Waco, the amazing central Texas city, is located on the banks of the Brazos River. Filled with world-class museums, stunning natural attractions, parks, delicious foods, happening events, culture, and historical things, there are plenty of enjoyable things to do in Waco.
Thanks to HGTV’s Fixer Upper stars Joanna Gaines and Chip, Waco got more fame and attracted more tourists.
If you are looking for a list of the best things to do in Waco, Texas, United States, here’s the ideal one for you.
Things to Do in Waco
1. Things to do in Waco: Cameron Park Zoo
Locating next to the Brazos River, visiting Cameron Park Zoo is one of the top things to do in Waco, Texas. Spreading over 52 acres of land, the zoo was established in 1993.
Unlike other zoos in the state, Cameron Park Zoo is located in a natural, lush, and picturesque surrounding. So, all 1700 animals (under 300 various animal species) have got enough natural space.
Your kids will love to see the natural behavior of lions, otters, lemurs, Komodo dragons, endangered Sumatran tigers, Orangutans, and many other Asian and African animals. Also, you can observe many native animals of Texas.
The park authority specially arranges some animal-themed activities as well.
As Cameron Park Zoo is located in an attractive surrounding, they offer you space for weddings, private parties, family gatherings, and sleepovers. So, this place can surely be considered one of the best family destinations in Waco.
Address: 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707, United States.
2. Armstrong Browning Library
Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barret Browning is a world-famous British literary couple who lived in the Victorian era. Every literature lover in the world still loves their literary classics. So, if you are a fan of their lovely writings, here’s the ideal place to visit.
Armstrong Browning Library is located on the Campus of Baylor University in Waco. It contains the largest collection of Brownings’ creations and some exhibits about the couple’s lovely life.
Apart from the creative, rare books, this library shows you the world’s largest collection of 1800s creative secular stained glass as well.
So, if you are an art lover, visiting Armstrong Browning Library is surely one of the most impressive things to do in Waco. Since it offers your free entrance, why do you miss this unique chance?
After visiting the artworks, do not forget to visit the relaxing garden and the gift store.
Address: 710, Speight Eve, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
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3. Waco Mammoth National Monument
Waco Mammoth National Monument is one of the most famous paleontological sites and museums in Texas. What is the unique feature of this place?
This is the biggest collection of Columbian mammoths’ fossils in the world that has been identified as dead from one natural disaster. Also, this is the world’s first discovered Columbian mammoth nursery as well.
According to the facts, this site contains 24 Columbian mammoths’ fossils and mammals’ fossils from the Pleistocene Epoch. Further, it is believed that they were dead at once due to a mudslide around 68000 years ago.
But, who discovered it first?
It was two random men who were looking for arrowheads along the Bosque River in 1978. They have noticed very largely unusual born in that area. Then, they have given it to Baylor University. That’s how those 24 Columbian mammoths from the Ice Age were discovered.
Further, the information says that this herd contained 19 adult female mammoths with their offspring. By analyzing the fossils’ positioning, the researchers believe that mothers were trying to save little ones by raising them up from the mud. Sadly, it failed.
As mentioned earlier, the site contains some mammals’ fossils like prehistoric camel, large cat, and more.
Therefore, this site was named a National Monument in 2015.
You can visit the site and see the natural existence of some of the fossils. (Some of the fossils are under a controlled environment at Baylor to protect from deterioration)
Further, the researches and excavations are going on to identify more fossils.
Your kids will love to see this site and know more about the Ice Age era. So, definitely take them to Waco Mammoth National Monument.
Address: 6220, Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.
4. Things to do in Waco: Spice Village
Let’s go shopping in Waco.
Spice Village offers you 60 unique boutiques of accessories, apparel, modern items, vintage items, gifts, antiques, pet items, housewares, home decors, and more.
Before the Spice Village, this place was the Waco Hardware Building in 1908. In 1997, it was restored as Spice Village and still welcomes any kind of shopper. Also, since its boutiques are colorful, fancy, and vibrant, Spice Village attracts many tourists.
As it is located in downtown Waco, you can easily find it.
Address: 213 Mary Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
5. Things to do in Waco: Carleen Bright Arboretum
One of the best things to do in Waco is visiting Carleen Bright Arboretum.
It is such a beautiful, natural attraction in the city. Therefore it has a huge demand for hosting different events throughout the year. (Like parties, summer concerts, exhibitions, and weddings). Anyone can book the wedding lawn or Pavillion for special events.
Spreading over 16 acres of wonderful natural land, Carleen Bright Arboretum has 8 acres of attractive botanical gardens. However, the whole land is divided into 4 major areas.
They are the wedding lawn and the pavilion, western garden, eastern garden, and a scenic nature trail that takes you to a forested area. All of these sections in Carleen Bright Arboretum welcome you at any time in the day.
Or you can participate in the public events organized by the Arboretum as well. Ex: Summer Concerts, Arboretum Explorers program,
Address: 9001, Bosque Blvd b, Woodway, TX 76712, Unites States.
6. Dr. Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise
Do you remember Dr. Pepper’s old advertisements?
Well, Dr. Pepper is the oldest soft drink in the USA. And it was the most famous soft drink at that time.
The first product, Dr. Pepper Soda, was manufactured in the 1880s in Waco. After that, Dr. Pepper was manufactured for a very long time (between 1906 and mid-1960s) in Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company Building.
You can now see the building as an exciting museum called Dr. Pepper Museum, which was opened in 1991 to the public. The aim of converting the manufacturing building into a museum is to preserve the USA’s soft drink industry’s stories, recipes, and history.
So, it contains a variety of memorabilia and artifacts of Dr. Pepper over three floors. Also, there’s a gift shop that sells Dr. Pepper drinks and soda manufactured by the USA’s oldest production plant. And the interesting fact is, it still runs and makes products for you.
So, to do the honor, Dr. Pepper considered the National Drink of Texas, and the building considers a part of the National Register of Historic Places. Also, it is a non-profit organization that is totally dedicated to visitors’ entertainment and knowledge dissemination.
So, do not miss Dr. Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise on your Waco tour.
Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
7. Things to do in Waco: Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits
Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits is not only for coffee lovers but also for alcoholic beverage lovers.
Artisan cocktails, delicious, rare coffees (iced and hot), and some delicious snacks are available in Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits. And also, the bar offers delicious spirits and unique handmade cocktails.
Therefore it is very famous among locals and tourists for traditional and creative gourmet offerings.
Since the coffee is made using American roasted coffee beans, it has the highest quality.
While having your favorite drink, you can listen to live music as well. Also, Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits mostly hosts special events and parties as well. By considering all the above features, visiting Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits can be considered as one of the most enjoyable things to do in Waco, Texas.
Address: 508 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States
8. Magnolia Market at the Silos
Again, a great discovery by the famous HGTV personalities, Joanna and Chip. Magnolia Market at the Silos is a unique retail store that got a huge attraction among tourists due to the pop culture and fame. Therefore, visiting this market is definitely one of the best things to do in Waco.
Spreading over 2.5 acres of land, Magnolia Market contains two silos and a large barn. And it sells a variety of things like home decors, furniture, delicious bakery items, and many unique items.
You can join with various games and activities that happen on the lawn. On the other hand, the lawn contains awesome picnic spots and delicious food trucks as well.
You can visit Magnolia Market at any time except Sundays.
Address: 601, Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
9. Waco Downtown Farmers Market
If you are in Waco this weekend, you must visit Waco’s downtown Farmer’s Market.
It is an open-air Saturday market that features locally produced things like farm products, dairy products, handicrafts, artisans, foods, fresh drinks, alcoholic beverages, plants, and more. It has been offering fresh products to visitors since 2011.
Many locals attract to this place for picnicking as there are picnic tables, delicious food stalls, and eye-catching views of Brazos River and McLane Stadium.
Around 50 sellers are ready to impress you with their products every Saturday in downtown Waco. So, do not miss this chance to experience Waco’s authentic local lifestyle of Waco while having delicious food.
Address: 500, Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
10. Things to do in Waco: Earle-Napier-Kinnard House
Earle-Napier-Kinnard House is a Greek Revival home built in 1868 when there were only 700 people in whole Texas. Yeah, at that time, Texas was like a small village.
Its Greek Revival architecture is beautiful. Made with pale pink bricks on the exterior, Earle-Napier-Kinnard House has a pillared portico and an attractive wooden banister. Also, there’s a kids’ play house made in 1881. (Yeah, it is a historical playhouse)
Surprisingly, Earle-Napier-Kinnard House still has original furniture inside. So, if you like to go back to the 1800s and see the architecture, furniture, and more historical things, just take a 30 min guided tour of this house.
Address: 814 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
11. Waco Hippodrome Theater
Waco Hippodrome Theater was opened in 1914. In the beginning, it was a French vaudeville genre theater, and currently, it is a live event space and movie theater.
It has been reconstructing and altering for so many years. But, still, you can see its authentic and classical look. And it hosts live theaters, comedy shows, classic movies, concerts, trivia nights, film festivals, dancing events, parties, and more. If you are a filmy person, Waco Hippodrome Theater is the ideal place for you.
Also, Waco Hippodrome Theater offers you excellent full-service in-theater dining. On the other hand, it has a full-service bar with any kind of drink as well.
So, it’s obvious that Waco Hippodrome Theater is definitely one of the most enjoyable places to visit in the city. Do not miss it.
Address: 724, Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
12. Waco Suspension Bridge
Since Waco is located along the Brazos River, you’ll see stunning views everywhere in the city. Waco Suspension Bridge is also such a viewpoint.
Stretching for 475 feet across the Brazos River, this bridge was opened in 1869.
Actually, Waco Suspension Bridge brought luck to the city because it was very tough to cross the river from ferries. After building this bridge, Waco started to develop so quickly. So, obviously, it considers as one of the most significant landmarks in the city.
The effort of establishing the Waco Suspension Bridge should always be admired because it had to transport all the major resources from long distances.
For example, skilled artisans bought from 200 miles away, and the closest railroad was 100 miles away from the construction site. It needed 3 million bricks to complete.
Therefore, it took more time and effort. However, it was finished in 1869, titling as the first suspension bridge in Texas.
The bridge functioned well until 1971. That means more than a century. After 1971, the government decided to close the bridge for vehicle transportation to protect the bridge and people. And opened it only for pedestrians.
Now, it is a famous viewpoint and a famous hosting place of festivals, events, weddings, and parties.
Another important feature of the Waco Suspension Bridge is that it connects Indian Spring Park and Doris D. Miller Park. So, you can easily visit those two parks.
Address: 101 N University Park Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
13. Things to do in Waco: Waco Tours
Do you like to know everything about Waco? Here’s the best chance.
Waco Tours is an enjoyable tour service that takes you around the city by providing all the interesting information. Done by a local who knows all the Waco’s stories, Waco Tours is one of the fun things to do in Waco with your family and friends.
There’re several tour types. They are Classic Waco Tour, Texas Experience Tour, and River Cruise. You can visit their website from the above link and know more.
Classic Waco Tour is the standard one, and it takes you to the most notable attractions in the city and the best eateries.
Texas Experience Tour is a more cowboy-type tour that teaches you horseback riding, cowboy culture, and history.
On the other hand, if you are looking for an evening cruise tour, Waco Tours offers you an exciting sunset River Cruise Tour along with the stunning Brazos River.
Choose the ideal tour for you and experience Waco in a great way with Waco Tours.
Address: 215 S University Parks Dr. Suite #104, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
14. Things to do in Waco: Heritage Creamery
It’s time to eat ice cream. But, what is the best place to eat ice cream in Waco?
Obviously, it is Heritage Creamery.
It is famous for delicious ice cream, handmade cookies, sandwiches, milkshakes, and more. Since they offer unique flavors and friendly service to every customer, it attracts many ice cream lovers annually.
They offer you attractive, handcrafted frozen treats made with high-quality ingredients. Also, you can buy pints of ice cream to take home
Heritage Creamery usually opens every day and if you visit Waco Farmers Market on Saturdays, you’ll find one of their stalls as well.
Address: 1125, 8th St, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
15. Things to do in Waco: Mayborn Museum Complex
Mayborn Museum Complex is an exciting natural history museum located in Waco’s Baylor University.
The museum is filled with walk-in-dioramas, hands-on exhibits, and some interactive exhibits under the permanent exhibits category. Especially, there are many items arranged for kids.
For example, the 16 uniquely themed discovery rooms are ideal for curious kids about the natural world. However, Mayborn Museum Complex is not only for kids. It is for all ages.
Another attraction in this museum is the open-air Historic Village. Spanning over 13 acres, it allows you to walk through an authentic historical village that was relocated from Liberty, Texas.
Also, there’s a place called Design Den that allows you to build exciting, innovative things like model skyscrapers, scribble bots, and more.
On the other hand, the Cabinet of Curiosities contains exciting exhibits taken from the Strecker Museum.
So, visiting Mayborn Museum Complex is surely one of the most exciting things to do in Waco with family. Just add it to your bucket list.
Address: 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
16. Things to do in Waco: Lake Waco
Surprisingly, Lake Waco is a beautiful man-made reservoir in the city limits of Waco. It is on the western border of the city. Covering 34 km2, Lake Waco’s dam is located on the Bosque River.
So, if you are looking for a relaxing, scenic place in Waco, this lake is ideal. Not only in Waco, but it is also famous across Texas. Although it is man-made, it looks natural.
If you are into water activities like boating, Lake Waco is the best place for that. There are 7 ramps and a marina that facilitate easy access for boating.
On the other hand, Lake Waco offers you some other outdoor activities as well. Ex: exciting hiking trails, scenic campgrounds, walking trails, and more. Whenever you are in Waco, you can experience these awesome things if you visit Lake Waco. So, do not miss it.
Address: 3801 Zoo Park Drive, Waco, TX 76708, United States.
17. McCulloch House Museum
Visiting the McCulloch House Museum is one of the best ways to discover Texas’s old, authentic lifestyle. Built-in 1866, this house was owned by a famous physician named Josiah Caldwell. He was lived in this house with his wife and five kids.
Here, you can see authentic, old-fashioned furniture, rooms, space, architecture, and creative watercolor paintings by Charles H. Cox, a local artist.
So, people who love old architecture, interior, and paintings surely visit McCulloch House Museum in Waco. If you are interested, just add it to your list too.
Address: 407, Columbus Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
18. Things to do in Waco: Lake Waco Wetlands
Lake Wako Wetlands are a wildlife refuge that contains native plants, animals, and an education center. This natural area was created in 2001 to protect Lake Waco from being raised by 7 feet.
Since it contains plenty of plants, animals, insects, and reptile species, many researchers come to Lake Wako Wetlands for onsite researches.
Covering around 180 acres, it has 6 acres of plant nursery with duck potatoes, aquatic plants, bulrushes, water lilies like aquatic plants.
Also, there are some walking tracks and observation platforms over the wetlands. So, you can observe trees, animals, and birds easily. Especially, this place is ideal for birdwatchers.
Once you visit this place, you will realize the importance of having wetlands. So, teach your kids about Lake Wako Wetlands and its fauna and flora species.
Address: 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Road, China Spring, TX 76663, United States.
19. Things to do in Waco: Cotton Belt Trail
Are you looking for a place for jogging, biking, or exercising in Waco? Visit Cotton Belt Trail.
It is a scenic single trail located along the South Bosque River and stretches for around 2.5 miles. Therefore, not only joggers but also photographers attract to this trail to catch Instagrammable photos.
Being one of the most scenic Waco attractions, Cotton Belt Trail was an old railway line. When you are on vacation in Waco, this trail is ideal for doing your morning exercises and starting the day.
20. Lee Lockwood Library and Museum
Built in 1969, Lee Lockwood Library and Museum contains exciting Freemasonry books and artifacts over three floors. Actually, it was the Waco Scottish Rite of Freemasonry’s headquarters in the past. And now you can see it as a unique museum.
You can learn about Freemasonry, its history, and Waco’s history from this museum. And also, it provides space for parties and private events. (maximum 500 people at a time)
If you are curious to know about Freemasonry, just visit Lee Lockwood Library and Museum. It is really a unique thing to do in Waco.
Address: 2801 W Waco Dr, Waco. TX 76707, United States.
21. Texas Sports Hall of Fame
Hey sports lover, here we go.
Texas Sports Hall of Fame recognizes Texan athletes, administrators, and coaches who created unforgettable memories in the sports world. And Texas is the first state in the USA to have such a sports hall of fame. So, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Waco.
Texas Sports Writers Association is the founder of this place, and it was opened in 1951.
It contains video clips of historic sports moments, fun exhibits, interactive exhibits, and famous sports personalities. The induction to the museum requires a nomination for a ballot and get the highest votes. For example, Baylor University players, Houston Astros players, Texas A&M, San Antonio Spurs, and Dallas Cowboys.
Texas Sports Hall of Fame opens for you every day except Sundays.
Address: 1108 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
22. Things to do in Waco: Martin Museum of Art
Art lovers should add the Martin Museum of Art to their Waco bucket lists because it contains over 1300 impressive artworks done by well-known and less known artists.
Handled by the Baylor University’s Art Department, the Martin Museum of Art hosts some art history classes and studio artistry classes. Also, it contains a variety of admirable permanent and temporary artworks.
You can visit this museum on any day except on Mondays.
Address: 60 Baylor Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
23. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is the state’s official history museum of the famed Texas Rangers law enforcement agency. Sponsored by the city of Waco, this museum was opened in 1968.
Now, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Waco. Spreading over 30 acres, it has a 19th-century traditional hill country design. This museum aims to preserve the history of Rangers and to appreciate them.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum contains fantastic memories of Rangers who gave their lives while doing their duty between 1823 to 2004.
So, do not forget to visit this museum and do the honor to Texas Rangers.
Address: 100 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
24. Things to do in Waco: Red Men Museum and Library
Who is Red Men??
It is a fraternal organization established in North America in 1834. Its full name is “The Improved Order of Red Men.” If you like to know more about this organization, you have to visit Red Men Museum and Library in Waco.
Handled by the Texas Red Men Foundation, this museum contains many historical exhibits, artifacts, and information about the Civil War, World War II, and Waco’s history.
Also, there are some highlighted exhibits as well. Ex: a complete collection of National Geographic magazine (from 1888 to now), a bugle found from the Gettysburg Battlefield, and more.
If you are a history lover, Red Men Museum and Library in Waco should be on your Waco bucket list.
Address: 4521 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76711, Unites States.
25. Things to do in Waco: Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shop
Looking for the best sandwiches in Waco? Then, it should be Schmatz’s Sandwich Shop.
First, it was opened inside Baylor University in 1975. But, it was closed a few years later. Now, there are two Schmatz’s Sandwich Shops in the city. One is downtown, and the other one is on Valley Mills Drive.
The roast beef sandwich is the most popular one. And also, there are pastrami, ham and cheese, salads, and soups like delicious things on the menu.
If you are looking for a good place to have breakfast in Waco, Schmatz’s Sandwich Shop is the best. Just try it.
Address: 1412 N Valley Mills Dr # 136, Waco, TX 76710, United States.
26. Things to do in Waco: Hawaiian Falls Water Park
Looking for a fun thing to do in Waco with kids? Here’s the best place to visit, Hawaiian Falls Water Park.
It is one of the most famous water parks in Waco and offers you many exciting water activities. Spreading over 10 acres contains wave pools, splash ground, a lazy river, and water slides.
Especially, there’re exciting things like a water slide for kids called Keiki Cove, the two 65 foot free-fall slide, the Pineapple Express (a high-speed mat), Cabanas, Kona Kooler (for relaxing and floating), and more.
Actually, visiting Hawaiian Falls Water Park is one of the best things to do in Waco with kids this weekend. Kids will love it.
Address: 900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708, United States.
27. Waco BlueCats Minor League Baseball
BlueCat’s Minor League Baseball team is Waco’s official baseball team. Are you going to leave Waco without catching a BlueCats’ baseball game?
Being a part of the Southwest League of Professional Baseball, BlueCats started playing in 2018. Usually, they play 56 home games and 56 outside games every year.
So, you can surely catch a home game that happens in the Ballpark Stadium at Bellmead.
Planning to visit Columbia SC?? Just read this before: the best things to do in Columbia SC.
28. Things to do in Waco: The Art Center of Waco
First, it is located in a beautiful place. Second, it contains a lot of impressive artworks. Yes, it is about The Art Center of Waco.
Located near the Brazos River, The Art Center of Waco is an attractive Mediterranean-style home. It was actually established to encourage the local artists. Therefore, you can see a lot of impressive artworks of lesser-known local artists.
It is not all about paintings; there’s 2.5 acres of a wonderful sculpture garden as well.
On the other hand, The Art Center of Waco hosts educational events, art classes, and art exhibitions.
So, if you an art lover, this art center offers you a lot to see and learn.
Address: 1400 Speight Ave, Waco, TX 76706, Unites States.
29. Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat
Do you like to see Baylor Bear for real?
Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat has Baylor University’s black bear mascots, a pair of biological sisters named Joy and Lady. Therefore it has become one of the top tourist attractions in Waco. Especially among the people who love bears and other animals.
Actually, those bear sisters have full names also. They are Judge Joy Reynolds and Judge Sue Lady Sloan. Those names came from the 11th president of Baylor’s wife’s name, “First Lady,” and the 12th president of Baylor’s wife’s name Joy.
However, Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat have created a natural environment for those bears with waterfalls, trees, and caves. So, you can observe bears’ natural habitat.
As it opens every day from 9.30 am to 8.00 pm, do not miss it.
Address: M P Daniel Esplanade, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
30. Things to do in Waco: Waco River Safari & Tours
Taking a river safari on the Brazos and Bosque Rivers is one of the best things to do in Waco, for sure.
Obviously, Brazos and Bosque Rivers are the top natural attractions in Waco. So, taking a scenic tour of these rivers is totally worth it.
Waco River Safari & Tours offers you safe, comfortable, and scenic safari cruises that last for around 2 hours.
Basically, they offer two packages. One is amazing sunset dinner cruises on the Bosque River. The other one is historical cruises on the Brazos River that explain the river’s historical facts while cruising.
And also, if you are looking for a private river cruise, they arrange them according to your request. (maximum amount of group is 20)
Book your tour from the above link.
Address: 113 S University Park Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
31. Things to do in Waco: McLane Stadium
Welcome to the home stadium of Baylor Bears.
McLane Stadium is located at the Baylor University, and it is the home stadium of Baylor Bears. So, if you are a sports fan, this place will offer you a lot of fun.
If you visit there, you can watch a fun game, tour around the stadium, and learn more about McLane Stadium’s history. Usually, a tour will take around 2 hours, and it will take you through the ground, locker rooms, press room, and other practicing areas.
So, if you or your kids are mad at sports, McLane Stadium is a definite place to visit in Waco.
Address: 1001 S M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Waco, TX 76704, United States.
32. Things to do in Waco: The Findery Marketplace
The Findery is a unique and interesting store in Waco. Locating in a century-old building called Percy Medicine building, The Findery contains whatever you need.
There are several vendors in this store. And they sell handmade items, home decors, furniture, clothing, jewelry, gifts, candles, modern items, classical items, and vintage items.
Jute is the major vendor and the owner of The Findery. And the others are Wild and Free, Congress Clothing, Serenity, and Hinge.
So, this is like a small mall. If you want to buy a memorable or fun item in Waco, just visit the awesome The Findery Marketplace.
Address: 910, Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
33. Things to do in Waco: East Terrace Museum
Locating nearby the stunning Brazos River, East Terrace Museum is also another historical home in Waco. Made with divine Italian architecture, it was owned by John Wesely Mann, a famous industrialist in the 1870s.
East Terrace Museum contains many original, authentic Victorian-style furniture. Ex: a pier mirror, crafted wooden desk, chairs, a bathtub, and more. Also, since it offers nice views of the Brazos River from the above.
The museum is open to the public every Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Or if you are interested in taking a special tour, you have to make an appointment. So, plan it for this weekend.
Address: 100 Mill St, Waco, TX 76704, United States.
34. Things to do in Waco: Wine Shoppe
Wine Shoppe is an amazing place to taste imported high-quality wine from Italy, Spain, and Uruguay. But, they are not famous brands as they are from small family-owned vineyards. So, they surely have authentic flavors.
Located on Austin Avenue, Wine Shoppe offers special treats on Saturdays. Filled with Italian wine and cheese, this place is one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Waco. If you are a wine lover, do not miss this place.
Address: 1800 Austin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
35. Homestead Heritage Craft Village
Are you ready to spend more money and buy unique handmade items?
Homestead Heritage Craft Village is a nice place that offers you awesome crafts, unique crafts, furniture, pottery, baskets, and more. Also, its Cafe Homestead has delicious homemade sweet treats, bakery items, and meals.
Visiting Homestead Heritage Craft Village is one of the most fun things to do in Waco. Although it is located 16 miles away from Waco, it is totally worth visiting for sightseeing, shopping, and learning.
As the vendors are ready to speak with you about their creations, you will have a lot of fun. You can also experience Waco’s authentic, local culture as it shows some old methods of producing products. So, ready to be impressed.
If you are a budget traveler, you should skip Homestead Heritage Craft Village as the products’ prices are very high due to the high quality. But, the entrance is free.
Also, they offer some tour packages to see this impressive craft village as well. (Self-guided tours, school field trips, and group tours) Actually, it is really important to take your kids to this kind of craft village because it teaches them about craft culture and handmade industries.
Address: 608 Dry Creek Rd, Waco, TX 76705, United States.
36. Things to do in Waco: Harp Design Co.
We all know that Waco’s got huge fame due to HGTV’s Fixer Upper. What do you think, if you can buy all the designs showcased in the famous Jo and Clint’s Show?
Well, you can. Just visit Harp Design Co. in Waco. It contains their unique talents with custom furniture, novelty furniture, unique woodwork, home decors, and more.
If you are a fan of Jo and Clint’s Show, you cannot miss Harp Design Co. when you are in Waco. Visit their website from the above link and discover more. (Things to Do in Waco)
Address: 808 N 15th St, Waco, TX 76707, United States.
37. Things to do in Waco: Waco Civic Theater
It time to have fun.
Waco Civic Theater is a place that presents live performances in the day and at night. Opened in the 1920s, it was started as Waco Little Theater performed by locals in the city.
But, in 1945, it was joined with Baylor Univerity’s Drama Department and became Waco Civic Theater.
Being one of the best civic theaters in the country shows children’s theater shows, Broadway musicals, comedy shows, local art events, and more. Although it is a very old building, it has added all the updated technology.
So, you can definitely catch a joyful show and watch it comfortably at Waco Civic Theater.
Address: 1517 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76710, United States.
38. Things to do in Waco: Lev’s Gathering Place
Are you a fan of gospel music, a Christian music genre?
Then, here’s the ideal place for you. Whether you are religious or not, visiting Lev’s Gathering Place is one of the fun things to do in Waco.
It is actually a listening room to the BGMRP (Black Gospel Music Restoration Project) handled by Baylor University. And the project has an interesting history as well.
Robert Darden, a famous gospel music scholar, wrote an interesting article to New York Times about protecting historical gospel music recordings. It went viral, and the investment banker Charles Royce liked to offer the needed finance to preserve those gospel music recordings.
Thanks to the BGMRP done by Robert Darden, Charles Royce, and Baylor University, you can still hear them even online.
Located in the Baylor University’s Library, Lev’s Gathering Place offers an intimate listening experience to every visitor. (Things to Do in Waco)
Address: 1312 S, 3rd St, Waco, TX 76706, United States.
39. Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool
First, you should know what the Branch of Davidians is. They are a religious sect founded by Benjamin Roden in 1955.
It was very famous in the 1990s. It still exists as The Branch (not the Branch of Davidians) but not so famous as then.
David Koresh was a former leader of this sect who continued a negative legacy. He is very famous for the 51 days stand-off incident with the FBI exactly at the Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool in Waco, Texas.
In 1993, the FBI and ATF suspected Davidians of collecting and stocking illegal weapons. But, it was not easy to raid them as they shoot at the FBI. So, it took 51 days for the standoff and used armored vehicles, gunfire, tear gas, and grenades with the military’s help.
Due to the fire, the entire area was burnt. Finally, David Koresh and 76 Davidians died from the incident.
Currently, you can see that burnt area called Old Branch Davidian Swimming Pool. Visiting this place is really one of the most unusual things to do in Waco, Texas.
Do not hesitate. Just visit and imagine that incident.
Address: 1781 Double EE Ranch Road, Waco, TX 76705, United States.
40. Board and Brush Creative Studio Waco
Let’s learn how to create wooden artwork.
Broad and Brush Creative Studio is an amazing do-it-yourself shop in Waco TX. This place is ideal for a romantic artsy date as it allows you to create beautiful artwork together.
Or if you are in Waco with your friends, Broad and Brush will be a fun place to visit at night. And it offers you a great opportunity to let your inner DIY itching.
The special feature of this place is, you don’t need to buy all the supplies to make artworks. So, just book a workshop at Broad and Brush Creative Studio Waco and have fun. (Things to Do in Waco)
Address: 1201 Hewitt Dr Suite 106B, Waco, TX 76712, United States
Where to stay in Waco TX?
If you are a first-timer in Waco, you may find a touristy area to stay. But if you are a solo traveler, you may love to stay in a local neighborhood. However, here are some of the best options for you.
Hilton Waco
Hilton Waco is a 4-star hotel located downtown. As it sits overlooking the stunning Brazos River, your room will get scenic views. On the other hand, it is very close to all the top attractions in Waco. Ex: The Cameron Park Zoo, Baylor University, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, The Dr. Pepper Museum, and many others.
Apart from that Hilton Waco has all the luxury facilities with delicious food. Ex: 24-hour Fitness Center, tennis court, outdoor pool, and hot tub, and amazing room service.
Also, the hotel is located just 8 miles away from the Waco Regional Airport. So, you can easily reach.
Address: 113 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701, United States
Hotel Indigo Waco
We all know IHG is a world-class brand. Hotel Indigo Waco is an IHG hotel. So, no need for more explanations, it has to be great.
Hotel Indigo Waco is a newly constructed hotel that highlights Waco’s local culture. Its decorations, scents, food, service, and everything represent the local culture. So, you can surely get a real cultural Waco experience.
Also. they arrange different treats in each season. Ex: Spring decorations and foods are totally different from the Fall.
Address: 211 Clay Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States
Hampton Inn & Suites Waco-South
Located a few minutes away from downtown Waco, The Hampton Inn & Suites hotel is a 3-star hotel.
It is near the Central Texas Market place, Waco Regional and TSTC Airports, and as well as Baylor University. So, you can easily visit the top attractions in the city.
On the other hand, The Hampton Inn & Suites hotel offers you facilities like business phone service, business center, audio/ visual equipment rental, beverage area, fitness room, pool, high-speed Internet access, and many others.
Address: 2501 Marketplace Dr, Waco, TX 76711, United States.
Plan your tour well and have fun in Waco TX.
Things to Do in Waco
