18 Things To Do In Waco With Kids: Attractions, Restaurants & Accommodations
Keeping kids engaged while traveling can be a challenge, but Waco, Texas, makes it easy. From hands-on museums and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and animal encounters, Waco offers activities that entertain and educate kids of all ages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best kid-friendly attractions in this charming Texas city.
Educational Activities
Waco is full of opportunities for kids to learn while having fun. These educational spots combine history, science, and culture in interactive and exciting ways.
1. Dr Pepper Museum
A trip to Waco wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Dr Pepper Museum, housed in a historic bottling plant that once produced this iconic soda. Kids and adults alike will love diving into the fascinating story of America’s oldest major soft drink through immersive exhibits and activities.
What to Expect:
- Hands-On Soda-Making: Visit the old-fashioned soda fountain to watch vintage soda jerks whip up frosty Dr Pepper floats and phosphates. Kids can even try creative flavors like cherry chocolate or peach.
- Bottling Line Exhibit: Watch the original bottling equipment in action as guides demonstrate how soda bottles were once filled and capped. The clanking machinery is sure to mesmerize young visitors.
- International Flavor Tasting Room: Sample over 20 unique Dr Pepper flavors from around the world—an unforgettable experience!
- Interactive Displays: Snap a fun photo with the life-size Dr Pepper bottle cutout and explore exhibits that showcase vintage advertisements, soda memorabilia, and the history of Dr Pepper’s secret recipe.
Don’t Miss: Take a guided tour for fascinating stories about the brand’s history and its quirky inventor. End your visit by grabbing a treat from the museum’s retro soda shop.
2. Waco Mammoth National Monument
For a trip back in time, take your young explorers to the Waco Mammoth National Monument, an archaeological site where the fossilized remains of Columbian mammoths have been unearthed. This one-of-a-kind discovery site is perfect for budding paleontologists.
What to Expect:
- Boardwalk Tour: Walk along the elevated boardwalk that overlooks the excavation site, showcasing where a nursery herd of mammoths was discovered—the only one of its kind in the U.S.
- Hands-On Fossil Exploration: Let your kids search for fossil fragments in the dirt while learning about extinct creatures like camels, sloths, saber-toothed cats, and Western horses.
- Exhibit Hall: Inside the visitor center, kids can marvel at towering mammoth replicas, touch real fossils and tusks, and view murals depicting Ice Age animals in their natural habitats.
Don’t Miss: Take a moment to enjoy the nature trail lookout deck, which offers panoramic views of the lush valley where these majestic creatures once roamed. The gift shop is also a great stop for fossil replicas or stuffed Ice Age animals to commemorate the visit.
3. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
Take your kids on an unforgettable journey into the Wild West at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. This family-friendly spot celebrates the legendary law enforcement group with plenty of hands-on fun and jaw-dropping artifacts.
What Makes It Awesome:
- Kick Off with a Movie: Start with a 17-minute film that dives into the daring adventures of the Texas Rangers. Your kids will be wide-eyed hearing about cattle rustlers, bandits, and legendary battles.
- Epic Artifacts: Explore exhibits packed with Colt pistols, badges, Bowie knives, and even gear from famous Rangers like “Lone Wolf” Gonzaullas. Seeing these relics makes the stories come alive.
- Company B Throwback: Step into the past with a re-creation of an 1800s Ranger barracks, saddle room, and mess hall—perfect for little history buffs to imagine life on the frontier.
By the time you leave, don’t be surprised if your kids are ready to join the Rangers themselves!
4. Mayborn Museum Complex
Looking for a place that’ll wow your kids while sneaking in a little education? The Mayborn Museum Complex at Baylor University is a dream come true, with everything from towering dino skeletons to hands-on science experiments.
Kid-Approved Highlights:
- Dino Bones & Animal Zones: Your kids will love gawking at mammoth and dinosaur skeletons, peering into taxidermy animal habitats, and handling fossils in the archaeology lab.
- Historic Village Vibes: Wander through the Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village, where costumed interpreters show off old-school crafts like blacksmithing and quilting. Your kids can even try fresh-baked biscuits at the General Store!
- Weird and Wonderful: Check out the quirky Strecker Museum Collection, featuring Victorian-era oddities like shrunken heads, old medical tools, and bizarre lab samples.
Add in simulated storms in the Science Theater and rainforest explorations in the botanical gardens, and you’ve got an action-packed day the whole family will rave about.
5. Cameron Park Zoo
Who doesn’t love a good zoo day? The Cameron Park Zoo combines up-close animal encounters with fun rides and picnic-perfect spots, making it a must-do for families visiting Waco.
Top Exhibits:
- Brazos River Country: Meet Texan wildlife like black bears, bald eagles, and cheeky otters in this showcase of local critters.
- Komodo Kingdom: Get up close with the world’s largest lizards, the mighty Komodo dragons.
- Butterfly Gardens: Wander through a magical world filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies fluttering around you.
Extra Fun:
- Carousel and Train Rides: Let your kids spin around on the beautifully carved Wildlife Carousel or take a relaxing ride on the Zoo Choo Train.
- Wildlife in Action: Don’t miss feeding time for playful otters or seals—it’s always a hit.
Wrap up the day with a picnic in the zoo gardens, and you’ve got the perfect family adventure.
6. Homestead Craft Village
Step back in time at the Homestead Craft Village, where your kids can experience pioneer life in a hands-on, engaging way. Set among beautiful gardens and century-old oak trees, this 19th-century replica village brings history to life with costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts like quilting and blacksmithing.
Hands-On Fun:
- Grind Corn & Churn Butter: Let your kids try their hand at these pioneer staples.
- Candle Dipping: They’ll love creating their very own candles to take home.
- Apple Pressing: Watch their excitement as they turn apples into fresh cider.
- Pottery Throwing: Your little artists can shape their own clay pots by hand.
With so many interactive activities, the Homestead Craft Village makes history jump off the page, leaving your kids entertained and inspired
7. Hawaiian Falls Waterpark
When the Texas heat kicks in, there’s no better escape than Hawaiian Falls Waterpark. This sprawling water park offers something for kids of all ages with over 40 thrilling slides and attractions.
Highlights:
- For Thrill Seekers: Race down slides like the Aloha Falls, Pineapple Plummet, and the jaw-dropping Ka Moana Cannon Bowl.
- For Little Ones: Splash around in Keiki Kove, a water play area designed just for younger kids.
- For Families: Enjoy multi-rider fun on the Ohana Falls, Maui Wowi Surf, and the Tiki River Rapids.
With so many ways to splash, slide, and relax, Hawaiian Falls is the ultimate summer destination for families.
8. Fuzzy's Taco Shop
At Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, mealtime becomes a hands-on adventure! This colorful taco joint lets kids get creative with their food.
How It Works:
- Pick Your Base: Kids choose their tortilla shells and fillings like chicken, steak, or fish.
- DIY Toppings: Head to the topping bar and let them pile on cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, beans, rice, and more.
It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal that’s as creative as it is delicious. Bonus? Parents will love the laid-back vibe and flavorful options too!
Outdoor Adventures
Between hiking trails, lakes, and water fun, Waco is bursting with family-friendly outdoor activities. Enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery while keeping your kids active and engaged.
9. Cameron Park Trails
Just minutes from downtown, Cameron Park offers easy, family-friendly hiking in a stunning natural setting. Spanning 416 acres along the Brazos River, this park features over 11 miles of trails perfect for kids and parents alike.
What to See:
- Scenic Overlooks: Limestone bluffs and wooded hills make for breathtaking views.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, raccoons, foxes, and over 100 bird species.
- Picnic Areas: After your hike, enjoy a relaxing riverside picnic.
With its natural beauty and well-maintained trails, Cameron Park is a great way to combine exercise and exploration.
10. Lake Waco Paddle Company
For a paddling adventure the whole family will enjoy, book a tour with the Lake Waco Paddle Company. Their friendly guides make kayaking or paddleboarding along Lake Waco easy and fun for all ages.
Highlights:
- Kid-Friendly Tours: Tailored to young paddlers and beginners.
- Local History: Learn fascinating tidbits about the area’s history and wildlife.
- Stunning Views: Don’t forget your camera for incredible shots of the lake!
This peaceful and picturesque experience is a wonderful way to enjoy Waco’s natural beauty.
11. Doris Miller Memorial Park
Nestled along the shores of Lake Waco, this park offers plenty of activities for families looking to relax and play outdoors.
What to Do:
- Water Activities: Rent kayaks, pedal boats, or hydro bikes to explore the calm waters.
- Fishing Fun: Cast a line from one of the piers and see what you can catch.
- Play & Picnic: Kids can enjoy the playground while parents relax at the lake-view picnic tables.
With its tranquil setting and variety of activities, Doris Miller Memorial Park is perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
When little tummies start rumbling, Waco has plenty of family-friendly restaurants to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Here are the top choices for a delicious and memorable dining experience with your kids.
12. Health Camp
- Health Camp is a charming spot offering comforting and wholesome meals made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Kids will love the grilled cheese served with creamy tomato soup, chicken fingers paired with baked fries, and fruit-topped waffles. Smoothies like the Peanut Butter Cup are a big hit with little ones, while parents appreciate the fresh, farm-to-table approach. The laid-back environment makes it an easy choice for families looking for a satisfying and stress-free meal.
13. George's Restaurant
George’s is a Waco institution, serving delicious meals since 1925. This old-fashioned drive-in offers a unique experience where kids can order from the car and have their food delivered by roller-skating carhops. Menu favorites include the Kid’s Pak, featuring a burger, fries, milkshake, or crispy chicken tenders. While kids dig into their meals, parents can enjoy specialty margaritas and craft beers. The nostalgic vibes and carhop service make George’s a one-of-a-kind family outing.
14. Baris Italian Restaurant
Baris Italian Restaurant, tucked away in a historic downtown building, is a cozy spot that combines rustic ambiance with mouthwatering Italian cuisine. Kids adore the super-thin and crispy pizzas topped with creative ingredients, as well as classic dishes like spaghetti bolognese and chicken parmesan. After the meal, head to the gelato bar for a sweet finish with flavors like mint chocolate chip or salted caramel. Baris offers the perfect combination of kid-friendly dishes and authentic Italian charm.
Lodging Options
When planning a family trip, choosing the right lodging is essential. Waco offers a variety of family-friendly hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay during your visit.
15. Hotel Indigo Waco - Baylor
Hotel Indigo is a vibrant and stylish option conveniently located near Baylor University and downtown Waco. The modern rooms feature eye-catching murals and local photography, creating a fun atmosphere for families. Parents will appreciate the indoor pool, free breakfast, and close proximity to major attractions. Kids, on the other hand, will love hamming it up for photos in front of the hotel’s photo-op wall in the lobby. It’s a perfect choice for families seeking comfort with a touch of flair.
16. Hampton Inn & Suites Waco/South
This affordable and family-friendly hotel is packed with amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Spacious two-room suites come equipped with mini-fridges and microwaves, making it easy to store snacks and leftovers. Free hot breakfast and an indoor pool are added perks that kids adore. Located near Lake Waco, the hotel offers access to beautiful outdoor scenery, perfect for a relaxing family retreat.
17. Hilton Waco
Located in the heart of downtown, the Hilton Waco overlooks the Brazos River and provides families with spacious accommodations. Suites include separate living areas, desks, and pull-out sofas, giving everyone plenty of room to spread out. The outdoor pool and splash pad, with stunning views of the river, are sure to delight kids. Its central location makes it easy to explore downtown attractions, making it an excellent base for your family’s adventures.
18. Woodway Family Inn
For budget-conscious families, Woodway Family Inn provides comfortable accommodations at affordable rates. Rooms are equipped with mini-fridges and microwaves, ideal for preparing quick snacks or meals. The included continental breakfast ensures your family is ready for a day of exploration. During the summer, the outdoor pool is a welcome addition. Conveniently located off the highway, this motel offers easy access to Waco’s top attractions. While it may lack frills, it delivers excellent value for families.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, your family is ready to explore Waco like a local and create priceless memories. From hands-on science exhibits and history-filled adventures to water parks, hiking trails, zoos, and tacos, Waco offers something special for every child—and parent.
Now that you’re armed with a list of the top things to do in Waco, all that’s left is to grab your sunscreen, lace up your walking shoes, and dive into the fun. With family-sized hotel suites and activities designed with kids in mind, Waco makes the perfect destination for your next family adventure. Your little ones are sure to leave with big smiles and unforgettable stories to tell. Happy exploring!
Book your favorite Waco vacation rental on Karta now!
FAQ
1. What is Waco, Texas, best known for?
Waco is famous for the Magnolia Market at the Silos, its rich history, and family-friendly attractions like the Waco Mammoth National Monument and Cameron Park Zoo.
2. Are there any kid-friendly shopping spots in Waco?
Stop by the Magnolia Market at the Silos, which offers activities like lawn games for kids. Spice Village is a fun boutique market with eclectic shops, including kid-focused items.
3. What are some seasonal activities for families in Waco?
During spring, attend the Silobration at Magnolia Market, featuring live music and kid-friendly events. In winter, check out Waco Wonderland, a holiday festival with rides and entertainment.
4. Are there any family-friendly hikes in Waco?
Yes! Try the trails at Cameron Park, which range from easy to moderate and offer scenic views of the Brazos River and cliffs.
5. What is the best time of year to visit Waco with kids?
Spring and fall are ideal, with mild weather perfect for outdoor activities. Events like the Silobration in October and holiday festivities in December make these seasons extra special.
