Unforgettable Things to Do in Waco, TX

Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos

One of the top attractions in Waco, Magnolia Market is the brainchild of Chip and Joanna Gaines from Fixer Upper. Visit Magnolia for a day of shopping, eating, and relaxing. The Silos include a bakery, food trucks, a large lawn for games, and a unique gift shop full of home goods. It’s a must-see for fans of the show and a great stop even if you’ve never seen an episode.

Explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument

For something fun and educational, head to the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This well-maintained dig site showcases fossilized remains of Columbian mammoths discovered in Central Texas. The climate-controlled excavation site is kid-friendly, making it ideal for families. Guided tours let you explore the nursery herd and understand how a flash flood preserved these massive creatures thousands of years ago.

Step Into History at the Dr Pepper Museum

Love a classic soft drink? The Dr Pepper Museum is another iconic Waco destination. Located in a historic bottling plant, the museum walks you through the history of America’s oldest major soft drink. Don’t miss the old-school soda fountain where you can grab a Pepper Float or cappuccino. The interactive museum is fun for all ages and offers insight into Waco’s contributions to pop culture.

Take a Walk Across the Waco Suspension Bridge

Built in 1870, the Waco Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian-only crossing over the Brazos River. It once supported cattle drives on the Chisholm Trail and is now part of Indian Spring Park. It’s a great bridge to cross for photos and a stroll through downtown Waco.

Discover More Things to Do in Waco

Beyond the famous attractions, there’s so much more around Waco:

• Cameron Park: One of the largest urban parks in Texas, ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking along the Brazos River.
• Cameron Park Zoo: A kid-friendly spot with well-maintained grounds and a wide variety of animals.
• Spice Village: A treasure trove of unique gifts, home decor, and boutique items located in a historic warehouse.
• Waco Downtown Farmers Market: Every Saturday, this lively market offers local produce, handmade goods, and food trucks.
• Mayborn Museum: Located on the Baylor University campus, it features hands-on exhibits, a historic village, and a large natural science collection.

Sip and Savor at Local Breweries and Wineries

Waco’s craft beverage scene is thriving:

• Balcones Distillery: Tour the award-winning distillery and enjoy tastings of Texas-made whiskey in their stylish tasting room.
• Brotherwell Brewing: A laid-back brewery near downtown Waco with live music and food trucks.
• Valley Mills Vineyards: Just outside Waco in Valley Mills, this family-run winery offers tastings in a scenic hill country setting.

Experience Baylor University and Local Culture

Baylor University adds college-town energy to Waco. Don’t miss:

• McLane Stadium: Catch a game or walk the scenic trails nearby.
• Armstrong Browning Library: A beautiful and peaceful spot dedicated to Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
• Baylor University’s Campus: A stroll through this well-maintained, historic campus offers dining options and beautiful architecture.

Cool Down at Waco Surf (BSR Cable Park)

Looking for something adventurous? Head to Waco Surf (formerly BSR Cable Park), home to the world’s longest lazy river and thrilling water slides. It’s a perfect summer escape for both kids and adults.

Plan Your Trip to Waco

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for fun things to do in Waco, this Texas town has something for everyone. From the iconic Silos to the hidden gems around Waco, your trip to Waco is bound to be unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

[fs-toc-omit]What is Magnolia Market, and why is it popular?

Magnolia Market at the Silos is a shopping and dining complex created by Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper. It’s one of the top attractions in Waco thanks to its boutique shops, food trucks, silo lawn, and bakery.

[fs-toc-omit]What can you see at the Waco Mammoth National Monument?

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a climate-controlled excavation site where visitors can view fossils of Columbian mammoths. It’s a kid-friendly and educational experience featuring a nursery herd preserved by a flash flood.

[fs-toc-omit]Where is the Dr Pepper Museum located?

The Dr Pepper Museum is located in downtown Waco, TX, in the original 1906 bottling plant. It offers a walk through soft drink history, a soda fountain, and fun interactive exhibits.

[fs-toc-omit]What are some fun things to do around Waco?

Explore Cameron Park, visit the Cameron Park Zoo, shop at Spice Village, or enjoy a day at BSR Cable Park. Around Waco, you’ll also find wineries like Valley Mills Vineyards and the Baylor University campus with its museums and stadium.

[fs-toc-omit]When is the Waco Downtown Farmers Market open?

The Waco Downtown Farmers Market is open every Saturday and features local food trucks, produce, and unique handmade items. It’s located near the Brazos River in downtown Waco.

[fs-toc-omit]Is the Waco Suspension Bridge still in use?

The Waco Suspension Bridge is no longer used for vehicles but remains open for pedestrian use. It’s a historic landmark ideal for photos and riverside walks.

[fs-toc-omit]What are the best dining options near Magnolia Market?

Food trucks surround Magnolia Market with various dining options, from gourmet grilled cheese to tacos. Downtown Waco also has several well-rated restaurants, many within walking distance of the Silos.

[fs-toc-omit]How far is Valley Mills Vineyards from Waco?

Valley Mills Vineyards is located about 25 minutes from Waco, making it a great afternoon trip for wine lovers. Their tasting room features local wine and scenic views of the Texas Hill Country.

[fs-toc-omit]What are some can’t-miss things to do in Waco?

Some of the top things to do in Waco include visiting Magnolia Market, exploring the Waco Mammoth National Monument, and checking out the Dr Pepper Museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, a walk along the Brazos River or through Cameron Park is a highlight. According to TripAdvisor, Waco offers a mix of history, nature, and modern attractions perfect for all ages.

[fs-toc-omit]Is there anything in Waco related to the Texas Rangers?

Yes, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is a major attraction in Waco. It honors the history and legacy of the Texas Rangers, one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the U.S. It’s one of the top attractions in Waco for history buffs and is conveniently located near I-35 and downtown Waco.

[fs-toc-omit]What distilleries can you visit in Waco?

Balcones Distillery is a local favorite known for its award-winning Texas whiskey. You can take a tour in advance and enjoy a guided tasting experience in their stylish facility. The staff is really friendly, and the tasting room offers a behind-the-scenes look at how they craft their spirits.

[fs-toc-omit]What makes the Mayborn Museum worth visiting?

Located on the campus of Baylor University, the Mayborn Museum features an interactive museum with natural history exhibits, a historic village, and hands-on learning stations for kids. It’s ideal for children 4 and younger, but older kids and adults enjoy it too. The museum also includes exhibits on the Brazos River country and regional wetland ecosystems.

[fs-toc-omit]Why is Spice Village so popular?

Spice Village is a collection of over 60 boutiques under one roof in a renovated warehouse near downtown Waco. It’s known for its wide selection of home goods, accessories, and unique gift items. It's one of the top attractions in Waco and a great stop for finding a unique souvenir or stylish decor.

[fs-toc-omit]How can I make the most of a visit to Waco?

To visit Waco efficiently, plan your day around major sights like the Silos, Dr Pepper Museum, and Waco Mammoth National Monument. Book a distillery tour in advance, visit the Farmers Market if you're in town on a Saturday, and allow time to explore Baylor University’s well-maintained campus. Whether you're traveling solo, with kids 4 and younger, or planning something fun with friends, Waco offers a great mix of fun and history.

[fs-toc-omit]Is Waco considered a college town?

Yes, Waco is home to Baylor University, one of the largest private universities in Texas. The campus of Baylor University brings vibrant energy to downtown Waco and offers cultural attractions like the Armstrong Browning Library, McLane Stadium, and academic museums.

[fs-toc-omit]How far is Waco from Fort Worth?

Waco is located about 90 miles south of Fort Worth along I-35. It's a straight shot and takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, making it an easy weekend trip.

[fs-toc-omit]Are Waco attractions suitable for kids 4 and younger?

Yes, many Waco attractions are designed with families in mind. The Cameron Park Zoo, Mayborn Museum, and Waco Mammoth National Monument all offer experiences that are accessible and fun for young children, including kids 4 and younger. Look for kid-friendly areas, well-maintained grounds, and educational exhibits designed for hands-on learning.

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