Waco, Texas, is a city of roughly 130,000 people located along the Brazos River in Central Texas. It is a hub of culture, outdoor recreation, and educational opportunities. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Waco offers a little something for everyone.
From its iconic suspension bridge to its vibrant arts scene, Waco’s attractions are sure to please. Take a stroll through the city’s downtown area and admire its eclectic mix of historic buildings, restaurants, and shops. Or, visit the Dr. Pepper Museum to learn more about the history of the iconic soft drink. For a more natural experience, head to Cameron Park, a sprawling wilderness park located on the banks of the Brazos River. Here, visitors can explore miles of trails, take a relaxing float down the river, or simply enjoy a picnic lunch by the water.
Waco also offers a wide variety of educational opportunities. Home to Baylor University, McLennan Community College, and Texas State Technical College, this city is a great place to get an education. The city also hosts several annual events, including the Texas Music Festival, Heart O’ Texas Fair, and the Waco Downtown Farmers Market.
No matter your interests, Waco, Texas, has something to offer everyone. So, come explore this charming city and discover why it’s a great place to visit.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Waco: Downtown Waco is a vibrant district filled with eclectic shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also home to the Waco Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark and popular destination.
2. University Parks: University Parks is conveniently located near Baylor University's campus and is a great option for students and visitors looking for a safe, affordable neighborhood.
3. South Waco: South Waco is an up-and-coming area with affordable housing and a diverse community. It is also home to numerous cultural attractions, such as the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
4. Hewitt: Hewitt is a charming, small-town neighborhood located just north of Waco. It's known for its friendly atmosphere and its proximity to Lake Waco and numerous parks.
5. Woodway: Woodway is an affluent suburb of Waco located just outside the city limits. It's known for its safe, family-friendly neighborhoods and its convenient access to downtown Waco.
1. Magnolia Market at the Silos: A must-see for fans of HGTV's Fixer Upper, Magnolia Market at the Silos is a unique shopping and dining experience located in downtown Waco. It includes a marketplace, food trucks, and a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the day.
2. Cameron Park Zoo: This unique zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world including lions, tigers, giraffes, and zebras. It's a great place to take the family for a day of fun and education.
3. Dr. Pepper Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Waco, the Dr. Pepper Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the famous soda. It includes interactive exhibits, a soda fountain, and a gift shop.
4. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum: Located in nearby Waco, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the famous law enforcement organization. It features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a gift shop.
5. Waco Suspension Bridge: Spanning the Brazos River, the Waco Suspension Bridge is a historic landmark built in 1870. The bridge is a great place to take a scenic walk and enjoy the view of the city from a different perspective.
1. Homemade Burgers at Health Camp: Health Camp is a Waco institution, serving up delicious homemade burgers since 1936. Their burgers are made with fresh, locally sourced ground beef and served on a toasted bun with plenty of toppings.
2. Barbecue at Vitek's BBQ: Vitek's BBQ is a local favorite, serving up some of the best smoked meats in Waco. They offer a variety of meats, from brisket to ribs, as well as sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
3. Mexican Food at Cupp's Drive Inn: Cupp's Drive Inn is an old-fashioned drive-in serving up delicious Mexican food. Their menu includes tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as chalupas, quesadillas, and more.
4. Fried Chicken at Magnolia Table: Magnolia Table is a popular brunch spot serving up classic Southern cooking, including fried chicken. Their signature fried chicken is served with a honey-butter glaze, and comes with a variety of sides.
5. Southern Comfort Food at George's: George's is a classic Southern restaurant serving up delicious comfort food. Their menu includes fried catfish, fried chicken, and grits, as well as unique dishes like fried green tomatoes and okra.