Exploring The Waco TX Area: When In Waco

Waco, Texas has a lot to offer residents and tourists. Whether on a day trip from a surrounding town or from a location somewhere across the country, Waco has plenty of activities to fill anyone's calendar. From the grounds of Baylor University to the museums and waterways surrounding the city, Waco is waiting for you to explore.

The Waco Suspension Bridge is an amazing piece of architecture. Bookended by twin double-towers, the bridge was considered to be an engineering masterpiece in the 1860s. Historians believe this bridge is the catalyst that helped Waco transition from a frontier town to a location of commerce. The bridge has close to 3 million bricks which were cast locally. Due to the difficulties of the remote location of Waco, additional supplies traveled from Galveston via ferry to Bryan. In Bryan, the supplies were loaded on wagons and pulled by oxen until they reached Waco.

The Cameron Park Zoo is located on 52 acres alongside the Brazos River in Waco, Texas. Opening in 1993, the zoo offers its visitors a glimpse of the lives of over 1700 animals that represent 300 species from around the world. Originally, wildlife enthusiasts established the Central Texas Zoological Park for recreation and education. In 1981, a plan to enlarge the zoo's ability to house more animals and relocate to its current location was approved. To date, the zoo continues to grow to bring more educational opportunities to Waco and the zoo patrons.

The Texas Ranger Museum is a great journey through the history of the rangers and their legendary service to Texas. On your visit to the museum, you will discover the true story of the rangers as well as view actual relics from yesteryear. As early as 1823, a group of selected individuals, which would later become the Texas Rangers, was enacted to protect the Texas coast from Indian raids. As the need for protection grew throughout Texas, the Rangers were formed. The museum walks the visitor through the Ranger legacy from past to present. Visitors love it. History enthusiasts can't get enough of it.

Wouldn't you like to be a Pepper, too? That's right, Dr. Pepper was created in Waco, Texas. Currently, Dr. Pepper is one of the most popular soft drinks in the world, if not the most popular. The formula and drink were created in 1885, originating at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store. After being introduced during the 1904 World's Fair, Dr. Pepper became a worldwide sensation. A visit to the Dr. Pepper museum in Waco takes the visitor on a fantastic journey of the popular drink.

A trip to Waco would not be complete without a visit to the Magnolia Market at the Silos in downtown Waco. Made popular by Chip and Joanna Gaines from the hit television series, Fixer Upper, the Magnolia sites to visit include the downtown location as well as Magnolia Table, a full-service restaurant located alongside Interstate 35 minutes from downtown Waco. Drop-in and stay awhile.

Waco is a true destination for any member of the family. Whether it is to tour the stadium at Baylor University or enjoy a food truck meal near the Brazos River, Waco is waiting for you.