After living in Waco for 21 years, you’d think I would have already explored all that our city has to offer, but that would be incorrect. Waco is constantly growing, which makes us forget the classic spots like the Armstrong Browning Library or Tom’s Burgers. Whether old or new, these gems are gems for a reason, so let me remind you why.
Waco Surf Lazy River
To escape the harsh Texas sun this summer, me and my gal pal set off to Waco Surf, but not to catch waves. Instead, we beelined to the lazy river which is one mile of pure bliss and relaxation, and is also the single longest lazy river in the world! One lap is approximately 45 minutes long, which was plenty of time for my friend and I to catch up on our life updates. If you can recall, Waco Surf, located at 5347 Old Mexia Road, used to be BSR cable park; there was not a beach or wave pool back then. Ever since Waco Surf took over in 2022, they have focused their marketing on the surf park — after all, it is one of the biggest inland surf and water sports facilities in the country. Because the surf park gained national attention, I had completely forgotten about the wedge slides and lazy river. So, if you’re not an avid surfer either, don’t worry, Waco Surf still has activities for us. Waco Surf’s season ends in mid-September, to purchase day passes or learn more information, visit their website.
Tom’s Burgers
My coworkers enlightened me of the existence of Tom’s Burgers when I began brainstorming for this article. Located at 6818 Sanger Ave., Tom’s Burgers is a true hole-in-the-wall diner serving up classics such as bacon cheeseburgers, steak finger baskets and even a cookie with your meal. With over 2.8K followers on Facebook, Tom’s has a big of a following for a reason. I’ve been told that all of the nurses mosey across Sanger Avenue to Tom’s for their well-deserved lunch break, so be prepared for a major lunch rush. To browse the menu or to learn more information about Tom’s, visit their website.
Cloven Heart Farm Sanctuary
Out in China Spring, approximately 13 miles from Waco, Cloven Heart has one mission: To give their animals dignity and a comfortable life after experiencing neglect and abuse. Cloven Heart Farm Sanctuary, 11225 Yankie Road, is a haven to all types of farm animals including horses, goats, sheep, cows, pigs, donkeys, turkeys, cats and dogs –– they basically have their own Noah’s Ark forming. You can see these animals and hear about their resilient stories during a private tour. Tickets to tour are $25 each and you will be able to see the facility, meet rescues, hear rescue stories and learn more about Cloven Heart’s mission. You can also volunteer twice a month at the facility. This is a unique way to get outside as well as give back to our community.
Lake Waco Wetlands
Close to China Spring is the Lake Waco Wetlands, an ecosystem that is covered in water all year round and supports a myriad of species. If you went to a Waco K-12 school, you most likely took a field trip to the wetlands, but if you didn’t, maybe it’s time you pay it a visit. The Waco Wetlands is located at 1752 Eichelberger Crossing Road and has many pedestrian trails as well as a Research and Education Center that is open to the public. Many local schools and universities such as Baylor utilize this space for their research, which is quite important since the wetlands flow into Lake Waco and then becomes our drinking water. If I’ve convinced you to visit, go pack up the car and the picnic basket and head out to the wetlands for education and outdoor time.
Tandem Rooftop Bar
The Waco Hippodrome Theatre has changed management several times over the past decade. Now, the Hippodrome is a music venue, home to Maria Mezcaleria’s, Tru Jamaica and, nestled on top of the building, is the Tandem Rooftop Bar. Tandem took over what was the Raleigh Restaurant and is now solely a full-service bar. This bar also has live music and invites DJs to turn the roof into a dance floor on the weekends. What makes Tandem unique is that along with Lucky Buck’s and Bertie’s on the Rooftop, it is the one of the few rooftop bars Waco has right now. I assume that this number will grow over the years, but for now, it’s nice to have options of where to drink amongst the tops of buildings in Waco.
Armstrong Browning Library
On the edge of Baylor University’s campus is a library that has floor-to-ceiling stained glass and artifacts from the Browning family. The Armstrong Browning Library, 710 Speight Ave., is an architectural marvel with bronze doors, 62 stained glass windows and marble columns, which took three and a half years to build and cost $1.75 million. It is also the largest collection of memorabilia from the Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Browning. There are guided and self-guided tours of the library that are open to the public. Make sure to visit this gem before Baylor is back for the fall semester.
Heart O’ Texas Speedway
This hidden gem is for car enthusiasts and daredevils alike. The quarter-mile oval dirt track turns into a high-speed derby car raceway every Friday night. The Heart O’ Texas Speedway is located at 784 N McLennan Dr. and has been operating races for 57 years. Their season is from March to September, so there is plenty of time to catch a race. This makes for a relatively cheap evening plan with tickets starting at $15 for adults and $5 for children. To see ticket pricing and upcoming races, visit their website.
Valley Mills Vineyard
Okay, I know that this vineyard is technically located in Valley Mills, but they used to be in Waco and it’s worth the drive. Don’t drive too fast when you travel out here because you might miss the entrance at 1686 FM-1637. The winery sits atop a hill and its long driveway builds anticipation as you get closer to the estate. Valley Mills Vineyard offers wine tastings, tours and they have special events for their members and family. A reason why I love this hidden gem so much is because it feels like an escape. It’s out in the middle of nowhere and it’s so peaceful, it also has a plethora wine to choose from.
While we may have our go-to spots in Waco, it’s worth exploring our city by other people’s favorite gems. This list has only scratched the surface and a part two is currently in the works. Did we miss one of your gems? If so, email intern@wacoan.com to share yours with us!
