Looking for cheap Flights to Waco Municipal, Texas, USA (ACT) airport?

Waco, accessible via affordable flights to Waco at ACT airport (Waco Regional Airport), is a dynamic city in Central Texas, celebrated for its profound historical roots, iconic cultural landmarks, and its starring role in the beloved "Fixer Upper" series, blending captivating heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and Southern hospitality for an immersive and inspiring travel journey. The Magnolia Market at the Silos, crafted by Chip and Joanna Gaines, emerges as a flagship attraction, luring global visitors to its innovative shops, diverse food trucks, and lush green expanse anchored by towering grain silos, embodying Waco's modern renaissance.

The Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute captivates with its tribute to the city's soft drink legacy, featuring interactive displays and a nostalgic soda fountain in the original 1906 bottling plant. The Mayborn Museum Complex at Baylor University delights with hands-on natural history exhibits, cultural artifacts, and science galleries, fostering curiosity across generations. Cameron Park Zoo enchants along the Bosque River with naturalistic habitats for exotic wildlife, while the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum honors the legendary lawmen through artifacts, stories, and immersive galleries.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument reveals prehistoric wonders at an active dig site, preserving a nursery herd of Columbian mammoths from 65,000 years ago, with guided tours unveiling ancient ecosystems. The Waco Suspension Bridge, a 1870 engineering marvel spanning the Brazos River, invites scenic walks amid historic cattle drive echoes. Savor Texas staples like smoky brisket, Tex-Mex tacos, and pecan pie at lively eateries, with annual highlights like the Texas Food Truck Showdown adding culinary flair. With budget flights to Waco, this Heart of Texas hub fuses timeless landmarks, natural treasures, and creative innovation into a must-experience destination for history seekers, families, and design devotees exploring Central Texas.

Why Visit Waco, Texas

Waco enchants with Magnolia Market's trendy vibe, the Dr Pepper Museum's fizzy fun, and the Waco Mammoth Monument's ancient allure. Families adore Cameron Park Zoo, adventurers explore Brazos River trails, and culture lovers tour Texas Ranger exhibits. With low-cost airfare to Waco, it's perfect for couples, solo explorers, and groups craving history, nature, and Magnolia magic in a welcoming Texas town.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 146,608 (2024 estimate)
• Founded: 1849
• Area: 95.5 square miles
• Key Highlight: Magnolia Market at the Silos
• Notable Event: Heart O' Texas Fair & Rodeo, annual October event
• Fun Fact: Waco is the birthplace of Dr Pepper, invented in 1885
• Local Treat: Texas brisket
• Landmark: Waco Suspension Bridge

Geographic Location & Climate

Waco, in McLennan County, Central Texas, straddles the Brazos River along I-35, 100 miles south of Dallas and 100 miles north of Austin. Its humid subtropical climate features mild winters (average high 59°F) and hot summers (average high 96°F). Annual rainfall is 36 inches, with occasional snow. Spring and fall (65-85°F) are optimal for outdoor festivals and tours with cheap round-trip flights to Waco; summer suits river activities, winter offers mild sightseeing.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Waco, Texas

Total Population

Population is 146,608 (2024), with 1.5% growth since 2020, driven by education and tourism.

Age Distribution

Median age is 29.0 years; 19.4% under 18, 23.4% 18-24, 25.4% 25-44, 18.5% 45-64, 13.2% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 54.0%, Hispanic 31.7%, Black 20.4%, Asian 2.0%, Two or More Races 2.6%, Native American 0.3%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 49.0%, females 51.0%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.5; family households 60.0%, non-family 40.0%; 25.0% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Growth of 2.3% since 2020, projected to 150,000 by 2028, fueled by university and industry.

Economy & Living Standards In Waco, Texas

Major Industries & Employers

Education, healthcare, manufacturing, retail lead; top employers:

• Baylor University, 1 Bear Place #97056, Waco, TX 76798
• Waco ISD, 6920 Atwood Ave, Waco, TX 76710
• Ascension Providence Hospital, 6901 Medical Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712
• H-E-B, 2200 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Hillcrest, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Texas State Technical College Waco, 3801 Campus Dr, Waco, TX 76705
• Doris Miller VA Medical Center, 4800 Memorial Dr, Waco, TX 76711
• City of Waco, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• McLennan Community College, 1400 College Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• L3Harris Technologies, 6000 34th St, Waco, TX 76710
• Dr Pepper Snapple Group, 5301 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76710
• General Motors, 3300 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Texas Farm Bureau, 7424 Fish Pond Rd, Waco, TX 76710
• American Income Life Insurance, 6000 34th St, Waco, TX 76710
• Capital One, 6000 34th St, Waco, TX 76710

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 3.8%; jobs focus on education (25%), healthcare, manufacturing, with seasonal tourism roles.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $51,468; cost of living 92.5% of U.S. average; median home value $210,500.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 18.4%; challenges include housing costs and workforce training.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Education and manufacturing thrive; incentives for tech and healthcare startups.

Health & Wellness In Waco, Texas

General Health Overview

Life expectancy is 77.5 years; active lifestyles and hospitals support health.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (32%), diabetes, mental health; addressed by wellness programs.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• WRS Athletic Club, 300 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Planet Fitness Waco, 300 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Greater Waco YMCA, 1001 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Gold's Gym Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Anytime Fitness Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Crunch Fitness Waco, 300 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• REFIT Studio Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• F45 Training Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Orangetheory Fitness Waco, 1428 Wooded Acres Dr #116, Waco, TX 76710
• South Waco Community Center, 2900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• Train Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• HotWorx Waco, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Summit Recreation Center, 2900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• SWEAT at Cove Fitness, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Abrams Physical Fitness Center, 2900 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• House Of Gainz, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Warriors Gym, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Texas Fit Chicks, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Alternative Touch Wellness, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710
• Central Texas Family Karate, 5100 Franklin Ave Suite B, Waco, TX 76710

Mental Health Resources

• Mental Health Access Program, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Center for Youth, 3501 N 19th St, Waco, TX 76708
• Waco Family Medicine Behavioral Health, 1000 N 19th St, Waco, TX 76707
• Oceans Behavioral Hospital Waco, 5931 Crosslake Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712
• Heart of Texas Region MHMR Center, 110 S 12th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Heart of Texas Counseling Center, 2800 Lyle Ave, Waco, TX 76708
• Klaras Center for Families, 1105 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Psychological Associates PC, 900 Austin Ave #101, Waco, TX 76710
• NAMI Waco, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Center for Children and Families, 710 N 64th St, Waco, TX 76710
• The Center for Integrative Counseling, 1100 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Pathway Counseling Center, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Lake Shore Center for Psychological Services, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Enrichment Training & Counseling Solutions, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• The Grace Alliance, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Public Health Initiatives

Waco-McLennan County Public Health District runs wellness programs, vaccination clinics, and mental health outreach; community parks promote fitness.

Hospitals & Clinics In Waco, Texas

Top 10 Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Ascension Providence Hospital, 6901 Medical Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Hillcrest, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Doris Miller VA Medical Center, 4800 Memorial Dr, Waco, TX 76711
• Express Emergency Room Waco, 900 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76712
• Premier ER & Urgent Care Waco, 900 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76712
• Legacy ER & Urgent Care Waco, 900 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76712
• Heart of Texas Surgery Center, 2401 N 31st St, Temple, TX 76508 (regional)
• Cedar Crest Hospital, 3500 Interstate 35, Belton, TX 76513 (regional)
• Georgetown Behavioral Hospital, 3101 S Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626 (regional)
• Oceans Behavioral Hospital Waco, 5931 Crosslake Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• NextCare Urgent Care Waco, 1201 Hewitt Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Premier ER & Urgent Care Waco, 900 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76712
• Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care+ Waco Hewitt, 1201 Hewitt Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Ascension Medical Group Providence Express Care at Woodway, 6901 Medical Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712
• Concentra Urgent Care Waco, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• FastMed Urgent Care Waco, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Providence Express Care Lacy Lakeview, 6901 Medical Pkwy, Waco, TX 76712
• Waco Family Medicine Extended Hours Clinic, 1000 N 19th St, Waco, TX 76707
• Concentra Waco Valley Mills, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Marketplace Clinic, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Garrett S. Pool MD, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Family Health Center, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Treat n Go Clinic, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Epiphany Dermatology, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701
• Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Bosque Clinic, 510 Austin Ave #100, Waco, TX 76701

Specialty Medical Centers

• Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest General Surgery and Breast Care, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Baylor Scott & White Outpatient Neuro Rehabilitation, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Baylor Scott & White Liver and Pancreas Disease Center, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Revitalize SkinMD, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Waco Heart & Vascular, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Waco Neurotherapy, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Wilcox A Patricia MD PA, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Tracy A Kramer RNC FNP C, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Pramila K Daftary MD, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Healthsouth Waco Surgical Center, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Waco Surgical Center, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Providence Hospice, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Hillcrest Community Hospice, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Hickory Trail Hospital, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• DePaul Center, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Coryell Health Medical Clinic Waco, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712
• Waco Primary Care, 100 Hillcrest Medical Blvd, Waco, TX 76712

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Ascension Providence and Baylor Scott & White offer telehealth; Heart of Texas MHMR provides virtual counseling.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Waco, Texas

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Animal Hospital of Waco, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Cottonwood Creek Veterinary Hospital Waco, 14000 Woodway Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Ranch House Pet-Med, 843 Sundown Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• La Vega Veterinary Clinic, 555 E Loop 340, Waco, TX 76705
• South Bosque Veterinary Clinic, 14000 Woodway Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Ramsgate Veterinary Clinic, 843 Sundown Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Northside Animal Hospital, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Waco Animal Emergency Clinic, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Texas Animal Medical Center, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Barkley Animal Clinic, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• La Vega Veterinary Clinic, 555 E Loop 340, Waco, TX 76705
• South Bosque Veterinary Clinic, 14000 Woodway Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Ramsgate Veterinary Clinic, 843 Sundown Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Northside Animal Hospital, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Barkley Animal Clinic, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Live Oak Veterinary Park, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Animal Birth Control Clinic, 3238 Clay Ave, Waco, TX 76711
• Hewitt Veterinary Hospital, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Judd Veterinary Clinic, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Crossroads Animal Clinic, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• PetSmart Grooming, 2200 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Paws & Claws Pet Resort, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Bark Avenue Pet Grooming, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Happy Tails Pet Lodge, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Alpha Valley Boarding Kennel, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Laurel Acres Boarding Kennel, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Kelly's Pet Sitting, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Valley View Ranch and Kennels, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• House of Paws, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710
• Lucky Dog Pet Salon, 700 S 41st St, Waco, TX 76710

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Cameron Park, 2600 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Lake Waco Wetlands, 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Rd, Waco, TX 76702
• Brazos River Trail, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Indian Spring Park, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Doris Miller Park, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Martin Luther King Jr Lookout, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Woodway Park, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Lake Whitney State Park, 5802 FM 3402, Whitney, TX 76692
• Mother Neff State Park, 1500 State Park Rd 455, Moody, TX 76557
• Lake Waco, 3801 Zoo Park Dr, Waco, TX 76708

Local Government & Public Services In Waco, Texas

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Waco City Hall, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

County Government Services

• McLennan County Courthouse, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701

Public Records and Licensing

• McLennan County Clerk, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco City Secretary, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Waco Planning Department, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• McLennan County Planning, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701

Tax and Revenue Offices

• McLennan County Treasurer, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Finance Department, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Waco Police Department, 720 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Fire Department, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• McLennan County Sheriff, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701

Courts and Legal Aid

• McLennan County District Court, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Municipal Court, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Texas Legal Services Center, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Public Works and Utilities

• Waco Public Works, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Utilities Department, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• McLennan County Elections, 215 N 5th St, Waco, TX 76701

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: John Cornyn (R), Ted Cruz (R)
House Representative (TX-31 District): John Carter (R)

Education & Libraries In Waco, Texas

Public School Districts

Served by Waco ISD.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Waco High School, 107 N 15th St, Waco, TX 76707
• University High School, 8501 Old Ferris Rd, Waco, TX 76708
• West High School, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Tennyson Middle School, 6100 Tennyson Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Cesar Chavez Middle School, 700 S 15th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Brook Avenue Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Bell Plain Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Bosqueville Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Crestview Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Dowell Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Goliad Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Highland Heights Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Mountainview Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• North Waco Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Parkdale Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• South Waco Elementary, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Summit High School, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706

Charter and Private Schools

• Rapoport Academy Public School, 615 N 25th St, Waco, TX 76707
• Harmony Science Academy Waco, 1000 W Hwy 6, Waco, TX 76706
• Live Oak Classical School, 400 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Vanguard College Preparatory School, 2000 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Montessori Schools of Central Texas, 6125 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76710
• Mercy Preparatory Academy, 420 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Grace Preparatory Academy, 420 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Summit School Waco, 420 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Valor Preparatory Academy, 420 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Waco Charter School, 615 N 25th St, Waco, TX 76707

Colleges and Universities

• Baylor University, 1 Bear Pl #97356, Waco, TX 76798; Majors: Business, Biology, Nursing
• Texas State Technical College Waco, 3801 Campus Dr, Waco, TX 76705; Majors: Nursing, Welding, Automotive
• McLennan Community College, 1400 College Dr, Waco, TX 76708; Majors: General Studies, Liberal Arts
• Tarleton State University Waco, 1400 College Dr, Waco, TX 76708; Majors: Business, Education

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Waco-McLennan County Library Central, 4651 Luedeke Ave, Waco, TX 76756
• East Waco Library, 901 Elm Ave, Waco, TX 76704
• South Waco Library, 200 S 14th St, Waco, TX 76701
• West Waco Library, 445 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706

Flights & Travel Logistics In Waco, Texas

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months ahead for discount airfare to Waco; March and October offer cheap one-way flights; avoid summer peaks.

Airlines That Serve Waco, Texas

ACT served by American Airlines with daily flights to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

ACT primary; alternatives: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW, 1.5 hr), Austin (AUS, 2 hr). Drive I-35; Greyhound to Dallas.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at ACT (Hertz, Enterprise); taxis ($15-25 downtown); Uber/Lyft available; Waco Transit buses ($1.25/trip).

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for hot summers; book Magnolia tours early; try brisket; rent a car for parks; check fair schedules. Secure low-budget flights to Waco for savings.

Where to Stay In Waco, Texas

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Quality Inn Waco, 1102 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Motel 6 Waco, 1400 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Super 8 by Wyndham Waco, 1320 S I-35, Waco, TX 76711
• Days Inn by Wyndham Waco, 1502 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Econo Lodge Waco, 704 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Rodeway Inn Waco, 701 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Travelodge by Wyndham Waco, 701 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Budget Lodge Waco, 701 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Red Lion Inn & Suites Waco, 701 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705
• Executive Inn Hotel & Conference Center, 701 N I-35, Waco, TX 76705

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Hotel 1928, 1801 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• 1700 South 2nd, 1700 S 2nd St, Waco, TX 76706
• LaSalle Shoppes Boutique Stay, 2223 La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• The Findery Boutique, 1025 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Cameron Trading Co Inn, 1025 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Spice Village Boutique, 1025 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Junque in the Trunk, 2223 La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• Laverty's Antique Inn, 1025 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Hilton Waco, 113 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront, 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Hotel Indigo Waco Baylor, 100 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Waco, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Element Waco, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Hyatt Place Waco South, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Aloft Waco Downtown, 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Pivovar Hotel, 101 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waco South, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Comfort Suites Waco North, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Waco Downtown Baylor, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Best Western Plus Waco North, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Waco North, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Sleep Inn & Suites Waco North, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Candlewood Suites Waco, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Downtown Waco Homes, Various, Waco, TX 76701
• VRBO Brazos River Cabins, Near S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Extended Stay America Waco, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Waco Texas, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Staybridge Suites Waco South Woodway, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Residence Inn Waco South, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• TownePlace Suites Waco South, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701
• Live Oak Lake Cabins, 201 N University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76701

Getting Around In Waco, Texas

Public Transportation Overview

Waco Transit System buses ($1.25/trip); routes cover downtown, Baylor, malls.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at ACT (Avis, Budget); Uber/Lyft $10-20; taxis $15-25; bike rentals limited.

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown Waco 75/100 walkable; Brazos River Trail bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free street parking downtown; metered near Baylor ($1/hr); 25 mph residential; watch for event traffic.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Waco, Texas

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Lake Waco (10 min); Cameron Park (5 min).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Cameron Park Trails, 2600 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Lake Waco Wetlands Trail, 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Rd, Waco, TX 76702
• Brazos River Trail, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Indian Spring Park Trail, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Doris Miller Park Trail, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Wildlife Viewing

Deer, birds at Lake Waco Wetlands; bison at Cameron Park Zoo.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Lake Waco, 3801 Zoo Park Dr, Waco, TX 76708; boating, fishing
• Brazos River, 100 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701; kayaking, paddling

Camping and RV Parks

• Lake Waco Marina, 3801 Zoo Park Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• Cedar Chest RV Park, 31707 W Hwy 84, McGregor, TX 76657

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring hiking, summer boating, fall biking, winter birdwatching.

History & Heritage In Waco, Texas

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1849 as Waco Village; grew via railroads, cotton, cattle drives.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Baylor University founding (1845). Sad: 1953 tornado killed 114.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-1953 tornado: Federal aid, rebuilt infrastructure, community resilience programs.

Historical Landmarks

• Magnolia Market at the Silos, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• Dr Pepper Museum, 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Mayborn Museum Complex, 1300 S University Parks Dr, Waco, TX 76706

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, 100 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Mammoth National Monument, 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• Cameron Park Zoo, 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76707

Local Folklore and Legends

Tales of 1896 Crash at Crush train stunt; Waco Mammoth "nursery herd" myths.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Waco (Hueco) tribe lands pre-1800s; pioneers via Chisholm Trail 1860s; railroads boomed 1880s.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Waco, Texas

• Steve Martin: Comedian, actor, born in Waco.
• Chip & Joanna Gaines: HGTV stars, Magnolia founders, Waco residents.
• Jennifer Love Hewitt: Actress, born in Waco.

Arts & Culture In Waco, Texas

Performing Arts Venues

• Waco Civic Theatre, 1517 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX 76712
• Brazos Theatre, 417 N 6th St, Waco, TX 76701

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Art Center Waco, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Waco Cultural Arts Fest Gallery, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Local Artists and Artisans

Potters, painters at Waco Cultural Arts Fest; muralists in downtown.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Waco Cultural Arts Fest, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Texas Music Cafe Festival, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Texas Music Cafe, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Backyard Bar Stage & Grill, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Food & Drink In Waco, Texas

Restaurants by Cuisine

• American - Magnolia Table, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706; Specialty: Chicken & dumplings
• BBQ - Terry Black's Barbecue Waco, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706; Specialty: Brisket
• Mexican - Ninfa's Mexican Restaurant, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706; Specialty: Fajitas
• Italian - Di Campli's Italian Ristorante, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706; Specialty: Lasagna
• Asian - Kitok Restaurant, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706; Specialty: Korean BBQ

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Cafe Homestead uses local produce; Waco Farmers Market sources regional beef, veggies.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Southern Roots Brewing Co, 912 Austin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Brotherwell Brewing, 1801 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Balcones Distillery, 221 S 1st St, Waco, TX 76701
• Veteran's Craft Brewing, 1801 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Valley Mills Vineyards, 1801 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Waco Downtown Farmers Market, 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Texas Food Truck Showdown, 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Milo All Day offers vegan burgers; most spots provide gluten-free.

Shopping & Leisure In Waco, Texas

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Spice Village, 901 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706
• Craft Gallery, 7524 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76710

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Richland Mall, 6001 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710
• Central Texas Marketplace, 6001 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 76710

Antique Stores and Markets

• Cedar Chest Antique Mall, 31707 W Hwy 84, McGregor, TX 76657
• LaSalle Shoppes, 2223 La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 76706

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Magnolia Market Gift Shop, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• Dr Pepper Museum Store, 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701

Events & Entertainment In Waco, Texas

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Heart O' Texas Fair & Rodeo, 4601 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76710
• Waco Cultural Arts Fest, 701 Jefferson Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Waco Downtown Farmers Market, 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Baylor Bears Athletics, 1 Bear Pl #97356, Waco, TX 76798
• Waco ISD Sports, 6920 Atwood Ave, Waco, TX 76710

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Waco Wonderland, 500 Washington Ave, Waco, TX 76701
• Christmas at the Silos, 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706

Nearby Destinations In Waco, Texas

Popular Day Trips

• Dallas, TX (1.5 hr): Dallas Arboretum
• Austin, TX (2 hr): Texas State Capitol

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Lake Whitney State Park, 5802 FM 3402, Whitney, TX 76692: A serene reservoir with hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping, ideal for nature escapes, 45 minutes from Waco.
• Mother Neff State Park, 1500 State Park Rd 455, Moody, TX 76557: Features historic CCC structures, river views, and easy hikes, perfect for history and relaxation, 30 minutes away.

Scenic Drives and Routes

• I-35 to Lake Whitney, Waco, TX 76701
• FM 56 to Mother Neff Park, Waco, TX 76701

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Lake Whitney State Park, 5802 FM 3402, Whitney, TX 76692
• Mother Neff State Park, 1500 State Park Rd 455, Moody, TX 76557

Audience-Specific Guides In Waco, Texas

Family Travel Tips

Visit Cameron Park Zoo, explore Mayborn Museum, stay at Hampton Inn, attend Heart O' Texas Fair with cheap travel deals to Waco.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Tour Dr Pepper Museum, hike Cameron Park, dine at Milo All Day, visit Texas Ranger Hall with low-cost airline deals to Waco.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Magnolia Table, stay at Hotel 1928, stroll Waco Suspension Bridge, tour Balcones Distillery with discount round-trip tickets to Waco.

Business Travel Essentials

Near ACT, meetings at Hilton Waco, quick BBQ at Terry Black's, Wi-Fi at Cambria Hotel with budget plane tickets to Waco.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant museums, ramps at Baylor, accessible shuttles via Waco Transit.

Natural Resources In Waco, Texas

Water, soil, timber, oil. Water, abundant in the Brazos River, fueled Waco's growth as a cattle drive hub, explored at Cameron Park Wetlands. Guided river tours highlight this vital resource, attracting eco-tourists with flight bargains to Waco.

Ready to explore Waco? Book cheapest flights available to Waco Municipal, Texas, USA (ACT) airport and save up to $142 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Waco Municipal, Texas, USA (ACT) may offer best flight deals and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 10, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.