Things to do in Waco Texas

Waco Things to Do

Waco, Texas is often overlooked as a travel destination. However, it offers visitors a wide variety of activities and attractions. From stunning parks and museums to unique shopping and dining experiences, Waco is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, this post will guide you through the best hidden gems of Waco, Texas. Get ready to fall in love with this charming city and all that it has to offer.

Introduction to Waco, Texas

Many people only know it as the location of the infamous Branch Davidian compound that was raided by the FBI in 1993. However, Waco has so much more to offer than its tumultuous past. It is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving culture. The city is home to some of the most beautiful parks, museums, and outdoor attractions in the state.

Visitors can explore the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, which displays artifacts and stories from the history of the Texas Rangers. Or, take a stroll through the Cameron Park Zoo, which offers a range of exhibits, including lions, elephants, and giraffes.

For those who love outdoor activities, Waco has plenty of options- from hiking and biking to kayaking and canoeing. The Brazos River that runs through the city offers a perfect setting for water activities. Waco is also home to the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a popular shopping destination run by reality TV stars, Chip and Joanna Gaines. In short, Waco is a city full of hidden gems and offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and historical attractions.

Magnolia Market and Silos

Magnolia Market and Silos is a must-visit place in Waco, Texas. This charming market and silos complex was founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, famous for their HGTV show “Fixer Upper.” The market has a variety of shops and vendors selling home decor, apparel, and accessories, and the silos serve as a platform for concerts, farmers’ markets, and other events.

The market offers a unique shopping experience with its rustic decor, local products, and handmade goods. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee at the Magnolia Press Cafe or grab a bite to eat at the Silos Baking Co. The bakery is known for its delicious cupcakes, cookies, and other baked goods.

Besides the shopping and food, the Magnolia Market and Silos complex also offers a picturesque setting for a day out. The outdoor lawn is perfect for a picnic or a game of catch with the family, while the garden and greenhouse offer a peaceful retreat for those who want to relax in nature. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Chip and Joanna themselves, who can often be seen around the market.

Overall, Magnolia Market and Silos is a beautiful and fun destination for all ages and interests, and it is undoubtedly one of the hidden gems of Waco, Texas.

Cameron Park Zoo

Located in the heart of Waco, Cameron Park Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families. The zoo features more than 1,731 animals from 300 different species, including lions, giraffes, otters, and elephants, to name a few. Visitors can also enjoy watching the playful antics of the zoo’s two resident bears, or catch a glimpse of the endangered black rhinos, which are part of the zoo’s conservation program.

One of the most popular attractions at Cameron Park Zoo is the Brazos River Country exhibit, where visitors can see native Texas animals such as alligators, bald eagles, and river otters up close. The zoo also features a large playground area for kids to burn off some energy, as well as a gift shop and several food and snack options.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Texas history, a visit to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum should be on your itinerary.

The museum showcases the history and achievements of the Texas Rangers, a division of law enforcement with a storied past dating back to the early 1800s. From early frontier days to modern times, the museum takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of the Rangers and their role in shaping Texas history.

The exhibits are engaging, with a mix of artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. Visitors can explore the tools and weapons used by the Rangers, learn about famous Rangers like Frank Hamer and Joaquin Jackson, and even step inside a replica of a Ranger campsite.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Hall of Fame, which honors the most distinguished Rangers in history. From captains and sergeants to modern-day officers, the Hall of Fame showcases the bravery, dedication, and integrity of the Texas Rangers.

Homestead Heritage

Homestead Heritage is a unique attraction that is definitely worth a visit when exploring Waco, Texas. It is a community of people who have come together to live a simpler life, focused on sustainability and self-sufficiency. The community is made up of craftsmen, farmers, and other skilled workers who create beautiful, handmade products that are sold in the Homestead Heritage Craft Village.

Visitors can tour the village and watch the craftspeople at work. Some of the crafts on display include pottery, weaving, blacksmithing, and woodworking. The village also has a gristmill where visitors can see how grain is turned into flour.

In addition to the craft village, Homestead Heritage has a working farm where visitors can see a variety of livestock, including cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens. The farm also has a large garden where many of the vegetables used in the community’s restaurant are grown.

Speaking of the restaurant, the Homestead Heritage Café serves delicious, farm-to-table meals made from scratch with ingredients sourced from the community’s farm and other local farms.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

If you’re a fan of history and prehistoric creatures, the Waco Mammoth National Monument is a must-visit destination in Waco, Texas. This unique and fascinating site preserves the remains of more than 20 Columbian mammoths, making it one of the largest known concentrations of mammoths dying from a natural event in North America. The monument is also home to the skeletal remains of other prehistoric creatures such as camels, saber-toothed cats, and dwarf antelopes, which roamed the area around 68,000 years ago.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site to learn about the history of these majestic creatures, the excavation process, and the ongoing scientific research being conducted by experts. The tour also includes a visit to the Dig Shelter where visitors can see the bones up close and personal and imagine what it must have been like to live among these creatures.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a great destination for families, school groups, and anyone with an interest in history and paleontology. It’s a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed on any trip to Waco, Texas.

Dr. Pepper Museum

When you think of Waco, Texas, the first thing that comes to mind might not be the Dr. Pepper Museum, but this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone in the area. Dr. Pepper was first created in Waco in 1885, and the museum takes you through the history of this iconic soft drink.

The museum features multiple exhibits, including a replica of the soda fountain where Dr. Pepper was first served, vintage advertisements and packaging, and a collection of soda fountain equipment. You can even watch a short film about the history of Dr. Pepper and its impact on American culture.

One of the highlights of the museum is its soda fountain, where you can sample a variety of Dr. Pepper products, including classic Dr. Pepper, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper, and even Dr. Pepper hot sauce. You can also try a soda float or grab a snack from the museum’s café.

Mayborn Museum Complex

If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience in Waco, Texas, the Mayborn Museum Complex is a must-visit destination. Located on the campus of Baylor University, this museum is named after its founder, Sue Mayborn, who donated the initial funding for the museum’s construction.

The Mayborn Museum Complex features a variety of exhibits that cater to visitors of all ages. The museum’s most popular exhibit is the Natural and Cultural History exhibit, which features life-size dioramas of animals and their habitats, as well as displays of artifacts from different cultures around the world. There’s also a children’s discovery center that’s perfect for young visitors who wants to learn and play at the same time.

In addition to its exhibits, the Mayborn Museum Complex also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From science-themed workshops to summer camps, there’s always something going on at the museum. If you’re planning a visit to Waco, Texas, be sure to add the Mayborn Museum Complex to your itinerary.

Other hidden gems in Waco, Texas

While Waco, Texas is best known for the Magnolia Market and Baylor University, there are plenty of other hidden gems to explore in this charming city. If you’re a fan of history, be sure to visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. This museum showcases the storied history of the Texas Rangers, one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States.

Martin Museum of Art

For art lovers, the Martin Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of art from around the world, as well as works by local artists. The museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions, making it a great destination for both art aficionados and casual visitors alike.

Waco Mammoths

If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, check out the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This site is home to the largest concentration of Columbian mammoths in North America, and visitors can take a guided tour of the dig site and learn about the fascinating history of these ancient creatures.

Lake Waco

For those who love the great outdoors, Lake Waco is a must-visit destination. With over 79 miles of shoreline, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area, making it a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of Waco.

Where to eat and drink in Waco

Waco, Texas boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of restaurants and bars to cater to all palates. Whether you’re looking for local Texan cuisine or international flavors, Waco has something for everyone.

Magnolia Table

For breakfast, make sure to stop by the famous Magnolia Table, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper. Their mouth-watering breakfast dishes range from classic bacon and eggs to unique specialties like smoked brisket benedict.

Lula Jane’s

Another great brunch spot is Lula Jane’s, a charming bakery and cafe that serves up delightful pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and soak in the Waco sun.

Milo All Day

For lunch or dinner, head over to Milo All Day, a trendy restaurant that offers a rotating menu of fresh and seasonal dishes. Their signature dish, the fried chicken sandwich, is a must-try, and their craft cocktails are excellent.

Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant

For Tex-Mex, Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite with delicious fajitas, tacos, and margaritas. Another great option is La Fiesta, a family-owned restaurant that serves up authentic Mexican cuisine.

Waco craft beer

Waco also has a burgeoning craft beer scene with several breweries to choose from such as Bare Arms Brewing, Brotherwell Brewing, and Southern Roots Brewing Co. For those who prefer wine, visit the Valley Mills Vineyards for a tasting of their award-winning wines.

A Brief History of Waco

Waco, Texas is a city with a long and fascinating history. The land where Waco stands today was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Wichita, Tawakoni, and Waco tribes. In the early 1800s, Spanish explorers and missionaries began to arrive in the area, followed by Anglo-American settlers in the 1830s.

The city of Waco was officially founded in 1849, named after the Waco tribe who had lived in the area. Throughout the 19th century, Waco grew into a major center of commerce and trade, thanks in large part to its location along the Brazos River. The city became a hub for cotton production and shipping, as well as a center for education and culture with the establishment of Baylor University in 1845.

Waco played a major role in the Civil War, with the city serving as a Confederate stronghold and a site of several key battles. After the war, Waco experienced significant growth and development, with the establishment of new businesses, industries, and institutions. Today, Waco continues to thrive, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich past or enjoying its many attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone in Waco, Texas.

How to get to Waco, Texas

Waco, Texas, is a beautiful city located in the heart of Texas, and it is easily accessible by air, car, or train. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is the Waco Regional Airport, which is only a few miles away from the city center. The airport offers daily flights to and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, making it convenient for travelers coming from other parts of the country.

If you prefer to drive, Waco can be easily reached by car from nearby cities such as Dallas, Austin, and Houston. The city is located along Interstate 35, a major highway that connects many of the biggest cities in Texas. If you’re driving from Dallas or Austin, the journey takes around 1.5 hours, while driving from Houston takes around 3 hours.

For those who prefer to take the train, Amtrak’s Texas Eagle service stops in Waco on its route between Chicago and San Antonio. This is a great option for those who want to sit back and enjoy the scenery as they travel to Waco.

Once you arrive in Waco, there are many transportation options available, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. With its convenient location and many transportation options, getting to Waco is easy, making it a great destination for your next vacation or weekend getaway.

Final Word

We hope you enjoyed our article about the hidden gems of Waco, Texas. This city has so much to offer, and we have only scratched the surface of what you can discover here. From the delicious food to the stunning nature reserves, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Waco. So if you’re planning a trip to Texas, make sure you add Waco to your itinerary! We hope this article has inspired you to explore the hidden gems of this city and create unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and happy exploring!