Popular Waco Sites
This ain't the Waco you used to know!
Waco has become a tourist hotspot (just check out TripAdvisor). Here's a brief listing of some of the popular attractions of Waco. Come a day early, relax some on Saturday afternoon, or stay an extra day!
Hosting over 30,000 visitors weekly, the Silo District created by Fixer Upper hosts Chip and Joanna Gaines is the newest hot attraction in Waco. They also sport a bakery, coffee shop, and popular breakfast restaurant. (Please note: all Magnolia businesses are closed on Sundays, so be sure to plan your visit appropriately.)
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Declared a national monument in 2015 and incorporated into the National Park System, the paleontological site represents the nation’s only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Columbian mammoths. The park includes a breathtaking dig shelter that creates an atmosphere of an art gallery. Natural light floods into the shelter from all directions and a suspended walkway provides a stunning overhead view of the mammoths. The site also features a scenic trailway complete with benches and rest areas where visitors can reflect on what life was like during the age of the mammoths.
One of the largest municipal parks in Texas, Cameron Park is an oasis with towering trees, two rivers, and breathtaking cliffs. With hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, and playgrounds and splashpads, the park has something for everyone.
Cameron Park Zoo rests on 52 acres adjacent to the Brazos River. With natural habitats and close-up encounters, the animal collection housed at Cameron Park Zoo includes more than 1,731 animals, representing over 300 species. Among its many beautiful habitats is the Asian Forest, featuring critically endangered Orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and Komodo Dragons. A favorite of all ages is the river otter exhibit and the beautiful African Savanna.
Dr Pepper is a “native Texan,” originating at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store in Waco. It is the oldest of the major brand soft drinks in America. The Museum is housed in the 1906 Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company building located in downtown Waco. The 100 year-old building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the "Home of Dr Pepper.”The museum operates an old fashioned soda fountain where Dr Pepper floats are very popular.
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The Mayborn Museum at Baylor University is now a recogized Smithosian Affiliate. Located on the Baylor University campus, the Mayborn Museum Complex features a natural science and cultural history museum focusing on Central Texas, with walk-in dioramas including one on the Waco Mammoth Site, and exploration stations for geology, paleontology, archaeology, and natural history. In addition to the natural history exhibits, there are two floors of themed discovery rooms that encourage hands-on learning for all ages.
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A collection of more than 60 boutique shops that has everything you need to add a little or a lot of zest to your life! Collegiate, kids, baby, home decor, men’s accessories, jewelry, souvenirs, bath & body, candles, clothing and so much more! This 30,000 square feet shopping experience you do not want to pass up.
Yep. Voted the #1 best boat tour by USA Today readers.
Food and Drink
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A small inviting café serving light brunch and lunch items with an intentional selection of literature and gift items. Relax in the communal conversation area with a coffee, beer, or glass of wine. Fabled also offers a children’s area stocked with costumes, learning games, and tiny chairs for reading.
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Balcones Distilling
A world-famous, award-winning distiller right here in Waco! Check out their tasting room or take a tour. The tasting room is a cozy space in the corner of the massive distillery that seats about 50 patrons. In addition to the tasting flights, the bartenders create daily signature cocktails. No reservation is necessary to visit the tasting room Wednesday through Saturday afternoons, but tours of the distillery require a reservation.
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The name means “Made in Waco” because owners Pedro Leon and his sister, Lupita, feel that Waco has given them so much opportunity. The family-owned restaurant offers authentic cuisine from all over Mexico. For example, the carnitas are a recipe from Michoacán, the DF Enchiladas are from Mexico City, and the birria plate is from Leon’s home state of Jalisco. Hecho is also popular for their colorful bar area and margaritas. They juice everything in house, using fresh fruits and serrano peppers.
Pinewood Coffee Bar and Public House
Pinewood offers coffee, craft beer, and live music with a goal to create a space that cultivates community and hospitality. The coffee is roasted on-site, with pastries and healthy lunch options from Harvest on 25th. Craft beers are almost exclusively from other Texas breweries, including all Waco breweries.
One of Waco’s hidden gems. Perched in an unassuming red brick building along the Brazos, it serves up urban Thai-style cuisine in an intimate, serene environment. Vegan and vegetarian options available.
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Specialty coffee and craft cocktails made by experts. Located in a 100-year-old renovated storefront in downtown Waco, the interior features wood tables and artwork from local artists and artisans, while outside, tabletops are made of pink marble that once belonged to the central library downtown. Waco's first public rooftop deck also looks out at the historic McLennan County Courthouse and the Alico building.
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One of Waco’s trendiest restaurants, Milo started as a farmer’s market vendor serving gourmet biscuits. Milo is now a collaboration of chic southern comfort food and local farmers. As the name suggests, Milo is open from breakfast through dinner.
A food hall dining experience with a focus on community. The eatery has a variety of different restaurants selling everything from waffles to tacos to custom milkshakes.
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Owner Kim Bui and her chef, Kevin Dixon of Waco’s famous Krispy Chicken, joined forces to create an expansive menu of authentic Louisiana cuisine and made-to-order fried chicken.
Alpha Omega Mediterranean Grill & Bakery
A variety of classic and updated Mediterranean dishes in a European bistro-style setting. Bread, pastries, and gelato are made fresh daily. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
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The perfect photo opportunity awaits at the colorfully decorated candy haven. It is a mix of gourmet, retro, and artisan candy and treats. Pick up a sweet treat for the kids or an ice cream sundae for yourself.