In the early 1950s, Waco was a bustling and vibrant community experiencing extensive growth. But everything changed on May 11, 1953, when a deadly F5 tornado ripped through the heart of downtown. The twister destroyed or damaged more than 1,600 homes and businesses, killing 114 people and injuring 597 more. It took decades for the community to recover from the devastation. And then a far happier unexpected event took the city by storm in 2013: the launch of HGTV’s Fixer Upper with Chip and Joanna Gaines. In the 12 years since the rise of their Magnolia brand—including the Silos, a bakery, a coffeeshop, a restaurant, and Hotel 1928—Waco has seen its visitor count increase to almost 2 million a year. Water park Waco Surf is the latest destination drawing fans from all over the world. Visitors can’t get enough of the city’s hospitality, tourist attractions, and yes, shiplap.
DISTANCE FROM
DALLAS
1.5 hours
AUSTIN
1.5 hours
SAN ANTONIO
3 hours
HOUSTON
3 hours
EL PASO
9 hours
Stay & Eat
Hotel Herringbone
This 21-room boutique hotel made out of old shipping containers anchors a four-story shopping center. The hotel also offers three restaurants, including Red Herring, which serves upscale coastal Mediterranean fare and features live piano lounge performances.
Eat & Drink
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Catch a buzz day or night at this shop known for its classic espresso drinks and craft cocktails. Located in a renovated storefront in historic downtown, the space is covered in colorful murals and is home to the area’s first public rooftop deck.
Learn & See
Mammoth National Monument
Travel back in time at this paleontological dig site, which is home to the nation’s first and only recorded evidence of a nursery herd of ice age Columbian mammoths. Discovered in 1978, the site’s fossils are on view in their original position within the bone bed.
See
Waco Surf
Thrill seekers come from all over the world to experience this state-of-the-art water park. Take surfing lessons in the wave pool or try the wakeboard cable, which goes up to 21 mph.
Learn & See
Dr Pepper Museum
The oldest major soft drink in America was created in 1885 by local pharmacist Charles Alderton. The museum features exhibits about Dr Pepper and the soft drink industry. Splurge on a Dr Pepper float at the soda fountain.
Learn & See
Cameron Park Zoo
More than 1,700 animals call this 52-acre zoo home. Last year, it welcomed father and son Sumatran tigers named Gusti and Nakal and opened a South African penguin exhibit.
Shop & Drink
Fabled Bookshop & Cafe
Shop local at this indie bookstore and café known for its Narnia-
inspired wardrobe that serves as the entryway to the magical kids area.
