Waco, Texas was probably never on your radar. Then, all of the sudden, shiplap and #demoday took HGTV, Instagram, and your wildest interior design dreams by storm. After Chip and Joanna Gaines decided to launch Fixer Upper and open the Magnolia Silos, Waco became a haven for girls’ trips and decorating pilgrimages.

“The influx of people has been awesome, and with that you get to see all sorts of things pop up,” according to Corey McEntyre, chef and owner of popular Waco food truck, Milo Biscuit Company.

But did you ever wonder what else Waco has to offer? After the Silos, what next? Here are a few tips and recommendations to fill your Waco trip with charm and adventures.

SHOP

If your mission in Waco is to shop, then Spice Village needs to be on your list. It has more than 90 shops in one building where you can find local artisan products including clothes, home goods, and vintage pieces. It’s located right outside of Waco’s downtown historic district in the heart of the city.

The full “Fixer Upper experience” would have to include Harp Design Co. Clint Harp’s shop has plenty to take home like hand-poured candles, botanical art prints, and throw pillows.

If your bags aren’t already full, the Findery, Roots Boutique, and Wildland Supply Co. are also worth a visit.

DO & SEE

There are plenty of picturesque photo spots in Waco, but a favorite is the Suspension Bridge. It was built by John Roebling, who also built the Brooklyn Bridge, and it is an icon for the city of Waco. Here, you can get a great view of the Brazos River and take in and enjoy surrounding greenery. Take a short drive from the bridge to historic downtown to see the city’s street art and another Waco landmark, the Alico building.

While you’re in Waco, it would be a shame not to spend any time outdoors. Lake Waco is a perfect spot to cool off from the heat with a swim, take out a kayak, or enjoy a picnic. Just down the road, Cameron Park offers plenty of bike trails on the riverfront, hiking spots, and even a zoo.

After you’ve finished hanging out at the park, be sure to try and catch a show at Common Grounds. College students and locals enjoy outdoor concerts at this quirky coffee shop and stay after for the atmosphere.

EAT & DRINK

You could spend your entire weekend in Waco trying out the food in town, but we have narrowed it down to some of our favorite eats.

Morning coffee options are plentiful. Dichotomy is a swanky coffee and spirits destination that will satisfy cravings for artisan drinks. But if brunch is on your mind, Café Cappuccino and Sironia are wonderful options.

For lunch, be sure to find Milo Biscuit Company’s food truck at the Magnolia Silos and Common Grounds. Their motto “to feed and be fed” goes well beyond their modern southern cuisine and affects every area of their business. Farm-to-table ingredients on their famous “Sic ‘em on a Chicken” biscuit and “Sweet Emotion” burger will make you come back for seconds.

“I just have this passion for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, but mostly brunch,” said Corey McEntyre. It certainly shows in Milo’s menu.

For dessert, swing by Lula Jane’s for some sweets, or head over to Heritage Creamery. As soon as you walk into the creamery, the exposed brick and clean aesthetic invite you to linger a while. This Waco-made ice cream comes in flavors like mint stracciatella, grapefruit and honey, and salty vanilla bean, always following what is in the season.

For evening drinks, try out Wine Shoppe to enjoy wines from local growers or take a tour of Waco’s own whiskey distillery, Balcones.

STAY

Waco is full of unique Airbnb spaces. Many featured Fixer Upper houses have been converted into places for visitors to come enjoy for themselves. Even if having Chip and Joanna remodel your home isn’t quite in your budget, you can still make some of your decorating dreams a reality.