The Ultimate Waco, Texas Travel Guide | Where to Stay, Eat & Play

If you’re looking for a charming, easygoing getaway that mixes Southern hospitality and fun adventures with a touch of Magnolia magic, then Waco, Texas, is the perfect destination for you! With the success of the Magnolia network and Chip and Joanna Gaines, the (formerly) little college town of Waco, Texas, hit the national stage. Whether you’re a fan of Chip & Jo, love discovering local treasures, or just want to relax and reconnect, this delightful city makes a great weekend getaway destination for empty nesters, parents on a no-kids weekend, and families.

The village of Waco, named after the Waco Indian tribe, was founded in 1849 and incorporated in 1856. Notably, the historic Suspension Bridge in Waco served as a crossing point for the famed Chisholm and Shawnee cattle trails, which led to northern cattle markets. Today, Waco is a vibrant and diverse city with a population of around 145,000. It is home to a university, two colleges, more than 40 hotels, and over 300 restaurants.

Waco boasts adorable shops, charming eateries, historic sites, and even a zoo! I went to college in Waco, as did my husband, two kids, and my daughter-in-law, so I know it well. In fact, we love Waco so much that last year, we bought, gutted, and remodeled a downtown loft where we stay when we go to Baylor football and basketball games! (Sorry, it’s not available for rent!)

Today, I’m giving you the lowdown on Waco, my second hometown! Here’s where to stay, eat, and play in Waco.

How to Get There

Waco is located in the heart of Texas! If you made a big triangle of Dallas, Austin, and Houston as each of the points, Waco would be smack in the middle of it.

To get to Waco, I recommend one of these two options:

1. Fly to Dallas’ Love Field Airport or D/FW International Airport, rent a car, and head south on I35 for about 95 miles. If you choose this route, be sure to stop at Buc-ee’s in Hillsboro! This country store is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, and it’s a must-stop for road trippers! It’s a great (inexpensive) place to get gas, charge your electric vehicle, grab some lunch or a snack, and it has the cleanest restrooms you’ve ever seen!
2. Fly directly into the Waco Regional Airport and rent a car.

Where to Stay

From charming Airbnbs to historic and upscale hotels, you can find it all in Waco! Downtown is walkable and there isn’t much traffic, so if you’re there as a tourist to see the sights, that’s definitely where I recommend staying. If you’re there for more of a relaxing vacation, you might consider one of the Airbnbs in adjacent McGregor or a quaint cabin nearby.

Airbnbs

• McGregor House: This gorgeous home (pictured above) is in McGregor, Texas, a scenic 20-minute drive from Waco. Spotlighted in Season 3 of Fixer Upper, it was originally built in 1880 and remodeled in Joanna Gaines’ signature style. It’s perfect for up to 8 guests.
• Carriage House: Also featured on Fixer Upper Season 3, this 3 bedroom, 3 bath McGregor home can accommodate up to 6 people. It’s also a 20-minute drive from Waco.
• Bear Bungalow: This luxury downtown Waco loft sleeps up to 6 people, and it’s minutes from the Baylor Campus, Cameron Park, Cameron Park Zoo & the historic Suspension Bridge. It’s on the first floor of the historic 100-year-old Behrens Building.
• Sailor Bear Hideaway: This downtown luxury two-bedroom condo pays homage to Baylor University’s iconic 1950s retro bear mascot, Sailor Bear. It sleeps 6, and it’s also located in the historic 100-year-old Behrens Building. My daughter-in-law stayed here on a girls’ trip and loved it!
• Live Oak Lake: Located just 10 minutes from Downtown Waco, these 7 modern, Scandinavian-style cabins are nestled around a beautiful lake. Each cabin features a cozy interior, luxurious amenities, and an outdoor space. Guests can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing beside the lake.

Unique Hotels

• Hotel 1928: This charming hotel, situated right in the heart of downtown, was completely gutted and remodeled by Chip & Joanna. The hotel is located in the original 1928 structure of the historic Grand Karem Shrine Building and opened in December 2023. It combines vintage charm with modern comforts. (Watch the Fixer Upper: The Hotel HERE.) For reservations, click HERE.
• Hotel Indigo: If you love a boutique hotel experience that’s a mix of modern style and local flavor, Hotel Indigo is a fantastic choice. Located downtown and within walking distance of Magnolia Market at the Silos, and the Brazos Riverwalk, it has its own bar and bistro, and it’s pet-friendly. When Baylor University brings VIPs to town, this is where they put them!
• Pivovar Hotel: For something truly unique, try the Pivovar Hotel, a Czech-inspired boutique hotel in downtown Waco. With its European-style rooms, cozy brewery and beer garden, and a restaurant featuring classic Czech dishes, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled across the globe!
• Hotel Herringbone: This art-deco-inspired property was converted from a former shipping container development by a team of award-winning designers! With 21 bedrooms and four restaurants, including Lucky Buck’s Rooftop Bar, you’ll love the amenities like nightly turn-down service, in-room wine and champagne, premium Frette linens, and more.

“Normal” Hotels

• Element Waco: If you’re looking for an extended-stay hotel in Waco, this is the one I recommend. It’s pet-friendly and features well-appointed guest rooms and suites with full kitchens. Although not in the heart of downtown, it’s walkable to Baylor University, McLane Stadium, Foster Pavilion, and the Waco Riverwalk.
• AC Hotel: Upscale and convenient, this downtown hotel is just steps from the Magnolia Silos and the Dr. Pepper Museum.
• Cambria Hotel: Located on the Brazos River, near the historic Waco Suspension Bridge, it’s home to the BLVD steakhouse, which is open daily for breakfast and dinner. This hotel is a short stroll across away from the Waco Convention Center and local restaurants. Baylor University’s McLane Stadium is just five blocks away. 
• Aloft Hotel: Not totally walkable to downtown, but this boutique hotel is pet-friendly, with no extra fee for pets. They offer a free shuttle to Baylor University, Magnolia Market, Magnolia Bakery, and the Waco Regional Airport. 
• Marriott Residence Inn: This extended-stay hotel is walkable to Baylor University, McLane Stadium, Foster Pavilion, and Magnolia Market. With apartment-style rooms, this pet-friendly hotel is great for families or those who want a kitchen.
• Marriott Courtyard: While not in the heart of downtown, it’s near the  Waco Convention Center and the Riverfront area. There’s an onsite Bistro restaurant, and every room has a microwave and a mini-fridge.

Where to Eat

There are so many great restaurants in Waco!

Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch

• Magnolia Table: Chip and Joanna Gaines’ popular restaurant blends Southern comfort food and modern flavors. Don’t miss Jo’s famous biscuits or the delicious French toast! Open for breakfast and lunch 7 am-3 pm, and then for dinner 4 pm-9 pm. Plan ahead and arrive early to avoid a wait.
• Our Breakfast Place: Known for large portions and seasonal specials, this casual breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot is family-owned and homey. Be sure to try their homemade red salsa!
• Milo All Day: This relaxed and cozy farm-to-table restaurant offers fresh, locally sourced dishes with a Southern flair. The Chicken & Biscuits and Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf are super popular! And if you’re there for brunch, don’t miss the coffee.
• The Brasserie at Hotel 1928: (Downtown) This bistro was lovingly restored by Chip & Jo as a part of the Hotel 1928 restoration project on Fixer Upper: The Hotel. It’s a charming place to eat breakfast, brunch, or lunch, and it’s also open for dinner. It features “Southern classics prepared with a Texas twist.” Be sure to arrive a few minutes before your reservation time to browse the lobby, library, and gift shop at the hotel.
• Waco Waffle Co.:  This fun place redefines breakfast by celebrating the versatility of waffles! The menu offers a wide array of sweet and savory creations to satisfy diverse palates. Yummy!

Lunch & Dinner

• Whizzbang’s Burgers: Voted the best burgers in Waco year after year, this family-owned and operated joint is definitely our favorite spot for a burger and fries! The meat is delivered fresh each morning from a local meat market, and each patty is hand-pressed and never frozen. If you’re really hungry, try the Whizz-Pigg burger (half ground bacon and half ground beef)! Gluten-free buns are available.
• Health Camp: A nostalgic burger joint serving burgers, fries, shakes, and malts, this Waco establishment has been around since 1948 and is a favorite of Wacoans, Baylor students, and visitors alike.
• Jake’s Texas Tea House: (Downtown) A 1940s gas station turned into a charming and friendly restaurant with a big menu and fresh, homemade food; it’s family-owned and operated with indoor and outdoor seating. Don’t miss the sweet potato fries and their famous banana pudding! Gluten-free friendly.
• Bertie’s on the Rooftop: (Downtown) This rooftop restaurant was the brainchild of Chip and brought to life by Chip & Jo as a part of the Hotel 1928 restoration project on Fixer Upper: The Hotel. You’ll love the gorgeous views and the stunning decor! Enjoy seasonal dishes in a gorgeous setting. Open for dinner only. Gluten-free friendly.
• Brazos Landing: Located on the banks of the Brazos River, this American/Cajun restaurant is known for its seafood. Go at sunset and enjoy picturesque views of the river and Waco’s iconic bridges.
• Pignetti’s: (Near Downtown)  An upscale, casual Italian eatery featuring a fresh and innovative menu. It’s a favorite of locals, including Baylor University faculty and staff.
• Vitek’s Market: A longtime favorite of Baylor students and Wacoans alike, this barbeque joint is the home of the famous Gut Pack (a decadent combo of Frito’s corn chips, hand-chopped brisket, sausage, beans, pickles, onions, and jalapenos piled high). It’s been named to the  “Best College Eats” list and gained notoriety with national media like ESPN.
•  Shorty’s Pizza Shack: The best New York-style pizza in Waco, this family-owned and operated spot is a local favorite, thanks to one of the biggest covered patios in town, a high-quality, straightforward menu, and super-friendly servers. 
• Ninfa’s: (Downtown) This is our favorite Mexican restaurant in Waco, and we can’t get enough of their green salsa! This place fills up, so go early (or late). Gluten-free friendly.
• DiamondBack’s: (Downtown) When only a steak will do, this award-winning Texas steakhouse is the fine-dining experience you need. With high-quality steaks and seafood expertly prepared and served by a professional staff, you won’t be disappointed.
• Red Herring: This Mediterranean restaurant serving shared plates was Waco’s first seafood bar, serving oysters and crudo, as well as its first chef’s table. It has live piano music most nights.
• Brazos Landing – Featuring upscale seafood dining with scenic views of the Brazos River. Known for its chef-inspired dishes, extensive wine selection, and stunning sunsets, it’s a great spot for a special meal. It also features Buzzard Billy’s Swamp Shack for casual outdoor dining. It’s also conveniently connected to the riverwalk, Baylor’s McLane Stadium, and Baylor Campus, and is just over a mile from both Downtown Waco and the Silos.

Coffee Shops

• Fabled Bookshop & Cafe: (Downtown) This independent bookshop and cafe is a cozy place to pick up a thoughtful gift or hang out and discover your next favorite read. The children’s section, with a secret wardrobe entrance, is a Waco community favorite.
• Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits: (Downtown) Part coffee shop, part cocktail bar, this is an ideal spot to unwind! This place has you covered for a specialty coffee in the morning or a craft cocktail in the evening! We love the cozy rooftop patio at sunset for a beautiful view of downtown Waco.
• Magnolia Press Coffee:  (Downtown) Located at the Magnolia Silos, this is one of the most visited Waco coffee shops in town. Don’t let its touristy essence fool you, though—the coffee here is amazing. (Closed on Sundays.)
• Lighthouse Coffee & Wine: (Downtown) Family-owned and veteran-owned spot known for being one of the kindest and friendliest coffee shops in Waco.
• BRÛ Artisan Coffee Works:  (Downtown) Unique espresso bar, café, and roastery located in an antique elevator in the historic Praetorian building. They serve fair-trade and organic coffee roasted in-house in an antique machine that dates to 1898.
• Common Grounds: There are several Waco locations, but the most iconic is the one right next to Baylor’s campus. The coffee is fantastic and known for having a mysterious “secret sauce” added to it! It’s got tons of atmosphere and live music most nights, and it’s a great place to hang out. If you’re in Waco to check out Baylor University, don’t miss Common Grounds!

Sweet Treats

• Baked Bliss Baking Company: This off-the-beaten-path bakery is a local favorite and mine, too! Go early because they sell out of things, especially their famous “cinnies” (cinnamon rolls that will melt in your mouth)! Lots of gluten-free options, including cinnies, cupcakes, and scones. My son adores their kolaches and my husband can’t get enough of their cupcakes! 😋
• Silos Baking Co: (Downtown) Featuring cupcakes, cookies, and pastries crafted from Jo’s recipes, it’s located in a cute, unoccupied floral shop brought back to life by Chip & Jo in Season 4 of Fixer Upper.
• Milk Bottle Cookies: (Downtown) This darling family-owned bakery is known for its delicious classic and specialty cookies. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up!

Where to Play

There’s so much to do in Waco!

Tours

• Waco Tours Fixer Upper + City Tour: (Downtown) This 2½ hour tour offers fans of Fixer Upper a chance to explore the iconic sites featured in the show, including The Castle and Hotel 1928. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour includes visits to various homes, shops, and attractions in Waco, providing insights into the city’s rich history and recent transformation.
• Waco Tours River Cruise Tour: Ranked the #1 Best Boat Tour in North America by USA TODAY, this 2¼ hour tour is a unique, relaxing sightseeing experience along the Brazos River. Expect picturesque views of the city’s landmarks, including the iconic Waco Suspension Bridge and McLane Stadium, with informative narration from knowledgeable guides highlighting the area’s history and culture.
• Waco Pedal Tours: Hop on a 16-person pedal-powered bike for a fun and unique way to explore Waco at a leisurely pace. Perfect for party-minded groups, the 2-hour tours combine cycling with socializing as participants pedal together through scenic routes, visiting local attractions, bars, and restaurants.

Museums

• Dr Pepper Museum: Did you know Dr Pepper was invented in Waco in 1885? Located in a historic bottling plant, this interactive museum features exhibits on the brand’s origins, vintage advertising, and the evolution of soda production. Enjoy a classic Dr Pepper float at their vintage soda fountain, free with entry!
• Waco Mammoth National Monument: For a bit of (ancient) history, make your way to the paleontological dig site and museum, where fossils of twenty-four Columbian mammoths from the Pleistocene Epoch were uncovered in 1978. View the remains in their original excavation setting through a climate-controlled dig shelter and learn about the Ice Age, the region’s prehistoric animals, and ongoing research. I recommend the guided tour that takes place every 30 minutes.
•  Mayborn Museum: Located on Baylor University’s campus, this family-friendly science and natural history museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on discovery rooms, and Texas-focused displays.
• Armstrong Browning Library & Museum: If you’re a literature-lover, don’t miss a visit to this research center and museum dedicated to the lives and works of Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Housed within Baylor University, the library boasts one of the world’s largest collections of Browning materials, along with rare 19th-century books, manuscripts, and art.
•  Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum: This interactive museum honors the legendary Texas Rangers, the state’s renowned law enforcement agency. Check out exhibits on the Rangers’ history, artifacts, weapons, historical documents, and memorabilia spanning from the 1800s to today.

Sports

• McLane Stadium: Take a 90-minute guided tour of McLane Stadium, the home of Baylor football. The tour offers an inside look at the Baylor locker room, presidential level, press box, recruit lounge, suites, and provides field access.
• Texas Sports Hall of Fame: This interactive museum celebrates the achievements of Texas athletes, coaches, and sports figures. Check out exhibits on various sports, including football, baseball, basketball, and more, highlighting legendary figures like Earl Campbell, Nolan Ryan, and Sheryl Swoopes.
• Foster Pavillion: If you can, catch a basketball game at this sports arena which serves as the home to Baylor’s National Championship basketball teams. It’s located along the Brazos River and seats 7,000+ fans, with standing-room-only areas for approximately 500 spectators.
• Cottonwood Creek Golf Course:  Consistently ranked as one of the top 10 public courses in Texas, this 18-hole, par-72 course weaves through rolling plains.

Animal-Oriented

• Baylor Bear Habitat: Get up close and personal with North American Black Bears Indy and Belle, who serve as Baylor’s mascots. Baylor was the first university to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The habitat features waterfalls, pools, and climbing areas, enriching the bears’ lives while allowing visitors to observe them up close.
• Cameron Park Zoo: Don’t miss this award-winning 52-acre natural habitat zoo nestled along the Brazos River! It features over 1,700 animals representing 300 species from around the world. Easy to do in a morning or afternoon. It’s SO good!
• Blue Hills Ranch: Located in McGregor, just 22 minutes away from Waco, this scenic 150-acre wildlife ranch is home to rolling hills, picturesque views, and 160 diverse animal residents—including giraffes, zebras, and exotic species! Go for a tour or spend the night in one of their cute cabins.

Outdoor Activities

• Waco Suspension Bridge & Riverwalk: Take a scenic stroll along the Brazos River and enjoy the historic Waco Suspension Bridge. This historic landmark was built in 1870 and was a Chisholm Trail crossing for years. It was renovated in 2023 and is gorgeous day or night. (My son proposed to his college sweetheart in this romantic spot!) The bridge is flanked by two great Waco parks—Indian Spring Park to the west and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park to the east. Don’t miss the 28 zoo animal sculptures were added in 2020 along the riverwalk between Indian Spring Park and the entrance to the Cameron Park Zoo.
• Cameron Park & Lovers Leap: If you’re a nature lover, head over to Cameron Park, one of Texas’s largest municipal parks. You can hike, fish the Brazos River, visit the zoo, take the kids to the playgrounds or splash pad, take a scenic drive, or just picnic and enjoy the view. Don’t miss Lover’s Leap—a breathtaking overlook with panoramic views of the Brazos River.
• Lake Waco Wetlands: This 180-acre ecological preserve is a habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species, including migratory birds, amphibians, and fish. It offers walking trails, boardwalks, and observation decks for visitors.
• Carleen Bright Arboretum: This 16-acre botanical garden is located in Woodway, just outside Waco. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, native Texas plants, walking trails, and a tranquil pond.
• Brazos Bluffs Ranch: This peaceful retreat, located along the Brazos River, is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking for a relaxing getaway in Waco. The ranch offers outdoor adventures like horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, and hiking on the ranch’s lush trails, and stunning views of limestone bluffs. Book a horseback ride and go for the day, or stay overnight in one of their cozy cabins.
• Waco Surf: This surf and waterpark offers a variety of water activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and the world’s longest lazy river (one mile)! Waco Surf attracts expert surfers from all over the world because it also features the world’s largest standing wave for surfing. Go for the day or spend the night in one of their 11 charming hotel rooms.
• Homestead Craft Village at Homestead Heritage: Located just outside Waco, visitors can tour workshops, observe craftsmen at work, and even participate in craft-making activities at this hands-on destination. Part of a sustainable agrarian community, the village includes a working farm, organic gardens, and a market with handmade goods and locally grown food.

Shopping

• Magnolia Market at the Silos: (Downtown) From the moment you step onto the grounds, you’ll feel the charm that Chip and Jo infused into every detail! Browse the Magnolia Market for unique home decor, enjoy a cupcake from Silos Baking Co., or just relax on the lawn with a sweet tea and soak in the atmosphere.
• Spice Village: (Downtown) This charming collection of shops in a historic building offers everything from boutique clothing and accessories to unique home decor and gifts.
• Gather: (Downtown) This darling boutique offers a curated selection of everything from home decor and kitchenware to artisanal goods and handcrafted items. You’ll find home goods, gifts, and locally sourced products.
• Design House: (Downtown) This stylish boutique, known for its personalized service and artistic designs, specializes in unique, handcrafted jewelry, often featuring locally sourced materials.
• The Findery: (Downtown) This lovely boutique offers a curated selection of vintage and modern home furnishings and decor, gifts, and stylish clothing, all in a beautifully designed space.
• Waco Farmers Market: (Downtown) Featuring a variety of regional vendors showcasing local produce, baked goods, artisanal goods, and handmade products, expect a lively atmosphere and live music. Open on Saturdays (9 am-1 pm) year round and Wednesdays (5 pm-8 pm) in spring and fall.
• Junque in the Trunk: Voted the Best Antique Store in Waco for the past 6 years, this shop is known for its curated eclectic collection of vintage and antique items, including furniture, home decor, collectibles, and jewelry.

Special Tips for Empty Nesters

• Download the Visit Waco app: If you’re planning a visit, this app will be a huge help! Find it HERE in the Apple Store or HERE in the Google Play Store. For more information about how to use the app, click HERE.
• Check for Special Events: Waco is a vibrant city and there’s always something special going on!
  • Upcoming City of Waco events.
  • Upcoming Magnolia Market events.
  • Upcoming Baylor University events.
• Visit During the Week: To enjoy a more relaxed pace, consider visiting Waco during the week. The weekends can be busy, especially at popular spots like Magnolia Market.
• Take a Scenic Drive: The countryside around Waco is beautiful! Consider a scenic drive along the back roads to discover hidden gems.
• Savor the Slower Pace: Waco is all about slowing down and enjoying the simple things. Whether you’re strolling along the river or lingering over a delicious meal, take your time and relish every moment.

Waco, Texas, is really a hidden gem! Unless you’ve visited, you really have no idea how much there is to explore, and what a great place it is to relax and reconnect with family and friends! So grab your travel buddy and start planning your trip to Waco—you’re going to love it!

Questions? Check out the Waco Convention and Visitor Bureau website, or leave me a comment! I’ll do my best to answer, and of course, I’ll share my honest opinion😄.