Best Things To Do in Waco, Texas
Explore Magnolia Market, visit the Dr Pepper Museum, and stroll through Cameron Park Zoo for the best things to do in Waco, Texas. Waco offers a variety of attractions for visitors.
Magnolia Market, created by Chip and Joanna Gaines, attracts design enthusiasts. The Dr Pepper Museum provides a fascinating dive into the history of the beloved soda. Cameron Park Zoo is perfect for families and animal lovers. Each location offers unique experiences that highlight Waco’s charm.
You can also explore the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and take a scenic walk along the Brazos River. Waco seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Texas.
Top Places to Stay in Waco, TX
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| 5 mins to Silos/Stadium/Block to Cameron Park Zoo 409 Tennessee Avenue, Waco, TX 76707, United States of America | 332 |
| Cozy Waco Apartment with a Downtown View Waco, 76701, United States of America | 227 |
| Bed and Breakfast on White Rock Creek 267 Ruby Dell Lane, Waco, TX 76705, United States of America | 363 |
| The White House on Burnett - Close to Everything 1012 Burnett Avenue, Waco, 76706, United States of America | 177 |
| Pivovar Hotel 320 South 8th Street, Waco, TX 76701, United States of America | 1,092 |
| 1700 South 2nd 1700 South 2nd St, Waco, TX 76706, United States of America | 79 |
| The Hacienda Beautiful New Container Home 12 min to Magnolia 6724 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 75 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham Waco Baylor Downtown 911 South 10th St., Waco, 76706, United States of America | 953 |
| Hotel Indigo Waco, an IHG Hotel 211 Clay Avenue, Waco, TX 76706, United States of America | 382 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Waco 2500 Bagby Avenue , Waco, 76706, United States of America | 270 |
| Aloft Waco Baylor 900 South 11th Street, Waco, 76706, United States of America | 263 |
| Comfort Suites Waco Near University Area 2700 La Salle, Waco, TX 76706, United States of America | 502 |
| Tru By Hilton Waco South 2408 Marketplace Drive, Waco, TX 76711, United States of America | 435 |
| Element Waco 2200 North Robinson Drive, Waco, 76706, United States of America | 39 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Waco South, an IHG Hotel 5701 Legend Lake Parkway, Waco, TX 76712, United States of America | 326 |
| Cabin 1 Rental 15 minutes from Magnolia and Baylor 8617 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 30 |
| Residence Inn Waco South 2424 Marketplace Drive, Waco, TX 76711, United States of America | 132 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Waco 5620 Legend Lake Parkway, Waco, TX 76712, United States of America | 186 |
| The Shoreline Container Home 12 min to Magnolia Silos and Baylor Gholson Road 6724, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 29 |
| Cabin 3 Rental 15 minutes from Magnolia and Baylor 8617 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 20 |
| Walk to the Silos! 3 Bed 1960's Bungalow near Baylor South 7th Street 620, Waco, 76706, United States of America | 19 |
| Elegant Container Tiny House Yellow & Blue 7895 Gholson Rd, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 18 |
| Restored 1930s Uptown Bungalow 2 min. to Magnolia 2219 Washington Avenue, Waco, 76701, United States of America | 20 |
| Cozy Cabin Little Red Hen 12 min to Magnolia 6724 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 22 |
| Candlewood Suites Waco, an IHG Hotel 2700 South New Road , Waco, 76706, United States of America | 179 |
| NEW-Ethel Rose Cottage-5 min to Magnolia Silos 2214 Ethel Avenue, Waco, 76707, United States of America | 11 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Waco North 4257 North IH-35, Waco, TX 76705, United States of America | 422 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Waco 5800 Legends Lake Parkway , Waco, TX 76712, United States of America | 89 |
| Cabin 2 Rental 15 minutes from Magnolia and Baylor 8617 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 11 |
| Tiny CargoHome near Magnolia Silos Baylor 6724 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 22 |
| Hyatt Place Waco - South 5400 Bagby Avenue, Waco, TX 76711, United States of America | 1,174 |
| Quality Inn & Suites Near University 2410 South New Road, Waco, 76711, United States of America | 639 |
| Charming Downtown Stay 1342 South 12th Street, Waco, TX 76706, United States of America | 8 |
| Cozy Bearadise Bungalow 2 Mi to Magnolia Market! Waco, 76707, United States of America | 8 |
| Cozy Unique 3 bedroom near Brazos River 1548 McFerrin Avenue, Waco, TX 76708, United States of America | 10 |
| Cowbell Cabin 15min to Downtown Waco 119 Fort Graham Circle, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 9 |
| Elegant CargoHome The Anchor by Magnolia/Baylor 6724 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 14 |
| Stillwater House Elegant tiny container home Near Magnolia Halbert Lane 216, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 18 |
| Best Western Plus Woodway Waco South Inn & Suites 6808 Woodway Drive, Waco, TX 76712, United States of America | 413 |
| Stunning CargoHome Near Waco, Magnolia and Baylor 6724 Gholson Road, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 17 |
| The Farmhouse 20 Min to Magnolia and Baylor 260 Windmill Lane, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 7 |
| Courtyard by Marriott Waco 101 Washington Avenue, Waco, TX 76701, United States of America | 246 |
| Escape to a Restored 1920s East Waco Bungalow 217 Turner Street, Waco, 76704, United States of America | 15 |
| Montana Escape Elegant Tiny House in Waco Near Magnolia 216 Halbert Lane, Waco, 76705, United States of America | 12 |
| Spacious Waco Home about 9 Mi to Magnolia Market Waco, 76712-3141, United States of America | 4 |
| Young Tree Retreat Waco, 76705, United States of America | 4 |
| Green Door Lofts -Magnolia Loft, Silos/Downtown 714 Austin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701, United States of America | 4 |
| SpringHill Suites Waco 115 South Jack Kultgen Freeway, Waco, TX 76706, United States of America | 21 |
| TownePlace Suites by Marriott Waco South 5621 Legend Lake Parkway, Waco, TX 76712, United States of America | 72 |
| New-The Mod Poppy Large home 10 minutes from it all 500 Hood Street, Waco, 76704, United States of America | 3 |
Explore Magnolia Market
Magnolia Market in Waco, Texas, is a must-visit destination. It offers a unique shopping experience, delightful food, and a picturesque setting. Joanna and Chip Gaines, stars of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper,” own this charming market. Whether you’re a fan of the show or not, Magnolia Market promises a fun and memorable day.
Shop At The Silos
The Silos are the heart of Magnolia Market. Here, you can find a wide range of home decor items, from vintage pieces to modern designs. The shop is beautifully curated, reflecting Joanna Gaines’ unique style.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Home Decor | Beautiful items to adorn your home. |
| Gardening Supplies | Everything you need for a lovely garden. |
| Books | Inspirational books and cookbooks. |
Every corner of the shop is Instagram-worthy. You will love browsing through the unique collections.
Enjoy The Food Trucks
After shopping, head outside to enjoy the food trucks. The food trucks offer a variety of delicious options. Whether you’re craving BBQ, tacos, or sweet treats, there’s something for everyone.
- BBQ Truck: Savor smoky and flavorful BBQ dishes.
- Taco Truck: Delight in fresh and tasty tacos.
- Sweet Truck: Indulge in mouth-watering desserts.
There are plenty of seating areas to relax and enjoy your food. The outdoor setting is perfect for a family picnic.
Credit: www.timeout.com
Visit The Dr Pepper Museum
Waco, Texas offers many attractions, but the Dr Pepper Museum stands out. This museum celebrates America’s beloved soft drink, Dr Pepper. Visitors can dive into the rich history of this iconic beverage. The museum offers interactive exhibits, making it fun for all ages.
Learn The History
The Dr Pepper Museum tells the story of Dr Pepper’s creation. Dr Pepper was invented in Waco in 1885. You can learn about its inventor, Charles Alderton. The museum showcases old advertisements and memorabilia. You’ll see how Dr Pepper became popular worldwide.
Interactive Exhibits
The museum isn’t just about history. It features interactive exhibits that engage visitors. Kids can participate in soda-making workshops. They’ll love the hands-on activities. There’s also a 7 Up bottling line experience. You can see how drinks are bottled and even try it yourself.
Below is a table highlighting some interactive exhibits:
| Exhibit | Description |
|---|---|
| Soda-Making Workshop | Learn to make your own soda. |
| 7 Up Bottling Line | Experience the bottling process. |
| Virtual Reality Tour | Explore the history in VR. |
For those who love history and fun activities, the Dr Pepper Museum is a must-visit. Plan your trip to Waco and enjoy this unique experience!
Stroll Through Cameron Park
Waco, Texas offers a hidden gem for nature lovers: Cameron Park. This vast green space is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park spans over 400 acres, providing plenty to explore. Whether you enjoy hiking, picnicking, or simply taking in scenic views, Cameron Park has something for everyone.
Hiking Trails
Cameron Park boasts an array of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The trails wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the Brazos River. Here are some popular trails:
- River Trail: This trail runs along the river and offers easy terrain.
- Jacob’s Ladder: A challenging climb with rewarding views at the top.
- Redwood Trail: Perfect for a peaceful walk through towering trees.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The trails are well-marked and maintained, making them safe for families.
Scenic Picnic Spots
The park offers numerous scenic picnic spots where you can relax and unwind. These spots provide beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. Here are some recommended areas:
| Picnic Spot | Features |
|---|---|
| Emmons Cliff | Overlooks the Brazos River, shaded areas |
| Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place | Colorful gardens, benches, and tables |
| Proctor Springs | Water features, large open spaces |
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The park provides picnic tables and grills, making it easy to plan a perfect outing.
Credit: travel.usnews.com
Tour The Waco Mammoth National Monument
Waco, Texas, offers a unique adventure at the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This site is a treasure trove of ancient history. Families, historians, and kids will find this place fascinating.
Fossil Excavation Site
The Fossil Excavation Site is the heart of the monument. Here, you can see well-preserved fossils of mammoths. These fossils date back over 10,000 years. The site also includes fossils of other Ice Age animals.
- See mammoth fossils up close.
- Learn about Ice Age animals.
- Explore the history of the excavation.
Every fossil has a story. The site helps you understand the life of these giant creatures. You can imagine how they lived and roamed the earth.
Guided Tours
Take a guided tour for a deeper experience. Knowledgeable guides share amazing facts about the mammoths. They explain the importance of the discoveries.
- Guides share detailed stories.
- Learn about the excavation process.
- Discover how scientists study fossils.
Guided tours make the experience more interactive. You can ask questions and get detailed answers. The guides make the history come alive with their stories.
Visiting the Waco Mammoth National Monument is an exciting journey. It’s a must-see for anyone in Waco. The blend of history and science is truly fascinating.
Discover The Texas Ranger Hall Of Fame
Visiting Waco, Texas, means delving into its rich history. One must-see attraction is the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame. This museum celebrates the legendary Texas Rangers. You’ll find fascinating exhibits and stories that captivate all ages.
Historical Artifacts
The museum showcases a vast collection of historical artifacts. These items tell the story of the Rangers from their inception to today. You’ll see weapons, badges, and personal items used by Rangers.
| Artifact | Description |
|---|---|
| Colt Revolvers | Used by Rangers in the 1800s. |
| Ranger Badges | Symbol of authority and bravery. |
| Uniforms | Original uniforms worn by Rangers. |
These items offer a tangible connection to the past. They help visitors understand the daily life of a Ranger.
Ranger Stories
One of the highlights of the museum is the Ranger stories. These stories are told through exhibits, videos, and personal accounts. Each story brings to life the courage and dedication of these men and women.
- Famous Rangers: Learn about Rangers like Frank Hamer, who helped capture Bonnie and Clyde.
- Heroic Acts: Discover tales of bravery and sacrifice.
- Modern Rangers: See how Rangers continue to serve today.
These stories are engaging and educational. They provide a deep understanding of the Rangers’ role in Texas history.
Relax At Lake Waco
Lake Waco is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature. The serene environment offers various activities for everyone. Whether you love water sports or bird watching, Lake Waco has something for you. Let’s explore some of the best things to do at Lake Waco.
Boating And Fishing
Boating at Lake Waco is a popular activity. The lake has several boat ramps and marinas. You can rent a boat or bring your own. The calm waters are ideal for a peaceful day on the water.
Fishing enthusiasts will find Lake Waco a paradise. The lake is home to various fish species. Some popular catches include bass, catfish, and crappie. Make sure to bring your fishing gear for a rewarding experience.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Boating | Several boat ramps, rentals available |
| Fishing | Species include bass, catfish, crappie |
Bird Watching
Lake Waco is a haven for bird watchers. The area is home to various bird species. You can spot herons, egrets, and many migratory birds. Bring your binoculars for the best experience.
The lake’s trails offer great vantage points for bird watching. Early mornings are the best time to see the birds. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while observing these beautiful creatures.
- Herons
- Egrets
- Migratory birds
Explore The Baylor University Campus
Waco, Texas is home to the beautiful Baylor University Campus. This historic campus offers a mix of educational and recreational activities. Whether you’re a student, parent, or tourist, there’s plenty to explore.
Bear Habitat
The Bear Habitat is a must-see on the Baylor campus. This living space is home to the university’s live bear mascots, Joy and Lady. Visitors can watch the bears play and learn about their care.
- Watch live bears in a natural setting
- Learn about bear conservation
- Great photo opportunities
The habitat is open daily and is free to the public. It’s a unique experience for people of all ages.
Armstrong Browning Library
The Armstrong Browning Library is another gem on the Baylor campus. This library is dedicated to the works of poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The building itself is an architectural marvel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Collection | Rare books and manuscripts |
| Architecture | Italian Renaissance style |
| Special Rooms | Foyer, Garden of Contentment |
Visitors can enjoy guided tours and special events. The library also offers quiet reading rooms and stunning stained glass windows.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Waco, Texas offers a vibrant food scene. Enjoy a variety of local dishes. From BBQ to Tex-Mex, there’s something for everyone. Taste the local flavors and explore unique restaurants. Waco is a food lover’s paradise.
Popular Restaurants
Waco boasts many popular restaurants. Here are some must-visit spots:
- Magnolia Table: Famous for its breakfast and brunch.
- Vitek’s BBQ: Known for its smoky barbecue and Gut Pak.
- George’s Restaurant: Offers Tex-Mex and Southern comfort food.
- Clay Pot: Serves delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
Food Festivals
Waco hosts exciting food festivals. These events celebrate local cuisine:
| Festival Name | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Waco Downtown Farmers Market | Every Saturday | Fresh produce and local vendors. |
| Texas Food Truck Showdown | March | Food trucks compete with unique dishes. |
| Waco Cultural Arts Fest | October | Art, music, and diverse food stalls. |
Credit: www.tripadvisor.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Attractions In Waco?
Waco offers top attractions like the Magnolia Market, Cameron Park Zoo, and Dr Pepper Museum. Each site provides unique experiences.
Is The Magnolia Market Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Magnolia Market is a must-visit. It offers shopping, dining, and beautiful gardens. Great for all ages.
What Outdoor Activities Are Available In Waco?
Waco has excellent outdoor activities like hiking in Cameron Park, kayaking on the Brazos River, and biking trails.
Can I Visit Historical Sites In Waco?
Yes, you can visit historical sites like the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
Waco, Texas offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy local cuisine, explore museums, and unwind in beautiful parks. Make your visit to Waco memorable by experiencing its unique charm and vibrant culture.
Plan your trip today and discover all that Waco has to offer!