Waco, Texas is home to Baylor University and its famous sports program, the Baylor Bears. The city offers a variety of entertainment options, from historic venues and sporting events to vibrant festivals and performing arts. Located along the Brazos River, Waco offers a blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it a unique destination for residents and visitors. This guide explores Waco’s top entertainment venues, sports teams, and cultural attractions. For an exclusive discount on your order, use the promo code BEAR5 at the TicketSmarter checkout. Receive 5% off your next purchase.
Sports teams
The Baylor Bears represent Baylor University in NCAA Division I athletics in the Big 12 Conference. Founded in 1845, the Bears have a proud history in several sports, including football, basketball and baseball. The football team won multiple conference championships and a national title in 2021, while the men’s basketball team won its first NCAA championship in 2021. With strong fan support and a tradition of excellence, the Baylor Bears are a cornerstone of Waco’s sports culture.
Texas Rangers Tickets
The Texas Rangers, an MLB team based in Arlington, Texas, play their home games at Globe Life Field, about an hour and a half from Waco. The team was established in 1961. In 2023, they won the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks. With a capacity of 40,300, Globe Life Field offers a modern baseball experience with a retractable roof, providing comfort in all weather conditions.
Dallas Cowboys Tickets
The Dallas Cowboys, known as “America’s Team”, are an NFL franchise established in 1960 and play their home games at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With a capacity of 80,000, the stadium is one of the largest and most technologically advanced in the NFL. The Cowboys have won five Super Bowl titles, with their most recent victory coming in 1996 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Dallas Wings Tickets
WBNA fans can catch a Wings game at the College Park Center located on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington. The Wings play in the Western Conference against teams such as the defending champions The Aces of Las VegasLA Sparks and Seattle Storm.
Dallas Mavericks Tickets
The Dallas Mavericks, an NBA team founded in 1980, play at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. The Mavericks won their first NBA championship in 2011, led by Dirk Nowitzki, one of the greatest players in franchise history. The team is known for its competitive play and strong fan base, attracting basketball enthusiasts from across the region.
Dallas Stars Tickets
The Dallas Stars, an NHL team established in 1967 as the Minnesota North Stars before moving to Dallas in 1993, play their home games at the American Airlines Center. The Stars won their first Stanley Cup in 1999 and have always been playoff contenders. With a devoted fan base, the Stars are the closest professional hockey team to Waco, drawing fans from all over North Texas.
Theater and performing arts
Waco Symphony Orchestra
The Waco Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1962, offers high-quality classical music performances throughout the year. The orchestra performs at Waco Hall on Baylor’s campus, offering a range of concerts featuring guest artists, renowned conductors, and a mix of classical and contemporary works. The Waco Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the community and providing educational outreach through its concerts and programs.
Baylor Theater
The Baylor Theater, part of the Department of Theater Arts at Baylor University, presents a diverse range of productions each season, including plays, musicals, and experimental works. Performances take place at the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center, which includes a proscenium theater and a black box theater. Baylor Theater is known for its high production values and talented students, contributing significantly to the local arts scene.
Waco Civic Theater
The Waco Civic Theater, established in 1925, is one of the oldest community theaters in Texas. It offers a wide variety of productions each year, from classical plays and musicals to contemporary dramas. The theater is committed to providing opportunities for local actors and volunteers, fostering a strong sense of community involvement in the arts.
Concert and entertainment venues
McLane Stadium
McLane Stadium, opened in 2014, is the home of the Baylor Bears football team. Located on the banks of the Brazos River, this state-of-the-art facility seats 45,140 spectators and is known for its modern design and panoramic views. The stadium hosts Baylor football games, concerts and community events, including riverside tailgating, which has become an iconic aspect of game days in Waco. McLane Stadium is the centerpiece of Baylor’s athletic program and a major draw for area sports fans.
Ferrell Center
The Ferrell Center, built in 1988, serves as the primary arena for Baylor’s acrobatics, tumbling and volleyball teams. With a capacity of 10,284, it has hosted numerous NCAA tournament games and major events, including concerts and speaking engagements. Known for its energetic atmosphere at Baylor events, the Ferrell Center is a key venue for sports and entertainment in Waco.
Waco Race Course Theater
The Waco Hippodrome Theater, opened in 1914, is a historic venue that has been beautifully restored to serve as a multi-purpose entertainment venue. It offers a mix of live shows, films and culinary experiences. With a seating capacity of 700, the Hippodrome retains its early 20th century charm while offering modern facilities, making it a preferred destination for theater and live music lovers.