Looking for things to do in Waco? Whether you’re a die-hard “Fixer Upper” fan or just want to experience all it has to offer, this Central Texas city is a surprising mix of outdoor adventures, quirky attractions and delicious bites.
Once known mainly for Baylor University and a certain TV renovation duo, this Central Texas gem has been busy reinventing itself faster than you can say shiplap. With the perfect blend of history, culture and unexpected attractions, Waco proves it’s more than just a pit stop.
Waco may not have the big-city draw of Houston, Dallas or Austin, but this mid-sized Texas town has carved out its own unique identity. Here are the best things to do in Waco if you’re looking for an unexpected Texas adventure.
Magnolia Market at the Silos
Visiting Waco without stopping at Magnolia Market is like skipping the Alamo in San Antonio. When you step into Chip and Joanna Gaines’ world of farmhouse chic, you’ll discover an old cottonseed mill that’s been transformed into a shopping wonderland complete with food trucks, picnic areas and some seriously good baked goods from Silos Baking Co. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Waco’s famous duo.
Spice Village
Shopping in Waco? Hit up Spice Village, where over 60 local boutiques come together in a century-old warehouse. It’s perfect for finding unique gifts, clothes, home decor and all the things you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.
Waco River Safari
For a relaxing escape, hop on a Waco River Safari cruise. You’ll glide along the Brazos and Bosque Rivers, learning about local history while spotting wildlife like blue herons and deer. Book a sunset cruise to see Waco bathed in beautiful golden hour light.
Dr Pepper Museum
Love soda? The Dr Pepper Museum is a sweet homage to the soft drink born in Waco. You’ll learn about its history, failed sodas — remember New Coke? — and even make your own soda flavor. It’s a sugary walk down memory lane, complete with a refreshing Dr Pepper float to cap it off.
Cameron Park Zoo
Nestled in the scenic Cameron Park, this 52-acre zoo is home to giraffes, lemurs and even a white rhino. Smaller than some zoos, it’s a fantastic family outing to see a Komodo dragon and an American bison in the same afternoon without feeling overwhelmed.
Waco Surf
Surfing in landlocked Waco? You betcha. Waco Surf features an artificial wave pool where even the pros practice. If surfing’s not your thing, you can float along the World’s Longest Lazy River or zoom down water slides. It’s like a beach vacation but with way more cows.
Explore downtown Waco
Stroll through the Waco Downtown Cultural District, a hip area packed with boutiques, art galleries and farm-to-table restaurants. On Saturdays, hit the Waco Farmers Market for local produce, artisanal goods and maybe even a conversation with a Texas farmer.
Homestead Craft Village
For a taste of old-world craftsmanship, visit the Homestead Craft Village. This charming artisan community showcases the work of local artisans, offering everything from handmade pottery to handcrafted furniture. You can watch skilled craftsmen at work, learn traditional skills through classes or browse the quaint shops filled with unique, high-quality goods. Don’t forget to check out the garden and livestock area, where you can enjoy walking paths and see heritage poultry breeds.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
At the Waco Mammoth National Monument, observe the fossilized remains of Columbian mammoths on display. You can walk above the dig site on elevated pathways, making this a must-see for budding paleontologists or anyone who thinks prehistoric beasts are fantastic.
Art Center Waco
A must stop for art lovers, Art Center Waco features first-class exhibits and community programs aimed at inspiring creativity and deepening cultural understanding. The center offers a mix of contemporary and traditional art, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting on display. With a mission to serve the entire Waco community, Art Center Waco also hosts workshops and educational programs to engage visitors of all ages.
Enjoy Texas flavors
If you’re a fan of good food, Waco has some delicious options. Café Homestead serves up farm-fresh, mouthwatering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. A stop at Vitek’s BBQ for their famous Gut Pak — Fritos, cheese, brisket and more — is mandatory for BBQ lovers. And George’s Restaurant offers chicken fried steak as big as Texas that’s been voted Best of Waco for 15 years in a row.
Pivovar’s Beer Spa
Ever dreamed of bathing in beer? No? Well, now you do. At Pivovar’s Beer Spa, you can soak in a tub filled with warm, locally brewed beer while reaping the benefits of its B vitamins, proteins and enzymes. It’s an experience designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation while you sip on — you guessed it — a cold beer.
J.S. Barnett’s Whiskey House
If you’d rather sip than soak, head to J.S. Barnett’s Whiskey House, where over 1,200 whiskey varieties await. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just whiskey curious, this spot offers tastings, pairings and even whiskey flights for a fun night out. With live music and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect downtown Waco bar for everything from date nights to nights out with friends. Just remember: Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the hangovers.
More than Magnolia
Waco might surprise you with how much it has to offer. From shopping and sipping at Magnolia Market to uncovering mammoth fossils and catching waves, there are so many unique things to do in Waco. Whether you’re just passing through or spending a weekend, be sure to enjoy the quirks and culture of this one-of-a-kind Texas town.
Sage Scott was bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time. Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage is a travel writer, world wanderer and photographer whose favorite color is golden hour. Follow her adventures at Everyday Wanderer.