ABOUT TOWN
To Do
Cameron Park
Cameron Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, and it’s where Waco celebrates life! Located right next door to downtown and the Brazos River, the park is an oasis with towering trees, two rivers, breathtaking cliffs and a National Recreation Trail system. Hikers and bikers share the park with fishermen, disc golfers and picnickers.
Mayborn Museum
Check out the 143,000 square foot building on the Baylor University Campus – full of natural science and cultural historical exhibits from Central Texas. With numerous rotating vibrant exhibits, and compelling hands-on activities – you’ll find something to do between surf sessions every time!
Magnolia Silos
Chip & Joanna Gaines created a stunning shopping complex that encompasses two city blocks in downtown Waco, Texas.Their space features a big green lawn and lawn games, food trucks, and an outdoor stage (plus a huge home decor market). Admission is free, but you’ll want to grab a lemonade and snack!
Martin Museum of Art
Check out the upcoming exhibitions online and enjoy art history and studio art coursework from the Department of Art and Art History alongside nationally and internationally recognized artist exhibitions.
Dr Pepper Museum
Built in 1906 by architect Milton Scott, the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company was the first building dedicated to the manufacturing of Dr Pepper. Take a tour, have a few samples and explore the historic building in downtown Waco!
To Eat
Cultura Mia
This isn’t TexMex. It’s from scratch, using traditional cooking methods, and ingredients that have been lost in transition through time… plus arguably the best Marg in town!
Opal’s
Coastal cuisine and al fresco cocktails on a hot Texas summer day?! Yes please! A passion project from the same group thats brining you mouth watering BBQ next door at Terry Black’s, Opal’s brings fresh seafood and exceptional service.
Hotel Herringbone
Stop by the new Hotel Herringbone in Downtown Waco – an airy, rustic-chic eatery serving up seasonal Southern comfort grub alongside cocktails, beer & wine.
Milo All Day
With seasonal and evolving menus throughout the year based on quality ingredients, you’ll find everything from a Little Gem Salad to salmon and grits on the menu – all with southern influence and flavor.
Terry Black’s BBQ
Originally from the BBQ capital of the work. Lockhart Texas, Terry Black’s has expanded into Waco – and boy we’re thankful. Make sure to go on a empty stomach and don’t skip on the classic sides like mac & cheese, green beans and corn bread before plating up with beff ribs, pork ribs, sliced turkey and sausage links.
Revival Eastside Eatery
Stylish spot in a former church with locally sourced burgers, salads & sandwiches, plus wine & beer. Located in East Waco – a pretty cool up and coming area for Waco!
To Drink
Balcones
Balcones Distillery is a world-class, locally rooted distillery in downtown. Try out a whiskey fleet, a cocktail or be surprised by their craft beers!
Pinewood
Our local coffee shop has been roasting their own coffee since 2014 (they even made us our own Surfside Blend for our Surfside Shack here at Waco Surf). On the other side of the cafe they offer unique beers on tap, organic wine by the glass, retail beer and wine bottles to-go.
Maria Mezcaleria
A modern Mexican restaurant in the hear of downtown Waco with a great people watching patio. Their mezcal and tequila selection is pretty insane, so get ready to settle in for a bit!
HOTEL 1928
Another beautiful project by Chip & Joanna Gaines of Magnolia – Hotel 1928 features 3 distinct restaurants featuring seasonal dishes and comfort classics between the restaurant, coffee shop and rooftop bar.
Segovia Wine Bar
Spanish tapas and wine?! Yes please! Segovia takes the traditional preparations from Spain and combines local Texas ingredients, and they also offer an unparalleled selection of wines – check out their website for live music events too!
Sloane’s
Tucked away in Waco’s Castle Height region is a high school 80’s themed cocktail bar with hand made liquors. Their rotating board of speciality themed cocktails, along with their dedication to seasonal decorations leads to a strong sense of “where am I?!”…
To Shop
Tecovas
Grab a pair of new boots at the Tecovas store on Washington Ave. They’ll find the perfect pair for you, and grab you a beer while you wait to have them custom branded!
Studio Grocery
Right next door is Studio Grocery – a vintage store selling all kinds of curated clothing and homewares.
Standard Hat Works
Standard Hat Works has been making heads look good since 1909 with hand crafted felt and straw hats. Make sure to make an appointment before you show up to get your head measured for your perfect hat.