While Waco is most famously known for Magnolia Market and Chip and Joanna Gaines there is so much to do in the city especially for kids. I am sharing the best 8 things to do in Waco with kids!
If you are planning or have booked a trip to Waco, you may be wondering what else there is to do in town besides Magnolia Market. There is actually a lot of fun that can be had in the city especially for kids. That’s why I am sharing my list of the best things to do in Waco with kids.
We only live about 1.5 hours away from Waco and have visited frequently in the past couple of years. Below is a list of some of our favorite activities to do in Waco when we visit as a family. Sometimes we even stop by Magnolia Market to see what’s new or to pick up one of Jo’s famous cupcakes from Silos Baking Co. If you would like tips for visiting Magnolia Market click here.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Waco Mammoth National Monument is a paleontological site and museum where Columbian Mammoths are in situ (still in their original position within the bone bed). It is part of the National Park System and we learned so much about Columbian mammoths and their fossils during our visit. You can read more about our experience and my tips for visiting by clicking here.
Cameron Park Zoo
Cameron Park Zoo is nestled in Cameron Park and it has large exhibits for the animals. The surroundings make you feel like you arrived in another land with water features and lush plants. There are lots of different animals to see including a reptile house, an aquarium, and the larger animals from Africa. You can also pay to feed the giraffes at a certain time each day.
Mayborn Museum Complex
The Mayborn Museum Complex brings together hands-on discovery rooms with interactive natural science and cultural history galleries. There is also an outdoor exhibit that recreates a historic village complete with 9 buildings. The museum is both engaging and entertaining for kids (and adults) of all ages. My daughter had so much fun at the museum that is begging to go back!
Bears at Baylor
While on Baylor Campus to enjoy the Mayborn Museum Complex, be sure to swing by the bears’ habit, who are the mascot for Baylor. Baylor campus is beautiful with lots of shade, places to sit, and fountains, so you can also walk around campus.
Dr. Pepper Museum
The Dr. Pepper Museum is dedicated to the nation’s oldest major soft drink – Dr Pepper! There are three floors of exhibits about different soft drinks and drink memorabilia. The museum also features soda fountain and you get a free Dr Pepper with paid admission.
Waco Suspension Bridge and Riverwalk
The Waco Suspension Bridge built-in 1870 is the oldest suspension bridge still standing in Texas and was the first bridge across the Brazos River. It is a beautiful bridge that is the perfect place for a stroll, to people watch, or take in a sunset – the bridge is pedestrian-only now.
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum
The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum tells the story of the Texas Rangers over the years and their history. The museum has several exhibits that also talk about special crimes or criminals in Texas history like Bonnie and Clyde. There is also a scavenger hunt for kids.
Ice Cream from Heritage Creamery
Heritage Creamery is located on the edge of Baylor campus. They have some unusual flavors as well as favorite classics. The ice cream is delicious and the inside is very cute. This is the perfect spot to head after a fun day of exploring. There is parking located behind the buildings.
I hope you have a trip to Waco where you are wishing for even more time to explore!
