What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a weekend in Waco, Texas?
I’d guess it’s either Magnolia Market or the Waco Siege. I’m here to show you- there is SO much more to Waco than silos and street art.
Sure, she doesn’t have the cowboy culture of Fort Worth, nor does she have the big city vibes of Dallas, nor is she Austin, the craft beer capital of the state… but what Waco offers is totally unique.
Remnants of a cult, Dr. Pepper history, and ancient mammoth bones, to name a few. Convinced yet?
Here is the only guide you need to plan your weekend in Waco, Texas:
When to Visit Waco, Texas
Spring
Spring in Texas means a ton of wildflowers. But did you know there’s also a Giant Sunflower Farm between Ennis and Waco between May and June? To get to them, just drive along Highway 55, and you should come across it after passing Avalon and before arriving in Blooming Grove.
Texas is underrated for Wildflowers!
Summer
If you love the heat (or have indoor activities planned), summer is one of the cheapest times to visit Texas. Remember to pack a water bottle and stay hydrated!
Fall
This is a great time to hike or explore the Brazos. Pack a lightweight rain jacket to prepare for some drizzle.
Winter
For the last 25 years, Waco has hosted its Homestead Fair every November. Homestead Heritage welcomes visitors to its 510 acres to see how their self-sufficient community lives, with farming and ranching demonstrations.
Where to Stay in Waco, Texas
Waco has a few well-known hotel chains where you can book a predictable room for your stay. If you want to walk to the Silos and Magnolia Market, aim to stay near downtown.
Popular Stays in Waco
- Pivovar offers a fantastic brewery setting after a day of exploring Waco. Enjoy traditionally brewed and delicious Czech beer, along with some delicious appetizers.
- If you are looking for an affordable hotel within walking distance of the best attractions Waco offers, Hilton Waco is a great choice.
- Sitting in the heart of Waco, Hotel Indigo is convenient for walking around Waco while also providing a unique indoor/outdoor pool and patio to relax at after your adventure around the city.
- The Ethel Rose Cottage is perfect for any Chip and Joanna fans! This beautifully re-done cottage gives off all the Fixer Upper vibes, offering your own sanctuary after you’ve visited the silos.
Budget Choice: The Oyo in Waco is newly renovated, or try an Airbnb near the edge of downtown.
How to Get Around Waco, Texas
Consider the weather if you plan to walk downtown Waco all weekend. The downtown area is easy to explore on foot, but nature-oriented attractions require a car. Bring along a roadside safety kit if you plan to drive.
I always recommend a car for any Texas trip since the state is so huge.
The Trolley
Waco also offers free trolley service to get you around Downtown. The trolley or your own 2 feet (weather permitting!) are the best ways to get around downtown.
What To Do in Waco
The Dr. Pepper Museum
Ok, so here’s the most Texas thing ever: I rarely drank water growing up, just Dr.Pepper.
So you can imagine my adult delight and… self-reflection upon learning that there exists an entire 3-story museum dedicated to the ‘Pepper.
Dr. Pepper is a Texas staple and a Waco original. For more than 100 years, the Dr. Pepper Museum has existed within a historic 1906 bottling building in downtown Waco.
Tip: For maximum nostalgia, end your tour with a Dr. Pepper at the Soda Shop in front of the building.
Magnolia Market at the Silos
No weekend in Waco is complete without a visit to Silos District.
At the base of two historic silos, you’ll find the home décor wonderland known as Magnolia Market. Check out all the Magnolia-branded apparel, house and garden supplies, and jewelry with that Texas farmhouse aesthetic you see on Fixer-Upper.
Parking at the Silos
There is parking all around the Silos and along the street; most of the parking lots downtown are free. The Silos and surrounding businesses are packed on the weekends; get there early for prime spots.
Waco Mammoth Site
Thousands of years ago, Waco was a floodplain.
Multiple mammoths, Saber-toothed tigers, and camels were trapped and fossilized throughout 3 separate floods in what is now Waco. Although these animals went extinct long ago, their bones can still be seen at the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
Parks and Trails Near Waco
Cameron Park
Cameron Park has been a Waco staple for over 100 years.
Expect acres of scenic land with lots of hiking and trails, plus Lovers Leap, a 90-foot plunge into the Bosque River.
Jacobs Ladder is a quirky staircase built in the early 1900s by a family living at the top of the bluff.
These steps are very deep and also narrow at spots, be prepared! Also, remember this is a popular weekend recreation spot for many Waco locals, and it gets busy.
Find it on Google.
Brazos Park East
Walk along the river and enjoy picturesque views of the limestone cliffs along the other side of the river. This is also one of my favorite places to go in the city for sunsets!
Find it on Google.
Where To Get the Best Photos in Waco, Texas
Waco Suspension Bridge
This is the same bridge you’ve seen in Fixer-Upper.
Murals at Magnolia Market Place & the Silos
You don’t need a DSLR to take good photos.
Your smartphone is more than capable of taking incredible travel photos. Pair it with a handy tripod to take amazing selfies or group photos on your trip.
Read How to take Beautiful Travel Photos on your Phone
Unique Stuff To Do in Waco
Branch Davidian Complex
The Waco Siege of 1993 was the well-publicized trapping, surrounding, and mass murder of the compound that belonged to the religious sect the Branch Davidians.
The original swimming pool and parts of the school bus remain.
Finding the Complex
- Immediately upon entering the gates to what is today the Mount Carmel Center, you’ll see a monument to the siege casualties.
- Drive further past some administrative buildings on your right, and you’ll come up to the current church built after the siege.
- Go to the right side of the church to find the remains of the original Branch Davidian Compound. The church is open during regular business hours and contains some Waco Siege memorabilia.
*Beware of the church member’s strong opinions.
Find it on Google.
Budget Tips for a Weekend in Waco
- Don’t pay for parking-there is free parking off 8th, 6th, and Webster.
- Park and ride the free trolley to most major attractions when exploring downtown Waco.
- If you plan to visit several Texas State Parks and/or have a larger group, buy a Texas State Parks pass.
For Fixer Upper fans
If you’ve heard of Waco in pop culture lately, it probably relates to famed home remodelers Chip and Joanna Gaines.
If you’re a fan of the show, a stop by Magnolia Market should be an essential part of your trip to Waco- below are a few spots to catch.
Magnolia House or Hillcrest Estate
Both properties are officially run by Joanna and Chip Gaines. These are in high demand- book ahead if you plan to stay.
Magnolia Table
This restaurant is owned by the Gaines’ team and offers all-day American brunch.
Home Tours
If you want to see all of the homes that were transformed in Fixer Upper without paying to stay in them, check out the Waco Fixer Upper Tour.
This is by no means an all-comprehensive list. If I’m missing something from the Gaines’ empire, please comment below!
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I hope you found my Waco Texas Guide of use! As always, feel free to ask for or add anything I might’ve missed in the comments below!
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