Waco Tourism Information Blog

Miscellaneous Questions About Waco

Have a question that's not addressed on our blog? Just ask it here, and we'll answer it.

Please note: This is a moderated blog. Posts will be reviewed and may be rejected for foul language or inappropriate content. Posts detailing a negative experience with a specific business may be answered privately to help resolve the issue. Blatantly commercial postings and spam may be rejected.

Comments

By: mary nance  On: 12/27/2008 11:37:30
Is there a public tour of the Mars Candy Company?If so how to find info on it?
By: SusanM  On: 12/29/2008 08:55:15
At this time, Mars Candy does not offer public tours.
By: Ron   On: 01/08/2009 11:09:41
What are some on the best comfortable places to stay in Waco?
I will be vesting the area and would like to be accessible to the local attractions.
By: Carla Pendergraft (Admin)  On: 01/08/2009 11:50:32
Hi Ron,
Thanks for your question! You have so many lodging choices if you want to stay near attractions. The main attraction area is along University Parks-Drive (Suspension Bridge, Texas Ranger Museum, Tourist Info Center) and on the 4th-5th St. corridor (Zoo, Dr Pepper, several historic homes). You could try the Residence Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, or Hilton along University Parks Drive. Or for the 4th-5th St. area, the Clarion and Best Western Old Main Lodge, both on I-35. There is a comfortable bed & breakfast in the Baylor area called Judge Baylor House. Visit our Lodging page at www.wacocvb.com/waco-hotels.asp for the contact info for these properties. Let me know if you have any other questions!
By: Anthony Galliano  On: 01/19/2009 10:15:51
I will be traveling to Waco, Texas in the Fall and staying in my 34ft. travel trailer. Where are good campgrounds? I saw an advertisement for Lake Waco but was unable to download the information.
By: SusanM  On: 01/20/2009 08:20:18
Hi Anthony, You can find a list of RV sites at the bottom of this page: http://www.wacocvb.com/waco-hotels.asp . I hope you enjoy your visit to Waco. Be sure to come by the Tourist Information Center to get maps, coupons and information. The Tourist Information Center is located off I-35 near exit 335B.
By: daniel dexter  On: 02/19/2009 15:58:13
Hey im a student flying down from MI to check out TSTC but i have no way of getting around town for the week, is there a place to rent a bicycle for the week?
and where is teh cheapest place for lodging. im a college student mind you and really short on cash!!!!!
By: Bill S  On: 02/19/2009 22:10:36
I'm getting ready to come to Waco for a Boy Scout campout with my sons and their troop. We're looking for a place to do a three-mile hike and I was thinking maybe the trails in Cameron Park would work. Is there someone who could help me identify a three-mile (or so) loop that would be good for a hike? Hilly terrain would be great, but not required. Is there a better place to do the hike than Cameron Park? We'll be camping at Camp Braley, east of Waco, but it doesn't look like there are any good loop trails there. Thanks.
By: SusanM  On: 02/20/2009 08:30:44
Daniel, I don't know of a bike rental place, but we have a bus system that can take you to and from the campus. You can get more information about that here: http://www.waco-texas.com/bus/bus.htm . You can view a list of accommodations here: http://www.wacocvb.com/waco-hotels.asp . Enjoy your visit!
By: SusanM  On: 02/20/2009 08:38:25
Bill, Cameron Park has some beautiful trails. We also have a nice scenic river walk. You can see a map of the trails here: http://www.wacocvb.com/forms/cameron-pk-trails.pdf The legend will help you figure out the distance.
By: Lynn Kurszewski  On: 03/10/2009 23:45:48
March 10,2009 Yes I would like to known the correct location for the new collin street bakery on interstate 35 that will be opening soon in waco,Texas thank you Lynn Kurszewski
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 12:17:57
Lynn, the new Collin Street Bakery is located at 701 N Interstate 35, Bellmead and their phone is (254) 799-5824. As of 3-23-09, they were not yet open.
By: Donna  On: 03/23/2009 12:24:11
We are visiting Waco this weekend and are bringing our 2 4-legged babies, i.e., cocker spaniels. What's special in Waco that they would enjoy? We are staying at a pet friendly place and plan on visiting the suspension bridge and riverwalk. Any other suggestions?
By: SusanM  On: 03/23/2009 15:19:39
Hi Donna, We have Cameron Park - 416 wooded acres along the river, with hiking trails. There are also some trails at the Lake Waco Dam and Lacy Point Army Corps Park, and the Lake Waco Wetlands allow leashed pets. Stop by the Waco Tourist Information Center (exit 335-B off I-35) for maps and directions.

Enjoy your visit!
Susan
By: Kendrid  On: 04/01/2009 10:46:37
My family from Austin and Fort Worth have decided to meet in Waco for a family reunion. We would like to pick a park where our children can play, the adults can visit, and we can hike or play some bocce ball (we own a set).

I have a 30 foot travel trailer I would like to park in the parking lot, not to camp overnight in or hook-up but to have available for the family to use the facilities and if the toddlers need to take a break and nap, supervised of at all times of course. We are planning the trip soon, April 18. We need a pet friendly park that is a good place to visit with family and can accomadate a travel trailer in the parking lot.

Thank you for your time and assistance,
By: SusanM  On: 04/01/2009 11:02:10
Hi Kindrid, It sounds like Cameron Park might be just the place you are looking for.  Lake Waco  may be another good option. Follow the links to get their contact information and check for availability. Let us know if you need assistance with planning tours to attractions or finding lodging for any family members.

Have a wonderful Reunion!
Susan Morton
By: KathyW  On: 04/30/2009 22:41:13
In October 2010 the Australian Shepherd Club of America will be holding its National Specialty Dog Show at the Heart of Texas. I am looking to rent a house or cabin for a week - 2 people and 2 well-trained dogs that will not be left unattended. Must have a minimum of 2 bedrooms and preferably a fenced yard. Failing a house, are there extended stay hotels with weekly rates in Waco?
By: SusanM  On: 05/01/2009 08:49:49
Hi Kathy, How exciting that your club is holding their National Specialty in Waco! As a dog show person, I understand what a 'big deal' this is - Best of luck at the show! Residence Inn is an extended stay hotel in Waco that accepts pets. There are others in the surrounding communities. For house rentals, I would suggest that you check with some of the real estate agencies to see what is available. Just FYI, we also have a new pet friendly page onour website - should you need anything pet related while you are in town.
By: Jane  On: 05/25/2009 15:10:25
Trying to find info on your trolley car, but having trouble ...we enjoyed touring the town several years ago in that with our grandchildren. Is that service still available and if so where do we catch it? Price, stops? thanks, jane
By: SusanM  On: 05/26/2009 08:59:50
Hi Jane, The trolley cars are operated by Waco Transit. You can visit their website: http://www.waco-texas.com/bus/bus.htm or call them at 254.750.1900 for information about routes and scheduling.

When you come to visit, be sure to stop by the Tourist Information Center for discount coupons to some of the attractions, shops and restaurants.
By: nadine McGee  On: 06/04/2009 15:53:50
I was born and raised in waco.we use to go to aplace called lovers lane,is it still there
By: CarlaP  On: 06/05/2009 08:09:39
Nadine,
I wonder if you are thinking of a place called Lover's Leap? This is a beautiful clifftop parking and viewing area in Cameron Park, opn the Bosque River. Yes, it's still there! The Parks Dept. is doing renovation work in Cameron Park in anticipation of its 100th anniversary.
By: Suzanne  On: 06/23/2009 11:46:29
Does Waco have any motel/hotels that would accomodate a family of six in one room?
By: CarlaP  On: 06/23/2009 13:40:29
Suzanne,
A couple of ideas for you. The Residence Inn has suites with two bedrooms attached to a common living/dining area. Their number is 254-714-1386. You could also consider a bed & breakfast, where the family would have several rooms all in the same house. You can see our bed and breakfast inns listed on our Lodging page, at www.wacocvb.com/waco-hotels.asp.
By: Wilma  On: 09/10/2009 14:09:49
I will be visiting Waco in October with my mutt. Is there a dog park in Waco where dogs may play, socialize off leash?
By: CarlaP  On: 09/10/2009 14:23:14
Wilma,
Dogs are welcome on leashes in parks throughout Waco, but Waco doesn't have a dedicated dog park. There is a fun place called Dogtopia where they can play with each other for a fee. Visit our pet friendly page for more info.
By: Allison  On: 10/05/2009 10:45:53
Does anyone know what the name of the new restraunt opening on the lake is??
By: SusanM  On: 10/05/2009 12:37:05
Allison, The only restaurant I can think of on Lake Waco is the Slippery Minnow. I have not heard of another new one opening. If anyone has information about a new restaurant, please let us know so we can add their information to our listings.

Susan
By: Scott  On: 10/15/2009 00:20:26
I would like to show my in laws some sites in Waco. However they do not speak English and I do not speak German. Unfortunately my Wife will not be able to join us. Are there any German intrepertrers at any of your tourist attractions.
By: SusanM  On: 10/15/2009 08:16:31

Hi Scott, I would suggest contacting the German departments at the colleges. They may be able to find a student or faculty volunteer to help. For the Baylor German department information visit http://www.baylor.edu/german/index.php?id=12657 . The McLennan Community College languages department information can be viewed here http://www.mclennan.edu/divisions/LangDiv/ . Have a great visit! If you need coupons or directions, be sure to stop by the Tourist Information Center - next door to the Texas Ranger Museum off exit 335B.

Susan

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Outdoor Activities in Waco

There are so many outdoor activities available for the sports enthusiast in Waco, that we have an entire page on this website listing as many as we could find. Please visit the page at www.wacocvb.com/waco-recreation.asp for the complete listing, from Archery to the Water Park.

 Let us know any comments or questions you have on Waco Outdoor Activities below.

Comments

By: Valerie (The Netherlands)  On: 01/12/2009 14:26:12
Hi! I hope to come to Waco next year with my dog. Are there nice trials (preferably with water) where I can turn him loose? Thanking you kindly in advance for your answer!
By: SusanM  On: 01/12/2009 15:12:58
Hi Valerie! We would love for you to visit with your dog. There are some wonderful trails through Cameron Park where you can take your dog, but they are not the kind where you can let them run off lead. We also have a nice lake. There are some folks here working on a dog park, but we do not currently have one. Maybe it will be up and running by the time you visit. When you visit, stop by our Tourist Information Center - we'd be glad to meet you and your dog and our dog friendly staff can point you to dog friendly hotels, stores and parks.
By: Dawn  On: 02/05/2009 16:53:52
Can you provide any further information on the dog park in the works? I have heard many say how much one is needed in Waco.
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 11:48:21
Dawn, there has been talk about the need for a dog park in Waco, but currently there is nothing planned. The closest we come to this is Dogtopia, a dog day care in Waco. Click here to visit Dogtopia.
By: Gary  On: 06/10/2009 12:07:37
We will be visiting Waco next month and would be interested in doing some horseback riding in the area. Can you tell me a kid friendly place to trail ride? And, is the paddle boat ride on the Brazos still available?
By: CarlaP  On: 06/12/2009 08:11:24
Gary, I am assuming you will be bringing your own horse. If so, I recommend Cameron Park. The river trail is beautiful and wide, and appropriate for kids. The inner trails are more intermediate to advanced.

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Music and the Arts in Waco

Music and the arts are thriving in Waco.

Read all of Music and the Arts in Waco

Comments

By: Debra  On: 03/01/2009 14:53:52
We attended some free summer concerts downtown a few years back. Does Waco still have them? If so When?
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 11:51:42
Debra, You are probably thinking of Brazos Nights. Here is a link to them: Click here for Brazos Nights.

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Fun Family Activities - Especially for Kids

There are so many kid-friendly activities in Waco, you'll have trouble deciding where to go first.

Read all of Fun Family Activities - Especially for Kids

Comments

By: Pamela  On: 02/22/2009 18:56:20
Does anybody know where I can get discount coupons for the Cameron Zoo?
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 11:55:13
Pamela, The Cameron Park Zoo does offer discounts for groups of 21+ individuals. From their website: "Special rates for groups of 21 or more also are available. For tour groups (senior citizens, church, motorcoach, etc.) call (254) 750-8423. For school groups, call (254) 750-8400."

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Where to Eat - Great Locally-Owned Restaurants in Waco

We are especially proud of the many locally-owned restaurants in Waco. This list would include Uncle Dan's Barbecue, George's, Poppa Rollo's Pizza, the Waco Elite Cafe, Amelia's, Cricket's, Kim's, Slippery Minnow, Green Room Grill, Bangkok Royale, Clay Pot, Cafe Cappucino, Common Grounds, Michna's, DeMaria's, La Fiesta, Se Cocina, El Siete Mares, Diamondback's, Buzzard Billy's, Health Camp, Cupp's Drive-Inn,  Dubl-R Hamburgers, Kitok's, and many others.

If you have a question about where to eat in Waco, or would like to comment on your favorite place to eat, just reply to this article below.

Comments

By: Kassandra  On: 03/10/2009 14:51:48
Hello, are there any goood places to eat on Lake Waco or near Lake Waco? My mother is visiting next week and we plan on taking my son to visit the Cameron Park Zoo sometime next week and would like to eat somewhere on Lake Waco or near Lake Waco after visiting the zoo before we head back home to Cameron.

Thank you.
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 12:20:26
You could try the Slippery Minnow Restaurant and Bar. They are located directly on Lake Waco and have a lovely view. Visit their website for directions.
By: Suzette  On: 06/04/2009 07:38:23
What about vegetarian food? Are there any vegetarian restaurants? If not, which restaurants offer good choices for those of us who don't eat meat? Thanks.
By: CarlaP  On: 06/04/2009 08:13:01
Suzette,
Vegetarian options are available at Clay Pot (Vietnamese), Pei Wei (Asian), and D's Mediterranean Grill. You can consult yelp.com for reviews of these restaurants and locations. Let us know if we can help with anything else.
By: Christine  On: 06/11/2009 16:57:42
A little over 20 years ago we ate at a restaurant in an old train car, is it still in business and what is the name? We have fond memories of this place.
By: CarlaP  On: 06/12/2009 08:12:49
Christine,
I think you are thinking of the Waterworks restaurant. It is no longer open, but it is still there, located on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive (Exit 335C on I-35). It has part of a caboose built into it.

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Specialty Shopping in Waco

Several of Waco's museums and attractions have gift stores that offer unique gifts. The Dr Pepper Museum, Mayborn Museum, Cameron Park Zoo, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, Art Center Waco, the Waco Tourist Information Center, and Texas Sports Hall of Fame all have gift shops at their facilities and also online on their websites.  This is a great way to shop for unusual, one-of-a-kind Waco items!

If you have a question about shopping in Waco, just add a comment to this article, and we'll address it!

 

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Where to Stay in Waco

If you have a question about where to stay for your Waco trip, just reply below on this topic, and we'll be sure to address it!

Comments

By: C. Whitworth  On: 12/31/2008 10:40:19
I am looking for a large place to have a family get together either in the early summer and/or holiday time. Our extended family is around 35-40 adults and children, and we would like to have space for a good meal and plenty of visiting time. We have tried area restraurants but there are just too many of us and time is an issue. Is there someplace we might be able to rent for a 12-24 hour period where we can purchase meals or have them catered?
By: Carla Pendergraft  On: 12/31/2008 11:50:03
There are plenty of places to hold your reunion! We have a page on our website that lists lots of venues in this area that could host your event. Some are hotels; some are restaurants; some are meeting halls. Just go to www.wacocvb.com/mfind.asp and you will see a list. If you don't find what you're looking for, call us at 254-750-5810 and ask for Carla, and I will help you. Good luck!
By: david simmons  On: 01/06/2009 12:06:32
on the fun packages are the prices good for the entire year or do the prices change? on the romantic getaway package does this enclude every thing like the family package? in the first week in nov.of 2009 me and my wife might be coming to waco for our 7th year ann. i am kind of looking at the romantic getaway. if i buy this package when do i need to buy it and do you mail it to me or do i have to pick it up when i arrive in waco?
thanks, dasimmons
1/6/09
By: Pat Breen  On: 01/06/2009 14:34:38
Good afternoon David - my name is Patricia Breen with the Clarion Hotel. Carla with the CVB asked me to contact you regarding our Romance Package. You can purchase this package now, and use it in November. You can contact me at the hotel - my number is 254-757-2000 ext. 524. Thank you and have a great day!

Pat
By: Raph  On: 01/15/2009 18:23:51
We are looking in relocating this summer. How is the educational system in Waco or the surrounding areas (Special Education in particular). We are planning to visit the area this March. What are the things or places we can go/do to get an idea/feeling about the area.
By: SusanM  On: 01/20/2009 08:58:47
Hi Raph, This link may be helpful http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/tx/district_profile/1037 . You may also find helpful information at http://www.wacoisd.org/ and http://www.wacochamber.com/relocationguide.php. Our main website, www.wacocvb.com, has links to various attractions - the attractions menu is on the right. I think Waco is a great place to live and work. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance.
By: Kimberly  On: 02/28/2009 17:47:16
We are looking for a nice hotel near Baylor's campus. Thanks!
By: Suzy  On: 03/09/2009 09:46:57
I see that most of the museums and attractions close at 5pm. What is there to do after 5?
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 11:57:30
Kimberly, sorry for the late response. There are two lodging establishments close to Baylor: the Best Western Old Main Lodge, and the Judge Baylor House Bed & Breakfast. Visit our Lodging in Waco page for contact information for these establishments.
By: CarlaP  On: 03/20/2009 12:31:08
Suzy, Visit our "Waco After Hours" page for information on places open past five, including coffeehouses with entertainment.
By: Betty Harrison  On: 04/28/2009 16:08:00
What is the story on the huge metal catfish resting on the old truck on the west bank of the Brazos River in Waco, Texas?
By: CarlaP  On: 04/28/2009 16:22:08
Betty, the catfish sculpture is a work of art by Joe Barrington. It is part of an effort to bring new works by professional and emerging artists into Waco’s downtown to promote art in public places. Here's a link to more information on it: http://www.wacoartsfest.org/sculpture/.


By: nann  On: 04/28/2009 22:02:16
I visited Waco recently and will be returning for business in the future. What can you tell me about the smell and taste of the water? Do you know of any hotels that have a filtration system? I loved the town however, I am dreading my business trip because of the water. :(
By: CarlaP  On: 04/29/2009 09:29:02
Dear Nann, we will poll our lodging facilities and post the result here! I asked them to respond by 5 pm Thursday with the answer. Thanks.
By: Emily  On: 06/06/2009 00:08:45
I am planning a 20 year reunion for a local high school for this summer. Do you give any free information out about Waco attractions that we could put in our welcome bags/packets we will be giving out to the attendees?
Thank you!
By: Jessica Smith  On: 07/06/2009 19:03:58
Hi! I was just wondering if Lake Waco rented out canoes? Thanks!
By: CarlaP  On: 07/07/2009 09:01:50
Hi Jessica,
There is not a place on Lake Waco that I know of; however, a lot of people rent a canoe at Lake Whitney and then paddle down the river to Waco. Here is a link to Dick's Canoes on Lake Whitney that has full information: http://www.dickscanoe.com/
By: billy  On: 08/04/2009 21:16:51
where is a good place to stay near river bend parks?
By: CarlaP  On: 08/05/2009 08:37:40
Billy, if you are traveling on I-35, I would take the Lake Brazos Parkway/Martin Luther King Exit, 335C to get the Riverbend Park. It's a shortcut and a very beautiful drive. At I-35, you have so many lodging options, including the Best Western Old Main Lodge, Americas Best Value, Clarion Hotel, Victorian Inn and so on. For contact info, go to our lodging page at http://www.wacocvb.com/waco-hotels.asp. Good luck!
By: Alison  On: 08/17/2009 12:14:34
On the event calender for Fri the 21 there is an event listed "Back-to-school Bash". The link does not work. I need something for Dad and our 6 year old to do while the 2 year old naps at the hotel. This event looked perfect since the little one is not old enough to attend. Any other suggestions would also be welcomed. Thanks
By: SusanM  On: 08/17/2009 14:19:59
Alison, The Back-to-school Bash will be from noon - 3 pm on at the Dewey Recreation Center on Friday, August 21st. It is for children 5 and up, and it is free. For more details, call 254-750-8677. Some other things you might consider are our award winning Cameron Park Zoo and the Mayborn Museum Complex. Drop by our Tourist Information Center at I-35 and University Parks for directions and discount coupons for some of the attractions. Thanks for letting us know about the broken link - we'll get that fixed!

Susan
By: Jeff  On: 08/20/2009 17:03:10
I am looking for a place to host a University of Connecticut alumni reunion prior to the UCONN vs. Baylor football game on Saturday, September 19, 2009. The game starts at 4:00pm so I would like to host our event from 1:00-3:30pm. My preference would be someplace in walking distance from Floyd Casey Stadium but I short drive would be o.k. Any suggestions?
By: CarlaP  On: 08/21/2009 08:36:36
Jeff,
Here are a couple of ideas for your reunion:
Golden Corral - Private party room. 618 N Valley Mills Dr. (254)751-9088.
Uncle Dan's BBQ - Private party room. 1001 Lake Air Drive. 254-772-3532
You can also visit our webpage at www.wacocvb.com/mfind.asp to see other ideas for venues. These two are probably the closest to the stadium. Good luck!
By: Larry White  On: 10/06/2009 15:39:36
A group of ten people plan on attending the Baylor-Nebraska football game. We will be traveling via a motorhome. Three people are unable to walk a long distance. Is there a location or parking lot where we can park a motorhome and get on a shuttle to and from the stadium?

Thanks,
By: SusanM  On: 10/06/2009 16:16:29

Larry, Floyd Casey stadium does have room to park a motor home, but no hook ups. The parking is first come first serve, and is open the Friday before the game. The cost to park your motor home there is $25. There is a shuttle than runs from the Baylor campus to the game, however there is not a place to park a motorhome near the shuttle stop.

Susan

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