🧭 Waco, Texas: Fixer Upper Charm, Riverside Trails & Hidden Gems on Our RV Journey

February 26, 2024

After saying goodbye to the hustle and bustle of Dallas/Fort Worth, we rolled south on our 7,000-mile RV road trip and landed in a place that’s often misunderstood—Waco, Texas.

Once known for dark headlines, Waco has completely transformed its image. Today, it’s a thriving destination known for charming city parks, artisan communities, and—of course—the Magnolia empire of Chip and Joanna Gaines fame.

We needed a break from city life, and Waco delivered more than we expected.

🚴‍♀️ First Stop: Cameron Park – A Bike Ride With a Twist

With the buzz of urban life still ringing in our ears, we craved nature. So we headed straight for Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, spanning over 416 acres.

We loaded up our electric Bronco bikes, aiming to explore some of the 20+ miles of multi-use trails. This park even has a zoo, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.

The idea was simple: find a relaxing river trail, enjoy some light exercise, and soak in the greenery.

But here's the reality...

My mind imagined gently winding trails. My body? Not so much.

Despite the fat tires on our e-bikes, I found myself struggling with balance and terrain. A couple of tumbles later, we realized the cement trails were more our speed. It may not have been the off-road adventure I pictured, but it was still refreshing to ride under a canopy of trees, alongside the Brazos River.

🏞️ Scenic Detours & Downtown Waco’s Architecture

After our trail ride, we weren’t quite ready to call it a day. We hopped back in the truck and took a slow drive through the rest of Cameron Park, checking out the scenic overlooks and picnic areas. The light filtering through the trees was stunning—exactly the kind of recharge we needed.

Feeling adventurous, we detoured through downtown Waco, admiring the mix of historic buildings and revitalized spaces. It was the perfect lead-in to our next stop…

🏗️ Magnolia Market at the Silos: A Fixer Upper Must-See

If you’re a fan of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, then you already know what the Magnolia Silos are all about. But seeing them in person? That’s a whole different experience.

The two towering 120-foot silos, originally built in the 1950s as part of the Brazos Valley Oil Company, are now the centerpiece of the Magnolia Market, a thoughtfully designed space filled with boutique shops, food trucks, games, and community seating.

Chip and Joanna Gaines turned this former industrial area into something warm, inviting, and distinctly Waco. From vintage signage to perfectly manicured lawns and cozy picnic tables, it’s a vibe.

And yes, it was busy—this spot sees around 30,000 visitors a week—but it still somehow felt peaceful.

🛠️ Discovering Homestead Craft Village: Waco’s True Hidden Gem

As great as the Silos were, we found something even more magical: Homestead Craft Village.

Tucked away just north of Waco, this artisan village is home to a community of skilled craftspeople. Walk into any of the small shops and you’ll find:

• Potters shaping clay

• Blacksmiths forging tools

• Weavers and quilters at work

• Handmade furniture and wooden toys

We were lucky enough to catch a few classes in session, reminding us that these old-world skills are being passed on to new generations.

It wasn’t commercial—it was intentional. Quiet. Humble. Beautiful.If you love handmade goods, slower living, or traditional crafts, don’t miss this stop.

Tip:

Plan at least a half-day to wander the village, chat with the artisans, and grab lunch at the Café Homestead (more on that below).

🍽️ Heritage Café: A Meal Worth Remembering

Located right inside Homestead Heritage, Café Homestead served up one of the best meals we’ve had on the road. The food is farm-to-table, made fresh, and filled with flavor.

We loved the local cheeses, hearty sandwiches, and especially the house-made ice cream.

It’s a calm, quiet place to enjoy a truly nourishing meal.

🌉 The Waco Suspension Bridge & Doris D. Miller Park

No trip to Waco is complete without visiting the Waco Suspension Bridge, one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Completed in 1869, it was the longest single-span suspension bridge west of the Mississippi at the time. It gave cattle drivers on the Chisholm Trail a safer way to cross the Brazos River—and helped establish Waco as a key commercial center.

Adjacent to the bridge is Doris D. Miller Park, honoring Doris "Dorie" Miller, a local hero and the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism during the Pearl Harbor attack.

This area is ideal for walking, learning, and reflecting. It blends history and beauty in a way that leaves an impression.

🚿 The RV Stay: Magnolia RV Park Review

As for our stay in Waco, we opted for a place near the action—Magnolia RV Park. And while the staff were friendly and the amenities were clean, we have to be honest...

The showers? Not great.

For the price we paid, we expected a better layout. A little space to change and keep your stuff dry would go a long way. It’s a small thing, but when you’re on the road full-time, it matters. If we return to Waco, we’ll probably try a different RV park.

🗺️ Why Waco Surprised Us

Waco isn't just about silos and a TV show. It's a city of layers—of reinvention, resilience, and creative community. From peaceful river trails to centuries-old bridges, from artisan crafts to culinary delights, it offered something for every side of us:

• Nature lovers found joy in the bike trails and park overlooks

• History buffs were inspired by Doris Miller and the Chisholm Trail legacy

• Design fans marveled at Magnolia’s curated spaces

• RV travelers found both charm and challenges

We arrived expecting a quick stopover. We left with full bellies, a few bruises from our biking attempts, and a deep appreciation for what Waco has become.

🌟 Plan Your Visit: Waco Travel Quick Tips

Top Things to Do in Waco, TX:

• 🛍️ Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos

• 🚴 Explore Cameron Park’s bike trails

• 🛠️ Tour Homestead Craft Village

• 🌉 Walk across the Waco Suspension Bridge

• 🍽️ Dine at Café Homestead

• 🖼️ Check out downtown murals and architecture

Best Time to Visit: Spring or FallGood for: RVers, families, couples, design lovers, and history buffsRV Park to Research: (Other than Magnolia RV Park) consider Midway Park COE or Waco Lake campgrounds

🚐 Onward: Where We’re Headed Next

Waco was just one stop on our epic 7,000-mile road trip. Up next?

Make sure to follow us on Instagram and YouTube to join us for more hidden gems, travel tips, and life on the road.

Thanks for riding along!