One Day in Waco, Texas

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Waco, Texas was a pleasant surprise for me. I was expecting a small town but found a considerably large city instead. With a population of about 120,000, Waco is small compared to other Texas cities like Houston and Dallas. But, there are quite a few fun attractions to see here. The Brazos River runs right through downtown, and it is a lovely walk along its banks. I enjoyed the many parks and art sculptures that lined the river while I walked. Make sure you take advantage of the museums here when you visit. My favorites were the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame.

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Dr Pepper Museum
I was surprised to learn that the Dr. Pepper Museum is owned and operated by a non-profit organization separate from the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group that manufactures the beverage. I had a lot of fun exploring the exhibits here. They had a ton of Dr. Pepper memorabilia, as you would expect, but it also seemed to be a tribute to free ent... More >
I was surprised to learn that the Dr. Pepper Museum is owned and operated by a non-profit organization separate from the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group that manufactures the beverage. I had a lot of fun exploring the exhibits here. They had a ton of Dr. Pepper memorabilia, as you would expect, but it also seemed to be a tribute to free enterprise. Make sure to watch the fun film with the founder of the company (played by an actor) telling his story. Be warned, however, that this museum is pretty small, and while Dr. Pepper fans like me love it, I talked to some visitors who were disappointed.
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Mayborn Museum Complex
Located on the campus of Baylor University, the Mayborn Museum is a great attraction not to be missed when you visit Waco. The museum has a ton of impressive displays about history and science. It is a great place for kids, as the displays are designed to be hands-on, interactive experiences. There is even a room dedicated to the history of Baylor University. I thoroughly enjoyed the sixteen Discovery Rooms, themed rooms that occupy two floors of one wing of the museum complex. These rooms are designed to inspire the imaginations of children and introduce them to many aspects of science. Some of my favorites: walking through the giant model of the human heart, playing a melody on the walk-on piano, and the TV news and weather repor... More >
Located on the campus of Baylor University, the Mayborn Museum is a great attraction not to be missed when you visit Waco. The museum has a ton of impressive displays about history and science. It is a great place for kids, as the displays are designed to be hands-on, interactive experiences. There is even a room dedicated to the history of Baylor University. I thoroughly enjoyed the sixteen Discovery Rooms, themed rooms that occupy two floors of one wing of the museum complex. These rooms are designed to inspire the imaginations of children and introduce them to many aspects of science. Some of my favorites: walking through the giant model of the human heart, playing a melody on the walk-on piano, and the TV news and weather reporting room.
I would definitely recommend this hotel based on the rooms alone, which I found to be extra clean and comfortable.
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Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
My favorite attraction in Waco was the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. It is the official repository of the Texas Rangers as defined by the Texas Legislature and Department of Public Safety, so they have a massive collection of artifacts and memorabilia associated with the legendary police force. The gun collection alone was very impressive. Make sure you allow yourself at least a couple of hours to see everything, especially the film about the history of the Texas Rangers. I also suggest stopping at the information center that is right next door before going inside because they have discount tickets.
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Waco Hippodrome
The Hippodrome is a grand old theater in downtown Waco, Texas. Originally opened in 1914, it was built in hopes of bringing family entertainment to Waco. For many years it enjoyed success showing vaudeville shows, movies and plays. Today it is operated by the Waco Performing Arts Association which is carrying on the great tradition.... More >
The Hippodrome is a grand old theater in downtown Waco, Texas. Originally opened in 1914, it was built in hopes of bringing family entertainment to Waco. For many years it enjoyed success showing vaudeville shows, movies and plays. Today it is operated by the Waco Performing Arts Association which is carrying on the great tradition. I recommend visiting this lovely building, even if all you do is walk by and see the outside. It is a lovely old building and a tribute to old theater and architecture. But, for a real treat, I suggest checking to see what events are happening at the Hippodrome during your visit and attending one, even if it is just one of the classic movie nights for five bucks.
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Vitek's Bar B Q
Vitek's Bar-B-Q in Waco is a perfect example of a classic Texas barbecue restaurant. It has been open since 1915 and is still owned by the same family. The restaurant is simple; a cafeteria style food line where you order and they give you your meal in a styrofoam to-go container. But, if they are lacking anything in frills, they mo... More >
Vitek's Bar-B-Q in Waco is a perfect example of a classic Texas barbecue restaurant. It has been open since 1915 and is still owned by the same family. The restaurant is simple; a cafeteria style food line where you order and they give you your meal in a styrofoam to-go container. But, if they are lacking anything in frills, they more than make up for it with flavor. Viteks is famous for their Gut Pak. Available in two sizes, the Gut Pak consists of beef, sausage, beans, cheese and Fritos corn chips. Make sure you bring your appetite. A small Gut Pak was enough for my wife and I to share for lunch.
I thoroughly enjoyed the sixteen Discovery Rooms, themed rooms that occupy two floors of one wing of the museum complex.
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Hampton Inn Waco
The Hampton Inn & Suites Waco-South hotel is known for its convenient location at the Central Texas Marketplace Outdoor Shopping Center Complex and just a short walk from Baylor University. I would definitely recommend this hotel based on the rooms alone, which I found to be extra clean and comfortable. I even had my own refrigerator right in the room, which was very nice. I loved the fact that the exercise room was kept... More
The Hampton Inn & Suites Waco-South hotel is known for its convenient location at the Central Texas Marketplace Outdoor Shopping Center Complex and just a short walk from Baylor University. I would definitely recommend this hotel based on the rooms alone, which I found to be extra clean and comfortable. I even had my own refrigerator right in the room, which was very nice. I loved the fact that the exercise room was kept tidy and sanitary. The hot breakfast served every morning is a lot better than the continental breakfasts that I have come to expect at most hotels.
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About the Author

Ross Pincock
Ross Pincock
I love music! I have spent most of my life either playing and writing music or listening to a live performance. I also love the outdoors, particularly camping, hiking, bicycling and sitting around the campfire. I am a father and I love spending time with my kids.
Websitemyspace.com/rosspincock
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