Top Things to Do in Waco, Texas

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Jan 03, 2025

If you are thinking of traveling to Waco soon, read on. In this article, we offer a list of things to do in Waco, Texas, on your next trip, including recreational and educational activities with your family or friends. We also suggest some essential tips to make your experience the best. Don’t miss it!

Downtown Waco, Texas

Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Exploring Waco, Texas: Must-See Attractions and Things to Do

Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos

In the heart of Waco is Magnolia Market at the Silos This shopping complex has been gaining popularity for years. This tourist destination is easily recognizable by its two 36-meter-tall silos built in 1950 as part of the Brazos Valley Cotton Oil Company. It includes a store inside an old barn, a food truck park, a bakery (Silos Baking Co.), and several boutique stores such as Magnolia Home and Magnolia Seed & Supply.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in a large garden, where games and events such as Silobration, Spring at the Silos and Christmas at the Silos are held. It is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and admission is free, although fees may apply during special events.

Magnolia Market, Waco, USA

Photo by Sierra Bell on Unsplash

Explore the Dr. Pepper Museum

Do you know about the Dr. Pepper Museum? Located in Waco, Texas, it is a fascinating destination to learn about the history of one of America’s most iconic soft drinks. The museum has several exhibits highlighting the history of Dr. Pepper and other soft drink brands such as 7UP and Big Red. It includes the Bottling Room showcasing antique equipment and a gift store that offers museum-related products and classic soft drinks.

It is open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, free for children under 4, and includes a Dr. Pepper.

Tour the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame

If you are a history buff, one of the things to do in Waco, Texas, is to visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. Opened in 1968, this historic center was officially designated to honor the legendary Texas Rangers, America’s oldest law enforcement agency.

The museum has a variety of exhibits highlighting the history and impact of the Texas Rangers. It includes the Homer Garrison Jr. Gallery dedicated to telling the story of the Rangers over three centuries, the Hall of Fame, and the Research Center.

It is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission ranges from $4 to $10.50 and is free for children under 6.

Walkthrough Cameron Park Zoo

If you are an animal lover, visiting the Cameron Park Zoo is one of the things to do in Waco, Texas. This 210436 square meter zoo offers a unique experience of natural beauty and various species of animals.

It also offers various activities for visitors such as the Zoo Snooze Zoo, an overnight campout for children and adults, educational presentations, children’s play areas, cafes, and a gift store. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $14 to $16, and children under 2 are free.

The entrance to Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas.

Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Discover Waco Mammoth National Monument

Are you drawn to natural history and paleontology? If the answer is “yes,” you can’t miss a visit to the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This paleontological site protects the only known herd of Columbian mammoths in the United States. It is noted for its fossils of an Ice Age mammoth herd and other animals, a unique experience.

You can participate in guided tours that begin every 30 minutes. Admission to the refuge ranges from $4 to $6, and children under 3 are free. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except on holidays.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

U.S. Department of the Interior, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Visit the Waco Suspension Bridge

Another thing to do in Waco, Texas, is to visit the iconic Waco Suspension Bridge across the Brazos River. Opened in 1869, it was the first to cross the river and was noted as the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi River at the time, at 145 meters long.

The bridge serves as a central venue for community events such as Independence Day celebrations and concerts. It is in the middle of two famous parks Indian Spring Park to the west and Martin Luther King Jr. Park to the east, making it a perfect location for walks and outdoor recreational activities.

Waco Suspension Bridge Texas

diveofficer, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Check out the Mayborn Museum Complex

If you are passionate about history and science, you will surely be fascinated by a visit to the Mayborn Museum Complex. This outstanding educational and cultural institution is located on the campus of Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Opened in 2004, this museum has many exhibits that reveal the natural and cultural history of Texas. It offers an interactive and educational experience.

It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission ranges from $7 to $9, children under 2 are free, and discounts are available for seniors and groups.

Baylor University Tour

The Baylor University campus, located in Waco, Texas, offers a wonderful experience. Tours are designed for aspiring students and their families to explore the facilities, learn about student life, and discover the educational mission of the university. Here are the highlights of the tour:

Baylor Sciences Building: The largest academic building on campus, with classrooms and research laboratories.
Student Life Center (SLIC): A state-of-the-art recreation center with several athletic facilities, including a rock climbing wall and swimming pool.
Sports Stadiums: Includes the soccer stadium, where students enjoy free sporting events.

Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA

Photo by Donald Guy Robinson on Unsplash

Visit the Crawford Park

Enjoying a family day out at Tonkawa Falls City Park is one of the things to do in Waco, Texas. This park is known for its impressive waterfall and recreational activities.

During the warmer months, the waterfall becomes a popular swimming destination. However, it is recommended to check water levels before jumping in. There are ample green areas to enjoy a picnic with your family and friends in a peaceful natural setting. Its trails are ideal for hiking and outdoor explorations, and allow you to enjoy the scenery.

Take a boat ride on Lake Waco

Exploring Lake Waco on a boat or kayak ride is one of the things you can do in Waco, Texas, to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery while learning about local history. Check out the most outstanding options available:

Waco Tours River Cruise: This 2-hour tour offers a relaxing experience on the Brazos River and Bosque River. It is priced at $79 per person.
Brazos Tours: It offers a “Sunset Boat Adventure” that allows visitors to view Waco from the water at sunset. It lasts approximately 2 hours and costs $59 per person, with special rates for children.
Pura Vida Paddle: They offer canoe and kayak rentals to explore the lake at your own pace. It is ideal for those looking for a more active experience on the water.

Lake Waco Texas

HuecoBear, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Expert Tips for Visitors in Waco Texas

Spend at least a full weekend in Waco to fully explore the attractions and activities it has to offer.
Rent a car to explore Waco at your own pace. Although some areas are walkable, many attractions are spread out and it is more convenient to have a vehicle.
Look for comfortable, centrally located accommodations such as the Hotel Indigo, La Quinta In,n or Hampton Inn & Suites for easy access to attractions.
Visit Waco’s most popular attractions, such as Magnolia Market at the Silos to explore the stores and enjoy food at Silos Bakery; Cameron Park Zoo and Waco Mammoth National Monument for educational and recreational experiences; or the Waco Riverwalk for hiking and biking.
Enjoy local cuisine at popular restaurants such as One Thirty-Five Prime, Vitek’s B,BQ or Common Grounds.
Join a guided tour of the city or a cruise down the Brazos River to learn more about local history.
Check the local calendar for special events or festivals that may coincide with your visit, such as celebrations in Magnolia or outdoor activities.
Plan your visits to attractions on weekdays or early mornings to avoid large crowds.
Check weather conditions before your trip and wear appropriate clothing, especially if you plan outdoor activities.