Things to do in Waxahachie

17 Best and fun Things to do in Waxahachie

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Waxahachie is a historic city in Ellis County, Texas, about 30 miles south of Dallas. The city has a population of just over 32, 000 people and is growing rapidly. It’s a great place to raise a family, work, and live. There are plenty of things to do in Waxahachie, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities and entertainment. Here are 17 of the best and most fun things to do in the city.

 

Things to do in Waxahachie

Looking for the best and most fun things to do in Waxahachie, TX? Look no further! We’ve got all the fun things to do in Waxahachie, TX right here!

1- Ellis county museum

Ellis county museum

The museum, housed in an 1889 structure across the street from the courthouse, has exhibits spanning back to ancient times.

Although its primary focus is on World War II artifacts and personal experiences, the museum also has a variety of other exhibits.

Waxahachie’s early years as an agricultural community were defined by cotton plantations. The first settlers were railroads, followed by cotton gins.

Waxahachie, Texas, was a major player in the world’s cotton industry by the 1880s, cultivating 25% of the world’s supply. The textile industry was quick to respond, setting up shops in the area to take advantage of the plentiful raw materials.

Even though the Great Depression destroyed most of the cotton industry in Ellis County, finding clay in the county’s soil boosted the city to become the world’s largest brick-making community.

The Ellis County Museum is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history, housing an impressive collection of quilts, cotton in various grades (from fair to mediocre), and hand fans.

Although donations are appreciated, the museum is free to enter.

The tours at the museum last approximately one hour.

2- Hachie Hearts Trail

Experience “Hachie Hearts,” a collection of 21 hand-painted community-sponsored hearts created by local artists.

It’s as if each heart has its personality.

Show your love for Hachiko by sharing a photo of the hearts on social media with the hashtag #HachieHeart.

If you’re interested in exploring Waxahachie via an interactive map, be sure to check out the Waxahachie Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

A public display of affection doesn’t have to be a costly trip to a big city like Paris, New York, Seoul, or Moscow.

The Ellis County Museum helps keep love alive in Waxahachie by selling heart-shaped locks for $10.

Couples secure a fence with padlocks a half-block away from the museum.

3- Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail

Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail

The Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail is the perfect destination for hikers and bikers looking to explore the great outdoors. With a trail that spans 9.6 kilometers (6 miles), there’s plenty of room to wander and take in the scenic views.

The Waxahachie Creek Trail starts at Lions Park and follows the creek past the Old Cemetery and the railroad depots in downtown Waxahachie. It ends at Railyard Park, where you can enjoy gigantic drums, chimes, and a xylophone.

The trail is surrounded by an incredibly beautiful and calm environment. The path is usually used for biking and running and is well-shaded.

Benches are provided along the paths for those who may need a break. Dogs are also welcome on the trail.

The Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail is a great place to get some fresh air and exercise. It’s perfect for biking, hiking, or running.

See also: 10 Best Things to Do in Woodward, Ok

4- Ellis county courthouse

Ellis county courthouse

What better way to start exploring the town of Waxahachie than with a visit to the Ellis County Courthouse? This courthouse is usually listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a must-see in Waxahachie.

If you have time, you can also visit the Ellis County Museum inside the courthouse. It features a large collection of Ellis County artifacts and is run by the Ellis County Historical Society. In addition to the courthouse and museum, there are plenty of other interesting things to see and do in Waxahachie.

Ellis County is home to many historical sites, including Munster Mansion, Dove’s Nest Gifts, Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail and Ellis County Museum. With all of these things to do in Waxahachie, you’ll never be bored!

5- Adore Waxahachie’s Art

Waxahachie's Art

Giant, painted Hachie Hearts can be found throughout Waxahachie – a charming town in Texas.

You’ll encounter a lot of these characters, on the historic walking tour.

The Waxahachie Convention & Visitors Bureau website provides information on local artists, titles, and locations.

The Waxahachie community has been enhanced by local artists who have created murals throughout the town.

Both a Calina Mishay piece and a Gonzo247 piece are on display here.

Gonzo247’s mural of Waxahachie’s motto is across the street from the Ellis County Historical Museum.

A downtown artwork by Mishay commemorates the city’s distinction as Texas’ crape myrtle capital.

6- Scarborough renaissance festival

Scarborough Renaissance Festival

On horseback, knights in glistening metal armor hurl two-tone lances at one another while rushing.

“Welcome, my lord!” is the cry of touts in medieval garb who line the streets, hoping to attract the attention of passersby.

Do you have a time machine?

If you thought you were going to find yourself in a boring old renaissance festival, you were wrong! You’ve actually landed in Waxahachie, Texas’ Scarborough Renaissance Festival – one of the state’s most cherished annual events.

There’s something for everyone at this unique festival. So enjoy your stay, and make sure to check out all the amazing attractions!

As you enter the fairgrounds through the castle gates, you’ll find yourself surrounded by period-style buildings. These buildings house stores offering medieval-style handcrafts, gears, and more.

See also: Top 16 Things to Do in Harrison Ar

7- Friendship Park

Friendship Park

Friendship Park is one of the best places to have fun in Waxahachie, TX. It has lots of exciting activities that will make your experience super fun!

The playground is full of colorful equipment for children to explore.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Friendship Park has something for everyone – a basketball court, walking trail, and tennis court.

The picnic area features a picnic pavilion for private events like business meetings, church gatherings, and picnics.

Friendship Park is open every day from 6:30 am to 10 pm. Monday to Friday, we’re open an extra hour, from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm. On weekends, we open an hour earlier, at 7 am.

Friendship Park is the perfect place for couples, families, and friends to create lasting memories together.

8- Historic Walking Tour

The walking tour of Waxahachie’s downtown highlights the area’s oldest and most notable historic buildings. You’ll get a good feel for all that the city has to offer, as these buildings are now home to antique stores, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. You can find maps of the area at the Ellis County Museum or the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce.

The tour points out 36 historic buildings and sites with a brief description of their significance in the map and accompanying brochure. The Wyatt Office, built around 1860, is the oldest remaining building in the area.

At the other end of town, the two train depots differ greatly even though they were built in 1907 and 1908. One is a passenger depot with an octagonal turret and contrasting colors of masonry. The Missouri-Kansas-Texas depot has more traditional architecture, with a shiny, red, restored caboose parked in front.

You’ll see more of Waxahachie’s attractions on the walking tour, which will take about 3 hours.

9- Admire Waxahachie Events

Admire Waxahachie Events

Waxahachie has its share of events year-round including the Scarborough Renaissance Festival in April and May, the Gingerbread Home Tour in June, and the Crape Myrtle Festival and parade in July.

-In November, take a trip back in time and commemorate Veterans Day/World War II with actors in the period military and civilian costumes, weapon demonstrations, and military vehicle displays.

-Then, in December, get into the holiday spirit by taking part in Candlelight Home Tours and Bethlehem Revisited.

See also: 16 Fun and best Things to do in Temple TX

10- Tour Gingerbread City: is one of the best things to do in Waxahachie

Waxahachie

In addition to a drive in the downtown area, four historic driving tours are identified on the map provided by the museum or chamber of commerce.

The West End Historic District is a beautiful area that includes Getzendaner Park and Victorian houses decorated with wooden filigree, often called gingerbread houses. Main Street is lined with these beautiful houses, making it a truly unique and charming area.

The North Rogers Street Historic District is full of charming gingerbread houses with markers indicating their status as nationally registered historic homes.

In the Oldham Avenue Historic District, 18 stately homes (aka mansions) date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries when cotton was king. These magnificent homes are a testimony to the wealth and prosperity that cotton brought to the area.

In sharp contrast, Wyatt Street Shotgun House Historic District is so named for the long narrow homes in which you could shoot a shotgun from the front door and the bullet would exit the back door without hitting anything in between.

The Joshua Chapel AME Church, built in 1917 and located nearby, is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places.

It has served the people of Waxahachie for over 100 years, not only as a church but also as a gathering place for graduations and celebrations in the Black community.

11- George brown plaza

George brown plaza

George Brown Plaza is the best place for a shopping spree in Waxahachie – especially with its lovely surroundings!

The splash pads are popular among visitors to the area, including children. It’s fun to use the splash pads and then dry up under the hot sun.

The picnic tables with seats are perfect for a relaxing walk around the vicinity. The restrooms are always clean, making this a perfect spot to spend the day.

Opening hours (George Brown Plaza): 9 am – 7 pm (all days). Add them to your list and have an awesome experience!

12- Stuart B. Lumpkins Stadium

Stuart B. Lumpkins Stadium

Texas is a state with long and illustrious football history. The Lumpkins Stadium in Waxahachie is a historic stadium with a rich history.

The Waxahachie Indians football team plays their home games at the newly revamped stadium, which can accommodate increased spectators.

You will be able to join in the enthusiasm of the locals for the match and take pleasure in every minute of it.

What’s more, you’ll have the rare opportunity to see Indian soccer matches many times throughout the year!

See also: 16 Fun and best Things to Do in Sandbanks

13- Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

If you’re in search of a place to while away an afternoon, look no further, you should definitely check out Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park! It’s a great place to have fun and get some exercise. Not only can you jump off a trampoline, but there are plenty of other things to do as well.

The park is the perfect place to spend time with the whole family all year round. With trampolines, swings, interactive exhibits, and a climbing wall, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a great way to get your heart rate up and your strength levels up, you should try rope climbing with your friends. See who can do the most climbs in a set amount of time. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a great place to spend quality time with your loved ones.

14- Gingerbread antiques

Gingerbread antiques

One of the best things to do in Waxahachie is to visit Gingerbread Antique Mall, located in the Downtown District.

The mall is teeming with beautiful antiques at affordable prices. If you’re an antique lover or appreciate anything unique, this is the place for you.

Gingerbread Antique houses many rare and historical treasures that you cannot find elsewhere.

The friendly people here are always ready to help you out when you need it. The large shop is packed with unique items from every corner, and you’ll be amazed at the variety of antiques you’ll find.

Gingerbread Antique is open from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday from 1 pm to 5:30 pm.

15- Sims Library

Sims Library

Sims Library is one of the best places to go in Waxahachie if you’re looking to learn. They have a great selection of books that are sure to educate and inform residents.

Sims Library became active on April 26, 1905. It was built on land donated by Captain W. H Getzendaner, the first mayor of Waxahachie.

The library is home to over 140,000 books, as well as a wealth of visual material, newspapers, microfilm, magazines, and more.

The Sims Library is a beautiful and calm oasis surrounded by trees, perfect for relaxing and reading your book. This library is a vital part of the educational system in Waxahachie.

The library is open to all, regardless of age or residency. Monday & Tuesday, Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm, Wednesday & Friday 9 am-6 pm, Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm.

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16- Visit the CNB of Texas Money Museum

At the Citizens National Bank of Texas Money Museum, you may find currency from $5,000 to $10,000, but that’s only the beginning.

The most sought-after items on exhibit at the bank’s lobby museum are 1776 Philadelphia-printed Continental Currency, Republic of Texas bills, and 1882 Brownbacks.

The museum houses gold nuggets and checks signed by presidents and famous authors, including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Charles Dickens.

The museum is available to the public during regular business hours, although it closes for lunch from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. The museum can be traversed in approximately 30 minutes. It is possible to circumnavigate the building.

17- Chautauqua auditorium

The Chautauqua Auditorium, situated in Waxahachie’s Getzendaner Memorial Park, was constructed in 1902 to provide a venue for the Chautauqua Institution.

The New York-based movement started in 1874 as a summer camp program for Sunday School teachers. The program was designed to help teachers improve their skills and knowledge in order to better educate their students.

Later on, it became a national lecture platform for free debate on science, literature, and civics.

The octagonal shape of the ancient hall is now protected by the National Register of Historic Places.

The facility is a popular venue for concerts and talks throughout the year, including those by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.

See also: Top 19 Fun Things to Do in Front Royal, VA

 

What’s Waxahachie known for?

Waxahachie is the perfect place for anyone who loves vintage neon signs. With the highest concentration of neon signs in the country, you’re sure to find some amazing examples of this classic American art form.

If you’re a fan of old-fashioned country towns, then you’ll love Waxahachie’s charming old-fashioned appeal and laid-back lifestyle.

If you’re looking for a great place to explore the many boutiques and outdoor shopping scenes, you’ll be happy to know you’ve found it in the city.

Is Waxahachie a dry city?

The City of Waxahachie voters voted in November 2008 The City of Waxahachie approved the legal sale of beer and wine at retail and legal sale in restaurants.

What is the weather condition in Waxahachie, TX?

Waxahachie summers can be scorching, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. However, winters can be quite chilly, with the mercury dropping significantly.

During the summer months, Waxahachie is often quite humid. If you’re planning on visiting the area during these months, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water.

Is Waxahachie TX safe?

Waxahachie is a beautiful and safe city located in northeast Texas. It is within driving distance of many major cities, making it the perfect place to visit. There are also plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, making it a great place to live.

If you’re planning on visiting the area during the summer months, it’s best to pack plenty of water and sunscreen and dress in light-colored clothing.

What does dies Waxahachie mean?

Waxahachie, the county seat of Ellis Counties, lies at Interstate Highway 35 e and Interstate Highway 273, about 30 miles from Dallas in Central Texas. This name came from an Indian word meaning “cow” or “buffalo” and is also a local creek name.

See also: 22 Best Exciting Things to Do in Alamogordo, New Mexico

 

Conclusion:

Waxahachie may be a small town, but there’s still plenty to do and see. You’ll never be bored in this great Texas town, which has so many attractions and activities. You’ll never be bored in Waxahachie!

There’s always something to do, from festivals and events to art galleries and museums.

Check out our top picks for things to do in Waxahachie and start planning your next adventure!

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