Local Swimming Spots Near Waco
There are several free places to swim in Waco, and there is one in particular that we frequently go to that is easily accessible to the general public.
The man-made beach located inside of Twin Bridges Park is the swimming spot in Waco that we go to. Every time we have gone, admission to the park was free. The only thing you may have to pay for is a parking spot, but even then, the last time we went, it was only like $1.50.
The park features a huge playscape for the kids, covered pavilions, picnic tables, a man-made sand beach by the lake with a designated swimming area, and plenty of space to walk, have picnics, etc.
Other places to swim in the Waco area are Hawaiian Falls Waco, and the BSR Cable Park where the longest lazy river in the world is located.
If you want to venture a little further out from Waco to Crawford, TX , youll find a unique swimming spot called Tonkawa Falls. Just keep in mind that if Central Texas is experiencing a drought when you are visiting the falls, this local swimming spot may not have enough water to swim in.
Spend An Evening At The Baylor Theater
If youre a fan of Broadway without the price tag or the airfare, then a night of Baylor Theater at the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center is just the ticket. Tickets are reasonably priced, and discounts are available for military, Baylor students and seniors.
Before the show, grab dinner for a complete date night.
Explore downtown Waco with these fun date night ideas…
Drink Some Of The Countrys Best Whiskey At Balcones Distillery
It wasnt too long ago that the countrys best distilleries were concentrated in Kentucky and Tennessee. Today, liquor is produced in all 50 states, with Texas responsible for dozens of great brands churning out every spirit under the sun. Wacos award-winning Balcones Distilling helped put Texas whiskey on the map, and continues to put out some of the best juice in the country, from single malts and straight bourbon to bottles made with blue corn. Book a tour in advance, then swing by for an up-close look at how the magic gets made before sampling a few of their esteemed products. Theres also a bottle shop, so go ahead and procure a couple souvenirs straight from the sourcethey make great gifts, even if the recipient is your own stocking.
You May Like: Things To Do Near Mystic Ct
The Best Shops And Stores To Check Out In Waco
Waco is not just about the Magnolia brand, although the Gaines obviously had a significant influence on some shops popping around.
Consider adding these to your itinerary.
Address: 501 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706
Phone: 235-1777
With a similar vibe as the Magnolia Market, The Findery offers many beautiful country-chic decor, home goods, textiles, gifts, and antiques.
Go down the street from the Silos to The FinderyI liked it more than Magnolia. Susan, Plano Texas
Address: 213 Mary Ave, Waco, TX 76701
Phone: 757-0921
Spice Village is a long-time local favorite located in a 1908 warehouse building in downtown Waco. It has about over 80 independently owned shops, and you may recognize some from Joanna Gaines televised shopping adventures.
It offers something for everyone in the family!
Address: 1509 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
Phone: 754-7467
Sironia is home to the most unique and inspired shopping in Waco! They have a curated collection of specialty boutiques all under one roof. There is also food available for hungry clientele.
Savor Wacos Dynamic Dining Scene
Juicy steaks, savory brisket, succulent grass-fed burgers, and divine cupcakes. Is your mouth watering yet? With its diverse menu of locally-owned restaurants, Waco is a bona fide destination for foodies. After all, two of its eateries were ranked among Yelps Top 100 Restaurants in Texas for 2021 list. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees made with the freshest ingredients, including pasture-raised beef, award-winning cheese, and house-made condiments, Café Homestead offers comfort food with a luxurious touch. Meanwhile, Taqueria El Crucero is a popular spot in town for delicious breakfast tacos, enchiladas, and pupusas.
Enjoy your food with a hearty helping of sunshine, then walk the Waco Riverwalk and enjoy the views of the nearby Washington Avenue Bridge or the Waco Suspension Bridge.
Spice Village
Read Also: Mystic Ct Visitors Guide
Things To Do On Winter In Waco Texas
Planning to visit Waco, Texas in winter? Make the most of the winter festivities, snuggle up by roaring fires, find cool things to do and make the most of your trip with this insiders guide.
Were sharing what to do in Waco, Texas in winter, where to stay, and places to eat around the city. Were sharing indoor AND outdoor activities, to accommodate the weather in Waco, Texas no matter good or bad!
Read our guide for the lowdown on the events, parties, cultural happenings, and things to do taking place in Waco, Texas in December 2021.
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Whether youre into coffee, alcoholic beverages, or both, Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is one of the best places to visit for artisanal and gourmet offerings of the sort in Waco.
The unique company is popular among locals and tourists alike and offers a selection of artisan cocktails and delicious rare coffees!
The coffee menu at Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is packed with iced and hot drinks alike, each made with American-roasted coffee beans.
The bar, on the other hand, provides handcrafted cocktails and delicious spirits in impressive variety.
Often, special events, live music, and other activities are hosted here, too!
Address: 508 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701, United States
Don’t Miss: What To Do In Mystic Ct Today
Hop Over To The Cameron Park Zoo
The quirkiness of the Cameron Zoo is one of the main reasons it is included on this list of things to do in Waco with kids. They call it the happiest surprise in Texas. Perhaps that is because this 52-acre zoo is smack dab in the middle of the city and has over 1700 animals. The Cameron Park Zoo puts a strong emphasis on making sure each animal is featured in a habitat similar to their home. Youll see everything from elephants in the African Serengeti to fish in a 50,000-gallon tank. The Cameron Park Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums .
Magnolia At The Silos
One of the really neat places in Waco to visit is Magnolia at The Silos. Magnolia is comprised of several city blocks that Chip & Joanna Gaines have bought and rehabbed over the years and turned into a destination that millions of people visit each year.
It includes the old grain silos, a large green space to relax, a seed store, covered pavilions and lots of seating, food trucks, a restored historic baseball park, a restored historic church, a furniture store, a massive coffee shop and more.
There are also plenty of local boutique shops, and a weekly farmers market held on the grounds at Magnolia as well. Overall, its a very wholesome public space that has something for everybody of all ages and I highly recommend visiting Magnolia at The Silos while youre in Waco, even if you may not necessarily be a fan of Chip & Joanna Gaines.
Recommended Reading: Wichita Falls Texas Attractions
Things To Do In Waco Texas
I completely get that the thing thats put Waco in your travel plans is probably Magnolia Market or Magnolia Table. Waco is an easy day trip from Dallas or road trip from Houston. It is even a doable day trip from Austin or San Antonio. Since youve already committed to the drive, why not make a weekend of it? Taking some time to explore the rest of the town is worth doing. This once sleepy little town has really boomed as a tourist attraction and theres lots to explore and enjoy.
TravelingMom Tip: Opening days and hours as well as rules are subject to change without warning. Always call ahead or check the website for the most up-to-date information before venturing out for the day.
Looking to explore Texas beyond Waco? Check out these 15 Texas road trip ideas.
Magnolia Market At The Silos
LunaseeStudios / Shutterstock
Anyone who watched HGTV has probably heard of the Magnolia Market at the Silos, and for many people, its among the best when it comes to places to visit in Waco due to its fame and pop culture significance alone!
Magnolia Market at the Silos was founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, a pair of stars of HGTV.
It is a community space and retail store with a unique concept.
It sits on 2.5 acres of land and boasts a large barn and two silos.
The market itself sells a wide range of different products, ranging from furniture and home decor to merchandise for the hit HGTV show Fixer Upper.
There is also a bakery on site that sells all sorts of treats and baked goods made with Joannas own favorite recipes.
For mood options, head to the lawn to sit down for a picnic or buy something from the food truck.
There are also fun activities and games held on the lawn!
Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706, United States
You May Like: Things To Do In Minocqua This Weekend
Dinner And A Show At The Waco Hippodrome
The historic Hippodrome location is a great place to take your date for dinner, a movie, a show or a nightcap.
You can choose to dine inside the Hippodromes movie theater and put up your feet inside one of the theaters luxury, reclining seats. It’s the perfect thing to do at night in Waco. There’s also a sit-down experience at the Raleigh Diner or on the roof at The Hightop if you want a fancier dinner date.
Homestead Heritage Craft Village
Homestead Heritage Craft Village
Looking for some nice places in the US?
You cant go wrong with the Homestead Heritage Craft Village in Texas.
Located 16 miles from Waco, its full of fun things to see that its worth the extra travel time and is a common spot for tourists in the city to head to.
Its free to enter and is a great hub for learning, shopping, and sightseeing.
Walking through Homestead Heritage Craft Village gives you a unique glimpse into local culture and artistry, and youll get the chance to talk to all the artisans, who are excited to discuss their craft.
Whether youre after baskets, pottery, furniture, baking mixes, sweet treats, or delicious meals at Cafe Homestead.
The latter has a pretty big waiting list and is famous for its scrumptious offerings.
Planning to buy some crafts?
Be ready to spend a lot!
Items sold here are far from affordable due to their high quality, unique touches, and handmade charm.
Theyre worth the money, but not for those on a budget!
Address: 608 Dry Creek Rd, Waco, TX 76705, United States
Don’t Miss: Wichita Falls Texas Things To Do
Things To Do During Holiday In Waco Texas
There are lots of brilliant things to do in Waco, Texas during the kids school summer holidays. Whether youve got little ones or teenagers to keep entertained, weve rounded up summer holiday activities for all ages to enjoy below.
And when we say weve rounded up things for kids, we mean kids of all ages weve got suggestions for babies, toddlers, tweens and teenagers our suggestions aim to keep the whole family entertained.
Waco Winery Tasting Room
Class it up a bit with a trip to the Waco Winery Tasting Room.
Theyâve combined live music and local wine tasting to make for a memorable experience in Downtown Waco.
The tasting room even has a rooftop patio overlooking Austin Avenue, so you can enjoy the breeze or the fresh evening air while youâre up there.
This is an amazing place to unwind with a group of friends or celebrate a birthday or special occasion.
Some local food outlets will deliver if youâre hungry for some food to go with your drinks, and youâll also find Cocoamonda Chocolates at the Tasting Room.
Wine + chocolate + live music + Waco?
Itâs no wonder this place is a huge success.
Also Check: Activities In Wichita Falls Tx
Dig For Fossils At The Waco National Mammoth Monument
Thousands of years ago, real mammoths crossed through Waco. Check out their fossils at the Waco National Mammoth Monument in the nations first recorded evidence of an Ice Age Colombian mammoth herd.
Since this is a National Park Service site, kids can participate in a special program to become a . All they have to do is complete the Waco Mammoth Junior Ranger Activity Book to be sworn in by a Ranger and presented with a badge.
The Waco National Mammoth Monument is more than just a museum. There are also several nature trails surrounding the museum. Visitors are encouraged to explore the 108 acres surrounding the monument and imagine the Ice Age.
Outdoor Things To Do In Waco Texas
For every problem, Waco, Texas has an answer and is ready with loads of different outdoor events ranging from boat parties and canal cruises to rooftop brunches and outdoor cinema screenings. So when the temperatures rising, put on your finest string vest and get down to the best things to do outdoors in Waco, Texas. And for when its not? Weve got outdoor winter events too.
From rooftop restaurants and beer gardens, to outdoor cinemas and outdoor swimming pools, theres something invigorating about being outdoors in the city. Venture a little further afield and you can blow out the cobwebs on bike trails, sandy beaches and even picturesque flower farms, all within easy reach of Waco, Texas. Dont dally indoors theres some incredible outdoor experiences waiting to be had in Waco, Texas.
If youre looking for an active break, then the great range of walks and places to cycle in Waco, Texas offer great ways to explore the region and beautiful places cars just cant get to. If something more sedate is more to your liking, consider one of our guided tour operators instead.
Recommended Reading: Fun Things To Do In Wichita Falls Tx
Paint Your Own Pottery At Practically Pikasso
Practically Pikasso provides patrons the chance to create one-of-a-kind creations for a nominal sitting fee and the cost of your pottery piece. You can paint your own pottery, create a mosaic, or create something out of fusible glass.
Then, head out for dinner at the number of restaurants nearby. You can create a whole memorable evening with these fun things to do at night.
Quench Your Thirst At Ace Craft Breweries And Coffee Shops
One cannot subsist on whiskey and Dr Pepper alone. Fortunately, Waco has plenty of other options to sate your thirst, including a handful of craft breweries and quality coffee shops. Sip some local beers and take advantage of the full kitchens at Waco Ale Company and Southern Roots, where you can collectively eat pizza, wings, tacos, and sandwiches, then post up on the dog-friendly beer garden at Brotherwell Brewing. Along the way youll be able to sample IPAs, Pilsners, Belgian-style Tripels, and more. If you need a little pick-me-up to get through the afternoon, order something caffeinated at local favorites Dichotomy , Pinewood , or Common Grounds, which hosts occasional concerts on its tree-lined property.
Also Check: Things To Do Around Baytown Tx
Take A Day Trip & Fun Travel Ideas Around Waco Texas
Deep in the heart of Central Texas, this city has become a very popular destination, thanks in part to Joanna and Chip Gainess hit HGTV show, Fixer Upper.
Fans from all over the country make their pilgrimage to Magnolia, which made the city ranked No. 2 on Tripadvisors list of top destinations on the rise for 2018.
So, have you been? If not, no worries, we compiled the things to do and see, restaurants to try, and shops to check out around Waco.
Weve listed them below, and you pick which interests you so you get the most out of your day trip there.
La Fiesta Restaurant & Cantina
You canât go to Waco without indulging in some amazing Tex Mex.
Well, you could, but we wouldnât advise it.
Instead, head straight to La Fiesta Restaurant & Cantina where live music, nachos, burritos, enchiladas and other Tex Mex favorites await you.
This is one of Wacoâs favorite Tex Mex options and their family recipes add an extra layer of authenticity to everything they serve.
You can head here for lunch, dinner, or somewhere in between. Its one of the best romantic things to do in Waco for couples.
They also do full catering services if youâre holding a special event that wonât be as special without the queso.
Oh, and did we mention their obsession with the perfect margarita?
Let the drinks flow!
Read Also: Things To Do In Baytown Tx This Weekend
Explore Wacos Street Art Scene
We are huge fans of street art and Waco has this in spades. If murals are your thing, they have several throughout the city including the quintessential City With a Soul mural near downtown. Luckily, the city keeps a list of where to find all the murals in Waco. But it doesnt just stop with street art, they also feature sculptures throughout the city especially on the Riverwalk. If your kids are into local art scenes like ours, this is definitely one to add to your list of things to do with kids in Waco.
