Waco on a Budget: Explore, Eat, and Adventure!

Discover Waco on a dime and create everlasting memories.

21 June 2023

A budget trip to Waco, a city in Texas, can be a great experience. You can explore it's main attractions like the Magnolia Market, Waco Mammoth National Monument and hike at the Cameron Park. The city's affordable lodging options like Airbnbs and hostels can help make the trip possible.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Waco Wonders

  • Check-in at the Hotel Indigo Waco, a sleek and stylish hotel in the heart of downtown.
  • Fuel up with a scrumptious breakfast at the Blackberry Bistro, known for their fluffy pancakes and fresh smoothies.
  • Get your culture fix at the Dr. Pepper Museum, where you can learn about the history of America's favorite soda and sample some unique flavors.
  • Take a stroll through Cameron Park, a sprawling green space with stunning views of the Brazos River.
  • Have dinner at the family-owned and operated Café Cappuccino, where you can enjoy classic comfort food in a cozy ambiance.
Day 2

Magnolia Magic

  • Start your day with a cup of joe at Common Grounds, a hip coffee shop frequented by Baylor University students and locals alike.
  • Join the pilgrimage to Magnolia Market at the Silos, a mecca for fans of Fixer Upper, where you can peruse Joanna Gaines' design aesthetic and taste some famous cupcakes from the bakery.
  • Take a short drive to Homestead Heritage, a community dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship and sustainable living. Take a tour of their working farm or watch artisans create pottery, textiles and woodworking.
  • Enjoy a casual lunch at Health Camp, an iconic burger joint dating back to 1949.
  • Spend the evening exploring the bustling Downtown Farmer's Market, where you can find artisanal food, handmade goods and live music.
Day 3

Outdoor Adventures

  • Rise and shine early for a sunrise hike at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, a site filled with the skeletal remains of mammoths and other prehistoric creatures.
  • Cool off with a dip in the natural spring-fed pool at the BSR Cable Park, known for their giant water slide dubbed "The Royal Flush".
  • Explore the historic architecture and picturesque gardens at the Armstrong Browning Library, a research center dedicated to Victorian poetry.
  • Grab lunch at the food truck park at Bare Arms Brewing, a local brewery with a variety of craft beers on tap.
  • End your trip with a sunset paddle boarding session on the Brazos River, where you can take in the beauty of Waco from a unique perspective.

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.

More travel plans

Waco Wanderlust: A Budget-Friendly 5 Day Itinerary

A trip to Waco on a limited budget is an excellent idea as this city offers many affordable attractions. You can start your trip by visiting the famous Magnolia Market, where you can enjoy window shopping for gifts, decor, and antiques. The city also offers various parks, museums, and outdoor markets that offer a glimpse into local culture and history.

Waco on a Budget: Explore, Eat, and Adventure!

A budget trip to Waco, a city in Texas, can be a great experience. You can explore it's main attractions like the Magnolia Market, Waco Mammoth National Monument and hike at the Cameron Park. The city's affordable lodging options like Airbnbs and hostels can help make the trip possible.

Waco Wonders: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Waco, located in the heart of Texas, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a range of attractions. Start your journey with a visit to the renowned Waco Mammoth National Monument, where kids can learn about prehistoric times and explore the well-preserved mammoth fossils. Then head to Magnolia Market at the Silos, a bustling shopping complex where both kids and adults can enjoy shopping, games, and tasty treats. Finally, make sure to stop by the Cameron Park Zoo, housing over 1,700 animals and offering interactive experiences perfect for a memorable family adventure.

Waco's Perfect Romantic Long Weekend Getaway

Waco, located in Texas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Couples can explore various landmarks like the stunning Cameron Park or visit popular spots like the Magnolia Market at the Silos. The city's vibrant dining scene and cosy accommodations add the ideal elements to make a perfect romantic trip.