Waco, the county seat of McLennan County and one of Texas’ largest cities, earned the moniker “Heart of Texas” due to its central location.
Every year, over 2.7 million people visit the city, which is well-known for its cultural sector and rich history.
One of the most well-known Waco structures on the National Register of Historic Places is the Waco Suspension Bridge.
Furthermore, Waco has a variety of locally owned eateries that consistently meet all of their guests’ culinary needs with succulent BBQs and burgers.
Every vacationing family and tourist who visits Waco leave with a lifetime of stories and memories.
Do you want to know why this beloved city should be visited by families?
Continue reading our list of fun family activities in Waco to find out why. Furthermore, Waco has a range of locally owned eateries that continuously satisfy all of the hunger for exploring.
1. Waco Mammoth National Monument
In 2015, the Waco Mammoth National Monument was officially recognized as a national monument.
The site is home to the only known piece of Pleistocene mammoth evidence.
Why Should You Bring Your Family? The Waco Mammoth National Monument is an excellent place to learn about the living creatures that existed during the Ice Age.
Guests can learn about in-situ fossils and the Ice Age on tour led by designated guides.
There are activities planned for our children as well. The Excavation Station is one of the best kid-friendly activities in Waco, Texas, where kids can dig for fossil replicas if they don’t mind getting their hands dirty.
Just remember that the reproductions are delicate. Therefore people need to be cautious when looking at
The best thing is that anyone interested in learning more about Pleistocene mammoths and their history is welcome to visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
2. Waco Suspension Bridge
The Waco Suspension Bridge, which spans the Brazos River and is around 475 feet long, serves as the city’s main gathering place for festivals and celebrations.
The Waco Suspension Bridge is worth a visit if you’re staying in the region and are seeking things to do nearby with kids, especially at night.
The gorgeous vista of the well-built bridge will wow you once you have a chance to see it up close.
If you are worried about bringing your children together with you, they will be well taken care of. Taking the kids to view the Waco Suspension Bridge will excite them because they are always interested in buildings like bridges.
They will also enjoy viewing the statues, which are also present.
Regardless of age, anyone can observe the Waco Suspension Bridge and get to enjoy many more activities.
3. Cameron Park Zoo
The Cameron Park Zoo, which opened in 1993, is home to more than 1,731 animals, including bears and jaguars.
One of the top kid-friendly activities in Waco is this 51-acre complex, which is well-liked by families with young children.
You should be accompanied by your family while you take a visit to the Brazos River Country exhibit at the Cameron Park Zoo to see alligators and other water reptiles, as well as wild creatures like cougars and jaguars.
If you’re taking a trip with a young child, this zoo is fantastic because you can rent strollers to make your visit more convenient.
Taking the happiness of our kids into account, the little ones can imagine their own wild adventure in Grammy Nell’s area, where they can play in the floor fountain and climb inside a snake’s mouth.
Therefore, remember to pack some extra clothing so they can make use of this location in Cameron Zoo Park.
And at no age can you visit; animal lovers of all ages can enjoy the Cameron Park Zoo in its entirety.
4. Texas Ranger Hall of Museum and Fame
The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, which has been preserving the history of Texas Rangers since 1968, features a variety of items and exhibitions that reflect the glorious heritage of these noteworthy individuals. Wanting to refresh after visiting a museum with family.
Check out the vast exhibits of the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, which feature bios, fascinating facts, and memorabilia, if you’re interested in how much these outstanding Texas Rangers contributed to Waco’s culture and history.
The life-size reproductions of horses and rangers that are on display inside the museum will appeal to children.
In addition, guests can examine the paper money and badges from various eras on display in the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.
A visit to this historic site is a fantastic alternative if you’re still seeking things to do in Waco with toddlers.
No matter their age, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum welcomes everyone who wants to learn more about the origins and legacy of the Texas Rangers.
- Cameron Park
The 416-acre Cameron Park, one of Texas’ parks, is named after the late philanthropist William Cameron. largest
Families on vacation frequently stop here since it has a variety of amenities like playgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
It is highly recommended for a family; a day at Cameron Park won’t let you down if you’re looking for some inexpensive family entertainment this weekend.
The Lovers Leap may be seen from the Bosque River Trail, so plan a stroll there before taking a picnic lunch to one of the park’s approved picnic areas.
Make the most of your trip to Cameron Park by letting the kids use their excess energy at the on-site playground if they still have it after a hike.
One of the best free, family-friendly activities to do in Waco is to spend the day outside.
There are no suitable ages for a visit; Cameron Park is open to anyone who wants to go around and relax there.
To ensure everyone’s safety, just be sure to keep an eye on the kids.
6. Mayborn Museum Complex
The Mayborn Museum Complex, which opened in 2004, showcases Central Texas’ rich natural and cultural history.
Among the many exhibits at the museum are Waco at the Crossroads of Texas, Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village, and Strecker’s Cabinets of Curiosities.
Looking for a place to make family memories? If paleontology, natural history, and archaeology are topics that interest you, I’m sure you’ll enjoy a visit to the Mayborn Museum Complex.
Learn more about these topics through hands-on activities available in the facility’s two floors discovery rooms.
After considering your children’s happiness, the Jeanes Discovery Centre is an area that the little ones will enjoy greatly.
The Jeanes Discovery Centre is an area that the little ones will enjoy greatly after considering your children’s happiness.
Some of the top things to do in Waco with kids include activities like performing music through walk-on pianos, strolling next to dinosaurs, and even being encased in a bubble.
The Mayborn Museum Complex welcomes all history enthusiasts to spend the day learning.
7. Dr. Pepper Museum
The Dr. Pepper Museum, known for being the birthplace of the country’s first soft drink, has become one of Waco’s most popular tourist attractions, having welcomed over 2 million visitors since it first opened its doors in 1991.
This is an excellent place to spend time with your family.
Do you like the infamous Dr. Pepper?
You’re probably wondering how it got to where it is now and how that status came to be.
If so, a trip to the Dr. Pepper Museum may be just what you’re looking for.
In addition to the typical museum activities, they offer a unique experience called the Mysterious Experience, during which you can learn about the paranormal events that have occurred within the building. You need not worry about your kids being bored because they will love making their own drinks with the Make-A-Soda program, and you can even take them home to enjoy.
Before you leave the building, be sure to acquire a glass or two of their famous soda floats.
Can I visit if I’m a little older? Fans of the popular Dr. Pepper are invited to visit the site of its creation and take advantage of the Dr. Pepper Museum’s programs and excursions.
8. Magnolia Market at Silos
The Magnolia Market at the Silos, a well-liked location that both visitors and locals frequent, is a must-see if you’re in Waco.
Every day, more people visit this spot because of the many food trucks and shops.
Are you looking for a great destination to visit with your family? We have your back.
Spending a couple of hours at the Magnolia Market at the Silos is a fantastic suggestion for things to do in Waco with kids.
Shopping while indulging in delectable fare from food trucks like the 900 Degree Pizza, Guess Family BBQ, and others are fun for the whole family.
You and the kids may spend quality time together while enjoying delicious food and goodies on the huge grass-covered lawn at Magnolia Market at the Silos.
They can even use the swing while you are inside the building.
Suitable Ages
The Magnolia Market at the Silos is a great hangout for kids and adults of all ages because it is family-friendly.
9. Common Grounds
Common Grounds started as a class project that became a reality before it opened in 1995.
The coffee shop is currently a well-liked gathering place for families and friends in the city.
you and your family
Visiting Common Grounds will be a treat if you enjoy both music and coffee!
Your coffee demands will be met by their hand-crafted beverages.
Additionally, live music will enhance the experience.
Despite the fact that coffee is Common Grounds’ expertise, children are not overlooked.
The coffee shop offers a variety of beverages that they will appreciate, including the 254 and the Mexican Hot Chocolate.
If you want some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Common Grounds is one of the greatest locations to take kids in Waco.
Anyone, regardless of age, can visit Common Grounds to spend a relaxed day sipping handcrafted beverages and taking in some live music.
10. Waco River Safari
The Waco River Safari, a well-liked attraction for visitors to Waco, offers tours on a pontoon boat that are entertaining and distinctive ways to learn about the city’s history.
You may be wondering what else Waco River Safari has to offer. Joining the 2-hour picturesque history trip led by the Waco River Safari is the best option if you want to take a historical tour that is enjoyable for adults, teenagers, and children.
With the aid of your guide’s narration, you’ll learn about Waco’s lengthy history during the trip.
The children will also view some of the wildlife while on the boat tour, including turtles and herons.
The kids will undoubtedly enjoy the exciting sensation of watching the boat sail beneath bridges.
All ages can take historical tours at the Waco River Safari.
11. Texas Sports Hall of Fame
The Texas Sports Hall of Fame, which was founded in 1993, is a well-known establishment that showcases some of the top Texan athletes in sports, including football and tennis.
You can view retired team gear, uniforms, and other sports-related memorabilia inside the venue.
As a result, paying a visit to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame is essential. If you’re a sports fan, the exhibits at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame will captivate you and keep you occupied while you’re there.
The vast museum includes a variety of artifacts, including medals, trophies, and even the attire and tools used by the legendary figures honored inside the structure.
The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is a fantastic place to take the kids to get them interested in sports.
Along with the displayed mascots, the sports legends inside will delight them.
Take a few pictures as a reminder of your visit to this fascinating place.
One of the best family activities in Waco is learning about things other than sports.
Sports-loving kids and adults will love touring the Texas Sports Hall of Fame grounds.
12. Homestead Craft Village
The Homestead Craft Village, which is renowned for its excellent craftsmanship, provides a wide range of activities, including dining, shopping, and even do-it-yourself crafts.
The location includes a 200-year-old barn, the Potter’s House, a woodworking studio, and more.
Visit the Homestead Craft Village in Waco if you want to experience more of the spirit of the South while you are there.
Its charming wooden structures stand out on their own as a draw.
The location offers shopping, DIY craft activities, and wonderful comfort cuisine.
Joining the hayrides offered at the Homestead Craft Village is one of the most entertaining things to do in Waco with kids.
The little ones will have a blast sitting on hay mounds as horses move a wooden wagon around the vicinity.
Everyone who visits the Homestead Craft Village can have a good time at this well-liked location.
