Waco, Texas

Waco, Texas, is a city located in central Texas, along the Brazos River. Here are some key details about Waco:

General Information

• Location: Central Texas, McLennan County
• Population: Approximately 140,000 (as of the 2020 census)
• Founded: 1849
• Nickname: “The Heart of Texas”

Education

• Major Universities:
  • Baylor University
  • Texas State Technical College Waco
  • McLennan Community College

Economy

• Major Industries:
  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
• Major Employers:
  • Baylor Scott & White Health
  • Hillcrest Health System
  • L-3 Technologies
  • McLane Company

Attractions

• Historic Sites:
  • The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Dr Pepper Museum
  • Waco Mammoth National Monument
• Cultural Sites:
  • Baylor University campus, including the Mayborn Museum Complex
  • Waco Suspension Bridge
  • The Texas Sports Hall of Fame
• Outdoor Activities:
  • Cameron Park Zoo
  • Cameron Park, featuring hiking trails and scenic views along the Brazos River
  • Lake Waco, popular for boating and fishing

Climate

• Climate Type: Humid subtropical
• Average Temperatures:
  • Summer: Highs in the upper 90s °F (35-37 °C)
  • Winter: Highs in the mid-50s to 60s °F (13-16 °C)
  • Precipitation: Average rainfall spread throughout the year, with thunderstorms common in spring and summer

Transportation

• Major Highways: I-35, U.S. Route 84, U.S. Route 77
• Public Transit: Waco Transit System (Waco Transit)
• Airport: Waco Regional Airport (ACT)

Culture and Events

• Annual Events:
  • Brazos Theatre Productions
  • Waco’s Food Truck Showdown
  • Texas Ranger Hall of Fame Induction
  • Waco Hippodrome Theatre productions
• Festivals:
  • Texas Music Revolution
  • Magnolia Market at the Silos (with events and shopping, popularized by Chip and Joanna Gaines)

Government

• City Government: Mayor-council government
• Mayor: Dillon Meek (as of 2024)

Waco is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and the presence of Baylor University, which adds a significant cultural and academic dimension to the city. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities, historic sites, and modern attractions, making it a dynamic place to live and visit.