One may picture the city of Waco, Texas, with its scorching summers and bright days. But don’t fall for it! There are plenty of winter things to do in Waco to keep you warm and content as soon as the breeze whispers “sweater weather.” From quiet moments sipping hot cocoa to thrilling Waco attractions, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you warm.
So, put down your beach towel, grab your mittens, and get ready to explore some of the best ways to spend your wintertime in Waco.
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Waco Wonderland Adventure
Turn your winter blues into sparkling joy with a visit to Waco Wonderland! This annual holiday extravaganza transforms downtown Waco into a wonderland of festive fun during December, perfectly capturing the holiday spirit.
Stroll through Heritage Square, adorned with dazzling Christmas lights, each one a masterpiece of twinkling bulbs and glowing figures, making Christmas time truly magical. Take a whimsical ride on the Ferris wheel, let the kids squeal with delight on the carousel, and warm your hands with a mug of hot cocoa.
Don’t miss the Mistletoe Market, a Christmas market where local artisans offer unique things and handmade treasures perfect for ticking off those special gifts on everyone’s wish lists.
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Cameron Park Winter Fun
Cameron Park, a gem in the heart of Waco, offers an array of activities even during the winter months. This sprawling urban park, which is one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, makes it a must-visit destination. Take a leisurely walk or a brisk jog on the trails that offer breathtaking views of the Bosque and Brazos Rivers.
Visit the Cameron Park Zoo for a glimpse of nature and get up close and personal with lions, meerkats, and even a stunning snow leopard
Warm up with a picnic by the fire in one of the park’s many designated areas. Cameron Park provides a unique blend of natural beauty and engaging activities, which ensures a memorable winter experience in Waco, Texas, United States
Check out their Winter Activity Guide here!
Magnolia Market
Looking for a warm spot when the winter wind hits Waco? Head over to Magnolia Market. Seriously, this great place is like a giant winter hug. The famous silos are decked out with twinkly lights that just make you want to go inside and explore. Inside, there are rustic decorations, pinecones, wreaths, cozy blankets, and candles everywhere.
And don’t even get me started on the hot chocolate from Magnolia Silos Baking Co.; it smells like heaven. You can find some pretty cool gifts too, from Joanna Gaines’ newest cookbook to handmade ornaments and local goodies.
Unleash your Winter Creativity
When it gets chilly in Waco, the town doesn’t just turn white; it turns all kinds of colors, thanks to the local artists. There are some really cool art studios and galleries that are perfect for escaping the cold.
The Art Center Waco is a great place to start. They’ve got everything from paintings to sculptures, and it’s all local stuff too. Then there’s Cultivate 7twelve. It’s always changing up its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.
Oh, and if you’re a coffee lover, you’ll adore Dichotomy. You can grab a cup and check out the art on the walls. Another place to check out is the Studio Gallery, a funky mix of old and new art.
Bottom line: winter in Waco isn’t just about the cold. It’s about getting cozy with some beautiful art. So, don’t let the cold keep you cooped up, go explore Waco’s art scene
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Waco Escape Room Adventures
Visit one of Waco’s numerous escape rooms to test your ability to collaborate with others and solve problems! There is something for everyone, with themes ranging from eerie houses to pirate ships.
Determine the time limit, solve puzzles, and cooperate to get out before it expires. For families or groups of friends seeking fun and a challenge, it’s the ideal wintertime pastime. “Once you escape a Waco Escape Room, you’ll never feel the same way about unlocking doors again,” as they say. Buy tickets by clicking on their website link.
Cowboys on Ice
The winter wonderland in Waco is more insane than a snowball battle at the South Pole! The One HOT Reining Winter Slide is a magnificent ice rodeo for horses and their human companions, and it’s coming to town. Imagine riders whooping louder than a pack of huskies, elegant footwork similar to unicorns, and snow flying like a glitter cannon!
Simple, icy enjoyment for the entire family. So gather your hot cocoa and mittens and get ready for an exciting wintertime experience! This free event runs from February 1–3, 2024, from 8:00AM – 5:00PM. Free Admission. Check here for more info.
Dr Pepper Paranormal Experience
Having a fearless winter? If so, you should definitely check out the Dr Pepper Museum’s Dr Pepper Paranormal Experience! There will be goosebumps during this eerie, two-hour tour that you won’t find in your freezer.
Be ready for floaty objects, dark silhouettes, and echoes from above. Who knows, you might even see a soda-loving ghost! It’s a fun way to learn, get a little creeped out, and make your winter trip to Waco pretty unique
The admission fee is $35. Every Saturdays. 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Get your spooky bones ready by checking out their website.
McLennan County Youth Park Winter Fun
If you’ve got kids, or if you’re just a big kid at heart, you have to check out McLennan County Youth Park. Even in winter, it’s a winner. This isn’t your average park; it’s all about fun events and activities. Even when it’s cold, you can bundle up and enjoy the outdoor fun. Plus, there’s always hot cocoa and snacks on sale, so it’s a wonderful place to chill and enjoy the winter vibes.
This spacious area has a skate park for the more cool teenagers in your squad, a playground large enough to fulfill any climbing aspirations, and a splash pad for warmer days. Make a day of it with a picnic basket; cheerful smiles and fresh air are guaranteed! Open from sunrise to sunset. Free.
Wine and Dine with Waco’s Brazos Tours
When the winter wind bites, chase away the chill with a delicious and immersive experience on Brazos Tours. Their Waco Wine Tours and Waco Foodie Tours are the perfect way to tantalize your taste buds while exploring the hidden gems of Waco’s culinary scene.
You get to ride in a cozy van and visit cute wineries tucked away in the hills. Here, you’ll get to taste some Texas wines and learn about how they’re made. Plus, the vineyard views at sunset are something else! They serve gourmet cheese too, which is a perfect match with the wine.
But the adventure doesn’t end there! Foodie tours take you to the heart of Waco’s culinary scene, from farm-to-table restaurants bursting with seasonal flavors to hidden gems serving up authentic Texas comfort food. Warm your soul with a steaming bowl of brisket stew or savor the delicate sweetness of a pecan pie. Each bite is a celebration of Waco’s culinary heritage, and your friendly guide will regale you with stories of local producers and the passion behind every dish.
So, if you’re tired of the cold, go and give your taste buds a treat with these Waco tours. Click here to book a guided tour. Prices vary by venue.
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Waco Live Music Nights
Visit one of Waco’s numerous live music venues and let the music soothe your soul. Take in a folk performance at Texas Music Cafe, or let the blues at The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill get your toes tapping. Want to switch things up? Head over to the Music Ranch.
It’s a relaxed nightclub featuring a large dance floor, live bands, and country-western music. With the live performances, it’s the perfect spot to spend quality time. Just a heads up, though: prices and opening hours vary by venue.
Mayborn Museum Complex Journey to Space
Escape the winter chill and soar into the cosmos at the Baylor University Mayborn Museum’s “Journey to Space” exhibit. This immersive experience isn’t just for kids; adults will be captivated too!
Climb aboard a full-scale model of the International Space Station’s Destiny Lab, feel the weightlessness of space through interactive exhibits, and witness the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of orbiting Earth. Learn about the science behind space travel, the challenges astronauts face, and the incredible ingenuity that keeps them safe.
“Journey to Space” isn’t just a museum exhibit; it’s an adventure that will ignite your imagination and leave you starry-eyed long after you’ve returned to Earth. Sat. Jan. 27, 2024.
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Best Winter Things to do and Events in Waco Texas: Final Thoughts
That’s it, my fellow wandering spirits! These are some great ways to transform Waco into a playground for the whole family during the winter holidays. This enchanting city has something for everyone, making it the perfect place to ring in the New Year.
Whether you’re looking for exhilarating outdoor trips or cozy indoor havens, Waco offers an amazing experience during the holiday season that’s suitable for all ages. So, gather your sense of adventure and mittens, and get ready to discover the magic of Waco during the winter months.
Before you start packing, remember to double-check the dates, times, and fees for any special events or places you plan to visit. And don’t forget to capture your winter adventures in Waco and share them using #MyCurlyAdventures – we can’t wait to see your wintery fun!
Last Updated 8 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: January 11, 2024
