Waco has become a popular tourist destination in the past few years. In fact, TripAdvisor ranked Waco as the #2 “Traveler’s Choice Destinations on the Rise” (see article here). If you are planning a trip to this area then you’ll want a few suggestions on what to do. These are suggestions that I give friends and family when they visit us. Here is a list of top 7 things to do when visiting Waco, Texas.
Visit Magnolia Market. We know this is the biggest draw and probably the initial reason for your visit. There’s a lot to do when you get there, but be aware that there are also a lot of crowds. On site there is a bakery, the iconic silos, a garden and garden store, the main store, a large gathering green area and a bevy of food trucks. There is a trolley that runs downtown from various shopping areas, parking lots and Magnolia. You can also visit the Magnolia Table for breakfast or lunch. It’s only a short drive away.- Taste the local food. There are a lot of fun local restaurants to try while you’re in town. There are food trucks that gather at Magnolia Market and at the corner of Franklin and University Parks. There are also delicious Waco favorites (and personal favorites) like Lula Jane, Baris, Cafe Cappuccino, World Cup Cafe, Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe and Clay Pot. If you just want a drink or snack then I highly suggest Common Grounds, Dichotomy and Sugar Shack. If you want something a little different try Balcones Distillery, the farmer’s market, or the Valley Mills Vineyards. There are a lot of tasty options around town. Ask the locals and taste new things!
Go to the park. Cameron Park is very large and has a lot of activity options. You can walk the riverwalk from downtown, play on the splash pad and playground, hike/bike the nationally recognized nature trails or just wander around and enjoy the day. The Brazos River runs through the park and you can find kayak rentals downtown. If you want quieter green areas, you can visit places like the Carleen Bright Arboretum or Woodway Park.- Tour a museum. There are many wonderful museums in Waco. Some favorites are the Dr. Pepper Museum (locally invented soda), Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, Mayborn Museum (perfect for children), several historic homes, Waco Mammoth National Monument, and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
- Go to the Zoo. I’m admittedly biased, but Waco has an amazing zoo. It’s going to be smaller than what you’d find in a metropolitan area; however, the Cameron Park Zoo a really good size, has a large variety of animals, is well-kept, has play areas for children and isn’t overly-crowded. I strongly recommend a trip to the zoo whether you’re on a date or taking the whole family.
Wander around downtown. You’ll see the iconic Suspension Bridge, water fountains, lots of unique shopping options, restaurants and pubs, spas, and so much more. Downtown Waco has come a long way in the past decade and it’s continuing to grow. New stores are opening and it’s been exciting to watch. There are many things to enjoy within a short drive or easy walk.- Get your photo taken professionally while you travel! Yes, I’m a photographer, but this is something I like doing when traveling. How many times do you go somewhere and you have pretty pictures of site and your family, but none of you or your whole group? I suggest asking local photographers to meet you somewhere fun and iconic and capture memories this way. This is even more special if you are planning a destination proposal or celebrating an anniversary with a trip.
Hope this helps you find some fun things to do while you visit Waco! Be sure to let me know if you try any of these and what you think!