Waco
Campground
I-35 RV Park
Polly and I (Mark) stayed here for two weeks while Barb was in Bali (Indonesia) with her sister. Whatever. This is a pretty nice and LARGE campground. Great dog parks, walking trails, and a huge open field (that used to be a driving range) that Polly could have so much fun running! The on-site breakfast cafe, Bubba's Cafe, is run by a wonderful lady who lives here in the park. There are many full-timers here. The pics show the covered areas. The campground is quite close to I-35 and so we constantly heard the traffic noise.
Things to see
Cameron Park Zoo
This is a small but very nice zoo. A person can certainly spend an entire afternoon here, taking the time to read all the information, enjoy sitting outside watching the animals, getting snacks and such.
Doris D Miller Park
On our way to see the suspension bridge, we walked through this park. It, like the MLK Jr. Park next to it, is part of the whole "river walk" area. The river walk is a really great place to walk, run, and bike. Dog friendly.
Dr. Pepper Museum
For all of us Dr. Pepper lovers, this is THE place to go. So much history and nostalgia. Pretty cool!
Waco Mammoth National Monument
I have to say this was one of the least interesting sites we've been to. Sure, it is interesting to see that Columbian Mammoth (not the Wooly variety you might think of) and various other superfauna were in this area. They have discovered a few dozen Mammoth from different time periods but the digging and discovery has been on hold for a very long time. There's just not much to see here.
Hiking
Cameron Park
Cameron Park is part of the larger "river walk" area on both sides of the Brazos River. The city has done a really nice job of creating this space. Paved walking, biking, and running trails as well as dirt trails in the trees for hiking and mountain biking too numerous to mention. Took Polly running here a few times.
Waco Dam
The trail that goes by the Waco Dam extends for many miles, with parking at various places. The Dam won't "wow" you but the paved trail is great for walking, running, and biking. Took Polly running here.
Food and Drink
Still Smokin' BBQ - Abbott TX
Just a little up I-35 from our campground was this really well rated BBQ joint. It certainly lived up to the ratings. It was VERY good and easy to get to right off the highway.
Two Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Not far from our campground, in West TX. When I sat down, I asked what they were known for. The waiter immediately said "fajitas". They have several on the menu. He asked if I like spicy (sure!) and suggested this WONDERFUL beef fajita. It had just the right amount of spice to get my nose running a little but no so much that it took away from the great flavor. They don't have traditional tequila "spirit" based margaritas, they have "wine" based so they were of the "slushy" style.