Weekend of Fun: Discovering Waco's Hidden Gems

Discover the charm and history of small town Texas in Waco.

22 April 2023

Waco, located in central Texas, is a great destination for tourists looking to experience small-town charm with big city amenities. Visitors can explore the Magnolia Market at the Silos, Baylor University, and Cameron Park Zoo, among other attractions. The city also boasts a vibrant food scene and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Waco's Best-Kept Secrets

  • Check-in at the cozy Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor, located in the historic downtown area
  • Start the day by visiting the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, where you can shop, eat and be merry
  • Next, head to Cameron Park, a natural oasis in the heart of the city with hiking trails, scenic views and playgrounds for kids
  • Grab lunch at Vitek's BBQ, a local institution serving up juicy brisket and loaded sausage wraps
  • Visit the Dr Pepper Museum, dedicated to the history of America's oldest soft drink and taste some vintage flavors
  • End the day with a stroll along the Brazos Riverwalk, taking in the sunset and the vibrant murals adorning the walls
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures & Historical Sightseeing

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Cappuccino, known for its fluffy pancakes and warm hospitality
  • Head to Lake Waco, perfect for fishing, boating, swimming or soaking in the sun
  • Take a guided tour of the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where you can see fossils of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals
  • Lunch at Clay Pot, a Vietnamese restaurant known for its fragrant pho and crispy spring rolls
  • Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing the legendary law enforcement agency's history and artifacts
  • End the day with dinner at Balcones Distilling, a craft spirits maker with a bar and tasting room, where you can sample their award-winning whiskey and rum.
Day 3

Art, Culture & Foodie Delights

  • Brunch at Lula Jane's Bakery & Cafe, a charming spot with fresh pastries and sandwiches made with local ingredients
  • Check out the Martin Museum of Art at Baylor University, featuring an impressive collection of classic and contemporary works
  • Explore the Cameron Park Zoo, home to over 1700 animals from around the world
  • Grab a quick bite at the Union Hall food court, featuring a variety of vendors serving up global cuisine
  • Visit Spice Village, a shopping mecca with over 60 locally owned boutiques and gift shops
  • End the day with dinner at Milo All Day, a popular restaurant offering modern American fare with a twist, like bourbon-glazed pork chops and roasted beets with goat cheese.
Day 4

Farewell Waco, Until Next Time

  • Have one last breakfast at the eclectic Cafe Homestead, a farm-to-table eatery with homemade bread and jams
  • Visit the Armstrong Browning Library, a stunningly beautiful building with a collection of poet Robert Browning's works and artifacts
  • Stop by the Mayborn Museum Complex, a fun and interactive museum filled with science, history and culture exhibits
  • Lunch at Captain Billy Whizzbang's Burgers, a funky burger joint with creative toppings like guacamole and bacon jam
  • Shop for souvenirs at Magnolia Press, the coffee and merchandise store adjacent to Magnolia Market
  • Say goodbye to Waco with a sweet treat from Hey Sugar, a nostalgic candy store with retro candies and ice cream.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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 Weekend Adventure: 2 Days of Fun

As a tourist, a trip to Waco in United States is a must-visit destination. The city is home to several famous attractions, including the magnificent Magnolia Market, the legendary Dr. Pepper Museum, and the wonderful Cameron Park Zoo, all of which are sure to captivate visitors with their unique charm and character. With its vibrant arts and culture scene, delicious local cuisine, and warm hospitality, Waco is the perfect destination for any traveler.

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.

Experience the Best of Waco in 3 Days

A touristic trip to Waco, United States offers a blend of history, culture, and excitement. Visitors can indulge in Fixer Upper TV Show's filming locations, stroll through the Cameron Park Zoo or take a leisurely walk across the Waco Suspension Bridge that hovers over the Brazos River. Travelers will also have the opportunity to learn about the area's vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, galleries, and craft shops.

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.