The best things to do in McLennan County

When you want real Waco golf without the fuss, Lake Waco Golf Club gives you choices, from a full 18 to one of Texas’ only 18-hole Executive Par-3 layouts with oak-studded fairways and lake views. Play a quick loop, then refuel at the clubhouse restaurant.

From the Waco newsletter, October 17, 2026

Hawaiian Falls Waco is the easy, close-to-home water escape with big slides, kid zones, and chill-out spots that feel like island vacation lite. This week, grab a cabana, let the crew run wild, or book a birthday so you can claim all the credit without doing the work.

From the Waco newsletter, October 18, 2026

Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.

Between lush native vegetation, splashing waterfalls, and quiet ponds, Cameron Park Zoo nails natural-feeling habitats where the animals actually flourish. Make it a laid-back afternoon with Penguin Encounters, Animal Presentations, and a Behind the Scenes Tour... the kind of low-key plan that rescues the group chat.

From the Waco newsletter, October 6, 2026

Bowling center offering blacklight lanes, plus an arcade, laser tag, and a ropes course.

Golf course featuring hilly terrain, water features and rough patches, along with staff famed for their friendly manner.

Jubilee Theatre keeps the arts close to home with plays, musicals, concerts, and community nights in a renovated, 243-seat space that’s pure Waco heart. If you’ve been meaning to trade another streaming scroll for live creativity, this is your nudge for the week.

From the Waco newsletter, September 22, 2026

Designed by PGA Tour pro Peter Jacobsen and PGA member Jim Hardy, Bear Ridge Golf Club brings rolling-hill fairways along the Bosque with a no-membership-needed public vibe. Tune up on the range, snag gear at the pro shop, then refuel at The Grille like an MCC Highlander in season.

From the Waco newsletter, October 20, 2026

Whether you need a quick brain-freeze reprieve or an excuse to act like a kid, Wedge Slides at Waco Surf brings big, grin-inducing drops, a floaty lazy river, sandy beach vibes, and those always-cold snow cones. Rally the crew this week and make a lap or twelve.

From the Waco newsletter, September 25, 2026

Veteran owned and Waco born, Waco Axe Company turns bowling-night energy into competitive axe throwing with coaches who actually teach and keep the games moving. Grab a crew for their Wednesday night league or a casual session, then enjoy the satisfying thud of a new favorite hobby.

From the Waco newsletter, October 12, 2026

Since 1947, Ridgewood Country Club has been Central Texas’ go-to for a relaxed round, solid tennis sessions, and the kind of member community that feels like extended family. If you’ve been craving green grass, friendly competition, and events worth dressing up for, consider this your nudge to check it out this week.

From the Waco newsletter, September 27, 2026

Putters: Arcade - Mini Golf - Sports Bar is that downtown spot where mini golf meets old-school arcades, foosball, pool and board games, so your crew never gets bored. Kid friendly till 9pm then 21+ after, and you can snag food from nearby restaurants while you play.

From the Waco newsletter, October 10, 2026

When your irons start acting shy, Cottonwood Creek Golf Course delivers a legit reset with an 18-hole championship layout by Joseph Finger, a full-length range, big putting green, short-game area, and a nine-hole par 3 course, plus a welcoming shop and post-round grill. Make it your tune-up this week.

From the Waco newsletter, September 30, 2026

Need a fresh hangout that actually makes your group chat think? Waco Escape Rooms lines up seven unique adventures stacked with clever clues, perplexing puzzles, and just the right amount of chaos. Pick a room, book online, rally the crew, then brag rights await the sharpest minds.

From the Waco newsletter, October 9, 2026

Family venue offering arcade games bumper cars, mini golf, and laser tag, plus rides.

Family-friendly entertainment center offering bowling, laser tag and arcade games.

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.