Things to do in Waco

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Waco
Waco
Waco
Photo by Jeff White
Photo by Kendall Muyres

Waco Attractions

Nicknamed the "Heart of Texas," Waco is a charming mix of American history, natural beauty, and family-friendly recreation. The city, built around the Brazos River, is the birthplace of Dr Pepper and home to the Waco Mammoth National Monument. You can explore the history of the city and Texas state in the many museums around town, or spend leisure time with the family in Waco's green spaces and water parks. The city is also the hometown of Chip and Joanna from HGTV's Fixer Upper, and the pair's Magnolia Market shop is a destination for design lovers around the country.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Waco

Waco has come a long way since its founding in 1856. The city is home to major institutions like historic Baylor University and has its share of cultural treasures just waiting to be discovered.


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What to do in Waco

Free Things to Do in Waco

A trip to Waco need not break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

Baylor University - If you plan to explore the region's history through its landmarks, put this one on your itinerary.

The Texas Collection - Plan a visit and find out the significance of this place to the community.

Brazos Park East - Revitalize your mind and body by spending time in nature.

Downtown

Built around the Waco Suspension Bridge, Downtown Waco is the cultural hub of the city. Explore the Cultural District, which spotlights local art and entertainment through galleries, performance venues, and public art installments. The Dr Pepper Museum, where you can learn about the origins of the drink, is also located in Downtown.

Cameron Park

One of the largest city parks in Texas, Cameron Park is a beautiful green space where families can go to relax. Spread over 416 acres (168 ha), the park sits on the Brazos River and features trails for walking or biking, a disc golf course, and the Cameron Park Zoo.

The Silos

The Silos is located near downtown and is home to Magnolia Market, the farmhouse-style design mecca created by Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna. When you're not browsing for unique interior décor in the market, grab a bite from the on-site local food trucks or the Silo Baking Co. before sprawling out or playing games on the lawn.

What to See in Waco

Waco is rich in both natural beauty and manmade wonders, from the calm currents of the glassy Brazos River feeding into Lake Waco to the historic Waco Suspension Bridge, opened in 1870. When visiting the city, stop by the Cameron Park Zoo to see over 1,731 animals representing more than 300 species from around the world, including African lions, Sumatran tigers, and the underwater critters of a saltwater reef aquarium. Be sure to see the Waco Mammoth National Monument, a paleontological site and museum that houses the fossils of 24 Columbian mammoths from the Pleistocene Epoch.

Sightseeing in Waco

There's something for everyone in Waco. Sports fans should head to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, which recognizes players and coaches who have made contributions to Texas athletics. The Texas Rangers Hall of Fame and Museum is ripe for history buffs, as it showcases and honors the history of the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency. Kid-friendly activities include the Dr Pepper Museum, whose Liquid Lab gives interactive demonstrations about the science of soda and how to use it in everyday cooking. The slides, pools, and rivers at Hawaiian Falls Waterpark are an exciting way to spend an afternoon for the whole family. If you have an eye for design, Magnolia Market is the place to be with staged home scenes that aim to inspire.

Things to Do in Waco with Kids

You'll find lots of fun things to do in Waco with the young ones. Create new memories together with these family friendly experiences:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Waco? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Waco

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Waco

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Chalk Bluff

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Chalk Bluff and surrounding area, you can visit Homestead Heritage and Waco Mammoth National Monument.

Chalk Bluff
The city comes alive at night.

Brazos

4/5(193 area reviews)

While visiting Brazos, you might make a stop by sights like Magnolia Market at the Silos and Dr. Pepper Museum.

Brazos
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Lacy-Lakeview

Some popular features of Lacy-Lakeview include its shopping and restaurants. If you're in the mood to explore farther, Waco Mammoth National Monument or Cameron Park Zoo are worth checking out in the surrounding nearby area.

Lacy-Lakeview
Wacko Waco

East Riverside

3.5/5(36 area reviews)

While visiting East Riverside, you might make a stop by sights like McLane Stadium and Marlin Branch.

East Riverside
Due to heavy rains the lake raised to the tree lines causing some nice reflections.

Woodway

Woodway is popular for its ample dining options, and you might make a stop by Carleen Bright Arboretum, a top place to visit in the area.

Woodway
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Bellmead

Shopping and restaurants are notable features of Bellmead. You might consider a stop by Marlin Branch while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Bellmead

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Waco

Frequently asked questions

Is Waco worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Waco is visit Hawaiian Falls. Tick this major attraction off your agenda, then discover more of the area's dining and fishing.
How do I spend a day in Waco?
Hawaiian Falls and Lake Waco are two great places to begin your vacation adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Waco while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Waco?
Don't leave without exploring Hawaiian Falls, ranked the top tourist attraction in Waco.
Is three days enough to stay in Waco?
You can easily enjoy popular attractions like Hawaiian Falls, Lake Waco and Extraco Events Center with a three-day getaway in Waco. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Woodway.
Is Waco a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Waco, including Extraco Events Center and McLane Stadium, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from central Waco is Brazos and East Riverside is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Waco with kids?
Planning what to do in Waco with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Waco for adults?
Dr. Pepper Museum and Texas Ranger Hall of Fame are just a couple of the things to do in Waco. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Waco?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Waco is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Lake Waco is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.