Waco is a city in Central Texas along the Brazos River and Interstate 35, midway between Dallas and Austin. Home to Baylor University, Waco has transformed from an agricultural and manufacturing center into a vibrant college town and tourist destination. The city sits at the geographic heart of Texas, making it a natural crossroads for commerce, education, and culture.
Home of Baylor University, Texas's oldest continuously operating university (founded 1845)
Birthplace of Dr Pepper, America's oldest major soft drink brand
Magnolia Market at the Silos draws over 3 million visitors annually
Site of the Waco Mammoth National Monument, preserving Ice Age fossils
Cameron Park: one of the largest municipal parks in Texas (416 acres)
Historic crossroads of the Chisholm Trail cattle drives
History
Waco's history stretches back thousands of years to the Waco Indians who settled along the Brazos River. The city was formally established in 1849 and incorporated in 1856. It became a major cattle town along the Chisholm Trail, and the famous Waco Suspension Bridge (1870) was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi at the time.
Named after the Waco (Hueco) Native American tribe
1886: Dr Pepper invented at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store
1937: Baylor University moves from Independence to Waco
1953: Devastating tornado kills 114 people, reshaping the city
2014: Chip and Joanna Gaines launch Magnolia, transforming tourism
Economy & Major Employers
Waco's economy is anchored by education, healthcare, and tourism, with growing manufacturing and technology sectors. The Magnolia effect has sparked a downtown renaissance with new restaurants, hotels, and small businesses.
Award-winning Texas whisky distillery with tours and tastings
225 S 11th St, Waco, TX 76701
Wed-Mon tours available
Culture & Events
Downtown Waco features a growing arts scene with the Waco Civic Theatre, Art Center of Waco, and numerous galleries along Austin Avenue.
Annual Events
Heart O' Texas Fair & Rodeo
October · Annual fair and PRCA rodeo since 1954
Silobration
October · Magnolia's annual fall celebration
Waco Cultural Arts Fest
October · Celebrating diverse arts and cultures
Christmas on the Brazos
December · Holiday parade and festivities downtown
Sports
Waco is home to the Baylor Bears (NCAA Division I), competing in Football, Basketball, Baseball, and more. McLane Stadium on the Brazos River is one of college football's most scenic venues.