Looking for the best summer things to do in Waco, Texas? This central Texas gem offers a relaxed blend of outdoor adventures, local flavours and small town charm. From kayaks along the Brazos River, exploring scenic parks, browsing the Magnolia market and enjoying food truck dishes at the night market, Waco is filled with warm weather fun. Whether you’re planning on renting a house or apartment or buying a home in your area, this Redfin guide highlights the perfect summer activities to live in or visit when the sun is shining.
Connect with creative Waco, featuring events, festivals, concerts and public art to help Waco and McLennan County arts and cultural organizations.
If you are in Waco for more than a day, you can take advantage of the Creative Spark program. It gives you an internal knowledge of what’s going on, putting you in the “front row of fun” with unique and curated events, including public art and mural tours, artist studio visits, exhibition openings, VIP experiences at plays and festival events, and even the extra opportunity with cinema shoots.
Just minutes from downtown Waco, Cameron Park is a vast 416 acre heaven offering over 26 miles of trails, two picturesque rivers, majestic trees, several playgrounds, disc golf courses and a variety of other attractions. Whether you’re hiking, hanging out with friends, enjoying a river stroll, kayak at the Brazos, or having a picnic with your family, Cameron Park offers something for everyone.
“There are spectacular cycling and walking trails, great views, and our own Cameron Park Zoo. Frisbee Golf has some amazing courses. We host guests from all over the world at historic homes, Moreau House and Cameron Park.
“As a lifestyle portrait photographer, one of my favourite spots in family sessions is the area known as Proctor Springs. This picturesque area looks like what looks like ancient stone steps, the charming bridges of spring, and lush wilds. – Photo by Delaney Stevenson, Delaney
Waco Paddle Company covers when you’re looking for activities to make a splash. Waco Paddle Company offers stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and canoes for hourly rentals.
“Pick up the boat and quit your adventure down the scenic Brazos River. From the WacoPaddle Company Dock, you can pass through the picturesque bluffs of Cameron Park, or nearby McLane Stadium and Baylor University, under Waco’s historic suspension bridge.
She continues: “We exist to help you find the perfect dating spot with recommendations for everything, whether you’re planning a date night or a romantic getaway, from fine restaurants to museums to activities.
4. Play paddle sports on the Brazos River
In the summer, one thing to do at Waco is paddleboarding or kayaking on the Brazos River. “Run from the trailhead near Baylor and pass the iconic suspension bridge. It’s peaceful and beautiful, offering a completely different view of the city. For slow-paced things, visit the heritage of Homestead, just north of town. says Isaac French.
“I am the founder of experiential hospitality and live in Homestead with my family on a small farm. I help people design and build unique hospitality properties around the country, but Wako always feels like home.”
5. Explore local art
When the summer heat hits Waco, if you’re not cool in someone’s pool, the best place is to enjoy the arts. “Don’t miss out on the latest exhibitions at the Art Center Waco and the Washington Gallery, two spots: artists, art lovers and art curing experience local and nationally recognized work,” says Ty Nathan Clark, an international artist, writer and filmmaker based in Waco, Texas.
“I think the best summer event here is the annual harvest party,” says Joey Bagnasco, winemaker at Valley Mills Vineyard. “Every year, up to 100 guests are invited to help with the grapes at the Estate Vineyard. While it is open to the public every day, guests can walk around the property any time, our harvest party is a unique opportunity for people in the Waco area to take part in the winemaking process in person.
After a few hours of harvest, guests can handle a BBQ brunch and help crush the grapes on foot. The only way to attend this event is to join the winery’s mailing list, as you will need to plan your harvest on your grape schedule (usually around the first week of August). ”
7. Enjoy the water
One of the best ways to enjoy Wako’s summer is to spend the Saturday underwater. Whether it’s Lake Waco, Brazos, or a friend’s backyard pool. “Add cold watermelon and burgers to the grill, it’s a great summer. Then we’ll gather in the river on July 4th to see the fireworks and feel like the heart of Wako’s summer.”
Located in the heart of Texas, Waco Surf features one of the nation’s largest inland surf loooos, attracting both beginners and professionals to customizable Wave technology. Alongside surfing, visitors can enjoy cable parks, lazy rivers and a variety of water-based attractions perfect for a day’s adventure.
Skyler stiffens as a paradise for Wako surfers. “It’s actually an artificial beach called Waco Surf where you can take surfing lessons, relax in the sand, enjoy some water slides and lazy rivers. It’s a little known gem hidden in the middle of Texas.”
“A short drive from Waco in the city of Belton, Texas, is a hidden oasis: Bemaro Subdow Garden and Winery. Here, heavy grapevine with fruits releasing soft, gentle aromas and vibrant roses create a soft and charming atmosphere. Enjoy a selection of foods from a picnic basket or menu.
“My recommendation? A chilled glass of Texas wine that beats the heat of Texas. If white wine isn’t your style, go for a red or rosé – still or sparkly – whatever your taste, this charming little winery is worth the trip.”
“Experience Waco, Texas, and enjoy the trio’s fascinating activities this summer. “Zack Owen Show” will be held live on the backyard bar stage and grille as part of the studio audience, airing from 8am to 10am, Monday through Friday.
For an adventurous twist, gather friends and try your best to solve problems with Waco Escape Rooms. In the evening, fall, head back to your backyard for a live concert under the stars, and enjoy a relaxed outdoors with a delicious barbecue and refreshing drink. ” – Rogue Media Network
“We believe that at Barnett’s Whiskey House, we have the glass nearby and enjoy it in a good company. It is the largest whiskey selection in Texas and the fourth largest in the country, offering a curated experience for whiskey enthusiasts from close to far.
Owned by the family and deeply rooted in Waco, our bar brings a gathering of southern hospitality, live music and patios that capture the true spirit of Texas summer. Whether you’re enjoying brunch in the sun or not while sipping on something unusual, Burnett is a place where locals and visitors connect. ” – Burnett’s Whisky House
Make the most of your summer in Waco, Texas
“There are many great opportunities to enjoy Waco in the summer,” says Daniel Young, a restaurant on the Revival East Side, a small local restaurant specializing in salads, sandwiches and burgers. “In the heart of Waco is Cameron Park, where you can walk along the river trails (don’t worry, there’s shade!), rent a kayak or visit the adjacent zoo.”
She concludes: Just outside of Waco is the Waco Surf. This is a relaxing place where you can float lazy rivers and learn how to surf. There’s no shortage of great local coffee spots like Pinewood and Street Dog Cafe.
