Travel
For those not the most familiar with Nat’s hometown, Waco is located smack dab in the middle of Texas and is surprisingly approximately a two hour drive from all Austin or Dallas airports. Waco does have a small airport, but it is pricier to fly in there compared to Austin or one of the Dallas airports and only services American Airlines to and from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW). The driving time to Waco may be about the same between the two Dallas airports but the degree of traffic is incredibly dependent on the time of day and day of week. True to its name, DFW is located roughly between Dallas and Fort Worth metroplexes, while Love Field is north of downtown Dallas. If flying into Austin, taking the toll road around Austin to Waco will save you so much headache from driving through downtown Austin. But if you don’t wanna pay the tolls… Have fun on I-35.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
While Southwest is the bulk of their flights, Austin does also have American, Delta, and United flights as well.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
The biggest airport with likely the most airline options (except Southwest) to connect you from most parts of the globe.
Dallas Love Field (DAL)
For the Southwest enthusiasts, Love Field is the way to go for a Dallas option.
Waco Regional Airport (ACT)
Flights only go to and from DFW with American Airlines, and while the price is higher to fly here, the convenience is often worth it and occasionally you can snag a good deal.
Places of Interest
Cameron Park
No, you aren’t seeing double, Cameron Park is different from Cameron Park Zoo, and if you want to do some hiking, biking, or gazing from Lover’s Leap, there are so many trails to explore. Natalie would run on the River Trail at least once a week in high school.
Dr Pepper Museum
Fun fact: Dr Pepper was created in Waco! Natalie likes to joke with her friends who dislike Dr Pepper (they sadly exist) that she is legally obligated to love Dr Pepper. Anyway, here’s a lovely museum dedicated to all things Dr Pepper!
Cameron Park Zoo
In case you want more than the limited area that we will get for the wedding reception, this adorable zoo showcases wildlife that does well in Central Texas, including more and more exhibits highlighting native Texas species.
The Silos
If you know, you know. We wouldn’t necessarily plan an entire afternoon at the Silos, but if you’re stoked about it, by all means, check it out.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Did you know that there are remains of mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, and giant tortoises (oh my) in Waco? That you can go see? And not touch? But at least learn about? This is the only recorded site in the United States with remains of a nursery herd!
Restaurants
Two basic things to know about Gary and Nat. One, they love all things outdoors. Two, they LOVE food. Here are our recommendations for some local meals.
Bangkok Royal
If you love Thai food, then this place is THE place to try! Natalie’s family has been going here for over twenty years and Gary and his family have been quick to fall in love with it as well. Good for either lunch or dinner, especially for lunch on weekdays.
Schmaltz’s
Amazing local sandwich shop that is the best stop for lunch. In case you’re wondering just how good it is, Natalie and Gary have made this a final stop before going to the airport to deliver to someone across the country more than once.
Health Camp
Craving a delicious burger and shake? No better place in town than Health Camp that has been open since the 1950s. Disclaimer: the definition of health in this case refers to the copious amounts of fat and deliciousness entering your arteries.
Ninfa’s
Listen, you can’t go wrong with any Mexican place here, and every Wacoan has their go-to place. Ninfas is the Belew family’s preference. But ask any other Wacoan for their take!
Wako Roll
While Waco is rather limited when it comes to Korean food, this Korean-owned restaurant offers an array of Korean and Japanese dishes with delicious sushi lunch specials in particular. If you are closer to downtown, Teriyaki Park has the same owners and largely the same menu.
Katie’s Custard
Got a sweet tooth? Be sure to save room after dinner for some Katie’s Custard! It offers a range of frozen custard options and shakes with any toppings imaginable.
George’s
If you are wanting that Southern food experience, George’s has you covered! Wide range of items to satisfy most cravings healthy or not, plus know how to do a mean margarita.
Torchy’s Tacos/Fuzzy’s Tacos/Jaliscos Taco
Tacos are a Tex-Mex staple. Luckily Waco is packed with phenomenal taco places. Waco has it all: whether it’s the allure of unique Austin-esque Torchy’s tacos, the need for classic Tex-Mex Fuzzy tacos, or the aroma of authentic Texas Jaliscos tacos.
Coffeeshops
Dichotomy
Torn between a coffee or a cocktail? This downtown hub has got you covered and has a variety of local specialty drinks.
Common Grounds
While not the most accessible place when Baylor is in session, this incredibly unique Waco spot hosts a fun variety of drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Community Cha
For the tea lovers, this bubble tea shop is rather authentic and also engages in much social activism around Waco.