As the official historical center of the Texas Rangers Law Enforcement Agency, this museum offers an immersive journey through the storied past of one of America’s oldest law enforcement bodies.

Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the evolution of the Rangers from their inception during Stephen F. Austin’s time to their present-day role. Located adjacent to Baylor stadium, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Texas history and the legendary figures who have shaped it.

Cameron Park

Embark on an adventure through Cameron Park, a 416-acre urban oasis that serves as the emerald heart of Waco. With its towering trees as sentinels standing guard over the land, the park boasts a labyrinth of hiking and biking trails that beckon explorers.

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The Brazos River, a serpentine ribbon of life, carves its path through the park, offering a tranquil backdrop for riverside rambles or a dip in its invigorating embrace. Discover this verdant paradise where nature’s splendor unfolds at every turn ( Cameron Park – City of Waco ).

Waco Fixer Upper Tour

Attention home improvement fans: this tour is for you. With a local guide, explore some of the neighborhoods, houses, shops, landmarks, and structures featured on the HGTV show “Fixer Upper” with Chip and Joanna Gaines.

A stop at Clint’s shop is included and sometimes you even get to go inside a Chip-and-Joanna-designed home from the show.

The tour runs about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Mayborn Museum Complex

The Mayborn Museum Complex is one of the best things to do in Waco, Texas.

The museum is dedicated to natural and cultural history, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

The complex includes a hands-on children’s museum, a planetarium, and a butterfly garden. There is also an on-site research lab where scientists study everything from archaeology to zoology.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Mayborn Museum Complex also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.

Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco, Texas is a city with a rich history and plenty ofThings to Do for tourists.

One of the most popular attractions is the Dr. Pepper Museum. The museum tells the story of how Dr. Pepper came to be one of America’s most beloved beverages.

Visitors can see vintage ads, learn about the origins of the drink, and even taste some of the rarest Dr. Pepper flavors.

The museum also has a soda fountain where visitors can enjoy a classic Dr. Pepper float.

Baylor University

Located in the heart of McLennan County, Waco is home to Baylor University, one of the largest private universities in the state.

The university’s beautiful campus is a perfect place to spend a day exploring, and Baylor’s museums and galleries are worth a visit even if you’re not a fan of college sports.

Downtown Waco is also worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for some great shopping and dining options.

Valley Mills Vineyard

Just an hour outside of Austin, Waco is home to a charming vineyard that makes for the perfect day trip.

Valley Mills Vineyard is set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills, and the estate includes a beautiful tasting room and patio.

The vineyard offers a variety of red and white wines, all of which are produced using grapes grown on-site.

In addition to wine tasting, Valley Mills Vineyard also offers tours of the property, making it the perfect place to learn about the winemaking process.

Painting with a Twist

Painting with a Twist is a great way to spend an evening in Waco, Texas. This unique activity allows you to paint while enjoying a glass of wine or beer.

A local artist will guide you step-by-step through the painting process, and at the end of the night, you’ll take home your very own masterpiece.

Painting with a Twist is perfect for a date night, girls’ night out, or simply a fun night out with friends.

And if you’re looking for something truly special, you can book a private party where you and your guests will have the entire studio to yourselves.

Waco Hippodrome Theater

One of the best things to do while you’re in Waco is to check out the Waco Hippodrome Theater.

The theater has been around since 1914 and has been entertaining locals and visitors alike ever since.

The Hippodrome is one of the oldest continually operating theaters in the state of Texas, and it’s also one of the most unique.

The theater is known for its Art Deco architecture, and it’s also one of the few theaters in the country that still uses hand-operated hydraulic equipment to raise and lower the curtains.

Texas Sports Hall of Fame

Waco, Texas is home to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, which honoring the greatest athletes in the state’s history.

The museum is located on the Baylor University campus and features interactive exhibits that celebrate the accomplishments of Texas athletes.

Visitors can learn about the state’s rich sports history and see artifacts such as jerseys, trophies, and memorabilia.

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is a must-see for any sports fan, and it provides a great opportunity to learn more about the Lone Star State’s proud sporting tradition.

Waco Winery & Vineyard

Waco Winery & Vineyard is a local family-owned business that produces high-quality wines using grapes sourced from their very own vineyard.

The vineyard is situated on a picturesque piece of land and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard, taste the wines produced on-site, and purchase bottles to take home with them.

The friendly staff are always on hand to answer any questions and offer advice on which wines would best suit your taste.

Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market

Nestled in the heart of Texas, Waco is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone.

One of the best things to do in Waco is to visit the Downtown Farmer’s Market. open every Saturday from April to November, the market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

In addition to produce, the market also features local honey, cheese, bread, and other artisanal goods.

The market is a great place to buy gifts or just stock up on groceries for the week. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything,

it’s worth checking out the market for its friendly atmosphere and impressive selection of locally grown food.

Branding the Brazos Sculpture

One of the most popular attractions is the Branding the Brazos Sculpture, which commemorates the cattle drives that used to take place along the Brazos River.

The sculpture consists of three bronze cows that are being branded by a cowboy. The sculpture is located on the banks of the Brazos River and is a popular spot for photos.

The Branding the Brazos Sculpture is a great way to learn about Waco’s history and cattle-ranching heritage.

Brazos Bluff Ranch

One of the best places to visit is Brazos Bluff Ranch. The ranch is home to a variety of animals, including buffalo, longhorn cattle, and wild pigs.

Visitors can take part in a number of activities, such as fishing, hiking, and horseback riding.

The ranch also offers overnight accommodations, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Waco River Safari

Waco River Safari is the perfect place to get up close and personal with some of the area’s most fascinating wildlife.

Located on the Brazos River, the Safari offers boat tours that allow visitors to see everything from alligators and turtles to bald eagles and blue herons.

The tours are led by experienced guides who are passionate about the area’s natural history, and they’re sure to tell you all kinds of interesting facts about the creatures you’ll see along the way.

The Safari is a great way to see the animals up close and personal. The animals are very friendly and you can feed them, pet them, and even take pictures with them.

The staff is very knowledgeable about the animals and their habitat. They will even give you a tour of the facility.

Homestead Heritage

When visiting Waco, Texas, be sure to check out Homestead Heritage. This unique attraction lets visitors experience what life was like on a 19th-century farm.

Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, including but not limited to: learning how to make pottery and soap, grinding wheat into flour, helping with farm chores, and attending country fairs.

In addition to being a working farm, Homestead Heritage is also home to a sawmill, blacksmith shop, and woodworking shop.

Visitors can watch skilled craftsmen at work and even purchase some of their handiwork.

Spice Village

one of the best things to do in Waco is to explore Spice Village. This unique shopping center is located in an old grain mill, and it is home to a variety of boutiques and restaurants.

Visitors can browse through eclectic shops, enjoy a meal at one of the delicious eateries, and even take a tour of the grain mill. Spice Village is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Waco.

Magnolia Market

Waco, Texas is a small city with a lot to offer. If you’re looking for a place to shop, Magnolia Market is a must-see.

This store, owned by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, offers a wide variety of home decor items, as well as a charming cafe.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, Waco is also home to the Dr Pepper Museum, where you can learn about the history of the soft drink and even take a tour of the bottling plant.

And no trip to Waco would be complete without a visit to the Baylor Bears football stadium, one of the most iconic college football stadiums in the country. Whatever your interests, Waco has something to offer.

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Things to Do in Waco

Leave your watch at home when you head to Waco; you won’t need it unless you want to see how fast time is flying. With world-class museums, incredible historical sites, and relaxing indoor and outdoor venues, you’ll never run out of wonderful things to see and experience. The hardest thing you’ll have to do is leave. The following are just a few of the many exciting things to do in Waco.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

The owners of the Magnolia Market at the Silos, Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of HGTV’s hit show “ Fixer Upper” are proud to call Waco their home. The silos have become an attraction in their own right – offering not only shopping, but also a fun play area, garden, food trucks, and more.

Visit Cameron Park Zoo

Open seven days a week, Cameron Park Zoo is one of the best Waco attractions to see while you’re in town. Take a shady stroll through spectacular exhibits like the bald eagle habitat; the South American exhibit with its capybara, squirrel monkeys, and king vultures; and the African savannah, where the giraffes, elephants, a rhinoceros roam. Cougars, black bears, and river otters hang out at the Piney Woods exhibit, while the Brazos at Night barn houses owls, bats, and other nocturnal critters. Special events are held often, including kid-centric Summer Adventure Camps and the annual zip-line, bounce house, and face painting party known as KidZoobilee. 

Check Out One of Waco’s Museums

Waco boasts more than its fair share of terrific museums. Besides the Mayborn Museum and the Texas Collection at Baylor, there’s the Texas Sports Hall of Fame (TSHOF) located on the north side of the Baylor campus. The TSHOF honors men and women who have brought “lasting fame and honor to Texas sports," including Nolan Ryan, Troy Aikman, Roger Clemens, and Darrell Royal. It also features exhibits on the Cotton Bowl and the Southwest Conference, as well as hall of fames devoted to Texas tennis and high school football.

While you might find a member or two of the Arlington-based baseball team in the sports hall of fame, you’ll have to head to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum for the real thing. The official repository of the famed lawmen, the museum displays ranger memorabilia and exhibits on the men who distinguished themselves through extraordinary service. To see homes built when the Rangers were still a relatively new arm of law enforcement, check out the the McCulloch House , a historic house museum featuring family heirlooms of 19th-century owners Champe Carter McCulloch and his wife Emma.

Worked up a thirst? Head to the Dr Pepper Museum for a taste of Waco’s most famous beverage. Browse the museum’s exhibits to sate your thirst for knowledge about the company’s origins and history then head to soda fountain for an old fashioned Dr Pepper float.

Enjoy the Outdoors

If you happen to be in Waco during the summer, you’ll probably look for some way to escape the heat. Forget the pool at the motel; there are several places where you can dive into some cool water. Follow the paddling trails on the Brazos River, or jump into the inviting waters of Lake Waco. Along with being a popular place to swim, the lake offers enough space for boating, waterskiing, and it’s a favorite for anglers thanks to the excellent largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie fishing. While you’re there, check out the Lake Waco Wetlands on the north shore for excellent bird watching and wildlife viewing. If you don’t have a boat but you still want to catch some waves, head to Hawaiian Falls Waco . The water park features a wave pool, lazy river, lots of water slides, and a spray area for the younger kids. Waco Surf offers wakeboarding, a long lazy river, and the Royal Flush - an enormous water slide. Prefer to stay dry? Hit the trails in Cameron Park, 427 acres of beauty with trails from easy to truly challenging.

Sample Waco’s Tasty Spirits

Whether you like to savor the smooth smokiness of whiskey, deduce the subtlest notes in wine, or feel like a kid again with a cold soda, Waco has you covered. The friendly folks at  Valley Mills Vineyards  invite you to come and sample their wines made from Texas grapes, hear live music, or take a class.  Waco’s craft breweries include Southern Roots , Brotherwell Brewing , Bare Arms Brewing , and Waco Ale Company . For those looking for stiffer drink, national darling and local business  Balcones Distilling  offers tours and tastings.

Explore Baylor University

Baylor University is one of the finest colleges in the country, and the school’s beautiful Waco campus is as distinguished as its academic programs. Beyond just touring the grounds and taking in landmarks like the Robbins Chapel or the bear habitat, a handful of campus attractions are especially deserving of your time in Waco. For starters, pay a visit to the two libraries on the south side of campus, each home to its own special collections. The Armstrong Browning Library is the site of the largest assembly of material by poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, while the nearby Carroll Library has the Texas Collection , a stunning archive of Texas history-related books, photos, maps, and other materials.

On the north side of campus, The Mayborn Museum hosts a fascinating array of exhibits in natural science, history, geology, archeology, and paleontology. Keep going north, just beyond the Brazos River, and you’ll find McLane Stadium , the “den” of Baylor’s high-scoring football team. 

Located on the Garden Level of Moody Memorial Library is the new Black Gospel Archive & Listening Center. This unique collection preserves the voices of men and women in Black gospel groups from the Golden Age of Gospel.

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Texas Travel 365

15 Best Things To Do In Waco You Shouldn’t Miss

October 21, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

If you are looking for fun things to do in Waco, then you have come to the right place! Sure, the city is not as popular as other cities in Texas but it has its own charm and unique attractions for the visitors to explore.

Located between Dallas and Austin, it has a diverse selection of museums, natural attractions, restaurants, and more. Most of you might be familiar with Magnolia Market or Silos, one of the major Waco attractions. However, there is a lot to do around here besides visiting the Magnolia Market.

Swing on the mighty suspension bridge, enjoy delicious meals at the local restaurants, shop at the magnificent Spice Village, or enjoy boating in the Brazos River. There is definitely no shortage of unique and fun places to visit in Waco.

If you are planning a trip to Dallas or Fort Worth, then you can always plan a day trip from Austin to this small town or even spend a few days here. For those who are going to visit, this article is perfect. It covers all the best things to do in Waco with your kids or friends!

Magnolia Market

Magnolia Market at the Silos is one of the top places to visit in Waco. If you have watched HGTV, then you might know about it because it was founded by Chip and Joanna Gains.

With 2.5 acres of space, this is a unique retail and community space where you can find a wide range of products. The market consists of two silos and a large barn and has products such as furniture, home décor, Fixer Upper merchandise, and more here.

Visitors can enjoy the tasty treats made using Joanna’s recipes in the on-site bakery. For entertainment, there are food trucks, picnic spots, lawn games, etc. available here too.

Trust me, spending a day in the Magnolia market is one of the best things to do in Waco. You can participate in fun activities, shop, and eat good food while you are here.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is one of the top free things to do in Waco with kids. This is one of the best national parks to visit in Texas with a rich history. Also, it is the first Columbian mammoth nursery herd to be discovered in the world.

This site is home to the biggest collection of mammoths found dead due to a natural disaster. According to the archaeologists, these beautiful creatures died due to a sudden flood and a mudslide. Visitors can observe the fossil of the mammoth herd from the pavilion above.

If you have always wanted to look at a mammoth and learn about them, then visiting this mammoth site is one of the best things to do in Waco.

Dr Pepper Museum

Created in the 1880s, Dr. Pepper is one of the oldest popular drinks in America. This is why visiting Dr. Pepper Museum can be one of the best things to do in Waco with kids.

The drink was manufactured in the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company which is now the famous museum. Visitors can learn about the history of different industries and the economic system of the country with the help of an example of the soft drink industry.

You will find here several Dr. Pepper artifacts, three exhibition floors, a soda fountain, and a gift shop that sells Dr. Pepper souvenirs.

Trust me, if you were looking for unique things to do in Waco with your kids, then this is the best choice!

Mayborn Museum

Looking for things to do in Waco with kids? Mayborn Museum Complex is a natural history museum that would be fun for the whole family.

Located on the grounds of Baylor University, this museum features 16 unique discovery rooms that are fun for the kids. There are many engaging activities, interactive exhibitions, hands-on attractions, and more that offer information to all ages.

There is also an open-air historic village brought from Liberty Texas for the visitors to enjoy. From Cabinet of Curiosities to mammoth showcases, there is a lot to explore here. This is why it is one of the best things to see in Waco, especially if you are traveling with your family.

Magnolia Table

One of the top Waco activities that you cannot miss out on is trying the amazing restaurants and dishes in the city. Magnolia Table, one of the coolest restaurants in Waco , is a great dining place and uses fresh ingredients for all its dishes.

What’s even more exciting is that it is owned by the hosts of Fixer Upper! The restaurant features delicacies like sausage gravy, peppered bacon, lemon lavender donut holes, and more.

Enjoy your breakfast or lunch here, it is one of the best things to do in Waco. You are going to love both the food and the ambiance here.

Spice Village

Visiting Spice Village, located near the Magnolia market, is one of the top things to do in downtown Waco.

Opened in 1997, Spice Village has over 60 unique boutique stores that sell a variety of vintage and modern items. From home décor to accessories, to antiques, you will find a lot of interesting things to buy here.

The shops here are bold and colorful, making it fun to browse through the charming stores of Spice Village. Trust me, shopping or visiting the shops in Spice Village is one of the best things to do in Waco.

Cameron Park Zoo

Looking for things to do in Texas with your kids ?

Home to over 1,700 animals, Cameron Park Zoo is one of the best places to visit in Waco with kids. It is located in Cameron Park and has an area of 50 acres where there are many recreational and educational activities to enjoy.

One of the best things about this attraction is that the animals are kept in their natural environments. From native Texan animals to Sumatran tigers, you will find a diverse range of animals to interact with here.

Many fun events are happening here throughout the year. So, if you are looking for some fun things to do in Waco, then plan a visit to the Cameron Park Zoo!

Waco Suspension Bridge

One of the most important things to see in Waco is the Waco Suspension Bridge that spans over the Brazos River.

Built-in 1870, it was the first suspension bridge in Texas and was a necessary addition. The bridge is located between Indian Spring Park and Martin Luther King Jr. Park so, it is easily accessible.

The suspension bridge is now open for pedestrians only. Visitors can now head over to this bridge to enjoy a walk over the river. There are several other events and festivals held here as well that you can participate in.

And if you are looking for a romantic date idea, then one of the best things to do in Waco at night is to visit the suspension bridge. The bridge is lit up and looks magical over the Brazos River at night.

Waco Hippodrome

Do you love watching movies? If yes, then one of the best things to do in Waco is to watch a classic movie or performance at Waco Hippodrome.

Opened as a vaudeville theatre in 1914, this historic theatre has evolved a lot over the years. It is a movie theatre, a live event area, and one of the top places to visit in Waco.

Visitors can enjoy first-release movies, classic movies, live theatre, trivia night, concerts, and more here. They also offer a full-service in-theatre dining experience to the customers. After the event or movie, one can enjoy a view of Austin Avenue while nursing a drink at the full-service bar here.

So, if you are looking for things to do in Waco at night, then you can visit this theatre and catch a movie or a show here.

Tired of spending money on famous attractions in the city? Well, one of the top free things to do in Waco is to relax at Lake Waco.

This man-made lake is one of the best things to see in Waco and offers a lot of fun and relaxing activities to the visitors. Boasting 7 boat ramps and a marina, this lake is a great place for boating.

With several hiking and walking trails, outdoor enthusiasts have a lot to explore around here. For those who wish to spend more time at the lake, there are campsites available with basic facilities.

Overall, Lake Waco is one of the best Waco attractions for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Waco Downtown Farmers Market

One of the best things to do in downtown Waco on a weekend is to visit the famous Waco Downtown Farmers Market. This farmers market has been operational since 2011 and is a great way to support the locals by buying their food and crafts.

Apart from the fresh produce, you will find live music, artisanal cheeses, alcoholic beverages, handicrafts, and a lot more here. This is one of the top Waco attractions to visit with family as you can enjoy a brunch here with the views of Brazos River or McLane Stadium.

There are 35 to 40 vendors every Saturday allowing you to enjoy the local food and the artists. It is one of the things to do in downtown Waco for a memorable trip.

Homestead Heritage Craft Village

Searching for some amazing things to do near Waco? Then, you should check out the Homestead Heritage Craft Village!

This place is 16 miles from the city and offers free access to visitors. You can do shopping, enjoy the beautiful scenery, or learn about the local art and craft.

Walk through the Homestead Heritage Craft Village to talk to the local artists and marvel at their artistry. From pottery to baskets, to handcrafter furniture, you will find a wide range of products here to take home.

Once you have bought your favorite things, you can taste the delicious food at Café Homestead. Trust me, a trip to this village is one of the best things to do near Waco.

Cameron Park

If you are looking for free things to do in Waco, then visit this amazing urban park in the city. Cameron Park is enormous and the perfect place in the city for nature enthusiasts.

The park has an area of 416 acres featuring playgrounds, rivers, splash pads, and more for the entire family to enjoy. One of the top Waco attractions, this place also has many hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore.

What’s even more fun is that Brazos Park East is also a part of this urban park. From a boat ramp to Frisbee-golf, the park features a lot of fun and unique activities for the visitors to enjoy.

You can choose to enjoy the river views, drive through the park, or enjoy a walk here. Trust me, this is one of the top things to see in Waco.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame

If you wish to learn about the lives of the Rangers, then one of the best things to do in Waco is to visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame.

The official Texas Ranger’s museum since 1968, this attraction is quite popular among the tourists. It features a traditional hill country design and has a large collection of artifacts related to the Rangers.

The museum also acts as a historical archive and tells you the history of Rangers. You will also find the names of all the Rangers who died between 1823 and 2004 while on duty in the Hall of Museum.

Boating in Brazos River

If you are looking for fun things to do in Waco with kids, then boating in Brazos River could be right up your alley!

The longest river in Texas, the Brazos River passes through downtown Waco and offers a lot of recreational activities to the visitors. Paddling, canoeing, and kayaking are popular Waco activities to do here for the water junkies.

One can even enjoy sandbar camping at the river bed or can join the scout camps with different shore and water activities. From fishing to observing wildlife, there is a lot to do along the riverside.

For those traveling with family, there are many campsites at the lakes and the riverside to set up their tent. So, if you are looking for top things to do in Waco, then this is it!

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The 30 things everybody should do at least once in Waco, according to Tripadvisor ratings

Posted: April 28, 2024 | Last updated: April 28, 2024

Highest-rated things to do in Waco, according to Tripadvisor

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated things to do in Waco on Tripadvisor . Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.

#30. Waco Mammoth National Monument

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,220) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708-5338 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#29. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,109) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 100 Texas Ranger Trl I-35 and University Parks Drive, Waco, TX 76706-1209 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#28. Dr Pepper Museum

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (1,753) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701-2115 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#27. Cameron Park Zoo

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,001) - Type of activity: Zoos - Address: 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707-2463 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#26. Valley Mills Vineyards

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (126) - Type of activity: Wineries & Vineyards - Address: 1686 FM 1637, Waco, TX 76689 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#25. Cameron Park

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (318) - Type of activity: Parks - Address: Emmons Cliff Drive, Waco, TX 76708 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#24. Mayborn Museum Complex

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (338) - Type of activity: Science Museums - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#23. Waco Suspension Bridge

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,025) - Type of activity: Bridges - Address: 101 N University Parks Dr Doris Miller Park, Waco, TX 76701 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#22. McLane Stadium

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (250) - Type of activity: Arenas & Stadiums - Address: 1001 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704-2926 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#21. Baylor University

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (151) - Type of activity: Universities & Schools - Address: 1301 S. University Parks Drive, Waco, TX 76798 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#20. Armstrong Browning Library and Museum

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (111) - Type of activity: Libraries • Art Museums - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#19. Branding the Brazos Sculpture

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (72) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues - Address: Waco Suspension Bridge, Waco, TX 76701 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#18. Texas Sports Hall of Fame

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (99) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 1108 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706-1223 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#17. Waco Convention Center

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (53) - Type of activity: Convention Centers - Address: 100 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#16. Waco Downtown Farmer's Market

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (72) - Type of activity: Flea & Street Markets - Address: 500 Washington Avenue, Waco, TX 76708-7234 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#15. Waco Hippodrome Theatre

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (92) - Type of activity: Theaters - Address: 724 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701-2020 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#14. Bare Arms Brewing

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (52) - Type of activity: Breweries - Address: 2515 La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 76706-3929 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#13. LaSalle Shoppes

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (32) - Type of activity: Antique Shops - Address: 2223A La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 76706-3446 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#12. Heart O' Texas Speedway

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (19) - Type of activity: Auto Racing Tracks - Address: Interstate 35, Waco, TX 76705 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#11. McCulloch House Museum

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (14) - Type of activity: Speciality Museums - Address: 407 Columbus Ave, Waco, TX 76701-1417 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#10. Branch Davidian Memorial Park

- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (206) - Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks - Address: 1781 Double Ee Ranch Rd, Waco, TX 76705-5006 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#9. Castle Heights Neighborhood

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (16) - Type of activity: Neighborhoods - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#8. Brazos Park East

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (31) - Type of activity: Parks - Address: 3516 N M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#7. Waco Welcome Center

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (47) - Type of activity: Visitor Centers - Address: 106 Texas Ranger Trl, Waco, TX 76706-1209 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#6. Cottonbelt Trail

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (40) - Type of activity: Hiking Trails - Address: not available - Read more on Tripadvisor

#5. Waco Winery & Vineyards

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (38) - Type of activity: Wineries & Vineyards - Address: 708 Austin Ave 2nd Floor, Waco, TX 76701-2020 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#4. The Texas Collection

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (9) - Type of activity: Libraries - Address: 1429 S. 5th St., Waco, TX 76798 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#3. The Brazos Theatre of Waco

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (9) - Type of activity: Theaters - Address: 7524 Bosque Blvd Ste Q Bosque Square Shopping Center, Waco, TX 76712-3772 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#2. The Cottonland Castle

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (10) - Type of activity: Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings - Address: 3300 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76710-7336 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#1. Historic Waco Foundation

- Rating: 5.0 / 5 (9) - Type of activity: History Museums - Address: 810 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76706-1036 - Read more on Tripadvisor

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13 Things To Do In Waco, The Home of Chip and Joanna's Magnolia Market

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in 2021. We're sharing it again as part of our month long celebration of Texas. 

Chip and Joanna Gaines created an empire all from their hometown of Waco, Texas. Fans from all over the world come to Texas to visit Chip and Jo's beloved Magnolia Market at the Silos to stock up on the couples' signature decor.

The Market has become a must-stop if you're traveling through the Fixer Upper town. After your morning at The Silos, here are 13 more things to do in the city of Waco.

See a Show at the Waco Hippodrome

The Waco Hippodrome is the city's premiere live music venue. The theater has been bringing live entertainment to the Heart of Texas since 1914. If you're stopping by to visit Chip and Jo's shops, treat yourself to a night at the historic venue.

Cameron Park Zoo

Cameron Park Zoo is located in Waco's beautiful Cameron Park that sits next to the Brazos River. Take a few hours of your day and enjoy visiting the animals in their natural habitat exhibits. You may even find time for an ice cream cone or two.

Dr Pepper Museum

Dr Pepper is a staple in Texas culture. And no day trip to Waco is compete without spending a day at one of the city's best tourist attractions: the old Dr Pepper bottling plant.  The 100-year-old building reopened to the public in 1991. The museum is home to the W. W. Clements Free Enterprise Institute, created in 1997 to educate school children and adults about the economic system of America. The program uses the soft drink industry as a model to teach students about developing, producing and marketing products.

Feeling thirsty after your tour? Stop by the soda fountain for a signature Dr Pepper float.

Waco Downtown Farmer's Market

The Farmer's Market is located in the heart of downtown Waco and is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy local vendors, locally grown produce and a morning full of small-town family fun. Plus, it's only a half-mile walk from the Magnolia Market (right down 6th street.)

Austin Avenue

The whole family will love a walk down Austin Avenue. Search for the oldest antique, the cutest home decor or the perfect souvenir from a gift shop. Shops like Spice Village, The Findery and Magnolia Market will keep you busy while you walk off morning brunch!

Waco Mammoth National Monument

During the Ice Age, 14-foot tall Columbian Mammoths roamed the state of Texas. Today, you can see where their fossils were discovered near the Bosque River in Waco.

Mayborn Museum Complex

The Mayborn Natural Science and Cultural History Museum Complex at Baylor University is a great place to visit to dig deeper into your love of fossils.

Waco Suspension Bridge

The Waco Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk are a highlight of Waco's downtown. The bridge was completed in 1870 and is a treasure of downtown Waco. The bridge was used as a Chisholm Trail crossing and, at the time of its completion, was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi. The bridge was built with the same material as the  Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.

The bridge is surrounded by Indian Spring Park on the west side and Martin Luther King, Jr. park on the east side.

The Waco Riverwalk is seven miles of multi-use trails that follow the beautiful Brazos River. The Riverwalk stretches from Baylor University to Cameron Park and passes underneath the Suspension Bridge.

Texas Sports Hall of Fame

In 1951, Texas became the first state to honor its athletes with a Hall of Fame. 70 years later, over 300 athletes have been inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame is a memorial devoted to honoring the 150 years of Texas Ranger service. The Hall of Fame commemorates 31 Texas Rangers who made strides in the development of the service or gave their lives in the line of duty.

Lake Waco Wetlands

Enjoy an afternoon at Lake Waco Wetlands. The habitat refuge has been around since 2000, when Lake Waco's water rose over seven feet. All nature lovers can enjoy a walk around the lake and learn more about native plants and animals at the education center.

Hawaiian Falls Water Park

Looking for a family friendly getaway? Beat the heat of a central Texas summer day in Waco's Hawaiian Falls lazy river, wave pool, or splash pad.

Baylor University Campus

Baylor University has one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. Baylor was established during the independence of Texas and is the oldest college in the state. A visit to McLane Stadium, a walk through the BSB Fountain and a guided tour of the university will make you feel like a true Baylor Bear.

READ MORE:  The 9 Best HGTV Shows, Ranked

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The Top Places to Visit in Waco, Texas

Thank you to our many local waco area sponsors included in this guide..

Welcome to Waco, Texas – a hidden gem in the heart of the Lone Star State! Steeped in history, rich in culture, and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Waco offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages and interests. In this post, we’ll delve into the top reasons why Waco should be at the top of your travel list.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

Waco gained international attention thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the hit show “Fixer Upper.” Their Magnolia Market at the Silos is a must-visit destination for fans of the show and home improvement enthusiasts alike. Explore the beautifully designed market, shop for unique decor items, and enjoy a variety of food trucks offering mouthwatering treats.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

History buffs will find plenty to explore in Waco. Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the legendary lawmen who helped shape the state’s history.

Dr Pepper Museum

Waco, Texas, proudly holds the title of being the birthplace of one of America’s most iconic soft drinks – Dr Pepper. Steeped in history, the city has a deep-rooted connection with this beloved beverage that has captivated taste buds around the world for over a century. The museum is another iconic attraction, celebrating the birthplace of the famous soft drink and offering a delightful experience for soda fans.

Cameron Park

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas. Spread over 400 acres along the Brazos River, the park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, disc golf, and breathtaking views from atop limestone cliffs.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Uncover the prehistoric past at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where you can view well-preserved mammoth fossils. Take a guided tour to learn about these ancient creatures and the ongoing archaeological discoveries that continue to shape our understanding of the region’s history.

Baylor University

Baylor University is a renowned institution located in Waco, Texas, with a strong commitment to academic excellence, Christian values, and student development. Since its founding in 1845, Baylor has offered a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs taught by accomplished faculty in a picturesque campus setting. Visit this beautiful campus when you come to Waco!

Brazos River

Beyond Cameron Park, Waco provides numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures. Kayak or paddleboard along the Brazos River, go fishing, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride. This is also nationally known as a top rowing destination and home for Baylor University’s rowing team!

Waco Suspension Bridge

Delve into Waco’s vibrant cultural scene with visits to the Waco Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark and pedestrian-only bridge, which just reopening in 2023 after being closed to renovation.

Local Culinary Scene 

Treat your taste buds to the delightful flavors of Waco’s local culinary scene. From Texas-style barbecue joints to charming cafes and international cuisine, the city offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to all preferences.

• George’s Restaurant Bar  
• Health Camp 
• Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant 
• Magnolia Table 
• Cafe Homstead 
• Pop’s Lemonade
• Heritage Creamery 
• Milk Bottle Cookies

Waco, Texas, offers an enriching and diverse experience for travelers seeking history, culture, outdoor adventures, and unique attractions. Whether you’re a fan of “Fixer Upper,” an avid history buff, or simply looking to unwind in nature, Waco has something special for everyone. Plan your trip today, and let Waco’s warm hospitality and charming atmosphere leave you with lasting memories.

Make sure to tag us on social   @moderntexaslivingwaco and share your favorite ways to make Waco home!

If you loved this list, make sure you snag our free PDF: The go-to guide for everything WACO, Texas! By Modern Texas living, Waco’s biggest fan!

We are a Lifestyle Magazine & Marketing Agency in Waco, Texas, focused on building growth strategies for established businesses and emerging brands. In print and online, Modern Texas Living Magazine celebrates small businesses, supports local entrepreneurs, and helps readers enjoy the community to its fullest. Pick up a copy of the latest edition of Modern Texas Living here!

From crafting powerful websites to helping companies properly brand themselves to align sales and marketing, we are the engine that drives you to success. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, click here !

#LetsGoWaco

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[email protected] 254-307-8703

32 Absolute Best Places to Eat, Shop & Things to do in Waco, Texas

Posted on Last updated: April 4, 2024

Categories Travel

Fun Things to Do in Waco Texas for a Great Day or Weekend Trip

The City of Waco is an easy 2-hour (or more depending on traffic) drive from the DFW metroplex, heading South towards Austin and San Antonio.

Deep in the heart of Central Texas, this city has become a very popular destination, thanks in part to Joanna and Chip Gaines’s hit HGTV show, Fixer Upper.  Fans from all over the country make their pilgrimage to Magnolia, which made the city ranked No. 2 on Tripadvisor’s list of top destinations on the rise for 2018.

More: Great travel ideas from Dallas to Central Texas

So, have you tried the many things to do in Waco? If not, no worries, we compiled the things to do in Waco and see, restaurants to try, and shops to check out. 

More: Which are the Best Places to Visit in Texas?

This post may contain Affiliate Links. Our Full Disclosure is available.

We’ve listed them below, and you pick which interests you so you get the most out of your day trip there.

Our favorite things to do in Waco

Magnolia Market at the Silos

A fan or not of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper,” you’ve got to check this place out. Two huge silos and a 20,000 sq ft barn are both filled with Joanna Gaines’ home good items.

From rugs, vases, frames, metal signs, candles, pots, and mugs to blankets and a lot more, you may bring some home.

The complex also includes a garden and garden store, a lawn for lounging and playing, food trucks, and a bakery. Check the website for tips on visiting since they have implemented new guidelines to keep everyone safe. 

Waco Tours  

This company will show you around Waco and all the things the city has to offer. You choose your tour: Classic Tour, River Cruise, or a Private tour for your family or group.

You get to see many Fixer-Upper homes and visit the sites from the TV show that put Waco on the map. Most importantly, they have a local crew who knows the city so well and love what they are doing!

.ugb-b0e1342 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Check out Waco Tours! Did the van tour and loved the stops. Wanting to do the boat one next. Starts around Feb 12th . – Holly, Plano TX

Dr. Pepper Museum  

Dr. Pepper Museum, located within a historic 1906 bottling building just a few blocks from Magnolia Market.

A visit shows you the complete story behind America’s oldest soft drink brand and teaches some useful lessons on the amount of sugar content they have, and the way that they advertised the Soda to the masses over the last few decades!

Have you ever wondered why the original Dr. Pepper bottles included the numbers 10, 2, and 4? In 1920, studies showed that people experienced daily energy drops at 10 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm. So, Dr. Pepper promoted those times for you to drink Dr. Pepper to get you going for the day!

There are a number of cool exhibits, some of them interactive which is great for the Kids. Over 3 levels, it also includes some flashbacks of advertising reels, and packaging examples which shows how the brand evolved over time.

Their Gift Shop also has some fun Dr.Pepper items, including fun shirts and memorabilia for the hard-core fans out there!

While you are there enjoy an Ice Cream float in their 1950’s themed Cafe, which leads to a classroom where you can book a “DIY – make your own soda” experience, which our 11 and 14 year old loved doing with us.

Be sure to book this experience ahead of time, as numbers are limited.

Cameron Park  

Cameron Park is a 416-acre municipal park near downtown, and Brazos River is where Waco celebrates life!

It offers many activities for the whole family, from hiking, biking, picnicking to fishing, golfing, or just relaxing. The park also contains Waco’s 52-acre lush landscaping zoo, the Cameron Park Zoo .

The Zoo is smaller than the Dallas Zoo and Fort Worth Zoo and much less crowded, which will appeal if you have smaller kids.

.ugb-b499747 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} The trails at Cameron Park are very good. There are some playgrounds and there’s Jacobs ladder, lovers leap….They also have new animal statue installations which are very cool. There is also some horseback riding but I don’t know the exact name of the place . I grew up in Waco! – Naseem, Plano

.ugb-0a8fb15 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Cameron Park has great hiking. Very wilderness feel in the middle of Waco and you can hike to the confluence of the two rivers in Waco. – Leigh, Plano

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a paleontological site and museum where you can see 24 Columbian mammoths and other mammals from the Pleistocene Epoch.

How cool is that!

Waco Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk Area

This is a historic Suspension Bridge completed in 1870 and remains a legendary icon of downtown Waco. The bridge was built with a cable supplied by the John Roebling Co., who built the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. It is worth checking out!

The Riverwalk includes approximately seven miles of multi-use, lighted trail that loops along both banks of the Brazos River.

It stretches from Baylor University to Cameron Park and passes underneath the Suspension Bridge.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum  

The official historical center of the Texas Ranger with a mission to inspire appreciation of the Texas Rangers.

This Museum focuses on the actual Texas Rangers, not the baseball team!

If you love learning about Cowboys and the American West, you’ll enjoy a visit to the National Cowboys and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

Texas Sports Hall of Fame  

Home for more than 300 Texan inductees includes displays of famous sports souvenirs such as Mildred (Babe) Didrikson Zaharias’s golf clubs, Willie Shoemaker’s riding boots, and Bobby Morrow’s Olympic gold medal for track and field from the 1956 Melbourne Games.

The facility also has theaters that show films and rare sports footage, and programs on coaching sports management or research.

It is also home to the Texas Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame and the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame.

Homestead Craft Village

Address: 608 Dry Creek Rd, Waco, TX 76705

Phone: (254) 754-9600

There are many activities to enjoy at the Homestead craft village, including hayrides and a visit to the livestock and the garden.

.ugb-f1d92e5 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} We love the Homestead Craft Village. And their restaurant is yummy! Our kids love to go and make pottery and all the other fun stuff they offer. I’m not sure due to Covid what is open. But worth looking up! Homestead Heritage is a wonderful place to go. You do go from building to building so some part of it is inside.  – Lynn and Ivana, Plano TX

Mayborn Museum Complex at Baylor University

Address: 1300 S University Parks Drive, Waco 76706

Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 1pm -5pm

If you’re a lover of Museums, this natural science and cultural history museum is all about the Central Texas area.

For dinosaur and archeology-interested kids, they have exploration stations for geology and natural history and the Waco Mammoth National Monument Exhibit at the Baylor University Campus!

You can also check out the famous Armstrong Browning Library and Museum.

Save Money!

We highly recommend you purchase a Pogo Pass for every family member (over the age of 2), to get free access to all 5 of these attractions in Waco! You can redeem your pass anytime over the course of a year. We have an affiliate (exclusive) link to get you 50% off your Annual Pass.

.ugb-3f2d174 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} We just got back from Waco. Magnolia Table was delicious! And the cupcakes at Silos baking Co were aaammmmazzzziinnng. And if there’s a line, an airstream sells their cupcakes in the Silos area. We tried to go see the bears but they were inside at the Baylor Bear Hab itat and we’d planned on going to the Mayborn but didn’t go. – Laura, Plano TX

Silos Baking Co.

Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 235-0603

Silos Baking Co. is Magnolia’s bakery located at the Silos. Joanna has handcrafted each of the many recipes you’ll find available daily. They offer such a wide selection of baked goods.

Health Camp

Address: 2601 Circle Rd, Waco, TX 76706

Phone: (254) 752-2186

Classic roadside pit stop for burgers & hot dogs washed down with shakes, malts & frozen custard.

.ugb-611308f .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} We always stop at Health Camp in Waco when we are driving down to San Antonio. Health Camp in Waco is fun. (Teaser-it’s not healthy, but so yummy!) Health Camp on the circle near Magnolia Table has great burgers and shakes. It’s tiny and has been around since the 1940s – not much healthy about it but it’s a classic Waco spot. The suspension bridge is iconic and we love the Dr Pepper Museum. Quotes from various Plano Moms!

George Restaurant & Catering

Address: 1201 Hewitt Dr #100, Waco, TX 76712

Phone: (254) 420-2060

A Waco institution dating back to 1930 and became a popular spot for Baylor students, George’s is Waco’s institution and serves up burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and Southern comfort food.

Dig into burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and an equally large brownie sundae served in one of its “Big O” glasses.

.ugb-05be7e4 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} We love to stop at George’s – Vicky, Frisco TX

Vitek’s BBQ

Address: 1600 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706

Phone: (254) 752-7591

Vitek’s is home to the original Gut Pack, a massive pile of smoked meat, Fritos, cheese, beans, pickles, and barbecue sauce!

It was founded in 1915 and is a fourth-generation family-owned and operated business. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, so it is worth going.

The Gut Pack is highly recommended by Allison in Plano, TX

Uncle Dan’s BBQ & Ribhouse

Address: 1001 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 772-3532

.ugb-f47fd31 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Uncle Dan’s BBQ is a local place I love in Waco – Rebecca, Plano TX

Café Homestead

Phone: (254) 754-9604

.ugb-f306cc1 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Cafe Homestead- on our way there now ourselves! Maybe on the way back if this is too late. We stop there every time, it’s SO good! A little off the beaten path, but it’s a working homestead and there are things for kids to see…plus shopping! – Molly, Plano TX

Captain Billy Whizzbang’s

Address: 901 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 776-4155

Old-school, counter-serve burger joint with a drive-thru & treats such as handmade milkshakes.

World Cup Café

Address: 1321 N 15th St, Waco, TX 76707

Phone: (254) 757-1748

.ugb-a8008c1 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} We love this little place called World Cup Cafe. It’s off the beaten path and also sells handmade goods as a non profit . – Rachel, Plano TX

Kitok’s Restaurant

Address: 1815 N 18th St, Waco, TX 76707

Phone: (254) 754-1801

Jake’s Texas Tea House

Address: 613 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 756-2522

Poppa Rollo’s Pizza

Address: 703 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 776-6776

El Conquistador Restaurant

Address: 4508 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 772-4596

Casa De Castillo Mexican

Address: 4820 Sanger Ave, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 772-8246

Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant

Address: 220 S 3rd St, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 757-205

Address: 3815 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76710

Phone: (254) 756-4701

The Best Shops and Stores to check out in Waco

Waco is not just about the Magnolia brand, although the Gaines obviously had a significant influence on some shops popping around. Shopping is one of the best things to do in Waco!

The Waco Downtown Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9:00am to 1:00pm featuring the best local agricultural producers and artisan vendors within 150 miles of  Waco

Consider adding these to your itinerary.

Christi’s Shop

Address: 1023 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 235-1047

An eclectic boutique experience, Christi’s shop includes a showroom for Moon Rein Bedding Company, contemporary and antique furniture, bronze sculptures, home decor, clothing, and candies.

There’s a lot to see in this space, so it’s worth checking out.

The Findery

Address: 501 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706

Phone: (254) 235-1777

With a similar vibe as the Magnolia Market, The Findery offers many beautiful country-chic decor, home goods, textiles, gifts, and antiques.

.ugb-54b5f48 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important} Go down the street from the Silos to The Findery…I liked it more than Magnolia. – Susan, Plano Texas

Spice Village

Address: 213 Mary Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 757-0921

Spice Village is a long-time local favorite located in a 1908 warehouse building in downtown Waco. It has about over 80 independently owned shops, and you may recognize some from Joanna Gaines’ televised shopping adventures.

It offers something for everyone in the family!

Cameron Trading Post

Address: 618 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Phone: (254) 756-7662

This is a typical antique store with private vendors dealing in collectibles, dishes, small furniture, and antique oddities. 

Don’t Forget

On the way there or back, if you take the I-45, you can also stop at the Texan-famous Bucee’s Gas Station/All-in-one fun stop for Gifts, Food items, and Hot meals, which is located in Ennis, TX.

Another Texas tradition that visitors go out of their way for! 

Here’s your Bucee’s address: 1181 Creechville Rd, Ennis, TX 75119A

And try to stop at the Czech Stop (I-31/ Exit 353 in West, Texas) to get some of their renowned Kolaches!

If you’re headed further South, we have 5 Unique Air BnB rentals in the Hill Country and 25 of the best things to do in San Antonio

All articles and photos belong to Plano Moms LLC unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. If you wish to request to use our content  Email Us  first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience. We make no guarantees of any prices or venue-specific information listed on our site. We are not responsible for content on external websites linked to, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we love but we can’t guarantee you will love them, too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Some of our experiences have been hosted but this never impacts how we share the experience with you – opinions are always our own! We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. United States Copyright, Plano Moms LLC

Call me BonBon, I am a Mom of 2 kids, a family travel blogger and a travel advisor. My family loves to discover new places, near and far. And we love to inspire families to travel more, to get out of their comfort zone and explore this wonderful world. Check out my blog for travel inspirations http://www.bon-bonvoyage.com/

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Thursday 13th of January 2022

You need to add the best 28 year old Waco Business to your list. It has out lasted everything on your list for a reason. It is made up of 165 vendors that are from Waco or surrounding area that offer women's clothes, gifts, antiques, children's clothes just to mention a few things. Craft Gallery Waco 7524 Bosque Blvd Waco, Texas. CraftGalleryGiftStore.com

Monday 17th of January 2022

Thank you so much Ralph, for sharing this secret gem in Waco. We'll be sure to update it. If you are the owner or can get the owner to email us, we would love to get some pictures and more info!

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

Things to Do in Waco, Texas that Aren’t Magnolia Market

Jill Robbins

Situated by the Brazos River in Central Texas, the city of Waco is home to the massive Magnolia Market shopping complex. However, there’s more to Waco than shopping. Wineries, live music and biking on the riverwalk are among fun things to do in Waco Texas. Waco is also the birthplace of Dr Pepper and has an assortment of museums.

And since it’s an easy day trip from Dallas and Austin or road trip from Houston, Waco is a nice spot for a mini getaway or family vacation.

This once sleepy little town has really boomed as a tourist attraction and there’s lots to explore and enjoy . Here’s our list of the best things to do in Waco, TX.

Dr Pepper Museum

If you’re ever been curious about the history of Dr Pepper manufacturing and bottling and love a good dose of quirky nostalgia, the Dr Pepper Museum is worth the price of admission.

I recommend visiting after lunch. It doesn’t take a ton of time to go through and there’s a fun ice cream shop/soda fountain at the end where you can get a treat or your favorite soft drink.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument falls under the National Parks Service, so if you have a National Parks Passport, bring it along so you can collect your stamp. We spent about three hours at the Waco Mammoth National Monument while enjoying the natural habitats, and honestly, we could have stayed longer. We had to pry our kids out of the dig pit.

Pick up a Junior Ranger activity book (you can print one at home before heading to the site) to make it even more fun. Take the completed book with you to visit the Mayborn Museum (see #4) and the kids get in free!

Read More: Complete Guide to the NPS Junior Ranger Program

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is an active dig site, so you never know quite what you’re going to see. The back story: a herd of Chilean mammoths (kind of like a warm weather and larger version of the woolly mammoth) died in this area in what is presumed to be a flood. Their fossils are still being uncovered, along with some other surprises, such as fossil remains of other mammals that lived during this period.

Admission is free but spend a few bucks for a guided tour. It’s worth it. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and includes the history and entry to the active dig site.

Read More: Waco is a short drive from Austin, the state capital. Here’s how to spend three days in Austin .

Texas Sports Hall of Fame

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is located on the campus of Baylor University. It’s a great place for people who love Texas sports.

My kids loved the many hands-on activities. And there’s plenty of room to run around. There are exhibits dedicated to the Southeast Conference, high school football (hey, it is Texas! We’re all about our Friday night lights!) and to noteworthy Texas athletes of all types. There’s also an interactive children’s area with an electronic soccer game, jump ropes and other exhibits dedicated to youth physical fitness.

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 5. There’s an admission fee, but active military members get in free.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Waco area is close enough to both San Antonio and Killeen to have a substantial military connection in the community. So if you’re a military family, ask about military discounts any place you go in Waco.

Mayborn Museum

The Mayborn Museum Complex is also located at Baylor University. Here you will find hands-on discovery rooms, interactive natural science and cultural history galleries and outdoor exhibits. There are also traveling exhibits, so check the website to see what will be offered during your visit.

If your kids complete the Junior Ranger Program at the Waco Mammoth National Monument (see #2), they’ll get free admission to the Mayborn. There is also a Mammoth exhibit at the Mayborn that ties into what you learned at the Waco Mammoth National Monument.

The Mayborn Museum strikes a nice compromise between being interactive and informative. My kids found plenty of hands-on fun, while I learned a lot about Texas. That’s saying something since I’ve lived in this state for most of my life.

Waco Tours – One of the Best Things to Do in Waco

If you are a true Chip and Jo fan, you need to do the Classic Waco Tour . Do it on your first day in Waco; I promise you will not be sorry. The tour will help you get your bearings and give you recommendations on places to eat. And, if you’re in Waco for more than one day, you will probably want to eat at more places than Magnolia Table or Silo Baking Company. There’s some really good food in town and this tour will show you where to find it. Bonus: You’ll come away from the tour with some discount coupons!

The tour includes a stop for refreshments and a complimentary ice cream or coffee drink. It also features a stop at Harp Design. If you’re familiar with the show, you know Clint Harp is a craftsman who often works with Joanna Gaines. His shop is full of goodies. I prefer it to the Magnolia Market. The merchandise is really fun and creative and it isn’t the mob scene that Magnolia can be, especially on the weekends.

You’ll also get a windshield tour of many of the Fixer Upper houses and hear little tidbits about the flips and the owners that you didn’t hear on the show. The tour operators are fabulous and do a great job of showcasing their city. The company offers other tours, such as the Texas Experience Tour (lots of cowboy culture) and a sunset river cruise along the Brazos River. More on Waco Tours here .

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

If you’ve ever been curious about the history of law enforcement in the state of Texas, head to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum on the Texas Ranger Trail. Allow two to three hours to see everything, although you can breeze through faster if you want.

Ask about senior and military discounts.

Cameron Park Zoo

The Cameron Park Zoo is a lovely, lush, small zoo. Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing the giraffes, Komodo dragons and even a bear habitat.

It’s one of the things to do in Waco that is super kid- and family-friendly. I’ve been twice: once in the spring when it was relatively cool and once in the heat of the Texas summer. We had a great time on both visits, although Texas summers are no joke.

Be sure to ask about military discounts.

Waco Suspension Bridge at Indian Spring Park with Cattle Drive Monument

Do you want to get great pictures in Waco or just let your kids burn off some energy? This is the place.

The larger-than-life sculptures tell the story of cattle drives and how they’re part of Waco’s history. There’s a little bit of shade, a place to look out on the Brazos River and a mural honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This is one of the things to do in Waco that is wonderfully unstructured and really lets you enjoy being out in the open. This park is located in the heart of downtown Waco, but we really loved the open spaces.

Homestead Craft Village

Homestead Craft Village is 16 miles outside of Waco. It’s full of shopping, learning and beautiful scenery. It’s also free.

You can easily spend three hours walking around this historic village and talking to the artisans, who are super friendly and willing to talk to you about their craft. We visited with the ladies who make pottery and baskets, and a man who makes beautifully handcrafted furniture. There was a working mill with an adjoining shop where you can buy bread and pancake mixes, plus other fun kitchen things. The village feels like a history museum come to life.

If you’re a shopper, there are some beautiful things but I’ll warn ya…they’re expensive. I would have loved to have some of the beautiful blue Brazos pottery, but the price tag was a budget buster for me.

The onsite restaurant, Cafe Homestead, is famous in these parts. And for a good reason: The food is amazing. If you would like to eat here, check in and get on the waiting list as soon as you arrive on the property. People line up at the door before the place opens, so wait times are easily an hour or more. Reserve your place in line and you’ll get a text when your table is ready. I’m telling y’all, this place is seriously worth the wait.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Order the sweet potato and jalapeno soup with a Virgil’s Black Cherry soda. You’re welcome.

Hawaiian Falls Water Park

If you’re visiting during the summer months, consider scheduling an afternoon at Hawaiian Falls Waco Water Park.

This 10-acre water park has great pools, including a wave pool, a lazy river and lots of slides. It also offers some of the best rates I’ve seen on cabana rentals at a waterpark. If you plan to spend the day, consider renting one, as the shady spots are fairly limited.

But Don’t Skip Magnolia Market!

I know this is a list of things to do in Waco besides Magnolia Market, but definitely make sure you get to this shopping district. Even though you can easily fill several days with the other things to do in Waco, Magnolia is a lot of fun, too. I am not really a shopper and I personally don’t get that excited about the home decor and gardening items for sale there. They’re nice but they’re not much different than any other home store or big box store. (Yes, I know I might get my Texas card revoked for saying that.)

For my family, it’s the backyard area and all the food trucks that make this a really fun place to visit. Even if you just get some ice cream or a glass of sweet tea while your kids or grandkids play corn hole or run around on the lawn, this is a “worth it” stop. The last time we visited, I didn’t even go inside the store. Oh, and do your homework: Magnolia Market, Magnolia Table and Silo Baking Company are closed Sundays.

If you’re looking for awesome boutique shopping in Waco, I recommend checking out Spice Village and The Findery. They have some truly authentic and fun gift items and memorabilia with Texan flare.

Want the best breakfast in Waco? Read this guide to getting the most out of your visit to Magnolia Table.

Visiting Texas During the Spring? Here’s where to find Texas Bluebonnets:

Although bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas, bloom everywhere across the state, one of the best areas to find them is the Texas Hill Country. You will probably also see them along the side of the highway coming in and out of Waco.

Bluebonnets bloom from late March to early April (varies depending on how cold the winter was).

If you are visiting Waco during spring, you could easily add on a trip to explore the Texas Hill Country and places like Brenham Texas to check out the wildflowers. There are also some spots in and around Dallas that might be more convenient for you, depending on which way you are traveling.

Read More:  Where to find Texas bluebonnets

SheBuysTravel Tip: Looking for more Texas fun? Try these things to do in Dallas with kids , or these things to do in Austin !

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are some other popular attractions in Waco besides Magnolia Market?

A: Some other popular attractions in Waco include the Dr Pepper Museum, Cameron Park Zoo and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

Q: Are there any good places to eat in Waco?

A: Yes, Waco has a thriving food scene! Some popular restaurants include Health Camp (known for their burgers and milkshakes), Torchy’s Tacos and Milo All Day.

Q: Is Waco a safe place to visit?

A: Yes, Waco is generally considered a safe place to visit. As with any city, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Waco?

A: The best time to visit Waco depends on your preferences. Spring and fall tend to be the most pleasant in terms of weather, but summer is a popular time to visit as well. Just keep in mind that it can get quite hot during the summer months.

Q: Where can I find more information about visiting Waco?

A: The Waco Convention and Visitors Bureau website is a great resource for planning your trip to Waco. You can also check out the Visit Waco , Texas Facebook page for updates and recommendations.

2 responses

Lansharx Gaming on Franklin Ave. is a great place to take your kids. They have been a family friendly business for over 13 years and have a huge selection of games and consoles. You can check them out at http://www.lansharx.com !

We second the Waco Mammoth. Last year driving between Austin and Dallas, that was the one attraction in Waco we stopped at.

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Looking for things to do, places to stay, and great shopping in Waco, Texas? You've come to the right place.

Waco offers enough to keep visitors busy for days! Mountain bike or hike in Cameron Park, explore downtown where you’ll find Magnolia Market, antique stores, and wonderful local shops and restaurants. Stroll through our cultural and historic district  Walk across the historic Suspension Bridge, built in 1870, where the hooves of cattle followed the Chisholm and Shawnee Trails. Come for a weekend getaway, a convention, a tour, or simply to relax. Enjoy all that Waco has to offer.

But don't take our word for it! Here's Chip and Joanna Gaines saying what they like best about our town!