5 Days of Waco Wonder: Magnolia Magic and More.
Explore the heart of Texas with a trip to Waco.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check-in at Hotel Indigo, a chic and cozy boutique hotel located downtown.
- Start your day with a breakfast burrito from one of the food trucks at Magnolia Market.
- Take a tour of the Dr. Pepper Museum and learn about the history of the famous soda.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch at Cameron Park overlooking the Brazos River.
- Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum and see fascinating exhibits about the legendary law enforcement agency.
- End your day with a craft cocktail at Balcones Distilling, a local whisky distillery.
- Breakfast at the popular local spot, Cafe Homestead, known for their farm-to-table fare.
- Spend the morning exploring Magnolia Market, the home decor haven owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV's Fixer Upper.
- Stop by Harp Design Co, a rustic furniture and home goods store owned by Clint Harp, frequent collaborator on Fixer Upper.
- Have lunch at Milo All Day, a trendy eatery housed in a historic gas station.
- Take a stroll through Cameron Park Zoo and see animals from all over the globe.
- Enjoy a dinner of mouth-watering barbecue at Vitek's BBQ, a Waco staple since 1915.
- Start your day with coffee and pastries at Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits, a popular coffeehouse with a secret cocktail bar.
- Visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument and see the remains of Columbian mammoths and other ice age animals.
- Walk through the Art Center of Waco and admire the work of local and regional artists.
- Have lunch at Clay Pot, an eclectic Vietnamese restaurant with a funky atmosphere.
- Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and see exhibits highlighting some of the state's most famous athletes.
- Have dinner and drinks at Wine Shoppe, a cozy and intimate wine bar with an excellent selection.
- Grab breakfast at Lula Jane's, a quaint bakery and cafe with homemade pastries, kolaches, and breakfast plates.
- Take a tour of Waco Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark and the oldest suspension bridge in Texas.
- Visit the Mayborn Museum Complex and discover interactive exhibits on science, history, and culture.
- Have lunch at Health Camp, a retro burger joint with delicious milkshakes and onion rings.
- Explore Lake Waco and go for a swim, kayak, or paddleboat ride.
- End your day at Chew's Ridge Winery, a scenic winery with award-winning wines and beautiful views.
- Have breakfast at the iconic Cafe Capuccino, a charming breakfast and brunch spot with a European vibe.
- Take a bike ride through the Brazos River Trail and enjoy the nature and wildlife along the way.
- Visit the historic Baylor University campus and see the beautiful buildings and landmarks.
- Have lunch at 900 Degrees Pizzeria, a mouth-watering pizzeria with flavorful brick-oven pizzas.
- Go shopping at Spice Village, a collection of over 60 specialty shops with unique gifts and accessories.
- End your stay with a cocktail and live music at The Backyard Bar Stage & Grill, a casual outdoor venue with a fun and lively atmosphere.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.