Things to do in Waco

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Waco

Waco Attractions

Nicknamed the "Heart of Texas," Waco is a charming mix of American history, natural beauty, and family-friendly recreation. The city, built around the Brazos River, is the birthplace of Dr Pepper and home to the Waco Mammoth National Monument. You can explore the history of the city and Texas state in the many museums around town, or spend leisure time with the family in Waco's green spaces and water parks. The city is also the hometown of Chip and Joanna from HGTV's Fixer Upper, and the pair's Magnolia Market shop is a destination for design lovers around the country.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Waco

Waco has come a long way since its founding in 1856. The city is home to major institutions like historic Baylor University and has its share of cultural treasures just waiting to be discovered.


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What to do in Waco

Free Things to Do in Waco

A trip to Waco need not break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

Baylor University - If you plan to explore the region's history through its landmarks, put this one on your itinerary.

The Texas Collection - Plan a visit and find out the significance of this place to the community.

Brazos Park East - Revitalize your mind and body by spending time in nature.

Downtown

Built around the Waco Suspension Bridge, Downtown Waco is the cultural hub of the city. Explore the Cultural District, which spotlights local art and entertainment through galleries, performance venues, and public art installments. The Dr Pepper Museum, where you can learn about the origins of the drink, is also located in Downtown.

Cameron Park

One of the largest city parks in Texas, Cameron Park is a beautiful green space where families can go to relax. Spread over 416 acres (168 ha), the park sits on the Brazos River and features trails for walking or biking, a disc golf course, and the Cameron Park Zoo.

The Silos

The Silos is located near downtown and is home to Magnolia Market, the farmhouse-style design mecca created by Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna. When you're not browsing for unique interior décor in the market, grab a bite from the on-site local food trucks or the Silo Baking Co. before sprawling out or playing games on the lawn.

What to See in Waco

Waco is rich in both natural beauty and manmade wonders, from the calm currents of the glassy Brazos River feeding into Lake Waco to the historic Waco Suspension Bridge, opened in 1870. When visiting the city, stop by the Cameron Park Zoo to see over 1,731 animals representing more than 300 species from around the world, including African lions, Sumatran tigers, and the underwater critters of a saltwater reef aquarium. Be sure to see the Waco Mammoth National Monument, a paleontological site and museum that houses the fossils of 24 Columbian mammoths from the Pleistocene Epoch.

Sightseeing in Waco

There's something for everyone in Waco. Sports fans should head to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, which recognizes players and coaches who have made contributions to Texas athletics. The Texas Rangers Hall of Fame and Museum is ripe for history buffs, as it showcases and honors the history of the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency. Kid-friendly activities include the Dr Pepper Museum, whose Liquid Lab gives interactive demonstrations about the science of soda and how to use it in everyday cooking. The slides, pools, and rivers at Hawaiian Falls Waterpark are an exciting way to spend an afternoon for the whole family. If you have an eye for design, Magnolia Market is the place to be with staged home scenes that aim to inspire.

Things to Do in Waco with Kids

You'll find lots of fun things to do in Waco with the young ones. Create new memories together with these family friendly experiences:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Waco? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Waco on a rainy day?
A Shop & Play at Hillsboro Outlets is a terrific indoor activity to try if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Are there cheap things to do in Waco?
If you want to make your vacation savings stretch further, book a Shop & Play at Hillsboro Outlets.
What can you do in Waco for free?
Your time in Waco doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free attractions like these to enjoy:

  • Magnolia Market at the Silos
  • Baylor University
  • Central Texas Market Place
  • Homestead Heritage


Discover the most popular places to visit in Waco

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Waco

Some Texas craft brews

University

3.5/5(107 area reviews)

When in University, you can plan a visit to Magnolia Market at the Silos and Dr. Pepper Museum, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

University
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Brazos

4/5(193 area reviews)

While visiting Brazos, you might make a stop by sights like Magnolia Market at the Silos and Dr. Pepper Museum.

Brazos
Wacko Waco

East Riverside

3.5/5(36 area reviews)

While visiting East Riverside, you might make a stop by sights like McLane Stadium and Marlin Branch.

East Riverside
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Austin Ave.

5/5(1 area review)

Austin Ave. might not have many top sights, but Magnolia Market at the Silos and Dr. Pepper Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Austin Ave.
Bakery at Magnolia.

North Waco

3.5/5(2 area reviews)

While visiting North Waco, you might make a stop by sights like Cameron Park Zoo and Kentucky River.

North Waco
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Mountainview

While Mountainview might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Lake Waco and Magnolia Market at the Silos.

Mountainview

Popular day trips from Waco