Things to Do in Waco TX
Key Takeaways
- Waco blends history and modern living with attractions ranging from Civil War–era homes to cutting-edge experiences like inland surfing.
- Outdoor and cultural experiences abound, from scenic riverwalks and parks to museums and fossil sites.
- Its central location and strong community vibe make Waco a unique alternative to larger Texas cities like Dallas and Austin.
The mid-sized city of Waco in McLennan County, central Texas, is one of those places in the USA where the old ways seem to be perfectly married to the new. Established in 1849 by the Huaco tribe, this city offers a perfect blend of traditional Texas charm and modern attractions. Sitting along the banks of the Brazos River with its scenic landscapes, Waco is one of those places that has a bit of everything.
Strategically located on the I-35 corridor between the major metropolitan centers of Dallas and Austin, Waco offers many things the big cities don’t. Visitors and residents can enjoy the best of history, nature, and modern living, with plenty of shopping and educational experiences. All of these are interspersed with culinary adventures featuring food from inside and outside the USA, spanning different eras and cultures.
In this post, Campus Realtors explores ten of the most awesome locations and experiences that anyone visiting Waco (TX) should definitely check out.
Waco Surf
The Waco Surf is the biggest (and best) inland surf resort in the USA. Armed with a massive wave machine that pumps out realistic swells modelled after what actually happens in the ocean, this pool perfectly mimics the authentic experience.
Whether you are an amateur surfer, at the intermediate level, or a pro getting ready for a competition, this place has everything you need. Alongside the wave pool, there are waterslides, the Cable Park with thrilling ramps and jumps, an artificial beach, and a small hotel where you can stay overnight.
Waco Riverwalk and Suspension Bridge
This 7-mile paved path adjacent to the Brazos River, runs under quite a few bridges to connect directly to many of the city’s parks in downtown Waco. Here you will find the historic Waco Suspension Bridge, built in 1870 and now one of Waco’s most iconic landmarks.
Community events and festivals are held here regularly, and this is the location of the famous bronze sculptures from the "Branding the Brazos" project, which commemorate the Chisholm Trail.
Waco Foundation's House Museums
The Waco Foundation’s three historic homes sites take you back in time to the civil war era and let you immerse yourself in Waco’s diverse heritage. The oldest of these homes, Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, one of the earliest brick homes in Waco, was built in 1858.
The other two are the McCulloch House and the grand East Terrace House. These are actual homes that were once occupied by real people. Today, with their detailed architecture, original furnishings, family heirlooms and artifacts they let you experience a genuine throwback to that period.
Cameron Park
The 416-acre Cameron Park has everything you could wish for in a park. There is a 23-hole disc golf course, Miss Nellie's Pretty Place, hikes to Emmons Cliff, Jacob's Ladder and the park’s network of challenging, multiuse trails for hiking, mountain biking, and several major competitive events. All of these exist against the backdrop of stunning views of the Brazos River.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum
This massive complex honors the legacy of America’s oldest and most revered state law enforcement agency. The 30-acre Hall of Fame and Museum complex documents the history of the Texas Rangers since their inception in 1823.
It houses over 20,000 artifacts across several galleries and ages, with rooms full of actual firearms, badges, saddles and uniforms used by the rangers during different eras. There are vivid paintings, sculptures and activities (like hunting for bandits) that truly bring home the reality of early Western life.
Waco Downtown Farmers Market
This charming open-air market which is only active on Saturdays is over 10 years in operation. The location is the parking lot across from the McLennan County Courthouse downtown.
It is rated as Waco’s #1 family-friendly attraction because it lets you see the city’s sense of community from up-close. Produce varies by season and depending on the time of year, you can get artisan cheeses, homemade jerky, pickles, jellies and baked goods. To maximize your experience at the market you should go in hungry.
A day on Lake Waco
Originally built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to stop flooding and conserve water, this artificial reservoir has transformed into a major tourist attraction. The vast expanse of the lake - home to plenty of largemouth bass, catfish and crappies - is great for boating and fishing.
There are numerous scenic parks on the shoreline for sunbathing and picnicking. In the 138-acre wetland on the northwest corner of the lake, 3 miles of hiking trails let you view a plethora of native plants, amphibians, butterflies and over 140 bird species.
Waco Sculpture Zoo
One of the most fascinating sites on the Brazos River corridor is a collection of 28 animal sculptures known as Waco Sculpture Zoo. Carefully-placed along a mile-long stretch between the Cameron Park Zoo and Baylor University's campus, you will find several hyper-realistic sculptures of animals that are native to the area or found in the nearby zoo.
The creators of these outstanding pieces employ a range of materials and methods and the displays are arranged in interesting ways that will make you pause, ponder and wonder.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
5 miles northwest of downtown Waco, is a protected archaeological site comprising 108 acres of serene forested land beside the Bosque River. Established in 2015, this location houses the fossil remains of several prehistoric creatures, the most notable one being a herd of Columbian mammoths discovered in 1978.
Guided walking tours on elevated walkways let you view well-preserved fossils of a camel, giant tortoise, alligator, pygmy antelope and saber-toothed cat. Visitors also get a chance to explore an active excavation site with some of the most recent fossil discoveries.
Homestead Craft Village at Homestead Heritage
This place lets you travel back in time to when life was simpler and family was everything. The Homestead Craft Village is a pioneer-style property that recreates life in this highly-romanticized period of American history.
It features homesteader-type buildings, a centuries-old barn, a woodworking shop, a pottery studio, a lush vegetable garden and a restored gristmill from 1760. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work or participate in craft classes and there are lots of locally-grown food and handcrafted wares to buy.
The Bottom Line
Which one of these places and experiences resonates with you the most? Which one would you like to try? Tell us in the comments below. Or, if you have visited any of these places, we would like to hear about your experience. For any of your
property management related questions, contact
Campus Realtors today!
