With many events and gatherings cancelled into the Summer in Waco and traveling being more limited at this time, many families and individuals are wondering about creative ideas when it comes to things to do around town – while maintaining physical distance. Here’s my top recommendations to try out. Many of these have been my favorite ways to summer even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic!
1.) Take a walk in the evening at Brazos Park East.
Many people are familiar with Cameron Park; however Brazos Park East is a lesser known park in Waco and is a hidden gem for picnics, fishing, and even biking in their trails. Head to Brazos Park East in the evening for a nice stroll by the river. Brazos Park East has many trees and is also a great place for hammocking!
2.) Go paddleboarding or kayaking on the Brazos River.
Waco Paddle Company remains open for physical distancing appropriate exercise on the Brazos! Go by yourself or bring a friend or the whole family in the afternoon or on weekends to get your daily dose of vitamin D. You can rent a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak – single or double options – at various hour increments during summer.
3.) Try out iced boba tea!
Waco has many terrific beverage shops, particularly in the downtown area. The latest kid on the block is the newly opened Waco Cha boba tea shop. If you don’t know what boba is, boba is a chewy tapioca pearl-shaped ball originating from Taiwan that is often mixed in with milk tea. Waco Cha started out at the Waco Downtown Farmer’s Market as a pop-up tent back in 2018 and slowly transitioned into a mobile tea truck. Waoc Cha now has their first storefront downtown at 1001 Franklin Avenue. Enjoy lunch next doors at Alpha Omega and grab you and your kiddos boba tea or natural color-changing lemonade to-go . If you don’t like boba, order your drink without boba!
4.) Bike at Lake Waco Dam during sunset
A hidden gem in Waco is Lake Waco Dam! Not only can you go fishing there, you can also walk and hike alongside the dam trail at sunset to get great photos alongside the entire length of the family. This is also a great place to walk your dog!
5.) Grab paletas at Helados La Azteca
Cool off on a hot summer day by grabbing paletas for the entire fam at Helados La Azteca. Helados has two locations off Franklin or Colcord Avenue. Here you will find popsicles of all flavors, Mexican and Blue bell ice cream, Mangonada, and other delicious Mexican snacks! My personal favorite is the watermelon flavor – made with fresh watermelon juice!
Be sure and check out Waco Moms additional Summer guides here!
