Looking for small-town charm with big personality, history, and home design inspiration? Head to Waco! Set along the Brazos River between Dallas and Austin, Waco is best known for Magnolia Market and Baylor University—but there’s a lot more to explore. Whether you're a fan of Fixer Upper or just want a fun and friendly weekend trip, Waco delivers culture, comfort, and Texan flavor.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Waco is from March to May or September to November. If you want comfortable temperatures for walking downtown, shopping at the Silos, or exploring the outdoors, spring and fall are your best bets. Summers can be hot, but there are plenty of indoor museums and shaded patios to beat the heat.
How to Get There
- By Car: Waco sits on I-35, about 90 minutes from both Dallas and Austin—perfect for a quick road trip or weekend escape.
- By Air: Waco Regional Airport (ACT) offers regional flights via Dallas/Fort Worth. You can also fly into DFW or Austin-Bergstrom and drive in.
- By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus have routes to Waco, and the downtown bus terminal is conveniently located near many attractions.
Where to Stay
- Hotel 1928 – A boutique hotel by Chip and Joanna Gaines, blending old-world elegance with Magnolia’s signature style. Perfect for design lovers or special occasions.
- Hilton Waco – Centrally located near the river and convention center, with a pool and quick access to downtown shops and restaurants.
- Bed & Breakfasts and Magnolia House Rentals – If you're looking for a homey, stylish stay, check out one of Magnolia's curated properties or a local B&B for Southern charm.
Top Attractions
1. Visit three floors of exhibits at the Dr Pepper Museum
Dr Pepper is the oldest popular soft drink in the United States; it was created in Waco in the 1880s, and it was manufactured in the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company building between 1906 and the mid-1960s. That building has since been converted into the Dr Pepper Museum, with the goal to preserve and share the history of America's soft drinks industry. Three floors of exhibits display a wide range of Dr Pepper memorabilia and artifacts, while the gift shop sells Dr Pepper merchandise and soda bottled in the oldest still-running manufacturing plant in America.
Address: Dr Pepper Museum, 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701, Phone: 254-757-1025
2. View the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat
The Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat is home to the mascots of Baylor University. Their habitat was designed to be as natural as possible, and it includes features like waterfalls, caves, and fallen trees.
Address: Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat , M P Daniel Esplanade, Waco, TX 76706, Phone: 254-710-3322
If you are traveling with kids
3. Take the kids to Cameron Park Zoo
Encompassing 50 acres inside Cameron Park, the Cameron Park Zoo was established in 1955 to care for a diverse range of wildlife and to provide educational and recreational opportunities for the public. More than 1,700 animals representing approximately 300 species can be seen in the zoo, including Komodo dragons, lemurs, and endangered Sumatran tigers.
In addition to the exotic animals from Asia and Africa, there are also a number of animals native to the Texas region. The zoo is open 7 days a week throughout the year, and it's happy to cater to special events like birthday parties, weddings, family gatherings, and overnight sleepovers.
Address: 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707, Phone: 254-750-8400
4. Stroll through the Carleen Bright Arboretum
One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Waco, the Carleen Bright Arboretum is a 16-acre nature preserve with approximately 8 acres of beautiful botanical gardens. The property is divided into four distinct zones: The western and eastern gardens, the pavilion and wedding lawn, and a nature trail that winds through a beautiful forested area. There are two venues that guests can book for weddings and other private events, but the arboretum also hosts special events open to the public, such as summer concerts. Visitors are welcome to visit the gardens every day between dawn and dusk.
Address: Carleen Bright Arboretum, 9001 Bosque Blvd b, Woodway, TX 76712, Phone: 254-399-9204
If you are looking to do something romantic
5. Have a snack at Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Offering both gourmet coffee and artisan cocktails, Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is a unique establishment that serves as a welcoming gathering place for locals and visitors no matter what the time of day. The coffee menu includes both hot and iced espresso drinks made with coffee beans proudly roasted in America, while the bar offers an excellent selection of spirits and handcrafted cocktails. Live music and other special events are held here on a regular basis, and the business can also be found at the Waco Farmers Market.
Address: 508 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, Phone: 254-717-3226
6. Browse books at the Armstrong Browning Library on a rainy day
Established to study the lives and poems of the English writers Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, the Armstrong Browning Library boasts the world's biggest collection of works done by the well-known literary couple. There are several exhibits about the lives of the Brownings and those who were close to them, but the museum also prepares two or three temporary exhibits every year that draw from their collections of stained glass, rare books, and artwork from the 1800s. The museum is open to the public free of charge, and visitors are also welcome to relax in the garden and shop in the gift store.
Address: Armstrong Browning Library, 710 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706, Phone: 254-710-3566
7. Take a tour of the East Terrace Museum
Overlooking the Brazos River, the East Terrace Museum is a historic house museum located inside the former home of industrialist John Wesley Mann. The home is built in the Italianate style, and so it serves as an excellent example of a style of architecture not often seen in this part of the country. Some of the home's original furnishings still remain, including a Victorian-style pier mirror and a wooden desk. Special tours outside of regular operating hours can be arranged by appointment.
Address: East Terrace Museum, 100 Mill St, Waco, TX 76704, Phone: 254-753-5166
8. Go for a walk on the Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk Area
No trip to Waco would be complete without a visit to the Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk Area. This historic bridge, which was built in 1870 by John Roebling, the same man behind the Brooklyn Bridge, is a symbol and icon of downtown Waco. At the time that the bridge was built, it was known for being the longest single-span suspension bridge to the West of the Mississippi, a great feat for that time in history. Today, the bridge and Riverwalk rea are frequented by locals and visitors alike thanks to its convenient location between the Indian Spring and Martin Luther King Jr. Park. This local favorite recreational space features seven miles of lit trails that trace the Bravos River shoreline and passes by several landmarks in downtown Waco such as Cameron Park and Baylor University.
Address: Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk Area, 101 N. University Parks Drive, Waco, Texas 76701, Phone: 254-750-5980
9. Buy a delicious treat at Heritage Creamery
Known for its delicious ice cream and friendly service, Heritage Creamery prides itself on serving carefully handcrafted frozen treats made with high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients. The menu offers everything from ice cream sandwiches on homemade cookies to milkshakes and ice cream floats; pints of ice cream are also available to take home or to share. Customers can also turn their ice cream into an affogato over at the next-door coffee shop Common Grounds. The shop is open every day between noon and 11pm, and they can also be found at the Waco Farmers Market on Saturday afternoons.
Address: Heritage Creamery, 1125 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706, Phone: 254-537-1352
If you are a first time visitor to Waco
- Magnolia Market at the Silos – A must-visit for fans of Fixer Upper. Browse the Magnolia shop, grab a bite from food trucks, relax on the lawn, or visit the bakery.
- Waco Mammoth National Monument – See the fossil remains of prehistoric mammoths and other Ice Age creatures preserved in a dig site. Great for science lovers and families alike.
- Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum – Explore the history of the legendary Texas Rangers through artifacts, stories, and rotating exhibits.
Where to Eat
- Magnolia Table – A bright, Southern-style breakfast and lunch spot by Chip and Joanna Gaines. If you're planning to go, go early or expect a wait—it’s popular for a reason.
- George’s Restaurant & Bar – A Waco institution with generous portions of Tex-Mex and Southern comfort food. If you’re in the mood for fried catfish or chicken fried steak, this is the spot.
- Twisted Root Burger Co. – Funky, flavorful burgers with creative toppings and a casual vibe. Great for a quick lunch downtown.
- Vitek’s BBQ – Home of the “Gut Pak,” this family-run BBQ spot serves brisket, sausage, and all the classic sides in a no-frills, big-flavor setting.
If You’re Interested in Local Events
- Silobration (October) – Hosted by Magnolia, this annual event features live music, vendor markets, and food trucks in celebration of all things Waco and home design.
- Waco Downtown Farmers Market (Year-round, Saturdays) – Shop local produce, artisan foods, and handmade goods along the riverwalk.
- Baylor University Events – Catch a football game, theater production, or campus event—especially fun on game day weekends.
Day Trips from Waco
- Clifton (45 min) – Visit this charming Hill Country town known for its art galleries, Norwegian heritage, and relaxed country feel.
- Lake Waco (15–20 min) – Great for boating, fishing, or picnicking along the shore—especially nice in warmer months.
- Salado (1 hr) – A quaint village with boutiques, art studios, and weekend wine tastings. Perfect for a slow afternoon getaway.
- West, Texas (25 min) – Famous for kolaches and Czech culture. Stop at Slovacek’s or Czech Stop for sweet and savory pastries.
- McGregor (30 min) – Check out SpaceX’s test facility or explore antique shops and small-town cafés nearby.
FAQ
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Where is Waco located?
- Sitting on the banks of the Brazos River, about 2 hours from Austin, Waco is a moderately sized Texan city with a big heart.
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Why did Waco become a popular tourist destination?
- The city first started gaining attention as a tourist destination because of HGTV's Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, but it also boasts an excellent selection of museums, restaurants, and beautiful natural attractions.
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What cultural and historical attractions can visitors explore in Waco?
- You're sure to find a pleasant way to spend your time here, whether you prefer perusing the museums on the campus of Baylor University or marveling at heritage homes in downtown Waco.
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What outdoor activities are available in Waco?
- Visitors can enjoy strolling through one of the parks on the shores of Lake Waco.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming bluebonnets, great for outdoor activities.
Hotel 1928 – A boutique hotel offering historic charm and modern luxury.
Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos – Explore Chip and Joanna Gaines’ famous shopping and dining area.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and sunny, perfect for indoor attractions and lake activities.
Hilton Waco – A comfortable stay with easy access to downtown.
Cool off at Lake Waco – Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fewer crowds, ideal for football games and festivals.
Residence Inn Waco – A great option for extended stays near Baylor University.
Catch a Baylor Bears football game – Experience the excitement at McLane Stadium.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for holiday shopping and museums.
SpringHill Suites Waco – A cozy stay with easy access to Waco’s attractions.
Visit the Dr Pepper Museum – Learn about the history of this iconic soda brand.
Map:
Plan Your Trip