DiscoverWaco, Texas
Where the Brazos River meets Texas hospitality. Home to Magnolia Market, ancient mammoths, the birthplace of Dr Pepper, and some of the friendliest people in the South.
What Are You Looking For?
From ancient history to modern shopping, Waco has it all.
Top Attractions in Waco
Six iconic experiences you can't miss on your visit.
Magnolia Market at the Silos
The iconic destination created by HGTV stars Chip & Joanna Gaines. Explore the boutique, fresh baked goods, lawn games, and rotating food trucks.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Walk among the bones of a real Columbian mammoth nursery herd — the only recorded discovery of its kind in the U.S. A National Park Service gem.
Dr Pepper Museum
Celebrate the birthplace of one of America's oldest soft drinks, invented right here in Waco in 1885. Taste rare flavors at the working soda fountain.
Cameron Park Zoo
A stunning 52-acre naturalistic zoo home to 1,700+ animals. Consistently ranked one of the best zoos in Texas.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
The official state museum of the Texas Rangers with 200 years of frontier justice history, rare artifacts, and a spectacular firearms collection.
Cameron Park & Suspension Bridge
Explore 416 acres of trails and bluffs at one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, then cross the historic 1870 suspension bridge over the Brazos River.
Waco Is Bigger Than You Think
The world's oldest major soft drink was created at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store in downtown Waco.
The Waco Mammoth National Monument is the only place where a Columbian mammoth nursery herd was found.
One of the largest Baptist universities in the world, founded in 1845 — the oldest continuously operating university in Texas.
Once the longest suspension bridge west of the Mississippi, it served as a model for the Brooklyn Bridge.
Waco's Food Scene Is Legit
Texas BBQ, farm-to-table, James Beard–nominated chefs — Waco punches well above its weight.
Texas BBQ
Central Texas–style slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage that'll make you weep with joy.
- Guess Family Barbecue
- The Backyard Bar-B-Que
- Rudy's Country Store
Tex-Mex
Authentic Tex-Mex with fresh handmade tortillas, homemade salsa, and massive margaritas.
- Jorge's Tex-Mex
- El Conquistador
- Taqueria El Regio
Cafés & Bakeries
From Joanna Gaines' famous bakery to longtime Waco institutions — perfect for a morning stop.
- Silos Baking Co.
- Common Grounds
- Health Camp
Travelers Love Waco
See what visitors are saying about their trips.
“Waco blew us away. Magnolia Market was Instagram-perfect, but the Mammoth Monument was the highlight of our whole Texas trip.”
“We spent three days and still didn't see everything. Cameron Park Zoo is world-class, and the food scene is incredible for a mid-size city.”
“The Dr Pepper Museum alone is worth the trip. Who knew a soda museum could be so fascinating? The soda fountain is a must.”
Best Time to Visit Waco
Waco welcomes visitors year-round — here's what to expect each season.
Spring
Mar – May
Perfect weather, wildflower season on Hwy 6. Waco Arts Festival in April. Pack light layers.
Summer
Jun – Aug
Hot (95°F+). Hit the zoo early, grab lunch indoors. Lake Waco is perfect for water activities.
Fall
Sep – Nov
Best weather of the year. Baylor football season — electric atmosphere downtown on game days.
Winter
Dec – Feb
Mild winters (50s°F). Holiday décor at Magnolia is magical. Smaller crowds at all attractions.
Ready to Explore Waco?
Start planning your visit today. Waco is friendly, affordable, and full of surprises. Come for a day, stay for the weekend.