Waco, Texas, is in the center of it all. Situated along the Brazos River and I-35, Waco is the hub of the four most populated metropolitan areas in Texas: Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. With a metro population of over 300,000, Waco offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
Platted in 1849, the community grew with the cotton industry, and cattle drives along the Chisholm Trail helped stimulate the post-Civil War economy. Walk in the hoof prints of the era on one of Waco’s signature attractions, the single-span suspension bridge over the Brazos River, which helped transport countless heads of cattle. The bridge and surrounding bronze cattle now host events and connect a riverwalk loop.
Baylor University moved to Waco in 1886, enhancing the city’s reputation for education which led some to dub the city the “Athens of Texas.” The Mayborn Museum complex on campus features natural and cultural history including a limestone cave, a Waco Indian dwelling, and an Anglo settler’s log cabin.
Located near downtown Waco, the 416-acre Cameron Park is a natural treasure. From scenic overlooks, twisting trails, and giant playgrounds to picnic spots, riverfront fishing, and an award-winning zoo, Cameron Park is a true Waco gem with something new to discover in every corner. The 52-acre zoo features a diverse collection that includes over 1,731 animals, representing 300 species from around the world.
Waco is known for the influence that TV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have on the city. Visiting the Magnolia Silos is a must-see attraction while in town. At Magnolia Market, visitors find a garden store, a bakery, multiple food trucks, a coffee shop, a home store, and multiple boutique-style shops. Visitors can also play games on the lawn, visit the renovated Old Church, and take part in wiffle ball at Katy Ballpark.
Sitting on more than 100 acres of wooded parkland along the Bosque River and surrounded by oak, mesquite, and cedar trees, the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a glimpse of the past through actual fossils still in their original location.
Other attractions include the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, Dr Pepper Museum, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Historic House Museums, Armstrong Browning Library, Doris Miller Memorial, Historic Waco Suspension Bridge, scenic hiking and biking trails and canoeing and kayaking on the Brazos and Bosque Rivers. Endowed with natural beauty, entertaining and educational museums and attractions, and plenty of recreational activities, you’ll find Waco’s offerings, like the city itself, are conveniently located and easy to get to.
With over 3,000 hotel rooms, 8 new hotels, 37 conference venues, and its close proximity to the largest metropolitan areas in Texas, you can see why meeting planners call Waco an event-friendly city.
Make Your GetaWaco
Waco has a lot to offer. Chip and Joanna Gaines should know. They call Waco home and love to share their reasons why Waco is such a great city to visit. Watch this video produced by City of Waco Economic Development & Tourism to learn more why Waco is much more than a day trip.
Waco TPID Partner
