EVEN Hotel Waco - University Area Local area

Catch top-tier entertainment at The Backyard Waco. With upcoming performances by big names in music like Bayker Blankenship (Nov 7), Chris Low/Sul Ross (Nov 8), Project Pat (Nov 13), William Beckmann (Nov 14), Giovannie and the Hired Guns (Nov 15), Mexican OT (Nov 21), and many more. This venue offers a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable concerts under the stars. Join us for an evening of live music and camaraderie in the heart of Waco.

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum in Waco, Texas, is the state-designated official historical center of the famed Texas Rangers law enforcement agency. It consists of the Homer Garrison Jr. museum gallery, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, the Texas Ranger Research Center and the Headquarters of Texas Rangers Company "F". The City of Waco serves as the appointed trustee on behalf of the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Legislature

One of the most popular Waco attractions is Magnolia Market at the Silos. This 20,000 sq ft retail complex is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of Fixer Upper on HGTV. The site features two stately 120 ft silos, a big lawn for games, food trucks, a bakery, and shops. Whether you're a fan of the Gaineses and their rustic-chic aesthetic or just a fan of good food, shopping, and décor, Magnolia is a must-see when you visit Waco.

The Waco Convention Center serves as the premier meeting and event facility for Central Texas. The Center was built in 1972 and expanded in the late 1980s to include the 15,000 sq. ft. McLennan Hall. In July 2012, the Waco Convention Center completed a three-year, $17.5 million renovation, adding over 25,000 sq. ft. and increasing the total square footage to 144,000 sq. ft.

Cameron Park Zoo is a 52-acre (21 ha) natural habitat zoo located within Cameron Park in the city of Waco, Texas, United States, next to the Brazos River. Established in July 1993, Cameron Park Zoo has native vegetation that surrounds waterfalls, a lake, and ponds. The zoo features a diverse collection that includes over 1731 animals, representing 300 species from around the world.

The Heart O' Texas Fair Complex, now known as the Extraco Events Center, is located in Waco, Texas, United States. It was once the prime basketball facility for Baylor University. Extraco Events Center is the premier and most-versatile event & entertainment complex in Central Texas. The 300-acre complex with 10,000 parking spaces is uniquely comprised of three separate facilities: Extraco Show Pavilion, Extraco Coliseum, and BASE at Extraco Events Center.

Foster Pavilion is a multi-purpose arena on the campus of Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Completed in 2024, the arena hosts the Baylor Bears men's and women's basketball teams. The Pavilion is a state-of-the-art contemporary fieldhouse seating 7,000+ fans, located along the banks of the Brazos River on the west side of Interstate 35. Inside, fans will be closer to the court to create a true home court advantage.

Just one mile from our hotel, Baylor University blends rich history with vibrant energy as the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. Set along the scenic Brazos River, its campus wows with stately redbrick buildings, lush landscaping, and iconic towers. Stroll the grounds, soak up the collegiate charm, and if you're visiting during the school year, catch the excitement of a Baylor Bears game and experience school spirit like no other!

If you're a fan of science and ancient wonders, don't miss this incredible site while staying in Waco, just 5 miles from our hotel. The Waco Mammoth National Monument is home to the nation's only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Pleistocene-era Columbian mammoths. Explore in-situ fossil remains inside a climate-controlled dig shelter and join a guided tour across the 100-acre site to uncover Texas' fascinating Ice Age history.

Whether you're traveling with adventurous kids or chasing your own thrill, Waco Surf is a must-visit. One of the largest inland surfing and water sports parks in the U.S., it features a PerfectSwell surf lagoon, a wakeboarding cable park with jumps, and giant water slides that plunge into a lazy river. With rental gear available, Waco Surf delivers endless waves of fun—no ocean required.

Just 0.9 miles from our hotel, the Dr Pepper Museum celebrates America's oldest major soft drink, invented right here in Waco in 1885. Housed in a historic 1906-era bottling plant, this unique museum offers a fascinating look at the machinery that brought Dr Pepper to life, including 20th-century bottling-line equipment. Be sure to stop by the gift shop and soda fountain to top off this sweet experience.

Women’s college basketball tournament games are coming to Waco this March, with Baylor University hosting top teams at Foster Pavilion, less than a mile from our hotel. Guests can easily walk or drive to the arena and experience the excitement around campus as postseason play heats up. Get game-day ready or unwind after the final buzzer with our Athletic Studio and onsite dining to keep you energized during your stay.

Just two blocks from our hotel, the Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center is a modern community hub dedicated to hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, offering everything from interactive exhibits and coding labs to creative arts spaces and even an immersive playground. Whether you’re traveling with family or just curious, it provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

Get ready for an unforgettable night as Post Malone and Jelly Roll bring The BIG Stadium Tour Part 2 to McLane Stadium. Experience their chart-topping hits live in an electric outdoor atmosphere. Secure your tickets now for one of the biggest concerts of the year in Waco.

Join the celebrations at Baylor University’s graduation ceremonies on May 15–16. Located just one mile from our hotel, the event draws families from near and far to honor their graduates’ achievements. With ceremonies and campus festivities, there’s something for everyone. Plan your stay and enjoy easy access to campus while celebrating this milestone.

The CECC May Madness eSports tournament, held at the Waco Convention Center from May 1–3, is a thrilling celebration of college gaming. Players from across the country compete in intense, high-stakes video game matches, while fans cheer on their favorites and soak in the excitement. With fast-paced action, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments, this event is a must-see for anyone curious about the world of competitive gaming.

The Peach Festival at the Downtown Farmers Market celebrates the juiciest, freshest peaches of the season. Local farmers showcase their produce with a variety of peach-themed treats, from pies to jams, along with live entertainment and fun activities for all ages. The event captures the heart of Waco’s community spirit, offering visitors a taste of local culture and the chance to pick up some one-of-a-kind items.

The Waco Sports Corporate Cup is a unique team event that brings local businesses together for a fun day of fitness challenges at the Waco Convention Center. Teams compete in relay races, tug-of-war, and other athletic games in a lighthearted setting. It’s a great way to build team spirit while staying active. Whether participating or spectating, it’s an energizing event. Our Athletic Studio is perfect for prepping or cooling down after!

Brazos Nights is a series of free outdoor concerts every Friday in June, showcasing the best of Waco’s local music scene. From country to blues, the lively atmosphere along the Brazos River is perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Dance under the stars or relax on the lawn as you enjoy the tunes. With the event being just a short drive from our hotel, it’s the ideal way to experience the rhythm of Waco’s downtown nightlife.

Celebrate Juneteenth in Waco at the Brazos River with a lively festival full of music, food, and cultural exhibits. This family-friendly event offers a chance to learn about African American history and enjoy soul food, live performances, and local artists. It’s a meaningful and festive occasion for both locals and visitors. If you’re in town, take part in this joyous celebration of freedom and community.

Get ready to hit the dance floor at the 75th National Square Dance Convention! For four days, spend your time at the Waco Convention Center, where square dance enthusiasts from across the country gather for workshops, exhibitions, and friendly competitions. This event is perfect for those eager to learn a new dance style or connect with the square dance community. It’s an active, fun way to spend a few days in Waco. You can even use our Athletic Studio to stretch and get ready for the action!

TriWaco is one of the city’s premier athletic events, attracting triathletes from across the country. Held at Indian Spring Park, the triathlon includes swimming, biking, and running, with courses designed for both beginners and experienced athletes. Whether you're competing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a dynamic event to experience in Waco. Plus, if you want to keep your routine going while in town, our Fitness Zones offer a space to stay active at your pace.

Baylor University orientation sessions provide incoming students with an introduction to campus life. These informative sessions cover everything from academics to campus resources, all designed to help students feel at home as they begin their journey. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or dropping off your student, stay at our hotel near Baylor’s beautiful, historic campus. It’s a great way to get familiar with the area.