When in Waco: Must-See Wacotown Attractions

Next time you find yourself in Waco visiting Dwyer Group’s corporate campus, don’t forget to put aside a little time to explore! In just the past few years, our wonderful town has seen an amazing amount of growth – in population, small businesses, tourism, and excitement! You might be quick to assume that Waco’s not a very happening place, but you’re in for a delightful surprise. Here’s our list of must-see attractions and shops.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

Image Credit: Magnolia Market

One obvious reason for Waco’s recent revival is that it’s home to Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of the HGTV show, “Fixer Upper.” Fans of the show from all over the country have come flocking to Waco. They cruise the streets looking for some of the show’s completed projects or featured landmarks, and of course, they make a stop at Chip & Jo’s flagship store, Magnolia Market — and you should, too! There’s more to do at the silos than just shop — visit the garden, lounge on the lawn, or then grab a bite to eat at one of the food trucks. We recommend the Boss at Cheddar Box, the Jalapeno Popper at Co-Town Crepes or a warm buttermilk biscuit sandwich from Milo.

Magnolia Market: www.magnoliamarket.com | 254-235-0603

Cameron Park & Cameron Park Zoo

Image Credit: City of Waco Parks & Recreation

By far, one of the coolest things about Waco is Cameron Park. An oasis right next to our downtown area, the park is 416 acres under a canopy of trees with winding trails and breathtaking vistas. Avid joggers and cyclists will love the National Recreation Trail System, which zig zag along for 15 miles. Families can enjoy lunch or a celebration at any of the pavilions or picnic tables. Plus, Cameron Park has three playgrounds and splash pads for the kids to enjoy. Boaters, fishermen, or those just looking to enjoy a stroll along our waterfront will appreciate both of the rivers that run through the park, the Brazos and the Bosque.

Image Credit: Cameron Park Zoo

Also located in the park is the Cameron Park Zoo. Without a doubt, our zoo is among the best small city zoos in the country. In fact, it’s probably better than many of the big city zoos. Nestled among beautiful trees, waterfalls, and ponds, its natural habitat enclosures are home to more than 300 species, including Sumatran tigers, orangutans, elephants, otters, African lions, American black bears, jaguars, and more.

Cameron Park: www.waco-texas.com | 254-750-5980

Cameron Park Zoo: www.cameronparkzoo.com | 254-750-8400

Waco Museums

I once heard that Waco has more museums per capita than any other city in Texas, but which ones should you make time to visit? Without a doubt: the Dr Pepper Museum and the Mayborn Museum at Baylor University.

Image Credit: Dr Pepper Museum

Long before there was RG3 and Fixer Upper, Waco was known as the birthplace of Dr Pepper, the oldest major soft drink still sold around the world — the drink was invented in 1885, a year before Coca Cola. At the museum, you’ll learn everything you’d every need to know about Dr Pepper as well as other cool facts about the entire soft drink industry. Before you leave, make sure you visit the soda fountain! Order a Dr Pepper float (made with Blue Bell ice cream, of course!) or enjoy a Dr Pepper made the old-fashioned way.

Image Credit: Mayborn Museum

Great for grown-ups and kiddos, the Mayborn Museum is actually three museums in one. It’s home to a natural history museum, an outdoor historic village, and a children’s discovery center! Check out the Cabinets of Curiosities, view a diorama of the mammoth excavation site, stand inside a model of the human heart, splash and play in the bubble room, fulfill your dreams of being a TV weather reporter, or visit the outdoor historic village to learn about life in the 1890s.

Dr Pepper Museum: www.drpeppermuseum.com | 254-757-1025

Mayborn Museum: www.maybornmuseum.com | 254-710-1110

McLane Stadium

Image Credit: McLane Stadium

Even though it’s not football season yet, a trip to Baylor University’s McLane Stadium is a lot of fun. The stadium sits on the east bank of the Brazos River, which it makes it one of only four college stadiums where fans can “sailgate” before a game. For just $10, anyone from the public can see the state-of-the-art facilities: Baylor Bears’ Locker Room, Recruit Lounge, Post-Game Interview Room, Press Box, Baylor Club and field access. If you happen to know a member of the Baylor Club, the stadium’s private membership program, have them to treat to dinner inside the stadium!

McLane Stadium: www.mclanestadium.com| 800-745-3000

Looking for a place to grab a bite to eat or a place to shop? Check out these other PTN team favorites:

Downtown Restaurants

Ninfa’s (Tex-Mex)

Cafe Cappuccino (breakfast)

The Mix (soups/salad/sandwich)

Xristo’s (Greek food truck)

Bangkok Royal (Thai) 

Jake’s Texas Tea House (southern home cooking)

Portofino’s (Italian) 

Shorty’s (pizza) 

Desserts & Snacks

Common Grounds (coffee)

Heritage Creamery (ice cream) 

Lula Jane’s (bakery) 

What About Cupcakes (cupcakes)

Hey Sugar (candy store)

Places to Shop

Spice Village

The Findery

Sironia 

Waco Downtown Farmers Market (Tues & Sat only)

Central Texas Marketplace