Destination WACO
Recently named a top travel destination by Southern Living, Waco has a lot to offer! Next time you’re visiting campus, you’ll definitely want to stop by Magnolia Market at the Silos. The beautiful grounds, fun shops and great eats at the food truck court will be a family favorite. Also, be sure to stop at some of the restaurants, shops and attractions that have recently opened in Waco, as well as some long-time favorites.
New on the Block
Sendero Provisions Co., 319 S. 4th St.
Born out of a love for the West, Sendero’s flagship retail shop in Waco offers a wide range of clothing, hats, accessories and more. The playful Western-inspired designs mix outdoor culture with humor and nostalgia.
Opal’s Oysters, 228 S. 8th St.
Well-known and loved across Texas for their barbecue, the Terry Black family opened Opal’s Oysters in honor of the family matriarch and host extraordinaire. Specializing in fresh oysters with a unique selection and elevated presentations, Opal’s Oysters goes beyond traditional raw oysters, offering a variety of oysters on the half shell, perfectly paired with house-made mignonettes and sauces.
Casa do Brasil, 1001 Webster Ave.
Experience the authentic flavors of Brazil at Casa do Brasil for an unforgettable dining experience. At Waco’s only Brazilian steakhouse, enjoy the time-honored tradition of churrasco, where expertly seasoned cuts of premium beef, chicken, lamb, pork and seafood are slow roasted over an open flame and carved tableside by skilled Gaucho chefs.
Hotel Herringbone, 319 S. 4th St.
Nestled in the heart of Waco, this boutique hotel offers an unforgettable experience that blends elevated guest service with dramatic interior finishes and art deco furnishings, creating a haven of sophistication and comfort. Dine at one of the two on-site restaurants and explore the shops in the courtyard, including Sendero Provisions Co., Golden Green Boutique, Rancher Hat Bar and Magnolia Soap & Bath Co.
Bites Around Town
Be Kind Coffee
Since 2021, Be Kind Coffee has had one goal: make the community a kinder place, one drink at a time. Today, Be Kind Coffee is home to Waco’s first parklet, an outdoor seating space designed to serve customers and the public as a place to relax away from the busy street. The project was funded through a grant and led by the Waco Metropolitan Planning Organization, which aims to make streets safer and more vibrant throughout the city.
Helberg BBQ
After a devastating fire in 2023, Helberg Barbecue has opened a new location. Located on Highway 6 near China Spring, the 6,500-square-foot building serves up barbecue favorites with “salt, pepper and a whole lotta prayer.”
Looking for more Waco adventures? Here are a few suggestions for exploring Baylor’s hometown:
Classic Waco
Photo Op: Waco Suspension Bridge,
101 N. University Parks Dr.
Activity: Dr Pepper Museum,
300 S. 5th St.
Dinner: George’s Restaurant,
1925 Speight Ave.
Waco Adventure
Photo Op: Jacob’s Ladder,
2500 Cameron Park Dr.
Activity: Hike through Cameron Park, 2500 Cameron Park Dr.
Dinner: Union Hall, 720 Franklin Ave.
Nuevo Waco
Photo Op: Wacotown Mural (outside of Fabled Bookshop & Café), 215 S. 4th St.
Activity: Topgolf, 2301 Creekview Dr.
Dinner: Slow Rise on the Brazos, 1620 N. M.L.K. Jr Blvd.