A Guide to downtown Waco you cannot miss during your Magnolia adventure.
There’s more to Waco than the Silos, and while all things Magnolia are definitely worth the trip, the local cuisine and creative energy of Waco have a down-home southern draw that begs to be explored. Magnolia Market has made a Texas-sized revival of modern farmhouse home decor in the United States. From the new Magnolia Network to a range of shiplap available at your local hardware store, the Chip and Joanna Gaines’ brand has endeared our nation to a country lifestyle, if only in color schemes and furniture. As many prepare their Magnolia Market weekend trip to Waco don’t forget to swing through downtown and see why the heart of Texas has captivated a nation.
Check out the map at the bottom for all the locations in respect to Magnolia Market. Most are within a few short blocks.
Pivovar & The Findery
The first stop on your post Magnolia tour should be the community-favorite Czech brewery, bakery, and restaurant/hotel, Pivovar. Situated directly adjacent to the Magnolia complex, any tired members of your party will be happily accommodated at the Pivovar outdoor brewery while you shop through the Silos. A Czech-inspired menu of braised short rib goulash and smoked gouda mac and cheese is just the ticket after a long day on your feet. If you still need a home goods shopping fix after Magnolia Market, be sure to delve into The Findery a curated store made up of three shops across the street.
Fabled Bookshop
Grab some Pivovar freshly baked bread or pastries to-go as you amble down Mary Ave to 4th Street and check into Fabled Bookshop & Cafe. Brush past the worn leather couches and book-lined walls to the Narnian wardrobe. Step through into the rich world of imagination and the children’s book section. There’s something about a local bookstore with loads of character that makes one want to sit and sip for a while, book in hand.
Spice Village
Round the corner from Fabled to find Spice Village, an indoor collection of boutiques with anything from unique gifts to trendy fashion. Lori Davison, of the Waco Trolley, says Spice Village is her go-to place to shop for anything! When several other people pronounced it was their favorite place too, I knew it couldn’t be missed. Displays and inventory are ever revolving so you’ll be sure to get a fresh perspective every time you visit.
Harp Design Co.
Tired of walking? Hop on a Waco Adventures Tour which weaves past many of the familiar Waco sites including homes featured on Fixer Upper and many of the artistic murals scattered around the city. Ask for a stop at Joanna’s favorite furniture maker, Clint Harp’s store.
Harp Design Co has a handmade curated vibe bursting with housewares and novel pieces. On Harp Design’s website, you can even see about creating a custom table for your space.
Heritage Creamery
Waco Tours will also go by Heritage Creamery, a Baylor student and alum cult-favorite ice cream shop. With flavors like Cowboy Coffee and Texas Pecan you know you’ve made it to central Texas. Try out the dairy-free Stracciatella for a shockingly good bite or add some Secret Sauce to any bowl or cone.
Tru Jamaica & Waco Axe Company
For dinner, go out of your way a little to True Jamaica on 15th street. You won’t regret it! A truly unique culinary flavor, Tru Jamaica is a hotspot for amazing food for dine-in or take-out. With colorful dishes like curry shrimp and oxtail on the menu the true foodies at heart will have plenty to chose from. The fried plantains are the southern comfort food you didn’t know you were missing.
Grab the best Jamaican jerk chicken and a slice of sweet potato cake to-go then head over to Waco Axe Company to throw some axes. Yep, you heard right. Down in the heart of Texas throwing axes is a social affair best accompanied by good friends and a free spirit. At Waco Axe Company you can pay by the hour per person or reserve your own bay. Beer and wine are provided on-site but you can also bring your own food and drinks. Now that’s some southern hospitality! Just aim first and drink after.
Cultivate 7Twelve & The Undercroft
Late at night, underground Waco comes to life at the Undercroft Social Club, a members-only Speakeasy located underneath the art gallery Cultivate 7Twelve. Breeze through the art gallery filled with local talent and then head to the inconspicuous side door. Grab a day-pass online to get in. It’s a bring your own alcohol club but they provide all the mixers. Check out the intimate otherworldly vibe of this downtown watering hole complete with Parisienne street artists’ “Blek le Rat” signature piece on the wall. You’ll need a photo if you’re doing the Blek le Rat Waco Treasure Hunt.
Magnolia Market is the mecca of home decor for all aspiring fixer-uppers and a great weekend destination for a girl’s trip just or staycation. While visiting the heart of Texas be sure to venture out of the Magnolia limelight to meander through downtown Waco. Its creative vibe and southern charm are infectious and exactly why Chip and Joanna love to call this place home.
Happy Travels!
