Often referred to as “the Heart of Texas,” Waco has quickly become a top tourist attraction, especially for spring break. Even better, you don’t have to break the bank for a memorable family time here either, given the endless spring break events and activities planned at each of its attractions! As people who visit Waco frequently, let us be your tour guide of Central Texas with our list of the best Spring Break Destinations for Families in Waco, Texas!
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Outdoor Adventures
Cameron Park Zoo
This 52-acre wild sanctuary is home to over 1700 animals, representing 300 species, from majestic lions to playful otters, jaguars, giraffes, and a reptile section. Surrounded by lush native vegetation, visitors are treated to splashing waterfalls, serene lakes, and ponds, creating a beautiful backdrop where animals thrive in environments that reflect their natural habitats.
The diverse educational programs designed for all ages make the zoo an inspiring spring break destination for families. Mild spring temperatures are ideal for engaging in up-close encounters with various species, sharing a memorable overnight adventure at the Zoo with your kids, and enjoying exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to uncover the fascinating lives of zoo residents.
Carleen Bright Arboretum
Just a short drive (11 minutes) from Waco, Carleen Bright Arboretum, also known as the “Hidden Jewel of Woodway,” boasts a 16-acre nature oasis, almost half of which has been developed as botanical gardens. The children’s play area alone will keep your little kids entertained and active, with a state-of-the-art splash pad (open April 1st through September 30th), a merry-go-round, swings, and many great lawn games.
Indian Spring Park
Located in downtown Waco, Indian Spring Park is home to the famous suspension bridge and the Branding the Brazos statue series. Picnic areas, shade trees, a fountain area with benches, restrooms, a bicycle hitch, and a paved walking trail make it a great place for a full day of family fun and outdoor activities.
The park also boasts a natural sloping grass amphitheater that hosts various festivals and events yearly. While visiting, take time to appreciate the “Branding the Brazos” sculptures—this impressive Chisholm Trail art installation by Robert Summers showcases a towering bronze trail boss leading longhorns to cross the Brazos, a reminder of our rich heritage.
Waco Sculpture Zoo
Stretching from Baylor University to McLennan Community College, the Waco Sculpture Zoo beautifully merges art and wildlife. Distinct from the Cameron Park Zoo, this free public art display along the Brazos River features a series of 28 animal-based artworks crafted by leading artists from across the United States, representing creatures found in the nearby zoo.
Brazos Bluffs Ranch
For a peaceful Spring Break getaway in Waco, Brazos Bluffs Ranch offers horseback riding, a wildlife preserve, and stunning Brazos River views. The air-conditioned guest house features Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and comfortable lodging with two master suites and a loft. Enjoy the quiet, with deer and wild turkeys spotted at dawn and dusk, plus a scenic walk to a bluff overlook. Despite the tranquil setting, you’re close to Waco’s top attractions like Magnolia Silos, Dr Pepper Museum, Cameron Zoo, and popular Waco Tours.
McLane Stadium
Sports-loving families should not miss a tour of McLane Stadium, home of the Baylor Bears. This state-of-the-art multifunctional facility on the Brazos River hosts world-class music, family, and sporting events throughout the year, in addition to Baylor University football. Spring Break visitors can enjoy behind-the-scenes stadium tours, and, given the busy schedule throughout the season, you might even catch an exciting game happening during your visit.
Sign Up. Be Inspired. Travel.
Experience travel like never before with our exclusive tips, tricks, and recommendations. Join our newsletter for the best advice on making the most of your Texas adventures!
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Museums and Indoor Activities
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
History comes alive at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, where families can learn about Texas’ most legendary law enforcement officers. Interactive exhibits, six galleries featuring different periods, the Hall of Fame, and historic artifacts make it a fascinating stop for kids and adults alike. The museum provides guided tours and programs aligned with TEKS for various grades, covering topics like Texas history, government, crime investigation, and geography. The museum also hosts the Junior Texas Ranger program, where young patriots receive an honorary certificate signed by an active-duty Texas Ranger, a toy badge, and a family pass for four to the museum.
Texas Sports Hall Of Fame
Have a young athlete in your family? The Texas Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the remarkable achievements of over 400 of the state’s most iconic sports legends, from football stars to Olympic champions, with an impressive collection of 6,000 pieces of sports memorabilia dating back to 1951! The museum’s permanent exhibits include the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame, the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame, and the new Southwest Conference exhibit. Families can discover the inspiring stories of Texas greats like Nolan Ryan, Tom Landry, Babe Didrickson, and many more!
Mayborn Museum Complex
Located on the Baylor University campus, the Mayborn Museum Complex is a family-friendly destination perfect for Spring Break. It features hands-on exhibits, walk-in dioramas like the Waco Mammoth Site, and discovery rooms for all ages. Highlights include interactive activities, live animals, fossils, and exhibits on geology, paleontology, and archaeology. Kids can enjoy “Play Waco,” a tiny town, while the 1890s village offers a glimpse into the past. It’s a fun and educational stop for families this Spring Break!
Dr. Pepper Museum
Treat your family to a fun, fizzy experience at the Dr. Pepper Museum! Explore interactive exhibits on the history of America’s oldest major soft drink. Book experiences like Make-A-Soda to learn about soda-making, the VIP Extreme Pepper Experience for a private tour, or the Paranormal Tour for a spooky investigation of the museum’s historic buildings. Finish your visit with a Dr. Pepper float at the soda fountain and don’t forget to stop by the gift shop!
Black Oak Art Pottery Classes
With an extensive collection of hand-thrown custom logo coffee mugs, press-formed stoneware, and other unique handcrafted ceramic creations, Black Oak Art Pottery has blossomed into a local art icon in Waco, TX. Their handmade pottery collection is beautifully displayed in local shops, including Common Grounds and Magnolia Market. Even better, they offer private workshops on weekdays and weekends in their pottery studio where your while family can get their hands dirty only to end up creating your own personalized keepsakes.
Hammer and Stain Waco
For families who love crafting, Hammer and Stain Waco is the ideal spot to create personalized DIY projects. This hands-on workshop offers sessions to design and paint wooden signs, home decor, and more. The studio also hosts private craft parties, kids’ workshops, and home craft events. Don’t miss their Spring Break paint event @TWISTED SISTERS on the patio! For just $35, create custom-name planks, enjoy the spring weather, and receive a Dr Pepper float with each ticket. Bring the whole family for a fun, creative experience!
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Spring Break Family Vacation
Camp Fimfo Waco
Camp Fimfo is the ultimate Spring Break getaway in Waco, offering full hookup RV sites, custom-designed cabins, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Enjoy a splash playground with water slides, Texas’s first alpine coaster, Cliff Carver, and kayaking or paddleboarding on the Bosque River. With on-site dining, a coffee shop, a general store, and a Dive Bar, there’s something for everyone. From March 7 to 23, 2025, Spring Break at Camp Fimfo marks the opening of all water activities for the season, making it the perfect place to unwind and have fun!
Casa Kumwesu Ice Cream-Themed Rental
Speaking of family vacations in Waco, I can’t help myself not to talk about our very own ice cream-themed rental, Casa Kumwesu! If you’re looking for a place that’s more than just a spot to crash, this is it. Sure, it’s a bit of a splurge, but with space to sleep 8+ people, it’s perfect for families or large groups to split the cost while indulging in a one-of-a-kind stay filled with fun, color, and sweet surprises.
Every corner of the house is designed with bold colors, chic decor, and built-in photo ops, making it the perfect backdrop for your Waco getaway. But we didn’t stop at just making it look good—we ensured your stay is packed with comfort, entertainment, and plenty of ways to make memories.
Upstairs, you’ll find a cozy loft stocked with books, games, and even a vintage Mrs. Pac-Man arcade machine—because nothing says family bonding like a little friendly competition!
Hungry? Skip the long restaurant waits and take advantage of our fully stocked kitchen, complete with bakeware, spices, tableware, and everything you need to whip up a family feast. And for coffee lovers, our loaded coffee bar features almost every coffee machine imaginable (plus syrups!), so you can craft your perfect cup exactly how you like it.
But what truly sets Casa Kumwesu apart? The ice cream experience! We’ve got two ice cream makers ready for you to create your own homemade flavors—nothing brings people together like making (and eating) ice cream.
Looking for a deal? Weekday stays offer the best prices, and we often run exclusive specials on Instagram (@CasaKumwesu), so follow us for updates.
At Casa Kumwesu, we’re all about turning your stay into a whimsical dream with insta worthy backdrops and a whole lot of ice cream magic. We can’t wait to welcome you to Waco’s sweetest retreat! Click here to book!
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Educational Activities
Baylor Bear Habitat
Visit the live bear mascots of Baylor University at the Baylor Bear Habitat! Located in the heart of the Baylor campus, the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat is home to Indy and Belle, beloved live bears. Since arriving on campus in 1917, American black bears have embodied Baylor’s spirit and tradition. Families can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while also learning about vital conservation efforts. The habitat showcases the beauty of these bears and highlights the importance of protecting wildlife, making it a perfect educational outing for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Step back in time and explore Ice Age history at Waco Mammoth National Monument. Join a daily guided tour to see fossilized remains of the Columbian Mammoths and learn about the prehistoric world that once existed in Texas. These colossal creatures, standing as tall as 14 feet and weighing 20,000 pounds, roamed the landscapes of present-day Texas thousands of years ago, reminding us of the incredible wonders of our planet’s past.
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Gaming and Water Parks
Hawaiian Falls Waco
Hawaiian Falls is the place to be if you’re looking for water-filled fun! From intense and thrilling water slides to a lazy river, a massive wave pool, and a splash pad, this water park offers endless fun for the entire family. Opening May 10, 2025, for the season, this 10-acre water park is full of aquatic enjoyment for visitors of all ages. When hunger strikes, Hawaiian Falls offers an exciting array of delicious treats ranging from savory to sweet and refreshing, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken dippers, ICEE-flavored Cotton Candy buckets, and tropical and fruit slushies.
Waco Surf Park
Although not very wallet-friendly, especially when visiting with family, it’s totally worth every penny. You can catch some waves in a controlled wave pool, with options for beginner, intermediate, and advanced surf sessions and private lessons. The park also features a water park with slides, a lazy river, and a cable park equipped with various ramps, rails, and jumps. Consider staying overnight at Waco Surf Park for a fun and family-friendly weekend. They offer hotel rooms, surf houses, and RV hookups to accommodate different budgets.
Skate Waco
Lace up your skates and roll into the fun at Skate Waco. With family-friendly music, arcade games, and themed skate nights in the only indoor Laser Tag arena in Central Texas, Skate Waco is a great way to keep the kids active indoors. If you are traveling with young skaters aged 5 to 12, don’t miss out on the 5-day Spring Break Skate Camp (March 10 to 14, 2025) that includes snacks and hot lunch daily, crafts, t-shirts, Daily Game Cards, and Playground at Bellmead, skating instruction and graduation certificate.
King’s Landing Games
King’s Landing Games is a must-visit for families who love board games, Table Top Games, and card games. Enjoy a friendly game night and discover new favorites together. King’s Landing Coffee offers an unparalleled experience. If you’re seeking a refreshing change from the ordinary, explore something new at their Waco café! With up to six local craft beers on tap and ever-changing selections, ask your server what’s available! They also have an enticing array of cans and bottles in the fridge up front!
Waco Spring Break Destinations: Books and Shopping, and Dining
Jake’s Texas Tea House
Well, for starters, don’t confuse it with a “Tea Room.” The term “Texas Tea” was originally used to describe crude oil and black gold. It became popular in the 1960s. Jake’s Texas Tea House in downtown Waco is a 1950s-style diner serving delicious comfort food with nostalgia. This retro-themed restaurant is a hit with families, offering daily lunch specials during the week and amazing southern-style, made-from-scratch meals. Burgers are served in hubcaps, and they offer blue plate specials on weekdays. Desserts are baked fresh daily and vary from day to day. Jake’s also features inspiring performances, with an Elvis tribute on the first Saturday of each month and a Marilyn Monroe show on the second Saturday, creating memorable experiences for all. Close on Mondays.
Fabled Bookshop & Café
This charming bookstore offers a magical reading experience for kids and adults alike. Grab a coffee, pick out a new book, and enjoy cozy reading nooks perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Magnolia Market at The Silos
Spring Break is a great time to explore Magnolia Market at The Silos! Shop for home goods, play yard games, grab a bite from local food trucks, and let the kids run around the big green lawn.
Spice Village
For a unique shopping experience, visit Spice Village, where over 60 boutique shops offer everything from trendy fashion to fun souvenirs. It’s a great place for families to pick up gifts and keepsakes.
More Spring Break Adventures in Texas
Explore our top Spring Break destinations and one-of-a-kind activities across Texas for an adventure like no other!
- Top Destinations in Texas this Spring Break
- Fun Things To Do During Spring Break in Texas
- Spring Break Guide for Adults
- Spend Spring Break in Texas for Free
- Family-Friendly Things to Do During Spring Break
- Romantic Spring Break Getaways in Texas
Spring Break Destinations for Families in Waco: FAQs
Is Waco family friendly?
Yes! Waco is a fantastic family-friendly destination with a mix of outdoor adventures, interactive museums, kid-friendly attractions, and fun activities for all ages. From the Cameron Park Zoo to the Mayborn Museum and Waco Mammoth National Monument, there’s plenty to keep families entertained.
Why is Waco so popular?
Waco, TX, became famous largely due to Chip and Joanna Gaines, a couple who turned their home renovation passion into a national phenomenon. They operated Magnolia Homes, transforming outdated houses, and Joanna’s blog caught the eye of an HGTV executive. This led to their hit show, Fixer Upper, in 2013, showcasing their talent and elevating Waco as a must-visit destination. Fans now flock to Magnolia Market at the Silos to shop for home décor and experience the charm of the show.
BONUS: Get Your Free Texas Travel Guide!
If you want to plan more Texas trips without breaking the bank, I’ve put together over 55 trips in Texas. These come with detailed itineraries to help you plan amazing trips around the state. Each trip costs less than $50 per person. Explore Texas, and you’ll uncover amazing hidden gems and wacky attractions throughout the state!
Not ready to purchase just yet? We’re offering the 1st edition of our 50 Texas Trips Under $50 for FREE! Simply click the button below, then scroll down to grab your copy!
Spring Break Destinations for Families in Waco: Final Thoughts
Planning a Spring Break trip that keeps the whole family entertained can be a challenge—but not in Waco! With so many exciting attractions, hands-on museums, outdoor adventures, and fun-filled activities, this Texas gem knows how to keep the whole crew happy.
Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the Waco Mammoth National Monument, catching waves at Waco Surf Park, or indulging in a sweet treat at the Dr. Pepper Museum, you’ll never run out of ways to make memories together.
So, why stress about finding the perfect Spring Break destination? Waco has you covered with adventure, learning, and plenty of family-friendly fun—no babysitter required! Pack your bags, grab family passes instead of solo tickets, and get ready for a trip filled with unforgettable experiences in the heart of Texas!
Last Updated 8 hours ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 16, 2025
What do you think?