Driving north from Houston, I thought I’d spend a day and wander around Waco. Why not? I’ve never been before. Well, it turned out to be a perfect little adventure!

First stop was Cottonland Castle, a quirky old stone mansion tucked into a neighborhood. It felt like stumbling across a piece of Europe right in Texas.

From there, I headed to the Dr. Pepper Museum, where the history of the soda came alive in vintage ads, old bottling equipment, and of course, a cold Dr. Pepper at the end.

Next, the Silos at Magnolia. The place was buzzing with energy! Food trucks, shops and families milling around. I grabbed a snack, soaked in the atmosphere, and admired how the place blends rustic charm with modern flair.

Later, I stumbled on to Indian Spring Park, where the Waco Suspension Bridge stretched gracefully across the Brazos River. Nearby, the “Branding the Brazos” Sculpture stood tall, a striking tribute to the cattle drives that shaped Texas history.

By the end of the day, I felt like I’d touched a little bit of everything. History, culture, and local flavor, all wrapped up in one quick little trip.