If you’re planning a trip to Waco, Texas in 2024, you’re in for a treat. This charming city has a lot to offer travelers, from its rich history to its delicious food and drink scene. Whether solo, with loved ones, or among friends, discover myriad engaging activities to keep you entertained.
One of the top things to do in Waco is to visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos. Explore the iconic attraction owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of “Fixer Upper.” Discover home decor, delicious food, and charming vibes.
Another great activity for travelers visiting Waco is to explore the city’s many parks and green spaces. Cameron Park is a particularly lovely spot, with its winding trails, scenic overlooks, and beautiful riverfront views. Cameron Park provides tranquil relaxation and picturesque trails for hiking and biking, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. With so many things to do in Waco, you’ll never be bored during your stay.
Mayborn Museum Complex: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in Waco, the Mayborn Museum Complex is a great option. Located on the Baylor University campus, this 143,000-square-foot museum celebrates the natural science and cultural history of Central Texas.
The Mayborn Museum Complex is home to numerous vibrant exhibits and compelling hands-on activities for the whole family to enjoy. With interactive natural science and cultural history galleries, including outdoor exhibits, there’s something for everyone.
The museum’s current exhibit, “A New Moon Rises,” is on display from December 3, 2023, to April 14, 2024. This exhibit features large-scale, highly detailed photographs of the moon captured by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera. Visitors can explore the dramatic landscapes captured by the camera, including Apollo landing sites.
The museum features a historic village showcasing Central Texas life from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. The village includes a blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and a general store
If you’re planning a visit to the Mayborn Museum Complex, be sure to check the museum’s operating hours. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 1 pm to 5 pm on Sunday. The historic village closes at 5 pm daily.
Baylor University Sports Hall of Fame: Things to Do in Waco 2024
Exploring the Baylor University Sports Hall of Fame in Waco is a fantastic activity for sports enthusiasts. Located on campus, it celebrates the achievements of Baylor’s top athletes through interactive exhibits featuring memorabilia like trophies and jerseys.
The Wall of Honor in the Baylor University Sports Hall of Fame showcases outstanding athletes and coaches, offering insight into Baylor’s rich athletic history. A must-visit for college sports fans in Waco, featuring interactive exhibits and a vast collection of memorabilia highlighting the school’s sporting legacy.
Dr Pepper Museum: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re a fan of Dr Pepper, then the Dr Pepper Museum is a must-visit attraction in Waco. As the nation’s oldest major soft drink, Dr Pepper has a rich history that is celebrated in this museum. The museum, situated at 300 South 5th Street in Waco, is open year-round, excluding Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Explore three floors of exhibits showcasing a variety of soft drinks and a curated selection of our extensive memorabilia collection. Exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.
Feel free to explore the soda fountain and gift shop without having to pay admission at any time.
General admission to the museum is $10, and children under 4 years old get in for free. Visiting the Dr Pepper Museum includes a complimentary Dr Pepper with admission.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out the Dr Pepper Paranormal Experience tour. Join our exclusive after-hours museum tour to delve into reported paranormal activity. Tickets are $35, available on select dates. Check the museum’s website for details.
The Dr Pepper Museum is a great place for families, couples, and Dr Pepper enthusiasts, offering both fun and educational experiences. With its fascinating exhibits and free drink, it’s definitely worth a visit while you’re in Waco.
Waco Downtown Farmers Market: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for fresh produce, meats, and meals, look no further than the Waco Downtown Farmers Market. This market has been providing Waco with the best local agricultural producers and artisan vendors within 150 miles since 2011.
The market, nestled downtown by the Brazos River, offers a charming ambiance under sprawling oak trees every Saturday, from 9 am to 1 pm. You’ll find plenty of fresh vegetables, meats, eggs, artisan foods, coffees, honey, pecans, oils, and handmade goods. A musician or band always performs, enhancing the atmosphere.
The Waco Downtown Farmers Market hosts the Bridge Street Farmers Market on Wednesday evenings from 5-8pm in spring and fall, alongside their Saturday market. This market is located across the river and is a great way to enjoy a mid-week shopping experience.
Overall, the Waco Downtown Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for fresh, local produce and artisan goods. It’s a great way to support local businesses and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Waco.
Waco Mammoth National Monument: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Waco, you must visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This monument is a paleontological dig site that features several fossilized mammoths. Some of these fossils are still in situ, which is really neat to see.
The website is jointly managed by the National Park Service, the City of Waco, and Baylor University. You can visit the monument anytime during regular operating hours. There are rangers available for questions, and there’s a walkway above the dig site where you can read information on which bones you’re seeing beneath you.
The Waco Mammoth National Monument is located in Central Texas, about 15 miles away from downtown Waco. The park is 5 acres large and located along the banks of the Bosque River. The location can be found at 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive, Waxco, TX 76708.
You can also book tours, tickets, and trips online on Tripadvisor. Purchase quickly, refundable up to 24 hours before tour.
Overall, the Waco Mammoth National Monument is a must-visit destination if you’re in Waco. It’s a unique and educational experience that’s perfect for families and anyone interested in paleontology.
Cameron Park Zoo: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a fun family activity in Waco, look no further than Cameron Park Zoo! The zoo is home to over 1,700 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!).
One of my favorite things about Cameron Park Zoo is the variety of exhibits. From the plains of Africa to the jungles of South America, there’s an adventure for everyone. And the zoo is constantly updating and improving its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.
In addition to the animal exhibits, Cameron Park Zoo offers a variety of educational programs and events. From zoo camps for kids to behind-the-scenes tours, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
If you’re planning a visit to Cameron Park Zoo, be sure to check out their website for information on hours, admission prices, and special events. And don’t forget to bring your camera – there are plenty of photo opportunities with the animals!
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707 |
| Hours | Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm |
| Admission | Adults: $12.95, Children (3-12): $9.95 |
| Website | https://www.cameronparkzoo.com/ |
Overall, Cameron Park Zoo is a must-visit attraction for anyone in the Waco area. With its wide variety of animals and exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re a fan of Texas history, then the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit attraction in Waco. This museum is dedicated to the history of the Texas Rangers, a legendary law enforcement agency that has been a symbol of Texas and America for almost 200 years.
Inside the museum, you can explore exhibits that showcase the history, public service, and ideals of the Texas Rangers. You’ll see artifacts that illustrate the early years of the Rangers, including firearms, tack, and personal gear. You’ll also learn about the role the Rangers played in shaping Texas history, from their early days as Indian fighters to their modern-day work as part of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
One of the most interesting exhibits at the museum is the Hall of Fame, which honors over 30 Texas Rangers who have made significant contributions to the state. Each Ranger is recognized with a plaque that includes a brief biography and a photo.
If you’re a fan of the Wild West, then you’ll also enjoy the museum’s collection of Western art and artifacts. You can see everything from cowboy hats and spurs to paintings and sculptures that depict life in the Old West.
Overall, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is a great way to learn about the history of Texas and the legendary law enforcement agency that has helped shape it. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something fun to do in Waco, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
Waco Suspension Bridge: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a scenic stroll or a romantic spot for a date, the Waco Suspension Bridge is a must-visit attraction. As the oldest suspension bridge still standing in Texas, it has a rich history and unique architecture that is sure to impress.
Built in 1870, this stunning bridge was the first to cross the Brazos River and was constructed with cables supplied from John Roebling’s firm, which built the Brooklyn Bridge. Today, it is a pedestrian-only bridge and offers a great view of the river and the city.
One of the best times to visit the bridge is during sunset when the sky turns into a beautiful orange hue, and the city lights up. It’s also a great spot for taking photos, and you can capture the perfect shot of the bridge with the city skyline in the background.
Aside from its picturesque view, the Waco Suspension Bridge also hosts several events throughout the year, including the famous Fourth on the Brazos celebration. During this event, the bridge is illuminated with red, white, and blue lights, and a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky.
Overall, the Waco Suspension Bridge is an excellent place to visit for a peaceful walk, a romantic date, or to attend one of the many events held throughout the year.
Magnolia Silos: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you are visiting Waco, Texas, then you must visit Magnolia Silos. It’s an ideal spot for a day out with loved ones. Magnolia Silos is a shopping complex that includes a market, a bakery, a garden, a lawn, and a warehouse.
The market is the highlight of Magnolia Silos. It is a home decor store that sells unique and stylish items for your home. You can find everything from candles to furniture to kitchenware. The store is beautifully decorated, and it is a great place to take photos. The prices are reasonable, and you can find something for every budget.
The bakery is another must-visit place at Magnolia Silos. It is famous for its cupcakes, cookies, and other baked goods. The bakery exudes a warm ambiance, and the employees are welcoming. You can also find coffee and other drinks at the bakery.
The garden and the lawn are great places to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The lawn has games like cornhole and giant Jenga. You can also find food trucks at the lawn, which serve delicious food. The garden is a beautiful place to take a stroll and enjoy the flowers.
Overall, Magnolia Silos is a great place to visit in Waco. It has something for everyone, and it is a great place to spend a day.
Cameron Park: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature in Waco, Cameron Park is a must-visit destination. This 416-acre park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the park’s main attractions is its extensive trail system, which spans over 20 miles. Whether you prefer a relaxed walk or a more demanding trek, there’s a trail suited to your needs. Some of the most popular trails include the River Trail, which follows the Brazos River, and the Cameron Park Loop, which offers panoramic views of the park.
In addition to hiking, Cameron Park is also a great place for picnicking, fishing, and camping. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as a fishing lake stocked with catfish, bass, and perch. If you’re interested in camping, the park has both tent and RV sites available for reservation.
For those seeking more adventure, Cameron Park also has a disc golf course and a mountain bike trail. The disc golf course features 18 holes and is suitable for players of all skill levels. The mountain bike trail, on the other hand, offers a challenging terrain with steep climbs and technical descents.
Overall, Cameron Park is a great place to spend a day or even a weekend. With its beautiful scenery and variety of activities, it’s no wonder why it’s one of Waco’s top attractions.
Armstrong Browning Library and Museum: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re a fan of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, then the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum is a must-visit attraction in Waco. Located on the campus of Baylor University, this 19th-century research center is dedicated to the study of the lives and works of the famous poets.
As the world’s largest collection of Browning material, the museum houses rare 19th-century books, manuscripts, and works of art. You can explore the library’s impressive collection of over 500,000 items, including letters, manuscripts, and first editions of the Brownings’ works.
One of the museum’s highlights is the beautiful collection of stained glass windows, including the “sunrise/sunset” windows in the Foyer of Meditation. The museum also features a rotating selection of exhibits and events throughout the year.
Admission to the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum is free and open to the public. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you’re a fan of Victorian literature or just looking for a unique cultural experience in Waco, be sure to add the Armstrong Browning Library and Museum to your itinerary.
McLane Stadium: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re a sports fan, then visiting McLane Stadium is a must-do activity in Waco. Home to the Baylor Bears, McLane Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue that offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the best ways to experience McLane Stadium is by taking a guided tour. These tours last about 90 minutes and offer an in-depth look at the stadium’s facilities, history, and architecture. You’ll also get to see the locker rooms, press box, and other areas that are usually off-limits to the public.
In addition to football games, McLane Stadium hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and other sporting events. So, be sure to check the event schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
If you’re looking for something more interactive, then you might want to try the Topgolf Swing Suite located inside the stadium. This indoor golf experience features state-of-the-art simulators that allow you to play a variety of games while enjoying food and drinks with friends and family.
Overall, McLane Stadium is a must-visit destination for sports fans and entertainment enthusiasts alike. With its modern facilities, guided tours, and wide range of events, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the top attractions in Waco.
Branding the Brazos Sculpture: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re looking for a unique and free activity to do in Waco, then the Branding the Brazos Sculpture is a must-visit attraction. Located on the south side of the Brazos River, next to the Waco Suspension Bridge and very near downtown, this sculpture is hard to miss.
The sculpture features 25 large bronze longhorn cattle and three cowboys (one white, one Hispanic and one black) and is at least twice life-size. The level of detail in the sculpture is impressive and it’s a great way to learn about the history of cattle drives in Texas.
While visiting the sculpture, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Brazos River and enjoy the scenic views. The location of the sculpture is perfect for taking photos and it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
It’s worth noting that the bronze cattle have been temporarily removed while renovations on the suspension bridge are ongoing, so be sure to check the status before planning your visit. Overall, the Branding the Brazos Sculpture is a unique and interesting attraction that’s definitely worth checking out while in Waco.
Branch Davidian Memorial Park: Things to Do in Waco 2024
If you’re interested in history, then the Branch Davidian Memorial Park is a must-visit attraction in Waco. The park is dedicated to the 76 people who lost their lives in the 1993 siege on the Branch Davidian compound.
The park is located about 10 miles east of downtown Waco and is open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk. Entry is complimentary, with ample parking provided.
At the park, you can take a self-guided tour of the site, which includes a chapel, a memorial, and a museum. The museum features exhibits that tell the story of the Branch Davidians and the events that led up to the siege.
One of the most interesting things about the park is that it’s run by the survivors of the siege and their families. They’re happy to answer any questions you might have and share their personal experiences with you.
Overall, the Branch Davidian Memorial Park is a somber but important reminder of a tragic event in American history. It’s a great place to learn about the past and pay your respects to those who lost their lives.
Personal Recommendation
As a resident of Waco, I have had the opportunity to explore this beautiful city and its many attractions. Here are a few things to do in Waco 2024 that stood out to me:
1. Magnolia Market at the Silos
No visit to Waco is complete without a trip to Magnolia Market at the Silos. This iconic shopping destination is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the hit HGTV show “Fixer Upper.” The market features a variety of vendors selling everything from home decor to clothing to food. There are also plenty of photo opportunities, including a giant “Magnolia” sign and a picturesque garden.
2. Waco Mammoth National Monument
The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a must-see for anyone interested in history or paleontology. This site is home to the largest known concentration of Columbian mammoths that died from a natural disaster. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dig site and see the fossils up close.
3. Cameron Park Zoo
If you’re traveling with kids, the Cameron Park Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon. This 52-acre zoo is home to over 1,700 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
4. Mayborn Museum Complex
The Mayborn Museum Complex is another great attraction for families. This museum has a variety of exhibits that cater to all ages and interests, including a natural history exhibit, a children’s discovery center, and a historic village. There are also plenty of hands-on activities and interactive exhibits.
Overall, Waco has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or just spending time outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Waco 2024.