Wonderful Waco

This post kicks off our new series, Latitudes by Lisa, written by Lisa Noble—full-time mom, full-time guidance counselor, lifelong traveler, and an invaluable part of the JMart Travels team.

Are you dreaming of the perfect girls' getaway filled with charm, shopping, and southern hospitality? Waco, Texas might be calling your name!Nestled halfway between Dallas and Austin, this once-quiet town has transformed into a design-lover’s dream thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines and their Magnolia empire. From the iconic Magnolia Market at the Silos to the quaint Little Shop on Bosque, there’s no shortage of inspiration—or memories waiting to be made.

First Stop: Magnolia Market at the Silos

My daughter and I, along with another mother/daughter duo, hopped a plane to Texas and headed straight for all things Magnolia. The heart of it all, Magnolia Market welcomes visitors of all ages. You can wander through thoughtfully curated home goods, snap photos in front of the famous Silos, or indulge in a sweet treat from the Silos Baking Co.

Magnolia Market captures everything we love about the Fixer Upper style: simple, timeless, and full of heart. At Magnolia Press, grab a coffee and take your time exploring the grounds. The expansive lawn is perfect for relaxing, chatting, and soaking in that easy Waco vibe. Magnolia Home is a must-see if you’re looking for furniture or décor pieces inspired by Joanna’s designs.

The Little Shop on Bosque: Where It All Began

For a dose of Magnolia history, we visited The Little Shop on Bosque—the very first Magnolia storefront. Smaller and more intimate than the Silos, it carries exclusive discounts, unique finds, and a sense of nostalgia that takes you back to where the Gaines journey started. It’s also the perfect spot for thoughtful souvenirs.

We also took a drive by The Waco Castle, one of Joanna and Chip’s most ambitious transformations. Featured in Fixer Upper: The Castle, this 100-year-old property has been beautifully restored into a storybook masterpiece. We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Joanna and her crew filming on the porch!

Eat, Explore, Repeat

Between shopping and sightseeing, Waco has plenty of gems worth exploring. Magnolia Table offers a farm-to-table dining experience, and although we didn’t catch Chip at the breakfast counter, the lemon lavender donut holes and Jo’s buttermilk biscuits with strawberry butter were unforgettable.

Be sure to stroll through the beautiful Baylor University campus, visit the Waco Suspension Bridge, and stop by the Dr Pepper Museum for fun, Instagram-worthy photos.

And of course, we took the long way around town, spotting home renovations featured on Fixer Upper and admiring the charm sprinkled through every neighborhood.

Why Waco Works

Waco blends charm, creativity, and connection—the perfect recipe for a girls' weekend away. Between the beauty of the Silos and the awe-inspiring renovation projects throughout town, you’ll leave with hearts (and suitcases) full.

Pro Tip: Visit during the annual Silobration festival each fall for live music, food trucks, exclusive merchandise, and the full Magnolia experience.

Disclaimer: JMart Travels is not affiliated with Magnolia, HGTV, or Fixer Upper. All opinions are our own.