7 Free Things To Do in Waco: Your Ultimate Guide
I am always on the lookout for something enjoyable to do and living close to the area, I have scouted out the best free things to do in Waco for you. Some are outdoor activities, lots of window shopping, and even some deep history for your enjoy.
Cameron Park
Cameron Park is one of Waco’s treasures, a sprawling 400-acre natural space right in the heart of the city. Its gorgeous landscapes, limestone cliffs, and views of the Brazos and Bosque rivers make it a perfect destination for anyone who loves to get outdoors. If you’re looking for free things to do in Waco, Cameron Park is a must.
You’ll find an extensive 26-mile trail system ideal for hikers, bikers, and those who want to enjoy a stroll. The trails vary from easy-going riverside paths to more challenging routes that take you up and over some of Waco’s stunning bluffs. For adrenaline junkies, there are even technical mountain biking trails like Root Canal, which offer a thrilling experience through the park’s twists and turns.
If you’re looking for a peaceful walk, the River Trail is a favorite, leading you alongside the Brazos River for a scenic 5-mile journey. You’ll likely share the trail with joggers, cyclists, and occasional horseback riders. Along the way, you will walk near Lovers Leap, a limestone cliff that offers stunning panoramic views of the rivers below—it’s the perfect spot for resting and some photos.
Bonus: Don’t miss Jacob’s Ladder at the end of your adventure. This steep staircase is a local legend, with its 88 steps that will get your heart pumping. The views from the top are worth the effort, and there are benches along the way if you need to catch your breath.
If you have littles, check out their playground with the splash pad. This free water play area is located near the Pecan Bottoms section of the park, and it’s a favorite spot for families to relax and have fun. I dare say the splash pad is one of the top free things to do in Waco for families, providing endless fun while keeping cool.
The splash pad is designed with interactive water features that will keep little ones entertained for hours while adults can enjoy the shade of nearby picnic areas.
The Splash Pad is open seasonally, so check the park’s website for specific dates and hours. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun, free thing to do in Waco, Cameron Park offers something for everyone.
Waco Suspension Bridge
The Waco Suspension Bridge is an iconic piece of Waco’s skyline and a significant part of the city’s history. Opened on January 7, 1870, it was the first major suspension bridge in Texas and served as a vital crossing over the Brazos River. Today, it’s one of the most popular free things to do in Waco, perfect for a scenic walk or to enjoy views of the city.
Initially, tolls were required to cross the bridge; however, this didn’t sit well with the locals. To avoid these unpopular fees, McLennan County purchased the bridge in 1889 for $75,000, and later, it was sold to the City of Waco for just $1, with the promise that the tolls would be removed permanently.
Starting in 2020, the bridge underwent a massive $12.4 million rehabilitation project. This project replaced the suspension cables, decking, and anchors, making it safer and sturdier for modern use. When it reopened, the bridge became a pedestrian-only crossing, offering a scenic route for walkers and a peaceful spot to enjoy views of the Brazos River.
Flanked by two beautiful parks—Indian Spring Park to the west and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park to the east—the bridge is a perfect stop for anyone exploring the heart of Waco. It serves as a venue for festivals, community events, and even private parties, making it a lively centerpiece of the city. Visiting the Suspension Bridge is one of the best free things to do in Waco for those looking to soak in some history while enjoying the great outdoors.
After you’ve crossed the bridge, don’t forget to explore the nearby Waco Sculpture Zoo, a mile-long display of 28 creative and whimsical animal sculptures. Each piece represents an animal residing in Cameron Park Zoo, making for a fun, artistic stroll perfect for families, art lovers, and anyone looking to appreciate Waco’s cultural flair.
Kayak/SUP the Brazos River
For those looking to get out on the water, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Brazos River is an absolute must while in Waco—and it’s free if you’ve got your gear!
One of the best places to launch is the Brazos Park East boat ramp, which is clean, easy to access, and provides a smooth entry into the river. Other launch spots include the Bledsoe-Miller Community Center, McLennan Community College, and Bosque Park boat ramps, all offering great access points to start your adventure.
As you paddle down the river, the views are breathtaking. You’ll glide under the iconic Waco Suspension Bridge and enjoy the stunning sights of the Baylor campus from the water. The calm waters of the Brazos make it perfect for both beginner and experienced paddlers.
For the truly adventurous, I’ve met people who’ve taken things up a notch by starting their kayak journey at the Lake Whitney Dam, about 45 minutes north of Waco, and paddled to Austin! It’s a challenging yet rewarding trip that takes you along some of the most beautiful stretches of the Brazos River.
If you’re up for this journey, make sure you have a transportation plan—many people arrange for a friend with a kayak trailer to meet them at their destination. It’s an unforgettable way to spend the day soaking in nature and the peaceful flow of the river. It’s an exciting free thing to do in Waco that offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Branch Davidians Memorial Park
Located at 1781 Double EE Ranch Road, the Branch Davidians Memorial Site is a quiet, solemn place for reflection on one of Waco’s most tragic events.
The memorial honors those who lost their lives during the Waco siege, a 51-day standoff between the Branch Davidians, a religious group led by David Koresh, and federal agents. The siege, which ended on April 19, 1993, saw the destruction of the compound in a devastating fire, resulting in the deaths of nearly 80 people, including men, women, and children.
Today, while no original buildings remain, the site is open to the public on most days for those wanting to pay their respects. The property sits at the end of a long gravel road, and visitors should be mindful that it is considered private property. If the gate is closed, there is no entry for that day.
At the memorial, you’ll find a large stone engraved with the names of the Branch Davidians who perished, as well as trees lining the area as living tributes. One of the few remnants of the original compound is the large in-ground pool, which now holds rainwater.
Across the dirt road, a separate memorial honors the ATF agents who were killed during the initial February 28, 1993 raid, and there is also a tribute to the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, which occurred two years later, which is linked to the Waco siege in the eyes of many. Exploring this historical landmark is one of the more introspective free things to do in Waco and provides a deeper understanding of the city’s past.
While it is free to visit, there is a donation box on-site with a suggested donation of $10 per car to help maintain the grounds and memorials. It’s a quiet, powerful reminder of the events that unfolded here and a place for visitors to reflect on the lives lost and the history that remains etched in the landscape.
Bonus: 2015 Waco Shootout
If this is your thing, then drive a few miles south after going to the Branch Davidian site and check out the dilapidated Louisana Crab Shack near Cabela’s Outlet. This restaurant was originally a Twin Peaks, and there have been two other restaurants in the ten years since the shootout. Haunted history, perhaps?
On May 17, 2015, a violent altercation broke out at a Twin Peaks restaurant in Waco, Texas, involving more than 200 individuals, many of whom were members of rival motorcycle clubs, including the Bandidos and Cossacks.
What began as a meeting to discuss political rights for motorcyclists quickly escalated into a deadly shootout. Law enforcement officers, who had been monitoring the gathering from outside, responded to the violence, with gunfire exchanged between the police and individuals involved. The clash left nine bikers dead and 18 others wounded.
In the aftermath, 177 individuals were arrested, mostly suspected of participating in organized crime. However, the legal proceedings that followed were fraught with complications. Many criticized the handling of the situation as excessive, and what was initially seen as a massive effort to hold participants accountable turned into a four-year prosecutorial struggle that ultimately resulted in zero convictions.
We go to the area regularly to shop, and I can’t help but get a chill as we drive by.
Or Head Over to the Silos
Now that we’ve covered Waco’s dark past let’s talk about what makes it a vibrant community while still keeping it cost-friendly (aka. FREE).
No trip to Waco is complete without a visit to Magnolia Market at the Silos, one of the most iconic free things to do in Waco. This beloved shopping complex spans over two city blocks in downtown Waco.
With its towering twin silos—each standing 120 feet tall and originally built in 1950 as part of the Brazos Valley Cotton Oil Company—this iconic destination has become a landmark thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines, the HGTV stars behind Fixer Upper. When the Gaineses opened the grounds to the public in October 2015, they not only transformed the silos into a must-visit attraction, but they also helped revitalize Waco, attracting visitors from across the country.
The complex features a 12,000-square-foot retail store inside the historic grain barn, filled with Joanna’s signature home decor and lifestyle products. For an extra touch of boutique shopping, don’t miss the Shops at the Silos. Inspired by the streets of New York City, these six boutique-style stores, each designed with a specific theme in mind, offer a carefully curated selection of goods that reflect Joanna’s unique style.
But the Silos experience goes beyond just shopping. The grounds also include a food truck park where you can grab a bite to eat at one of the picnic tables, a charming garden store, and a bakery where visitors line up for freshly baked treats. There’s even a large lawn area, perfect for families to relax and play.
Admission to the Silos is free, though some events may have entry fees.
The Silos are open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM—so make sure to carve out time to explore this special part of Waco, whether you’re a fan of the Gaineses or just love a good shopping and food experience. Whether you’re browsing the shops or just soaking in the atmosphere, visiting the Silos is one of the top free things to do in Waco.
Homestead Heritage
Just 20 minutes from Baylor, Homestead Heritage offers a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in the timeless art of craftsmanship and sustainable living. Visiting the community is one of the most unique free things to do in Waco.
This intentional Christian community, seated on 510 acres of farmland, craft villages, and housing, is home to about 1,000 members committed to self-sufficiency, agriculture, and artisanal skills. When you visit, you’ll step into a world where pottery spinning, yarn weaving, woodworking, and blacksmithing are a way of life.
Walking through Homestead Heritage, you’ll experience the rich aromas of freshly baked goods and witness artisans at work—creating everything from pottery to handcrafted metal tools. Their approach to life emphasizes high-quality, handmade products over mass-produced goods.
As blacksmith James Collins puts it, “It’s very rewarding to use something you made from scratch.” Visitors can see this process firsthand in each workshop, where many crafted items are available for purchase.
The community also prides itself on organic, non-GMO, and pesticide-free farming practices, ensuring that the food it grows and shares is of the highest quality. From its grains to baking mixes, everything is made with care. One community member, Annunziato, said, “We know exactly what we’re mixing into all our baking mixes.”
For those inspired by this way of life, The Ploughshare Institute for Sustainable Culture at Homestead offers around 120 classes, teaching woodworking, blacksmithing, basket weaving, and kitchen skills. Whether you’re there to learn or just explore, the sense of craftsmanship and connection to nature makes Homestead Heritage one of the most enriching free things to do in Waco.
On any given day, visitors can wander through the craft village, watch artisans at work, or grab a bite to eat at Café Homestead. The restaurant features farm-to-table meals that use fresh ingredients grown right on the property.
Window Shop at Spice Village
Spice Village is one of the best free things to do in Waco if you enjoy window shopping and exploring unique boutiques. With over 60 individual boutiques within 30,000 square feet, Spice Village has been a staple in the city for over 20 years. From home goods and unique decor items to trendy clothing and locally made food products, this shopping experience offers something for everyone.
Joanna Gaines, of Fixer Upper fame, began her home design business with a small booth at Spice Village, making it a fun stop for fans of her style and design legacy. Each boutique offers its flair, so you can explore a variety of styles, products, and ideas all under one roof.
Conveniently located at the corner of 2nd Street and Franklin Ave, Spice Village is just a short walk from the food trucks (and my favorite- Mamaka Bowls) parked at Indian Spring Park along the Bosque River.
You’re also just a few blocks away from the Magnolia Silos, with a shuttle available from the Silos to Franklin Ave, making it an easy stop to add to your Waco itinerary. The village is housed in a historic warehouse that dates back to 1928, adding to its charm.
Spice Village is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM, so there’s plenty of time to pop in and shop, whether browsing or searching for something special. It’s the perfect spot to find local gems and taste Waco’s thriving shopping scene. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s a great free thing to do in Waco, and it might even give you inspiration for later.
Final Thoughts on Free Things To Do in Waco
Waco is filled with a variety of unique and exciting free things to do. The city offers a little bit of something for everyone. Whatever you choose to do, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this vibrant city without breaking the bank. From outdoor adventures to historic landmarks and local craftsmanship, Waco invites visitors to explore, learn, and unwind in the heart of Texas.
