Best Things To Do In Waco, Texas
Last weekend, two of my best friends and I got to explore Waco and it was an absolute dream. Waco has grown and become even cooler over the years and it is such a fun spot for a girls trip! We stayed at the cutest airbnb located right in the middle of town (just 291 steps from the Magnolia Silos) and walking distance to restaurants and bars. It had the prettiest backyard, fun country-chic decor and a top tier ambiance.
We were so excited to explore the city, and I am even MORE excited to share a lengthy list of what I feel are the absolute must do’s in Waco — this is from years of trips to Waco, too, not just from weekend, so I promise to not lead you astray. I consider myself a Waco connoisseur, if you will, but I’ll let you be the judge.
Guess Family Barbecue: Featured in Texas Monthly as one of the Top 25 New Barbecue Joints in Texas, Guess Family Barbecue serves some amazing brisket sandwiches, pork ribs, and the yummiest loaded baked potatoes. This is one of my favorite spots in Waco to grab a quick lunch, it truly never misses.
Boiler Room: Located inside the Findery, The Boiler Room is a beer and wine lounge serving up cold craft beers and select wines by the glass or bottle. Shop around 10,000 square feet of shopping at The Findery and grab yourself a glass of prosecco before or after!
Dr Pepper Museum: Did you know that Dr Pepper was created, manufactured and sold beginning in 1885 in Waco?! And there’s no period after the “r” of Dr Pepper! The museum is so fun to explore and learn lots of interesting information on the history of this iconic soda. We did the “Make Your Own Soda” experience where we got to concoct and name our own personalized drink and had SO much fun. Be sure to snag a Dr Pepper float!
Heritage Creamery: Located near Baylor campus, this cutie ice cream spot is so adorable and has some amazing ice cream, shakes, ice cream sandwiches, etc. The staff is incredibly kind and welcoming, and you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. 10/10 recommend for the hot Texas Summer weather ahead.
Oh My Juice: This spot has three locations throughout Waco and serves up yummy salads, smoothies, acaí bowls, fresh cold-pressed juices, etc. Their spaces are cute and the acaí bowls are truly so dang good, I loaded mine up with toppings and was happppy.
Pignetti’s: This classic Italian spot is amazing for all things pasta, but also has some yummy arancini, salads, bread, and steaks. The space is cozy and they have a decently sized patio to enjoy a dirty martini. I will likely dream of their Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo for years to come - so good!
Dichotomy: Heavenly cocktails, delicious coffee, and a rooftop deck that serves all of the best Waco views. The space is vintage-chic vibes and covered in local art which makes it such a fun space to enjoy your morning coffee, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a nightcap.
Maria Mezcaleria: Located inside the Waco Hippodrome, this mezcal-themed spot has the cutest decor and really delicious Modern Mexican inspired bites. They also offer a daily brunch! I loved the chicken tinga tostaditas and the chips and guac.
Fabled Bookshop & Cafe: This café and bookstore is adorable and has a great book selection and yummy coffee. Take it easy in this cozy and welcoming space, it’s honestly the perfect spot to chill and read for a bit with a coffee.
Milo All Day: I have been to this stunning restaurant more times than I can count and have not once had a bad experience - the food is killer and the space is gorg! I love their hot chicken tacos, the burger, and their truffle fries. If you go for brunch, get the Georgia Benedict with pimento cheese!
Common Grounds: A Waco icon. CG has opened up so many locations in Waco and its surrounding areas (and even opened one in Fort Worth!) and has been somewhere I have visited for coffee since I was a freshman in college …. a long time ago. They have a vibey outdoor area that is home to a lot of good live music and concerts, and some of the best coffee drinks you’ll ever have. Cowboy Coffee 4ever.
Mural hunt around town: Waco is home to so many gorgeous murals - my faves are the Starry Night mural and the Lookin’ Good Wacotown mural. Such a fun way to explore the city and get some cute pictures to boot!
Go horseback riding at Brazos Bluffs Ranch: Located only 10 minutes from downtown, this was my favorite thing we did and I will be waiting patiently for when I can find time to go horseback riding again. This ranch was wonderful, the trails were beautiful and the staff were so so sweet and knowledgeable. We did “The Rancher” horseback experience and the ride really was suitable for all riding abilities. Cannot recommend them enough!
Explore Magnolia Market: If you’ve heard of Waco, you’ve definitely heard of Magnolia. The shops at the Silos have something for everybody, with six boutique shops on property containing a variety of items like books, jewelry, bath + body, clothes, etc. They have an assortment of food trucks on property - we got sweet tea from the Alabama Sweet Tea Company and a grilled cheese from Cheddar Box. Also, the cupcakes at Silo Baking Co. are elite. Magnolia Table + Magnolia Press are also amazing spots by Chip and Joanna Gaines if you’d like to stop in for brunch or coffee without getting in the mix of the silos!
Stroll the Riverwalk: Explore the pedestrian only path along the Brazos River, admire the Suspension Bridge and the activity on the water. Waco really is a gorgeous central Texas gem.
Pivovar: This Czech brewery and restaurant has the coolest Texas flair and serves some incredible German-style dishes, beer flights, and their homemade desserts are not to be missed either. I’ve been in a couple times now and loved their Braised Short Rib Goulash for dinner and their Reuben sandwich at lunch!
One Day: Serving up coffee, beer, wine and some of the best cocktails I’ve ever had, One Day is a must visit anytime I’m in Waco. Literally I have been probably 20 times. Their space is gorgeous and the staff are always so kind and knowledgeable. I love their crown jewel, the pink flamingo, and have always loved every dirty martini I’ve ever had here.
Sloan’s: I would give anything to pick this bar up and drive it down to Austin. Their drinks are top tier and the vibes are immaculate. They have open seating and table service and are truly just the most perfect spot probably ever. Love it SO much.
Diamondbacks: This Texas-style chophouse offers a variety of menu items including steaks, seafood, pasta and sushi in an elegant dining room. I have loved every sushi roll I have tried here and dream of their five-cheese mac and cheese and their mashed potatoes.
Yaki: I love a drive-in, but I love a Texas-style teriyaki drive-in even more. They serve a complete meal-in-a-box with rice, protein of choice, and slaw. Get the smoked salmon box and a side of their spicy mayo and thank me later. It’s all gluten and dairy-free and delish!
Pinewood Coffee: Best coffee in Waco, without a doubt. That’s all.
Waco truly doesn’t get enough credit - it has so many amazing gems. My love for exploring Waco has only grown over the years and I am so excited for the ways the city continues to boom with amazing restaurants, bars and shops. If you haven’t been already, I definitely recommend a weekend (or weekday!) getaway to check out all the city has to offer.
This post is sponsored by the City of Waco, but the opinions expressed here are my own.