As thrilling as Austin is, we all have to get out of Dodge every once in a while. There's no better way to cure a case of the travel bug than by taking a day trip. Thankfully, Waco is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from Austin. Drive down I-35 for an hour and a half, and you'll reach central Texas' latest travel destination. Whether it's shopping, history, or gorgeous views you're after, you'll find it all in Waco.
Begin your trip with a shopping excursion at Magnolia Market.
Created by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, Magnolia Markets draws hundreds of people each week. Whether you're redoing your living room or just browsing for the latest accent piece, you'll find stunning treasures at Magnolia Market.
In true "fixer upper" style, Chip and Joanna converted Waco's abandoned silos into a gorgeous destination for shopping and socializing. Adults can sip on fresh watermelon juice while kids play on the lawn.
Be sure to visit the greenhouse full succulents and verdant house plants.
No trip to Magnolia Market would be complete without a stop at Silos Baking Co. From lemon lavender cupcakes to fresh, gooey cookies, you'll satisfy your sweet tooth the Silos Baking Co.
Magnolia Market is located at 601 Webster Ave.
Next, turn the corner and explore the Dr. Pepper Museum.
The Dr. Pepper Museum will take you through the history of Texas' favorite soft drink. From vintage advertisements to hands-on demonstrations, you'll satisfy your soda craving at The Dr. Pepper Museum.
Stop by the soda fountain and taste this fizzy drink like you never have before. The Dr. Pepper Museum is located at 300 S 5th St in Waco.
After visiting the Dr. Pepper Museum, gape at the wonder of the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
The Waco Mammon National Monument is truly a wonder. In the late 1970s, scientists discovered ancient bones near the Bosque river. Columbian mammoths, one bull, and one camel died together hundreds of years ago.
The cause of the mammoths' deaths remain a mystery, but visitors can view these jaw-dropping discoveries at 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr.
For even more rich Texas history, stroll through the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
Located at 100 Texas Ranger Trail, The Texas Ranger Museum is loaded with tales of the wild Texas frontier. Learn about the heroes that shaped Texas' landscape and see how the Texas Rangers have influenced pop culture throughout the years. Although the Lone Ranger is fictional, Texas has a fascinating legacy of brave law enforcers.
End your trip with a photo by the Waco Suspension bridge.
In the early 1800's, crossing the Brazos River was a time-consuming and dangerous task. In 1870, the Waco Suspension Bridge was built to improve trading along the Chisholm Trail.
This massive bridge is comprised of nearly 3 million bricks and is the pride and joy of Waco. Though it's no longer used to transport cattle, this pedestrian bridge is a popular spot for picnics and celebrations.
As the sun sets, venture back to Austin and share your exciting stories with your friends.
Waco is a place you'll want to come back to again and again.
Have you taken a day trip to Waco yet? What's your favorite Waco attraction?
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