Waco on a budget: Magnolia, Mammoths & more!

Experience small town charm without breaking the bank in Waco, USA.

21 June 2023

A trip to Waco, United States on a limited budget can be an exciting experience for budget-conscious travelers. Visiting the famous Magnolia Market and Silos, the Waco Mammoth National Monument, and the Cameron Park Zoo are some affordable tourist destinations. Staying at a budget-friendly accommodation like a hostel or a budget hotel can also help save some money while visiting Waco.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Waco!

  • Check into the Hotel Indigo, a trendy hotel with a vintage vibe and a rooftop bar
  • Have lunch at Magnolia Table, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of "Fixer Upper" fame
  • Tour the Dr Pepper Museum, learning about the history of the iconic soda
  • Walk through Cameron Park, a sprawling green space with great views of the Brazos River
  • Have dinner at the Health Camp, a local spot serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes since the 1940s
Day 2

Magnolia Madness

  • Start your day at the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a shopping destination filled with home decor, clothing, and baked goods
  • Take a stroll through the nearby Spice Village, a collection of boutique shops with unique gifts and souvenirs
  • Stop by the Waco Hippodrome for a movie or live performance in a historic theater
  • Check out the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, featuring exhibits on the state's most famous law enforcement agency
  • Have dinner at Torchy's Tacos, a popular chain with inventive tacos and sides
Day 3

History & Culture

  • Begin the day with a tour of Baylor University, the oldest continuously operating university in Texas
  • Visit the Mayborn Museum, featuring exhibits on natural history, science, and the cultural heritage of Central Texas
  • Take a drive to nearby McGregor to see the historic Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast, featured on "Fixer Upper"
  • Learn about the local art scene at the Martin Museum of Art, showcasing works by both regional and internationally known artists
  • Have dinner at Clay Pot, a Vietnamese restaurant with tasty pho and summer rolls
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Explore the trails and gardens at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, an active archaeological site with the skeletons of 24 Columbian mammoths
  • Go fishing or boating on Lake Waco, a 12,000-acre reservoir just outside of town
  • Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, honoring the state's most accomplished athletes
  • Take a picnic lunch to the peaceful Lake Waco Wetlands, a nature preserve with plenty of birdwatching opportunities
  • Have a farewell dinner at George's Restaurant & Bar, a Waco institution since 1930 with burgers, steaks, and Tex-Mex fare.

Length of stay

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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

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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 Wonderland: Discover the Magic in Two Days!

Waco, located in the heart of Texas, offers a delightful family-friendly experience with a wide range of attractions. Explore the iconic Magnolia Market at the Silos, where kids can have fun at the testing garden and enjoy a delicious meal at the food trucks. Visit the Cameron Park Zoo to discover a variety of animals and participate in educational programs, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.

A Romantic 5-Day Getaway in Waco

Waco is a perfect destination for a romantic trip with your partner. Plan a visit to the Magnolia Market and the Silos, take a walk through the Brazos Riverwalk, and have a cozy dinner date at one of Waco's romantic restaurants. Enjoy a memorable trip with your loved one in the charming city of Waco.

Weekend of Fun: Discovering Waco's Hidden Gems

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.