Waco might not be the first Texas city that comes to mind when planning a trip, but this central Texas gem has transformed into a destination worth exploring. Once known primarily as a college town home to Baylor University, Waco has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub that perfectly blends small-town charm with big-city attractions.
From the world-famous Magnolia Market to fascinating museums and outdoor adventures along the Brazos River, this city offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Waco has plenty to keep you entertained.
Here is a list of the 20 best things to do in this surprisingly diverse Texas city.
Magnolia Market at the Silos
The crown jewel of Waco’s tourist attractions, Magnolia Market draws millions of visitors annually to its beautifully renovated grain silos. Created by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, this shopping and entertainment complex features home decor, a bakery, food trucks, and sprawling lawn games.
Even if you’re not into home renovation shows, the atmosphere here feels like a festive outdoor fair where families can relax and enjoy themselves.
Dr Pepper Museum
Dive into the fizzy history of America’s oldest major soft drink brand at its birthplace in downtown Waco. The museum showcases vintage advertisements, original bottling equipment, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of this beloved beverage.
You can even sample over 20 different Dr Pepper flavors at the old-fashioned soda fountain, making it a sweet stop for kids and adults alike.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Cameron Park
At over 400 acres, Cameron Park stands as one of Texas’s largest municipal parks, offering everything from scenic overlooks to challenging mountain bike trails. The park’s limestone cliffs provide stunning views of the Brazos and Bosque rivers converging below.
Whether hiking the River Trail or having a picnic near the bamboo forest, this natural oasis feels worlds away from city life.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Step back 67,000 years at this fascinating paleontological site where you’ll find the fossils of Columbian mammoths preserved exactly where they died. The climate-controlled dig shelter allows visitors to see the bones in their original positions, while knowledgeable guides explain how these ancient creatures lived and died.
It’s like walking into a real-life time machine that brings the Ice Age to life.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
Honor the legendary law enforcement officers who helped shape Texas history at this comprehensive museum dedicated to the state’s most famous peace officers. The exhibits showcase authentic weapons, badges, and personal effects of Rangers past and present.
Even if you’re not particularly interested in law enforcement history, the stories of frontier justice and modern crime-fighting make for compelling viewing.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Homestead Heritage
Experience traditional craftsmanship and sustainable living at this agrarian community outside Waco. Visitors can watch blacksmiths forge tools, potters shape clay, and woodworkers create furniture using time-honored techniques.
The on-site deli serves fresh bread and homemade cheese, while the general store offers handcrafted goods from community members.
Brazos Riverwalk
This scenic pathway stretches miles along the Brazos River, connecting many of Waco’s major attractions with pedestrian-friendly trails. The suspension bridges offer Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, especially during sunset when the water reflects golden light.
Local artists have added colorful murals and sculptures along the route, turning your walk into an outdoor gallery experience.
BSR Cable Park
Get your adrenaline pumping at this massive water sports complex featuring wakeboarding, water slides, and the famous ‘Royal Flush’ – a giant waterslide that launches riders high. The lazy river provides a relaxing option for those who prefer floating to flying.
During summer, the park transforms into Waco’s biggest beach party with live music and food vendors.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Waco Tours
Hop aboard a vintage bus or trolley for guided tours that showcase Waco’s most famous sights and hidden gems. The knowledgeable guides share entertaining stories about everything from Baylor University’s history to the 1953 Waco tornado.
Some tours focus on specific themes, like architecture or local ghost stories, giving you multiple perspectives on the city’s rich past.
Lake Waco
This 7,000-acre reservoir offers excellent fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities just minutes from downtown. The marina rents everything from kayaks to pontoon boats, making spending a day on the water easy.
Anglers particularly love the lake’s healthy population of largemouth bass and catfish.
Mayborn Museum Complex
Baylor University’s natural history museum combines serious science with hands-on fun. It features everything from dinosaur fossils to a replica frontier village.
The discovery rooms let kids conduct experiments and explore different ecosystems. Adults will appreciate the sophisticated exhibits on Central Texas geology and Native American cultures.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Waco Suspension Bridge
Built in 1870, this historic bridge was a major cattle crossing on the Chisholm Trail. Today, the restored pedestrian bridge offers beautiful views of the Brazos River and the downtown skyline.
Evening strolls here feel particularly romantic when the bridge’s lights reflect off the water below.
Texas Sports Hall of Fame
Celebrate the Lone Star State’s athletic legends at this comprehensive museum, which honors everyone from high school heroes to Olympic champions. Interactive exhibits let you test your skills against professional athletes’ records, and the Tom Landry Theater shows highlight reels that capture the greatest moments in Texas sports.
Spice Village
Explore this collection of unique shops housed in renovated historic buildings near the Baylor campus. Each store specializes in products, from gourmet olive oils to handmade jewelry.
The courtyard often hosts local musicians and food trucks, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for afternoon browsing.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Central Texas Marketplace
This massive antique mall houses over 200 vendors selling everything from vintage furniture to collectible toys. Treasure hunters can easily spend hours wandering the aisles, discovering items from different eras of American history.
The constantly changing inventory means you’ll find something new with each visit.
Hawaiian Falls Water Park
Cool off during hot Texas summers at this family-friendly water park featuring slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. The Kona Kooler provides refreshing mists while the Waikiki Wave creates perfect conditions for body surfing.
Unlike larger theme parks, the crowds remain manageable even on busy weekends.
Balcones Distilling
Sample award-winning Texas whiskeys at this craft distillery that’s gained national recognition for its innovative spirits. The tours explain how local ingredients and traditional techniques combine to create unique flavors.
Even if you’re not typically a whiskey drinker, the distillers’ passion makes the experience educational and entertaining.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Valley Mills Vineyards
Escape to the Texas Hill Country without leaving Waco at this picturesque winery surrounded by rolling hills. The tasting room offers wine samples from grapes grown right on the property.
Live music on weekends creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sipping wine while watching the sunset.
Cottonland Castle
Marvel at this quirky stone mansion built in 1913 by an eccentric contractor who incorporated elements from various architectural styles. Though it’s now a private residence and can only be viewed from the street, the castle’s unique turrets and battlements make it Waco’s most photographed oddity.
Local legend says the builder added secret passages and hidden rooms throughout the structure.
Baylor University Campus
Stroll through one of America’s most beautiful college campuses, featuring impressive Georgian architecture and the scenic Burleson Quadrangle. The Armstrong Browning Library houses the world’s largest collection of works by Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
Even during summer breaks, the peaceful grounds provide a pleasant setting for walking and photography.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Where Past Meets Present
Waco’s transformation from a quiet college town to a thriving tourist destination shows how communities can reinvent themselves while preserving their heritage. The city’s mix of historical sites, outdoor adventures, and modern attractions creates a unique Texas experience that surprises first-time visitors.
Whether you come for Chip and Joanna’s empire or stay to explore the mammoth bones and river trails, Waco proves that sometimes the best destinations are the ones you never expected to love.
More from Travel Pug
- Cities Growing so Fast You Won’t Recognize Them in 10 Years
- 13 Destinations Where Tourists Regularly Regret Their Trip
- 16 U.S. Cities That Are Quietly Becoming Travel Hotspots
- Where to Travel If You Love Long Bus Rides and Daydreams
- 20 Cities Perfect for Solo Travelers Who Crave Adventure & Culture
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.