Eccentric yet humble, revitalized and evolving, Waco offers groups an authentic, Texas-friendly experience. The silos at Magnolia beckon, and visitors stay for the museums, boutiques, history, and abundant natural beauty of limestone cliffs and expansive parks. Whether it’s mammoths, art, or a spirited evening filled with craft breweries and a lively downtown scene, there is something for groups of all ages and interests in this certified Tourism-Friendly city.
Groups can take a guided tour of Waco Mammoth National Monument, a paleontological treasure and active dig site.
SEE
Magnolia Market
A place to find inspiration and a renewed vision for your home, Magnolia Market at the Silos offers the original store along with six boutique shops across three city blocks in the heart of downtown.
601 Webster Ave.
(254) 265-8300
magnolia.com
Cameron Park Zoo
This 52-acre natural habitat zoo rivals many big city zoos. Follow the animal sculptures along the Brazos River Riverwalk to the zoo entrance and be sure to visit the new African Penguin exhibit.
1701 N. 4th St.
(254) 750-8400
cameronparkzoo.com
Dr Pepper Museum
Dr Pepper is a native of Waco and is the oldest major soft drink in America. The museum holds one of the finest collections of soft drink memorabilia in the world. Enjoy a free treat at the soda fountain.
300 S. 5th St.
(254) 757-1024
drpeppermuseum.com
For Planning Advice
Contact:
Rebecca Aydelotte, Lead Tourism Counselor
Austin Johnson, Tourism Counselor
Waco Convention & Visitors Bureau
106 Texas Ranger Trail
Waco, TX 76706
(254) 750-8696 | destinationwaco.org
rebeccaa@wacotx.gov | austinj@wacotx.gov
EAT
Magnolia Table
Start your day at Magnolia Table, Chip and Joanna Gaines’s cozy breakfast and brunch spot. Be sure to try the biscuits and strawberry butter. Ride the LaSalle-Circle Shuttle from downtown.
2132 S. Valley Mills Dr.
(254) 265-6859
magnolia.com/visit/eat/magnolia-table
Southern Roots Brewing Co.
Whether it’s your very first foray into craft beer or you’re a self-identified beer aficionado, groups are invited to try a flight and signature pizza at this family-owned, family-friendly craft brewery.
219 N. 8th St.
(254) 732-2309
southernrootsbrewingco.com
Viteks BBQ
Founded in 1915, this family-owned and -operated restaurant and biergarten is a favorite spot for locals and Baylor University students. Home of the famous Gut Pak, winner of The Cooking Channel’s “Best College Eats in America” competition.
1600 Speight Ave.
(254) 752-7591
viteksmarket.com
MUST-KNOWS FOR DRIVERS
Buses can park free for the day at Heritage Square, located in the heart of downtown Waco, in front of City Hall. This park consists of a water feature and small garden to honor historic Wacoans. Attached to this park is a public parking lot that is home to many events, such as Waco Wonderland. Heritage Square is also available for festival rentals.
SLEEP
Hotel 1928
Magnolia founders Joanna and Chip Gaines re-envisioned the historic Karem Shrine building to create a hospitality experience with 33 guest rooms, a library, coffee shop, and restaurants. Check out the terrace view from Bertie’s on the Rooftop.
701 Washington Ave.
(254) 342-3911
hotel1928.com
Hotel Herringbone
Discover elevated amenities and artful details throughout this thoughtfully curated space. Three on-site restaurants and a rooftop bar overlook the Magnolia grounds, just steps away. Enjoy live music in the courtyard and shopping at the on-site boutiques.
319 S. 4th St.
(254) 342-2220
hotelherringbone.com
Hotel Indigo Waco
Groups will enjoy the indoor/outdoor covered pool and hot tub, a stylish restaurant and bar, and the Austin Java Coffee Kiosk available each morning at this upscale boutique experience located in the downtown business district of Waco.
211 Clay Ave.
(254) 754-7000
ihg.com/hotelindigo
Photo credits: City of Waco Economic Development & Tourism.
