Planning a Weekend Trip to Waco, Texas? Here’s How to Make the Most of It
If you’re like me, you love doing your homework before a trip—scouting out the best spots to eat, fun things to do, and hidden gems that make a destination memorable. Waco, Texas, may seem like a small and quiet town, but don’t be fooled—it’s full of charm, history, and plenty of surprises.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick weekend getaway or passing through, Waco has more to offer than you might expect. With only two days to explore, it’s important to make every moment count. From delicious eats to unique attractions, here are some of my personal recommendations to help you enjoy a fun filled weekend in Waco.
Places To Eat
Let’s kick things off with my favorite topic—food! One of the best parts of traveling is trying new places to eat, and Waco did not disappoint. This town is filled with charming restaurants, mouthwatering desserts, and some seriously good coffee. I wish I had more time to try everything, but with just two days, I had to be strategic. Here are the spots I chose, and trust me they’re worth the visit!
- Fabled Bookshop & Cafe
This bookstore felt absolutely magical. It wasn’t very big, but it had such a cozy and inviting vibe. Rows of shelves were packed with books, and there were communal spaces where you could read, study, or just relax with a cup of handcrafted coffee. I ordered the Muggle Mocha—a delicious drink inspired by Butterbeer from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
2. Magnolia Table
Chip and Joanna Gaines’ restaurant is an absolute must-visit! The space is chic and stylish, with cozy farmhouse décor that gives it that signature Magnolia charm. It’s a popular spot, so I highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time—it fills up fast. I went for breakfast and tried Jo’s Biscuits and Butter Flight, the Farm Breakfast, and the Gaines Brothers Burger. Every bite was worth the hype!
3. Opal’s Oysters
If you love seafood, Opal’s is a must-try! This spot serves up fresh coastal cuisine with laid-back coastal vibes to match. Honestly, it was probably the best meal I had in Waco. I started with a dozen oysters—featuring a variety of selections—followed by creamy clam chowder, a fresh crudo plate, rich and cheesy lobster mac and cheese, and perfectly cooked Chilean sea bass. Every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully presented.
4. Tru Jamaica
You’ve got to check out Tru Jamaica for authentic Jamaican food! When I visited, they were operating out of a food truck because their restaurant building had unfortunately burned down. Renovations were underway, and they’re planning to reopen their full location soon.
This was my first time trying Jamaican food—and let me tell you, it definitely won’t be my last. I had the Beef Patties, Oxtails, and Jerk Chicken entrees, and each dish was packed with bold, unforgettable flavor. The owner was incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the experience even more memorable.
5. Waco Waffle Co
Okay, now for something sweet! I decided to give Waco Waffle Co a try—and honestly, nothing beats a warm, freshly made waffle topped with cold ice cream and fresh fruit. The combo was perfection. The place itself has a charming, rustic vibe, complete with a spinning water mill outside that adds to its cozy, small-town feel.
6. Silos Baking Co.
Another must-try dessert spot in Waco is Silos Baking Co., Chip and Joanna Gaines’ famous bakery. It’s the perfect place to grab a sweet treat! With so many baked goods to choose from, it was hard to pick just one. I asked one of the staff for a recommendation, and they suggested the Toasted Coconut cupcake—so I gave it a try, and it was absolutely delicious.
Things To Do
Okay, now for the fun stuff—activities! I was honestly surprised by how much there is to do in Waco. I only managed to check off about half the things on my list, which just means I’ll need to plan a second trip to really experience it all. From unique shops to outdoor spots and local attractions, Waco has way more to offer than you might expect.
- Dr. Pepper Museum
Did you know Dr. Pepper was originally created right here in Waco? Now you do! The Dr. Pepper Museum is packed with fun facts and rich history about this iconic soda. There’s so much to see and learn, from vintage advertisements to the story of how it all began. The museum also features interactive exhibits—including the chance to create your own soda concoction, which was such a fun experience!
And the best part? You get a free Dr. Pepper at the end of your visit. Admission is just $12, making it a great and affordable activity for families or anyone looking to explore something unique in Waco.
2. Brazos Bluffs Ranch
Ever been horseback riding? No? Now’s your chance! This was truly an experience I’ll never forget. I booked the sunset ride, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. I’ll be honest—I was a little nervous at first, but the horses were incredibly well-trained and gentle, which made the ride so much easier and more enjoyable.
I highly recommend the sunset ride—not only for the cooler temps, but for the stunning scenery. The staff even takes photos and videos for you throughout the ride. At one point, they led us to a secluded spot where we got to make s’mores and soak in the view. It was peaceful, beautiful, and honestly one of the highlights of my trip.
3. Magnolia Silos
Let’s be honest—this is probably the main reason you’re planning a trip to Waco! The Magnolia Silos are the must-see attraction, and it’s easy to see why. Chip and Joanna Gaines have completely transformed Waco into a destination spot, drawing visitors from all over the country.
There’s so much to see and do here—it’s visually stunning and incredibly inspiring, especially if you love home decor and design. You can shop, grab a bite to eat, relax on the lawn, and just take in the beautifully curated spaces.
One of my favorite parts? Visiting the old church that Joanna renovated. It’s peaceful, beautifully restored, and a perfect example of the Gaines’ signature style. Magnolia Silos is more than just a stop—it’s an experience.
4. Cottonland Castle
You probably didn’t know Texas has a castle—I sure didn’t! To my surprise, there’s one right in Waco. It’s called Cottonland Castle, and yes, Joanna Gaines bought and beautifully renovated it. Now, visitors can actually tour the inside of this historic home and see her incredible design work up close.
I didn’t have time to do the full tour, but I did drive by to check out the exterior—and it’s stunning. If you’re into architecture, history, or just want to see something totally unexpected in Texas, this is definitely worth adding to your list.
5. Valley Mills Vineyard
If you’re looking to unwind and relax, Valley Mills Vineyard is the perfect spot. With scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, it honestly didn’t even feel like I was in Texas—it felt more like California wine country.
You can tour the property and enjoy a wine tasting featuring a variety of reds, whites, and rosés. I tried five different wines, and by the end, let’s just say I was feeling a little tipsy! It’s a great way to slow down, sip, and soak in the beauty of the area.
Final Thoughts
Waco may be a small town, but it’s packed with charm, great food, unique experiences, and hidden gems that make it the perfect weekend getaway. From sipping wine in vineyard-style peace to riding horses at sunset and indulging in unforgettable eats, my two days in Waco flew by—and I’m already planning a return trip. Whether you’re a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines or just looking for a new place to explore, Waco has something special waiting for you. Hope this guide helps you make the most of your own adventure!
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