Magnolia Madness: The Ultimate Waco Getaway

Experience small town charm on a shoestring budget in Waco, USA.

21 June 2023

A trip to Waco, on a limited budget, will offer a number of unique and affordable experiences. The city is known for its historic sites, local cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy a variety of free and low-cost activities including exploring the farmers' market, touring the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, or strolling through the Cameron Park Zoo.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

A Tour of Waco's Best-Kept Secrets

  • Check in at the Knights Inn Waco South, a budget-friendly motel with an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
  • Start your day with a visit to the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where you can see the earth's largest concentration of mammoth fossils.
  • Explore the Dr Pepper Museum to learn about the history of the beloved soda and enjoy a sample at the soda fountain.
  • Head over to the Cameron Park Zoo, home to over 1,700 animals, including lions, giraffes, and a Komodo dragon.
  • End your day with some delicious Tex-Mex at La Fiesta in Downtown Waco. Don't skip the chile rellenos or the margaritas!
Day 2

Magnolia Madness

  • Wake up early and join the line at Magnolia Table, a restaurant owned by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines. The shiplap-surrounded cafe has a delicious menu of breakfast favorites.
  • Head over to the Magnolia Market at the Silos, the Gaines' shopping mecca filled with home decor, unique gifts, and tasty treats like silos bakery cookies and cupcakes.
  • Take a stroll through the Cameron Park Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian-only bridge that spans the Brazos River. It's the perfect place to snap a photo of the river and the city skyline.
  • Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history and legends of the Texas Rangers.
  • End your day with a burger and a beer at the Backyard Bar Stage & Grill, where you might catch a live concert or a game on one of the giant outdoor screens.
  • Waco may be small, but it's packed with personality and charm. Happy travels!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Waco via plane is to fly into the Waco Regional Airport (ACT) which has non-stop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Austin.

Car

The best way to get to Waco via car is to take I-35, which runs directly through the city. This interstate connects Waco to major cities such as Dallas, Austin and San Antonio.

Train

There currently is no train station in Waco, so the best way to reach Waco is via alternative modes of transportation.

Boat

There are no navigable waterways that connect to Waco, so boat transport is not a viable option for reaching the city.

Bus

The best way to reach Waco via bus is through Greyhound Lines which has a station located in downtown Waco, making it a convenient option for travelers arriving by bus.

Destination

Waco

Welcome to the city that's not quite Austin and not quite Dallas, but still manages to be charming in its own right. It's the birthplace of Dr. Pepper and the home of the infamous Branch Davidian compound, so bring your taste buds and your conspiracy theories!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Waco Romance: A One-Day Love Affair!

Waco, located in central Texas, offers the perfect combination of romantic charm and outdoor adventure. Visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos and explore the picturesque downtown area before enjoying a relaxing day at the Lake Waco Wetlands. Wrap up your trip by snuggling up under the stars at Cameron Park and enjoying some of the best Southern cuisine the city has to offer.

5 Days of Waco Wonder: Magnolia Magic and More.

When travelling to Waco, United States as a tourist, visitors can experience the iconic Magnolia Market at the Silos, which is a must-visit shopping destination for fans of the HGTV series Fixer Upper. Visitors can also explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument park, which features 14,000-year-old mammoth fossils on display. Additionally, tourists can take a stroll through the Cameron Park Zoo, which houses more than 1,700 animals across 52 acres of land.

3-Day Romantic Getaway: Exploring Charming Waco

Waco, United States offers a romantic getaway for couples seeking a charming and intimate vacation. With a variety of outdoor activities such as strolling through the Magnolia Market or exploring the Brazos Riverwalk, couples can enjoy each other's company in a serene setting. End the day with a delightful meal and cozy stay at one of the many sweet bed and breakfasts in Waco.

Waco Wonder: A 5-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Waco, United States offers a fantastic family-friendly getaway with a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, where kids can enjoy food trucks, games, and delightful shopping experiences. Visit the Cameron Park Zoo, where children can encounter diverse wildlife, go on train rides, and have interactive experiences.