Discover Waco, TX: The Ultimate RVing and Family Vacation Destination

Nov 23

Written By Mandy

No doubt Waco, Texas, has seen a tremendous boost in popularity over the past few years thanks to the show Fixer Upper and the destination of Magnolia Market. As a result, this new tourism boom has revitalized this sleepy town just north of Texas Hill Country into a destination. If you’ve been wanting to visit Waco, now is the time. And if you would like to take your RV with you, we know just the place!

Best place to RV in Waco, Texas

You could say that our family is a big fan of Waco. We end up there nearly every spring while trying to escape the frigid Colorado temperatures. It’s absolutely a favorite destination for the whole family. This past March, we brought our RV for the first time and skipped the hotel stay. After being able to bring the dog and sleep in our own beds, I’m not sure we’d ever bother with a hotel again.

Camp Caravan Waco is a new campground just outside of town. Located in quiet Lorena, TX, and only 15 minutes from the sights of downtown Waco. Camp Caravan was dreamed up and built by two former full-time RVers who know exactly what RVers are looking for. Good-sized campsites, easy online booking and check-in, SUPER fast Wi-Fi, and a state park-like feel with the benefits of a private park. Plus, it’s laid-back and kid-friendly.

I had high hopes for Camp Caravan after watching it come to life on Instagram and I am thrilled to say it did not disappoint. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Though every park has its downsides, there are only two I can name. First, it is right next door to a concrete factory, but I have to admit this was absolutely not a noise issue, just kind of an “ugly” thing. Second, the two-lane road heading towards the campground is in need of repair. However, it sounds like that may be happening soon!

Best place to RV in Waco, Texas - campground review

Best places to eat in Waco, Texas

If you’re coming to Texas and you love to eat, like us, then you’re probably excited about either Tex-Mex or BBQ or both!

If you want Tex Mex - a few Mexican places we love include Ninfa’s in downtown Waco - it is a must-stop for us. Rosa’s Cafe has a few locations around the area. It is fast, cheap, and so good. Make sure you order extra tortillas - you won’t regret it. Chuy’s is an iconic Austin stop and their location in Waco doesn’t disappoint.

If you’re looking for BBQ joints don’t miss - Vitek’s, a popular food truck at The Silos, which now has a restaurant in town. As well as Guess Family Barbecue.

If you have kids and they have some extra energy - definitely head to Hat Creek - part burgers and shakes, part playground - it’s the perfect lunch spot for the whole family.

If you’re looking for classic burgers in Waco- then you must stop at the iconic Health Camp.

If you love sweets, we’ve got you - Nightlight Donuts - though it is not the world-famous original cronut this flaky donut is a close second and should not be missed. With fun flavors and creations each week features a new lineup of delicious donuts. Drive-thru or stop in and enjoy the vibe and fantastic staff.

Nightlight Donuts and Coffee with fun flavors and creations each week features a new lineup of delicious donuts. Drive-thru or stop in and enjoy the vibe and fantastic staff.

What is there to do in Waco?

If you have elementary-middle school kids then you must spend some time at the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Some 70 million years ago a flash flood came through the area and preserved a herd of Columbian Mammoths, they have now been excavated for us to see. Besides the excavation building, there are ranger talks, walking paths, and a small gift shop to explore.

Kids of all ages will enjoy the Dr. Pepper Museum. Learn about the early days of soda fountains and how Dr. Pepper came to be a national favorite. In the end, everyone gets a cup of soda or an upgrade to a soda float!

Spend some time downtown - Spice Village is a favorite spot in the area and we can easily spend a few hours there. We also love to stroll the waterfront park across the street from the Hilton.

Cameron Park and Cameron Park Zoo are also a few favorite spots for us. We love hiking around Cameron Park and exploring all the different areas like walking along the Brazos River. Download the Geocaching app and spend some time hunting for treasures. And enjoying the view from Lover’s Leap.

If you have a little extra spending money I would highly suggest a Waco Tours, especially their boat tour! Or a visit to Surf Waco for a truly epic Texas experience.

Breweries are gaining traction in the area and are the perfect place to kick up your feet after a day of running around town. We had fun at Brotherwell Brewery and have heard great things about Southern Roots Brewing Co. and Bare Arms Brewing.

Kids of all ages will enjoy the Dr. Pepper Museum. Learn about the early days of soda fountains and how Dr. Pepper came to be a national favorite. In the end, everyone gets a cup of soda or an upgrade to a soda float!

Best way to see Magnolia Market and other Magnolia spots

If you love all things Magnolia then be sure to complete the Magnolia trifecta - The Silos, The Little Shop on Bosque, and Magnolia Table. Though you can see everything in one day, I would personally plan for two days so you can take your time.

Day 1:

Start at The Silos. Arrive downtown about 45 minutes before Magnolia Market opens.

Tip: There is lots of free parking in downtown Waco if you’re willing to make the short walk or take the free trolley. The closer you want to park to Magnolia, the more you’ll pay. Be aware of the alley behind the market by the train track, it’s not uncommon to see tow trucks removing illegally parked vehicles throughout the day. We park at Spice Village and walk. Every time. And we never regret it. Plus, it’s a great way to see more and get acquainted with the town.

You will want to fit in a visit to the Silos Baking Co., we highly suggest arriving at the bakery at least 30 minutes before The Market opens for the day. Every cupcake is fantastic, but the Silo Cookie is our favorite. If you prefer savory over sweet then head over to Magnolia Press instead and get yourself a spinach croissant and a 1912 coffee. Then spend the morning exploring all the different stores on the grounds. People really start showing up about 10:30, so if you want pictures, do those early.

Tip: Purchase a refillable (and recyclable) aluminum water bottle when you arrive and then fill it up with either still or sparkling water for free at Magnolia Press - you’ll find the taps just to the right of the order pickup.

There’s a lot to see, so don’t try to rush. In fact, Magnolia encourages you to stick around and relax. Enjoy lunch at one of the many food trucks, but line up early for those as well. After lunch, play some Wiffle Ball with the kids at Katy Ballpark or corn hole on the field. Plus, there are lots of great photo ops not to be missed. And don’t forget to pop into the restored church to look around.

If you have kiddos tagging along AND you intend to see all the Magnolia spots grab a Magnolia Passport right away and collect stamps at each spot you visit. One of my kids and I did this last year and we got a cute little surprise with our last stamp.

Don’t be surprised if you end up spending about 4-5 hours at the market. When you’re done, don’t leave downtown! There are plenty of spots in Waco to see, shop, and grab a bite. We usually end up at Spice Village and Ninfa’s. Or In-N-Out is a good option too. And Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits is sure to have whatever you’re looking for at the end of a long day of walking - it’s a MUST visit for me.

There’s a lot to see, so don’t try to rush. In fact, Magnolia encourages you to stick around and relax. Enjoy lunch at one of the many food trucks, but line up early for those as well. After lunch, play some Wiffle Ball with the kids at Katy Ballpark

Day 2:

Today you will be visiting the remaining Magnolia spots - this is a crosstown tour of Waco. It’s a great idea to use your Google Maps navigation to get you around efficiently.

Breakfast (or lunch) at Magnolia Table is the perfect way to start the day. The same menu is served throughout the day so it doesn’t matter which time of day you pick. Though walk-ups are accepted, wait times can be huge, so we highly suggest reservations. You can make reservations online. If you can’t get a table there is a little takeaway counter that provides a small amount of pre-packaged items and a coffee bar, as well as a small gift shop.

Tip: Reservations can be made on Open Table and only for certain days of the week and only for groups of 5 or smaller.

After eating, drive on down to The Little Shop on Bosque. Aka the original Magnolia. Aka the bargain shopper’s paradise. This is where all the previous season's stuff goes to be put on clearance. Though selection always differs you can find home decor, souvenirs, shirts, hoodies, and other miscellaneous items. If you’ve been a Fixer Upper fan for a while you’ll notice this little shop right away.

Tip: Sometimes they will close the Bosque shop for a few weeks so look online before you go, unless you just want a photo op, then go for it!

Next, I know there are many people who love to see the Fixer Upper homes or the castle. For a few reasons, we don’t do this, but I know that it’s easy to find a list of addresses online. Or if you have extra time, head back downtown or to The Silos and see something you didn’t get to yesterday.

The Little Shop on Bosque. Aka the original Magnolia. Aka the bargain shopper’s paradise. This is where all the previous season's stuff goes to be put on clearance. Though selection always differs you can find home decor, souvenirs, shirts, hoodies,

What to do if you can't get a reservation at Magnolia Table? If you can’t get a table there is a little takeaway counter that provides a small amount of pre-packaged items and a coffee bar, as well as a small gift shop.

Can you RV in Waco to see Magnolia?

Yes! Waco, Texas is an exciting vacation destination for RVers and families. With a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy, such as the Magnolia Market and the Waco Mammoth National Monument, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The city is also home to a number of RV parks and campgrounds, making it easy to plan a comfortable and convenient RV vacation. Whether you're looking to explore nature, visit historical sites, or simply relax and enjoy the local culture, Waco has it all. Discover the ultimate RVing and family vacation destination today in Waco, Texas!