16 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Waco | Apr 2025
Top Waco Fixer Upper/City Tour: 5 Star, Award Winning, Affordable
What better way to start a Fixer Upper tour than to begin in the former Harp Design shop! As well, you might get to go into a home done on the show! 2024 TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award and 2022 Viator Experiences Award winner as one of the Top 20 experiences in the entire USA and #1 attraction in Waco as chosen by Viator customers.
4.93 (1950 reviews)
From $49.00
Amazing Brazos River Morning or Sunset Boat Adventure in Waco
There is no better way to see and learn about Waco's past and present, along with the local wildlife, than from the water.
4.96 (217 reviews)
From $64.00
Fixer Upper + City Tour
Ranked TOP #4 Overall Experience in the United States by TripAdvisor! During this 2. 5-3 hour tour, you'll learn the complex and fascinating history of Waco, see the best highlights from Fixer Upper, explore beautiful neighborhoods, and be treated to a local coffee or ice cream! You'll see hidden gems you never would have imagined finding in Waco--breathtaking scenic overlooks, unique mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, and more! This tour is one of the most FUN things you'll do while in Waco! Our extensively trained tour staff are some of the best in the business--they are customer service AND Waco experts! Consider Waco Tours your personal concierge service for your Waco visit, showing you where to eat, where to shop, and the best things to do to make the most of your time.
4.98 (2862 reviews)
From $84.50
Sunset River Cruise: #1 in the US
Ranked #1 Boat Tour in North America by USA Today's 10BEST Readers' Choice in 2020. Relax on the Water! Be refreshed on our peaceful and informative river cruise experience on the Brazos and Bosque Rivers.
4.99 (732 reviews)
From $93.00
Horseback Riding on Scenic Texas Ranch near Waco
Come enjoy a memorable wrangling adventure on a Texas ranch with authentic cowboys. Perfect for couples, families or other groups eager to ditch their smartphones, swing into the saddle and ride under the Texas sky! It doesn’t matter if you have never been on a horse before or if you have not ridden in years, our expert guides will start you off with an easy to understand lesson, ensuring that you will be comfortable and safe.
4.99 (709 reviews)
From $100.00
Waco Wine Tours
You will have a fun time exploring the discovering Central Texas and its vineyards on a winery tour from Waco. You will head to a few boutique wineries for guided tours of the facilities and wine tastings.
4.93 (30 reviews)
From $125.00
Waco's Haunts and Legends Mobile Ghost Tour
Brazos Tours is proud to offer the ONLY mobile haunted tour in Waco, TX. Our city was founded in 1849 and with a history that extends back even further, there are plenty of certifiably haunted locations to visit! We start out in Downtown Waco and visit sites affected by the infamous tornado of 1953, Waco’s legal red light district that was in operation until the 1920’s, and eventually make our way into Historic Cameron Park.
4.87 (169 reviews)
From $39.00
Sunset Horseback Ride With Scenic Views
Beautiful Central Texas scenery. Engaging guides eager to share the western experience. Feel, touch and smell what only you can see in the movies! .
4.97 (174 reviews)
From $169.00
Waco Foodie Tour
Enjoy Waco's top food tour and experience its award winning culinary scene. You will taste some of the best food the city has to offer on this tour.
4.78 (46 reviews)
From $74.00
Waco: Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
Uncover the spine-tingling secrets of Waco on the #1 ghost tour in the city! Operating daily, year-round, this USMC Disabled Combat-Veteran-Owned, women and minority-led experience takes you deep into Waco’s haunted past, where notorious spirits and eerie legends still linger.
From $26.00
Wacky Waco Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone.
4.50 (6 reviews)
From $21.60
$27.00 Save $5.40
Haunted Private App Guided Ghost Walking Tour in Waco
From the chilling tales of the lingering spirits of the Suspension Bridge to the haunted sites of the Silos and historic buildings, this tour will guide you in the footsteps of history and tornados, uncovering the stories and secrets that shaped Waco.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $7.75
Waco Brewery Tour
Waco has a rich, robust, and growing brewery scene. Let us be your guide in showing you the best of the best on this downright delicious brew tour.
5.00 (7 reviews)
From $85.00
Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Waco by Wacky Walks
The Waco Wacky Walks scavenger hunt is a royal-themed experience that will use an app to give you a list of items around the city to find and challenges to complete.
From $10.00
Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Waco by Operation City Quest
Operation City Quest of Waco lets your team discover the city in a fun and different way. Our app will instruct you to find a variety of items throughout the city in any order you'd like, and do funny challenges, for points! See your points stack up to others during the game on the app's ranking feature.
From $10.00
Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Waco by Zombie Scavengers
Walk around Waco while trying to survive the zombie apocalypse with Zombie Scavengers! On an app, you'll be given a list of items to find (in any order you choose) to help you survive a zombie apocalypse.
From $20.00
What activities can I do in Waco?
Waco, Texas is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Waco: 1. Visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos: Created by Chip and Joanna Gaines from the popular TV show ""Fixer Upper,"" this market offers shopping, food trucks, and a beautiful garden area. 2. Explore the Cameron Park: This 416-acre park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, disc golf, and stunning views of the Brazos River. 3. Discover the Waco Mammoth National Monument: This paleontological site showcases the remains of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and importance of this site. 4. Tour the Dr Pepper Museum: Learn about the history of the iconic soft drink, Dr Pepper, and explore exhibits that showcase the evolution of the brand. Don't forget to try a Dr Pepper float at the soda fountain! 5. Visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum: Discover the history and legends of the Texas Rangers, a renowned law enforcement agency. The museum features artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. 6. Explore the Waco Suspension Bridge: This historic bridge, built in 1870, spans the Brazos River and offers scenic views of downtown Waco. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. 7. Take a boat tour on the Brazos River: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river, where you can admire the natural beauty and wildlife. Some tours also offer sunset or dinner options. 8. Visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame: Sports enthusiasts will enjoy exploring this museum, which honors the achievements of Texas athletes and showcases memorabilia from various sports. 9. Take a tour of Baylor University: If you're a college sports fan or interested in academia, a guided tour of Baylor University can be a fascinating experience. Explore the beautiful campus and learn about its history. 10. Enjoy local cuisine: Waco has a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from classic Texas barbecue to international cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try some authentic Tex-Mex dishes. These are just a few of the many things to do in Waco. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply exploring the city's unique attractions, Waco has something for everyone.
When is the best time to travel to Waco?
The best time to travel to Waco, USA is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. In the spring, you can enjoy the blooming flowers and participate in events like the Waco Cultural Arts Fest and the Waco Wild West 100 Bike Race. The fall season offers beautiful foliage and events like the Waco Cultural Arts Fest and the Heart O' Texas Fair & Rodeo. It's worth noting that Waco can get quite hot during the summer months (June to August), with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). However, if you don't mind the heat, you can still enjoy attractions like the Magnolia Market at the Silos, Cameron Park, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Winter (December to February) in Waco is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C). While it may not be the peak tourist season, you can still visit attractions like the Dr. Pepper Museum and take advantage of lower hotel rates. Overall, the best time to travel to Waco, USA is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and there are various events and activities to enjoy.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Waco
Waco, Texas, is a city with a rich and diverse travel culture. Here are some key aspects of the travel culture in Waco: 1. Magnolia Market: One of the biggest draws for tourists in Waco is Magnolia Market, a home decor store owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the popular HGTV show ""Fixer Upper."" The market attracts visitors from all over the country who come to shop for unique home goods and experience the Gaines' signature farmhouse style. 2. Baylor University: Waco is home to Baylor University, a prestigious private university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The university attracts students and their families, as well as sports fans who come to watch the Baylor Bears compete in various collegiate sports. 3. Outdoor Activities: Waco is situated along the Brazos River and offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing on the river, or explore the numerous parks and trails in the area. Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and picnicking. 4. Historic Sites: Waco has a rich history, and there are several historic sites that attract visitors. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum showcases the history of the Texas Rangers, while the Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute tells the story of the iconic soft drink's origins in Waco. The Waco Mammoth National Monument is another must-visit site, where visitors can see the remains of Columbian mammoths discovered in the area. 5. Culinary Scene: Waco has a burgeoning culinary scene with a wide range of dining options to suit different tastes. From food trucks and casual eateries to upscale restaurants, visitors can find everything from Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex to international cuisine and farm-to-table fare. The city also has a vibrant coffee culture, with several specialty coffee shops and cafes. Overall, Waco offers a mix of history, outdoor activities, shopping, and dining experiences that make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking a unique Texas experience.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Waco
When it comes to shopping in Waco, Texas, there are several unique items and souvenirs you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Magnolia Market: As the brainchild of Chip and Joanna Gaines from the hit TV show ""Fixer Upper,"" Magnolia Market is a must-visit shopping destination in Waco. You can find a variety of home decor items, including farmhouse-style furniture, candles, kitchenware, and more. 2. Texas-themed Souvenirs: Look for Texas-themed souvenirs like t-shirts, hats, keychains, and magnets that showcase the Lone Star State pride. You can find these items in various stores throughout Waco, including the Magnolia Market. 3. Dr Pepper-related Merchandise: Waco is the birthplace of Dr Pepper, and fans of this iconic soda can find a range of Dr Pepper merchandise, including t-shirts, mugs, and collectibles. The Dr Pepper Museum gift shop is a great place to explore for these items. 4. Local Art and Crafts: Waco is home to a vibrant arts community, and you can find unique art pieces, paintings, pottery, and handmade crafts at local galleries and shops. Check out places like Cultivate 7Twelve, The Findery, and Spice Village for these artistic treasures. 5. Waco Mammoth National Monument: If you're interested in paleontology, the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a gift shop where you can find dinosaur-related souvenirs, books, and educational items. 6. Baylor University Merchandise: Waco is also home to Baylor University, and fans of the Bears can find a wide range of Baylor-themed merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and memorabilia at the Baylor Bookstore or other local shops. 7. Local Food Products: Waco offers some delicious local food products that make for great souvenirs. Look for items like local honey, jams, salsas, and barbecue sauces, which can be found in specialty food stores or farmers markets. Remember to explore the local shops and boutiques in downtown Waco, as they often feature unique and handcrafted items that make for memorable souvenirs.
Waco travel review
Waco, USA: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Texas Nestled in the heart of Texas, Waco is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor beauty. While it may not be as well-known as some of the larger cities in the Lone Star State, Waco has been gaining popularity as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Texan experience. From its rich history to its thriving food scene and stunning natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in Waco. One of the city's main attractions is the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, which has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the hit TV show ""Fixer Upper."" Created by Chip and Joanna Gaines, this bustling marketplace is a haven for home decor enthusiasts and offers a variety of shops, food trucks, and outdoor spaces. Whether you're looking for unique home furnishings, delicious local treats, or simply a place to relax and soak up the atmosphere, Magnolia Market is a must-visit when in Waco. Beyond the Magnolia Market, Waco is steeped in history and boasts several fascinating museums. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum showcases the legendary law enforcement agency's history and honors the brave men and women who have served. Visitors can explore exhibits that feature artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, providing an in-depth look into the Texas Rangers' storied past. For those interested in aviation history, the Dr. Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute is a must-see. Housed in the original bottling plant of the iconic soft drink, this museum offers a comprehensive look into the history of Dr. Pepper and its impact on American culture. Visitors can learn about the beverage's creation, view vintage advertisements, and even enjoy a refreshing Dr. Pepper float at the old-fashioned soda fountain. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Waco as well. The city is home to the Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas. Spanning over 400 acres, this sprawling green space offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking. With scenic trails, towering cliffs, and picturesque river views, Cameron Park provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Another natural gem in Waco is the Waco Mammoth National Monument. This paleontological site preserves the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths, making it one of the largest concentrations of mammoth fossils in the world. Visitors can take guided tours of the excavation site, learn about the mammoths' fascinating history, and even see the remains of these ancient giants up close. No trip to Waco would be complete without indulging in the city's culinary delights. From mouthwatering barbecue joints to trendy farm-to-table eateries, Waco's food scene has something to satisfy every palate. Visitors can sample traditional Texas fare such as slow-smoked brisket and juicy ribs, or opt for more eclectic options like gourmet tacos or artisanal ice cream. With an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Waco's dining scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on food lovers. In conclusion, Waco, USA is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its famous Magnolia Market to its fascinating museums and stunning outdoor spaces, this city has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, Waco is a destination that should not be missed. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Waco has to offer – you won't be disappointed.