Things To Do
in Waco
Waco is a city located in central Texas, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to Baylor University, a prominent educational institution and sports powerhouse. The city is also famous for the Branch Davidian siege that took place in 1993, which left a lasting impact on its community.
Visitors to Waco can explore attractions such as the Magnolia Market at the Silos, created by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Magnolia Market, where you can shop for home decor and enjoy a fresh pastry. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful gardens surrounding the market.
Head over to the Dr Pepper Museum to learn about the history of this iconic beverage. Afterward, grab lunch at one of Waco's famous barbecue joints for a true taste of Texas.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Brazos Riverwalk as the sun sets. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local eatery featuring live music.
Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy cafe before exploring the Cameron Park. With picturesque trails, this park is perfect for a morning hike immersed in nature.
Visit the Waco Zoo and spend a few hours enjoying the diverse wildlife. Take a leisurely break for lunch either inside the zoo or at a nearby restaurant.
Wind down at the Lake Waco Wetlands, watching the sunset over the water. Enjoy a picnic dinner while taking in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages
- Rich cultural and historical attractions, including museums and landmarks
- A growing job market, particularly in education and healthcare sectors
- Pleasant climate for most of the year, with mild winters
- Community-focused atmosphere with numerous local events and festivals
- Limited public transportation options
- Higher crime rates in certain areas compared to national averages
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable
- Smaller city may lack some amenities and entertainment options found in larger cities
- Occasional severe weather events, including tornadoes
Best Activities in Waco
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the extensive trails, go mountain biking, or have a picnic in one of the many scenic spots.
Visit the national monument to see the fossils of mammoths and other Ice Age creatures, and take a guided tour of the dig site.
Experience traditional farm activities, woodworking, and crafts at this farm and craft village.
Tours
Uncover the best of Waco with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Waco
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the Brazos River and cliffs, as well as a variety of hiking and biking trails.
Features a collection of bronze sculptures along the banks of the Brazos River, providing a picturesque setting for photos.
A popular spot in Waco known for its photogenic silos, unique shopping, and waterfront area.
A historic cliff and overlook offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Waco area.
Known for its serene beauty and opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Waco
Waco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked to perfection, this tender and smoky brisket is a quintessential Texas dish. Head to places like Vitek's BBQ or Guess Family Barbecue for an unforgettable experience.
Must-Try!
A beloved Southern comfort food, chicken fried steak is a tenderized, breaded, and fried steak cutlet smothered in creamy gravy. Dive into this classic at places like George's Restaurant and Bar or the Elite Cafe.
A nod to the Czech heritage in Texas, these pastries are typically filled with a variety of ingredients such as sausage, cheese, or fruit. Swing by the Czech Stop or Lulu Jane Bakery for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Waco better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a must-visit, offering a delightful array of food trucks serving everything from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal cupcakes. The Silos Baking Co. is also famous for its delectable treats.
A vibrant hub for locally-sourced produce, artisanal goods, and a fantastic selection of food vendors offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to farm-to-table delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Waco, it is common to greet others with a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?' as a sign of respect and friendliness.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Waco and to not stand too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations.
Waco embraces the tradition of Southern hospitality, so showing gratitude and politeness in interactions is greatly appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Waco with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Waco
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Waco, United States. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants, bartenders, taxi drivers, and other service providers. The standard tipping rate is generally 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment methods in Waco, United States are diverse and include cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment platforms. Most businesses accept major credit cards and contactless payment options. Some smaller establishments may have minimum purchase requirements for card transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Waco, as the weather is pleasant and there are beautiful blooms at the Magnolia Market and Waco's numerous parks. It's a popular time for outdoor activities and events.
Summer in Waco can be hot and humid, but it's the perfect time for water activities on the Brazos River and for exploring outdoor attractions like the Cameron Park Zoo and the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking in Cameron Park or visiting the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. It's also a great time for fall festivals and events throughout the city.
Winters in Waco are mild, and the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy festive events, shopping at the Magnolia Market, and exploring indoor attractions such as the Dr. Pepper Museum.
Waco at Night
Hiking in Waco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park located near downtown Waco, offering scenic trails, views of the Brazos River, and various amenities for outdoor activities.
A beautiful natural area with trails that wind through wetlands and provide opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Located about 30 miles from Waco, this park features hiking trails through wooded areas, the interesting Huaco Caves, and picnic spots.
This park offers paved trails along the Brazos River, with scenic views, access to the river for fishing, and picnic areas.
A local park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a casual hike or nature walk.
Aiports
How to reach Waco by plane.
Major international airport serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, located approximately 100 miles north of Waco.
International airport in Houston, Texas, located about 180 miles southeast of Waco.
International airport serving Austin, Texas, located about 100 miles south of Waco.
International airport serving San Antonio, Texas, located approximately 150 miles southwest of Waco.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Waco, predominantly non-Hispanic.
A significant and growing population in Waco, encompassing various nationalities and cultures.
A considerable demographic group with a rich cultural history in Waco.
A smaller but increasingly visible group, representing various Asian nationalities.
Persons identifying with more than one racial group, reflecting the diversity within the community.
A small population representing indigenous peoples, contributing to Waco's cultural diversity.
A very small demographic group, primarily residing in Waco.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Waco, particularly due to the presence of Baylor University, which has a strong football program and passionate fanbase.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Waco, especially with Baylor University men's and women's teams making significant impacts in NCAA tournaments.
Baseball is a popular pastime in Waco, with local youth leagues and the Waco BlueCats offering opportunities for community engagement.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Waco, with youth programs flourishing and increased local interest in professional leagues.
Volleyball is popular among youth and collegiate athletes in Waco, with various leagues and teams participating at the community and university levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Waco offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options, with creative plant-based dishes available at places like Luna Juice Bar, Health Camp, and Club Sandwich.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free options at restaurants such as Torchy's Tacos, Milo All Day, and Harvest on 25th.