20 Things To Do In Waco

At the heart of Texas lies Waco, a lively city that is compact and easy to explore. You’ll find lots to keep you busy, from historical wonders and natural beauty by the Brazos River to world-class museums and architectural marvels. Shop at the redeveloped Magnolia Market at the Silos and take in unique attractions like the Dr Pepper Museum and the Waco Sculpture Zoo.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Cameron Park has all they could want, from scenic trails to picnic areas, with even more to be discovered along the walking routes following the river. No matter what type of adventure you’re seeking — shopping trips or historical journeys —Waco is here, ready to be explored.

Waco, Texas

20 Things To Do In Waco

1- Browse The Magnolia Market at the Silos

The city’s most unique and striking shopping destination, the Magnolia Market sits in the shadow of two 120-foot tall 1950s-era grain silos.

The landmark of Waco’s industrial heritage was transformed into a commercial wonderland by Chip and Joanna Gaines on the popular HGTV show “Fixer Upper”.

The market’s main focus is home and garden décor, while food trucks and bakeries offer delicious treats to enjoy alongside the urban scenery.

The site organises events throughout the year, so there’s always something worth visiting.

Pop over to 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States.

Recommended tours:

• Waco Fixer Upper Tour
• Classic Waco Tour: Best Sites & TV Highlights in Waco

2- Head Out On Lake Waco

If you love outdoor adventure, you’ll want to spend some time at Lake Waco.

The reservoir covers over 7000 acres providing space for many thrilling activities.

Boating and kayaking are very popular, while the shoreline is dotted with picnicking areas for those who prefer to stay on dry land.

The lake is popular with anglers, as it is well stocked with species like bass and catfish to provide a rewarding day’s fishing.

Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts can explore the winding hiking trails and look out for all the species that call the local area home.

Head out to Waco, TX, USA.

If you love being on the water, you may also like these cruises:

• Luxurious River Cruise on the Brazos River
• Amazing Brazos River Sunset Boat Adventure

3- Catch A Game At McLane Stadium

Looking to take in a football game while you’re in town? Check out what’s on at McLane Stadium during your visit.

With a capacity of over 45,000 seats, the atmosphere in McLane Stadium on gameday is something to experience.

If there’s nothing of interest, it’s worth joining a stadium tour to learn about its architecture, history, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Experience the stadium from the athletes’ perspectives by exploring the locker rooms and stepping out onto the field.

Stop by the gift shop for some merchandise to take home.

Go to 1001 S M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704, United States.

4- View The Waco Sculpture Zoo

Along with the natural beauty of the Brazos River, a walk along the waterside will take you past a unique gallery of sculptures.

You’ll find various statues to appreciate, but most notable is a range of stunning animal figures lining the southern bank of the river.

The sculptures showcase the talents of artists from around the world, each capturing the beauty of a different animal species.

With styles ranging from impeccable realism to stylised and abstract, it’s the perfect attraction for art aficionados and animal lovers.

Stroll along from 203 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

5- Visit The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

One of Waco’s various niche museums, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is a monument to the contributions of the legendary Texas Rangers, a renowned law enforcement agency with a colourful history and a strong legacy.

In the museum, you can enjoy fascinating exhibits of historical artefacts that showcase the Rangers’ contributions to the state’s development, their heroic acts, and the tools and techniques they used to maintain law and order.

With a wealth of interactive displays, the museum offers an immersive experience that lets you delve into this corner of Texas’ heritage.

Find it at 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706, United States.

For a more fun way to learn about history, try one of these ghost tours:

• Waco’s Haunts and Legends Mobile Ghost Tour
• Waco Haunted Walking Tour

6- Explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is an extraordinary paleontological site displaying preserved remains of a herd of Columbian mammoths that roamed the area over 65,000 years ago.

Visitors can explore the excavation site and view the impressive mammoth fossils still resting in their original positions in the ground.

The on-site museum provides further insights into their prehistoric world, showcasing various fossils from ancient creatures that once called Texas home.

It’s an incredible attraction that lets you get a glimpse back at the lives of these long-extinct animals.

Go to 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.

7- Wander The Mayborn Museum Complex

Located on the Baylor University campus, the Mayborn Museum Complex features various exhibits, interactive displays and hands-on experiences covering various topics from science and natural history to art and culture.

Out the back of the museum complex is a cluster of historic buildings forming a small village for visitors to explore, adding an extra interactive and immersive level to the museum.

Wander around 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States.

Recommended tour: Hueco Pedicab Tours Waco

8- Stroll Along The Waco Riverwalk

When you need a short break in the fresh air, head down to the water’s edge for a scenic walk along the river.

Winding along the banks of the Brazos River, the Waco Riverwalk provides a picturesque natural escape right through the city’s heart.

The trail is dotted with plenty of benches and picnic areas to help you make the most of relaxing and taking in the scenery and wildlife.

There are also various sculptures and frequent art installations to admire as you go along.

Start out from Waco Riverwalk, Waco, TX 76706, USA.

9- Cross Waco Suspension Bridge

Built in 1870, Waco Suspension Bridge has long been one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The longest bridge of this type in the region at the time it was built, the Waco Suspension Bridge is an architectural marvel and an enduring symbol of the city’s heritage.

Spanning the Brazos River, pedestrian pathways along the bridge offer stunning city and water views.

With parks at either end, it’s a perfect focal point for a walk through Waco on a sunny day.

Head to 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

10- Admire The Brazos River Railroad Bridges

Just down from Waco Suspension Bridge is a pair of historic iron railroad bridges, the Cotton Belt and MKT bridges.

The Cotton Belt bridge has long since been abandoned as a railway bridge; it’s antique sleepers now serving as a picturesque footpath across the river.

Its neighbour to the east, the MKT is still in use, and Cotton Belt is a convenient viewing point for trainspotters hoping to watch a train pass over the beautiful bridge.

Discover it at Brazos Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.

11- Go shopping at Spice Village

You’d be forgiven for assuming that the Spice Village would be a hot spot for foodies and cooks, but it’s actually a collection of over 60 trendy boutiques and craft shops.

If you’re shopping for souvenirs, this is the place to go.

You can spend hours browsing everything from fashion and home décor to artisanal craft goods and locally-produced gourmet food.

It’s perfect for finding gifts and keepsakes that capture the unique flavour of Waco.

Browse 213 Mary Ave, entrance at 2nd and Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

12- Indulge At Waco Downtown Farmers Market

If you didn’t find everything you wanted at Spice Village, spend your Saturday browsing the Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market.

From fresh produce from local farms to gourmet foods like artisan cheeses and home-baked pastries, the market is a food lover’s delight.

If you don’t consider yourself a foody, you can still enjoy browsing the craft stalls and listening to live music.

Stroll along to 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

Recommended tours:

• Waco Foodie Tour
• Waco Brewery Tour

13- Go wine tasting at Valley Mills Vineyards

On the topic of locally sourced products, a fabulous way to spend an afternoon is to indulge in good wine produced in the region.

Nestled in the countryside just west of Waco, Valley Mills Vineyards is a hidden gem offering a tranquil retreat from the busy city. 

You can tour the vineyard, appreciate the stunning scenery, learn about winemaking, and participate in guided tastings of the various wines produced on-site.

Venture out to 1686 FM1637, Valley Mills, TX 76689, United States.

Recommended tour: Waco Wine Tours

14- Splash About In Hawaiian Falls Waco Waterpark

For those days when the Texas heat gets a little too much, head over to Hawaiian Falls to cool off.

Spend the day cooling off in the various pools and drifting along the lazy river.

If you’re after some thrills, several waterslides and a wave pool keep you entertained.

With plenty of lifeguards on duty to keep everyone safe, food stands and picnic areas, Hawaiian Falls is ideal for a fun family day out.

Beat the heat at 900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.

15- Drink In The Exhibits At The Dr Pepper Museum

Housed within a historic 1906 bottling factory, this niche museum covers the history and development of the iconic Dr Pepper soda brand.

The museum has a range of exhibits and artefacts, from vintage advertisements and Dr Pepper merchandise and memorabilia to old delivery trucks and bottling machinery.

Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and even sample the original recipe in the city it was created.

Find it at 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

16- See a show at the Waco Hippodrome Theatre

The historic Hippodrome Theatre hosts various plays, movies, and concerts.

Dating to 1914, the vintage venue provides a charming atmosphere to enjoy whatever performance you attend.

The onsite bar and restaurant mean you can make an evening of your night at the theatre.

Go to 724 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.

17- Visit the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum

Literature and poetry fans will want to visit the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum.

Dedicated to the lives and works of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Browning, the library holds the largest collection of Browning artefacts in the world. 

The museum sits on the Baylor University Campus, housed within an Italian Renaissance building as a testament to the country where the couple spent much of their lives.

Along with rare books, manuscripts, and personal effects, visitors can also admire the stunning interior of the house itself.

Browse it at 710 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States.

18- Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame will be worth visiting in a state renowned for its enthusiasm for sports and football.

Housing an extensive collection of sports memorabilia and interactive displays, the museum celebrates Texas’ many sporting icons and achievements. 

Whether you’re a sports fan or a supporter of Texas’ teams and athletes in particular, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame should be on your itinerary.

1108 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States.

19- Explore Cameron Park

Spanning over 400 acres of woodland and rivers, Cameron Park is ideal for escaping into the wilds of nature without leaving the city.

Riddled with trails for hiking and biking and dotted with picnic areas and playgrounds, it’s perfect for getting the whole family out in the fresh air.

Along with its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Cameron Park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.

Wander around 2601 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.

Another way to enjoy the outdoors is to go horseback riding, so check out these tours:

• Horseback Riding on Scenic Texas Ranch near Waco
• Sunset Horseback Ride With Scenic Views, Campfire, S’mores, Games

20- Meet The Residents Of Cameron Park Zoo

At the southern end of Cameron Park is Cameron Park Zoo.

Home to dozens of species, from primates and big cats to birds and reptiles, there are sure to be friendly faces to please every visitor.

Covering over 52 acres of diverse habitats, educational exhibits, and cafes and interactive activities, the zoo makes the perfect family-friendly attraction to entertain visitors of all ages.

Head to 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707, United States. 

When are you visiting Waco? If it’s at Christmas time, you may like to join this Waco Christmas Lights Tour to get into the mood.