Waco Weekend Getaway Guide

We can all agree that Waco has a charm that seems to endear all who call the city home, but sometimes the road just seems to beckon. If you have an itch for adventure, take advantage of Waco’s prime coordinates and take a trip down the road to a nearby hot spot– We promise home will feel even better when you come back.

Salado  |  A short drive down I-35 will bring you to the small town of Salado, Texas. Some may call it the quintessence of Central Texas, as it showcases its leisurely charm with grand Victorian front porches, rocking chairs, a babbling creek carving out downtown, wineries and art galleries. If it weren’t for the close proximity to the interstate, you might just be fooled into thinking you were miles and miles away from home.

Bed time for the inviting little town is around 11pm but don’t worry too much about that– follow a country road for about 20 minutes and you will find yourself at Bo’s Barn Dancehall , a classic example of true Texan nightlife.

San Saba  |  Small town meets exotic paradise–San Saba is no normal country road stop. Historic downtown sports coffee shops, boutiques, live music and even a few wine cellars, but just outside the city limits, in Colorado Bend State Park, you’ll find Gorman Falls–moss covered waterfalls that look more like some island escape than Central Texas.

Already packing your bags? Us too. If you want the full San Saba experience, make your accommodations at the Dofflemyer Hotel– a boutique inn lush with an eclectic history and charm. If you’d rather opt for a more adventurous trip, you might think about pitching a tent in the beautiful Colorado Bend State Park– you won’t be disappointed by the view.

Fredericksburg  |  The self-proclaimed “capital of eclectic lodging” welcomes visitors with authentic German cuisine, a local glass of wine, and a plethora of shopping boutiques. Walk the streets of this historical little town and you’ll find german bakeries, unique bed and breakfasts, museums, art galleries, and live music to boot. Take a short drive down the road to some of Texas’ best wineries, or make a stop at the Wildseed Farm and make your own bouquet while you take a wildflower tour. If you are more of the outdoorsy type, you might find yourself at Enchanted Rock– one of Texas’ most famous hiking and camping spots. Located in the breathtaking Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is the perfect weekend escape for the foodie and adventure-seeker alike.

Gruene and New Braunfels  |  The towns of Gruene and New Braunfels have become synonyms for lazy river days and tubing thanks to the Guadalupe River, but these destinations are more than just that. Brimming with history, these towns have “gently resisted change since 1857”– as Gruene’s town slogan says. After your tubing trip, make sure to grab a bite to eat at the famous Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar, boasting icy margaritas and grapefruit sized onion rings, your taste buds will not be disappointed. Afterwards, you can work off dinner as you two-step the night away at Gruene Hall, the iconic dancehall of Central Texas.  

If you are looking for an alternative to tubing, let us recommend a visit to Landa Park– the dreamy city park is lined with ancient oak trees and offers paddle boat tours along the Comal River. You might even have the nice folks at River House Tea Room pack you a picnic lunch.

So what are you waiting for? A weekend of adventure and relaxation is only a road trip away, and don’t worry, Waco will welcome you home when you get back.