CITY SPOTLIGHT:

YOUR GUIDE TO Waco, Texas

lake in Waco, TX

Know Before You Go: About Waco

Find out what to pack, how to get around and what to see during your next trip to Waco—everything you need to know before you go.

Waco—located in central Texas between Austin and Dallas—is a small city that will exceed your expectations and is definitely one of the most fun-filled places you’ll ever visit, with attractions like a museum that celebrates the Dr. Pepper soft drink and a zoo. Waco is also home to the prestigious Baylor University. Go beyond sharing links and “likes” to sharing real moments on a leisure family getaway today!

A Cultural Hodgepodge

Learn all about wildlife and vegetation from throughout the state at the Cameron Park Zoo. You’ll find other epic exhibits like an alligator area and a butterfly garden. Expect to spot turkeys, bats, river otters, black bears and more! Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum for soft drink artifacts and memorabilia. Step into a wonderland of more than 60 stained-glass windows commemorating the works of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning at the Armstrong Browning Library. Get a taste of pioneer life at Homestead Heritage, featuring live demonstrations of old-fashioned methods of blacksmithing and basket-weaving. After you get your fix of history, animals and art at these fine establishments, head out to the Valley Mills Vineyards for some fabulous wine tasting.

The Cold Ain't So Bad

Depending on what time of year you visit, you might not have to layer on thick clothing to go exploring. Summer months are hot and humid with temperatures reaching 100 degrees from early July to late August. Thunderstorms producing hail is possible if you’re here in April or May. Winters are usually mild, although temperatures can plunge unexpectedly when cold fronts roll in from the High Plains.

Home to More Than Baylor

Waco is located in the hub of the state’s technology and manufacturing areas, but major industries aren’t limited to these fields. Baylor University contributes heavily to the city’s economy, and agriculture plays a vital role. Waco and its surrounding areas are major producers of cotton. A great deal of sorghum, cattle, poultry and corn come out of Waco as well.

Getting Around Waco

Waco has a regional airport, and the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is about 90 miles away. The city makes the commute easy, however, by offering the Waco Streak shuttle service between Waco and both Dallas airports, DFW and the Dallas Love Field Airport. Each van can hold up to 15 passengers, and you’ll need to book reservations in advance. Visiting without a car? Waco offers the DASH (Downtown Area Shuttle). It runs every 20 minutes daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Things to Do in Waco

Eclectic activities in Waco range from relaxing to adventurous. We help you explore one of the Lone Star State's most loved places.