The Many Virtues of Waco at the Heart of Central Texas

If you’ve zipped up I-35 while traveling through Texas and completely bypassed Waco without enjoying any of its amazing wonders, you’re missing most of what it bears the distinctions of. First of all, it’s the birthplace of comedian and actor, Steve Martin, as well as popular “I Know What You Did Last Summer” lead actress, Jennifer Love Hewitt. It’s also home to more museums per capita than any other city in the Lone Star State. Frequently celebrated for its neighborly nature, this city of a little over 130,000 (according to the 2014 U.S. Census) has small-town flavor, and is filled to the brim with modern pleasures and unique treasures.

Cradled close to the confluence of the Brazos and Bosque Rivers, the city of Waco features great opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy life along the water’s edge. A lot of its economic renewal has been focused on the riverside, close to the famed Suspension Bridge (which was completed in 1870). Their Waco Riverwalk (situated on both banks), connects this landmark bridge with the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum as well as Indian Spring Park and many other central city attractions. With this, new business development has positioned itself to draw from Waco’s heritage, including the River Square Center which was transformed from the Waco Hardware Building, and Magnolia Market at the Silos, which was developed by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Shared by the Greater Waco Chamber on their official YouTube Channel, this video features many of the activities, shops, and restaurants in the city that locals and now many tourists (in- and out-of-state, believe it or not) have become quite fond and familiar with. American, authentic Mexican, and delicious Italian cuisines can all be found for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, together with iconic Texas barbecue. Rustic and eclectic boutiques, home furnishing stores, and art displays can be enjoyed and easily shopped. And a maze of Texas and Lone Star State-style merchandise to complement your lifestyle, home, or simply your passions, can also be found in this one-stop shopping mecca. Enjoy all that Waco has to offer, and then when you get back on I-35, you’ll understand the virtues of the heart of Central Texas.