Are you traveling to Waco for business, relocating to Waco, or visiting family/friends in the Waco area? Then, you may be wondering what are the top things to do in Waco, TX. The city has been steadily growing from its humble beginnings in 1849 and is quickly becoming a prime real estate area, with affordable homes being built in fantastic areas all across town.
Waco is host to many historic areas and has been a stop for many tourists looking to experience the excitement of the growing city for themselves. With its warmer temperature, Waco provides an escape for many from the cold winters of the north and allows visitors to experience the local attractions in comfort.
With a substantial tourism industry and plenty of fun things to do, that’s all the more reason to pay Waco a visit. Whether you are a tourist or a long-time Waco resident, check out the suggestions below for what to do in Waco.
Fun for the Whole Family
These activities below can be enjoyed by almost anyone, with family-friendly fun for both kids and adults. Waco is a great town for settling down and raising a family, so having plenty to keep everyone entertained is key to building lasting memories and nostalgia for generations. Whether you prefer splashing around in a pool, exploring the rich history of the town, or getting out into nature and admiring the beauty of the surrounding wilderness, Waco has something for you.
Hawaiian Falls Water Park: Hawaiian Falls Waco covers an expansive 10 acres filled with exciting new rides and aquatic adventures. It’s perfect for a family day out with slides, pools, lazy rivers, and much more.
○ Address: 900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708
○ Phone: (254) 892-0222
Magnolia Market: Magnolia Market is a shopping complex that encompasses two city blocks in downtown Waco, Texas. It holds stylish and high-end products in an aesthetically pleasing venue and should be a stop for any visitors.
○ Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
Baylor’s Mayborn Museum Complex: The Mayborn Museum Complex is a wonderful place to visit at any age. It offers the marvels of hands-on discovery rooms, interactive natural science, and explorations of Waco’s cultural history all in one location.
○ Address: 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706
○ Phone: (254) 710-1110
Waco National Mammoth Monument: This paleontological site and museum displays the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths and other mammals from the Pleistocene Epoch that were discovered in the foothills only a few miles from the city of Waco. The monument is a great way to see the history of the area firsthand and understand how different Waco was long before modern civilization.
○ Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
Waco Restaurants with Outdoor Dining
1424 Bistro: A chef-owned venue serving gourmet seafood, meat & poultry dishes in a warm, brick-walled setting.
○ Address: 1424 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
○ Phone: (254) 752-7385
Torchy’s Tacos: Local cuisine, quick bites, Mexican, southwestern, fast food. With such a large selection to choose from, you will find yourself coming back to try everything again and again.
○ Address: 801 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706-1109
○ Phone: (254) 732-1445
Clay Pot: A laid-back Vietnamese restaurant offering a variety of soups, noodle bowls, rice plates & bubble tea.
○ Address: 416 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
○ Phone: (254) 756-2721
Escape Rooms & Other Gaming Activities
Waco Escape Rooms: Offers different themes such as date night, first timers, and much more. Perfect way to get your mind thinking while having loads of fun with friends or family.
○ Address: 711 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
○ Phone: (254) 294-7550
Putters: Arcade | Mini Golf | Sports Bar: Suitable for all ages during certain times (kid friendly until 8pm), this hybrid sports bar offers many different games to play and a variety of local food. If you’d like to book a party at the location, then they are open for that as well.
○ Address: 320 S 2nd St, Waco, TX 76701
○ Phone: (254) 340-5198
Epix LAN Center: This Waco entertainment center is a great place to get together and play online games with friends. They feature “lock ins” and offer a selection of snacks to fuel your gaming sessions.
○ Address: 8640 La Village Ave, Waco, TX 76712
○ Phone: (254) 732-5070
Outdoor Activities | Best Places for Leisurely Walks
Indian Spring Park – Indian Spring Park is host to a variety of festivals and events each year and a great place to view the suspension bridge over the Brazos River. With year-round outdoor events and great sightlines of the surrounding area, it’s a perfect place to picnic and take in the view / scenery.
○ Address: 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
Waco Suspension Bridge – The Waco Suspension bridge is famous for being the first major suspension bridge in Texas. First built to ease cattle crossings, then used as a key transfer point for soldiers, the bridge has stood strong through the ages and has helped Waco get to where it is today. During local festivities where the city gathers to watch fireworks. It’s certainly a sight to behold.
○ Address: 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
Cameron Park – Cameron Park is a 416-acre urban park located in Waco, Texas. Located conveniently right by Waco’s town center, it is a popular spot for easy hiking, picnicking, swimming, slacklining, barbecues and birdwatching. The park offers a zoo as well as many paths to walk around and enjoy the scenery. With lush green fields and huge, shady trees, Cameron Park is a lovely spot for anyone.
○ Address: 2601 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76708
○ Phone: (254) 750-5980
Climate Controlled Storage Waco – Amy’s Attic Self Storage
Amy’s Attic Self Storage offers a safe storage environment for both business and residential customers. With temperature-controlled units and awesome customer service, Amy’s Attic Self Storage is your best option for self storage units in Central Texas. Amy’s Attic Self Storage is proud to open a new location in Waco, Texas in 2021. If you are interested in renting a brand new storage unit or have questions about the renting process, then please call 855-426-9728. You are also welcome to drive by or visit our new indoor storage building at 1821 S New Rd Waco, TX 76711.