It has been entirely too long since I’ve been to the grand old state of Texas.  Being a type A-planner personality (I promise I’m a fun person some of the time), I’m used to anticipating trips long in advance.  But my weekend in Waco was a change of pace because this flight was booked two weeks before departure.  And planned a few hours before booking my plane ticket.  My spur-of-the-moment trip to Waco, Texas, to visit bestie Riley was jam-packed but all the while still enjoyable.  Here are 9 things to do in Waco:

1. Heritage Creamery 

With flavors ranging from Arnold Palmer to Basil Strawberry and Candied Bacon to Mint Stracciatella, there’s never a dull moment here.  I opted for a scoop of Old-Fashioned Dark Chocolate, which was oh-so creamy and rich.  Beyond the ice cream, the shop boasts a casual yet classy vibe with its ceiling Hollywood bulb lights, brick wall and tabletop plants in glass jars.

2. Torchy’s Tacos 

Just pulling up, I immediately noticed the line going out the door.  And although we had to wait in line, I could see what all the fuss was about.  There are more tacos to pick from than you ever thought existed.  I ordered the Chicken Fajita taco, which was spicy yet savory.  Our group ordered chips and queso and very much took advantage of the free chip refills.  (Six baskets of chips for six girls in the span of about an hour…)  But my favorite part of this trendy fast-food joint easily had to be the fenced-in grassy “backyard” with picnic tables.

3. The Olive Branch Bakery and Cafe 

Farm fresh omelet and bottomless coffee?  Umm, heck yeah!  My omelet was perfectly warm and generous in its bacon and cheese portion sizes.  And the coffee brews had me guzzling down two cups!

4. Spice Village 

Riley and I had a wonderful time just browsing through all of Spice Village because they literally have everything.  From clothing to toys, cute wall decor to jewelry, Spice will hold your attention and keep you busy as you explore its huge store.

5. Magnolia Market at the Silos 

When in Waco, you better visit HGTV’s Chip and Joanna’s store because it’s a classic.  However, lines and crowds are ample!  Even though Riley and I just decided to walk through the outdoor space for twenty minutes (because the lines were wild), I thoroughly enjoyed my time strolling through this mini park-village with its pretty gardens, swings and food trucks.

6. Steel City Pops 

I had a spiritual experience at this popsicle shop and abandoned all etiquette while chowing this thing down.  No regrets.  I ordered a vanilla bean ice cream pop dipped in dark chocolate and sprinkled with gluten-free chocolate crumbs.  I’ve never had anything like it, and when they asked me if I wanted to sign up for a rewards account, I was truly bummed because I didn’t live in Waco.  But I’ll be back, Steel City!

7. Cameron Park

After lots of going here and there, we were ready to chill.  And Lover’s Leap at Cameron Park gave us a fantastic spot to hammock and score some gorgeous views.  The calm breeze and background lull of people playing soccer in a nearby field made me feel so relaxed in my Eno hammock.

8. Common Grounds 

While this girl loves her Starbs, I also thoroughly enjoy exploring new, unique and charming coffeeshops.  Although my caramel latte was on the gentler side with its sweet, milky flavor, this joint did not lack for character with its mustard yellow velvet couch and deer head decor.  Riley and I sat at their marble tables as music from Coldplay and The Fray played quietly in the background.

9. Tortilla Tossing on the Suspension Bridge

This activity easily jumps to the top of my favorites from this trip.  At Baylor, it’s a tradition to buy a bag of tortillas and throw them off the suspension bridge.  If they land on a cement landing in the middle of the Brazos River, tradition has it that you’ll marry a Baylor boy.  This bridge is absolutely stunning all lit up at night.  And before you reach the bridge, there are lots of metal bulls decorating the area.  Even though I sustained three bruises, I enjoyed attempting to climb these bad boys.  Ride ‘em, cow girl!

This trip may have been quite short, but we were not at a lack of things to do in Waco, Texas.  Until next time, yeehaw!  (Sorry not sorry for all my wannabe Texas talk!)