How to get to Waco

A journey to Waco opens the doors to a colourful Texan city situated halfway between Dallas and Austin, known for its southern hospitality and cultural attractions. You can reach this corner of the USA in various ways: from a quick flight to a scenic drive or train ride across the prairies of the Lone Star State.

The most convenient way to arrive in the city is to fly into the regional Waco Airport (ACT), which accepts regular flights and is located just a few kilometres from the centre. This is an ideal option for those who value time and wish to begin exploring the region immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly to neighbouring cities: for example, the airport in Killeen is located 75 km away, and the air hub of Fort Worth is 134 km from the destination. You can also consider arriving in College Station, from where it is easy to continue the journey by rented car.

Although many believe that rail connections in Texas are limited, you can reach Waco by train. The route of Amtrak's famous Texas Eagle train passes through the city, connecting Chicago, San Antonio, and other major hubs.

The station is conveniently located for tourists, allowing you to avoid highway traffic. If train tickets are unavailable, stations in neighbouring cities, such as Fort Worth, can serve as the nearest alternative points for transferring to ground transport.

Bus services offer a budget-friendly and comfortable option for travelling across the state. A trip from the city of Killeen (about 100 km) will take approximately 1.6 hours, allowing you to relax and not worry about the road.

The route from Fort Worth is also popular and convenient: the bus covers the distance of 144 km in 1.9 hours, delivering passengers practically to the centre of Waco. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy views of Texas from the window.

Travelling by car provides maximum freedom of movement across the vast expanses of Texas. The drive from Killeen will take only about 1 hour (100 km), while the journey from Fort Worth (142 km) will require approximately 1.3 hours of time.

If you are heading from the direction of College Station, expect to spend about 1.5 hours behind the wheel. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for intercity trips, but for greater mobility, tourists often prefer car rental.

To ensure your trip to Texas is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations for travellers:

1. Clothing and Climate. Summer here is hot and humid, so light clothing made of natural fabrics and a head covering are mandatory. In winter, the weather is mild, but a windbreaker will be useful for evening walks.
2. Transport. Public transport is moderately developed, so the most convenient way to move around the city and its surroundings remains a rented car or taxi (Uber, Lyft).
3. Finance. Cards are accepted everywhere, but it is useful to have some cash in US Dollars (USD) in small denominations for tips and purchases at small fairs.
4. Health and Safety. The city is safe for tourists and families, but on hot days it is critically important to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen. The emergency number is 911.
5. Communication. The main language is English. Locals speak with a characteristic southern accent but are always friendly and ready to help a tourist.
6. Local Etiquette. In Texas, it is customary to greet and smile even at strangers. Tips in restaurants are standard for the USA at 15–20%.
7. What to Avoid. Try not to plan long walking tours at midday during the summer to avoid overheating.
8. Additional Tip. The popular Magnolia Market is best visited on weekdays in the morning to quietly explore all locations without huge crowds of tourists.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique American city.