1. Hotel Herringbone
Hotel Herringbone is a boutique hotel made from shipping containers right in downtown Waco. It’s a cool spot if you like something a little different and a little upscale.
This luxury hotel has 21 rooms, each with its own style and premium touches. It’s only three minutes from the Dr. Pepper Museum and seven from Magnolia Market.
On-site, you’ll find three restaurants, several bars, and a rooftop hangout. Rooms come with Smart TVs, minibars, and beds topped with Italian linens.
Parking’s free, and there’s always someone at the front desk. If you’re after a memorable stay in a unique space, Hotel Herringbone is worth a look.
2. 1700 South 2nd
1700 South 2nd sits right on Baylor’s campus and has a boutique vibe. It’s a 4-star condo hotel with 10 units, each one fully furnished with a kitchen and a private patio.
You can easily walk to Baylor University from here. McLane Stadium and downtown Waco aren’t far either.
Rooms have air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and memory foam beds. I love that they allow pets and offer free parking.
Express check-in makes things easy, and you need to be at least 18 to book. Check-in runs from 4 PM to 10 PM, and checkout’s by 11 AM.
Book your stay here if you want a homey spot close to campus and the city’s main attractions.
3. Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor
Hotel Indigo Waco is right in the heart of downtown’s business district at 211 Clay Avenue. It’s just three blocks from Magnolia Market at the Silos, which is a huge plus.
This hotel welcomes pets and families, so it’s a solid pick if you’re not traveling solo. You’ll find an indoor-outdoor pool and the Brazos Bar & Bistro for meals and drinks.
Baylor University and the Waco Convention Center are both close. The Brazos Riverwalk and downtown shops are an easy walk away, too.
4. Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront
Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront is in a prime spot near Baylor University and the Suspension Bridge. Magnolia Market is also just a short walk away.
The hotel has 130 modern rooms with free WiFi and comfy beds. I’m a fan of the BLVD Steakhouse and the two bars on-site—makes grabbing a bite or a drink easy.
If you’re here for work, there’s a 24-hour fitness center and 5,000 square feet of meeting space. Parking’s free, and the front desk is open all day and night.
Book your stay at this riverfront spot for easy access to all the best things to do in Waco.
5. SpringHill Suites Waco
SpringHill Suites Waco is right downtown at 115 S Jack Kultgen Expressway. You’re close to Baylor University and Magnolia Market, which is super convenient.
This all-suite hotel gives you extra space, with living areas in every room. Suites come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and desks if you need to get work done.
Breakfast is free and hot every morning. There’s also a market for snacks and drinks throughout the day.
Guests have access to a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor pool. The front desk is always open, so help’s never far away.
Book your stay at SpringHill Suites Waco if you want modern amenities and a spot right in the middle of everything.
6. AC Hotel Waco Downtown
AC Hotel Waco Downtown is at 600 Mary Avenue, putting you steps from Magnolia Silos and close to Baylor University. It’s a modern Marriott hotel with a sleek vibe.
There are 182 rooms, most with city views and a contemporary feel. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, a 55-inch TV, mini-fridge, and premium bedding.
Check-in starts after 4:00 PM, and you’ll need to check out by 11:00 AM. The front desk is staffed 24/7, which I always appreciate.
You’ll find a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a sunny terrace. Breakfast is a buffet, priced at $16 for adults and $10 for kids under 18.
Book your stay here for a central location and easy access to the best of Waco.
7. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Waco Downtown – Baylor
This hotel is smack in downtown Waco at 911 S 10th Street. Baylor University and McLane Stadium are both close by, so it’s great for campus visits.
They allow pets for a fee—both cats and dogs, as long as you give them a heads-up. Free WiFi and breakfast are included with your stay.
Rooms have air conditioning, a work desk, and a private bathroom. There’s an outdoor pool, fitness center, and hot tub, plus free parking for guests.
Book your stay at this downtown location if you want a reliable spot near Baylor. It ranks high on travel review sites for hotels in Waco TX.
Hotels in Waco TX: Highlights Near the Hotel
Staying at hotels in Waco TX puts you right in the middle of all the action—Magnolia Market, the Brazos River, and a bunch of great restaurants. The city’s got trolley service and plenty of places to eat, from farm-to-table spots to classic Texas barbecue.
Cultural Attractions on Foot
Magnolia Market at the Silos is Waco’s best-known destination. You can walk there from most downtown hotels in under 15 minutes. Expect shops, food trucks, and seasonal events.
The Brazos River runs right through downtown. The riverwalk is perfect for a morning jog or an evening stroll, and several hotels are just a few blocks away.
Baylor University has historic buildings and museums. The Mayborn Museum Complex is a favorite for natural history and cultural exhibits—just check their hours before you go.
Historic Downtown Square is full of local shops and restored buildings. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum is a must if you’re into Texas history.
Transport Access & How-to Tips
La Salle Trolley makes it easy to get around downtown. The loop includes Magnolia Market and lots of hotels in Waco TX—no car needed.
Parking varies. Street parking is usually $1-2 per hour, but most hotels in Waco TX offer free parking for guests.
Uber and Lyft both work in Waco. I usually wait about 5-10 minutes for a ride downtown.
Walking is often the best way to get around. Downtown Waco is compact, so you can reach most places in 20 minutes or less.
Taste of Waco: Nearby Bites
Magnolia Table is famous for breakfast and lunch, but the line gets long. Try to get there early or use their waitlist app.
George’s Restaurant has been around since 1930 and serves classic American food. Their chicken fried steak and pies are local favorites.
Pivovar is a unique spot for craft beer with a Czech twist. The food’s worth a try, too.
Health Camp is a retro burger and shake joint that’s been in Waco since 1949. It’s a fun, nostalgic stop.
Cafe Homestead focuses on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons and what’s available from nearby farms.
Hotels in Waco TX: Ratings and Quick Comparison
The best hotels in Waco TX range from affordable options under $80 a night to luxury stays over $200. Most have ratings above 9.0, so you can expect good quality whether you’re spending a lot or keeping it budget-friendly. Some spots really stand out for value, while others go all-in on premium amenities if you’re looking to splurge.
Individual Highlights by Hotel: Best Hotels in Waco TX
1700 South 2nd leads the pack with a stellar 9.8 rating. The rate? Just $116 per night, which feels like a steal for a four-star spot.
Hotel Herringbone stands out as the premium choice among hotels in Waco TX. At $225 nightly, it’s definitely a splurge, but it holds a solid 9.0 rating for those chasing a bit of luxury.
Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor lands right in the middle at $149 per night. With a 9.2 score, this three-star hotel keeps things balanced—good amenities, not too pricey.
Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront also scores a 9.2 and sits at $131 per night. Its riverside setting is perfect if you want a view with your morning coffee.
AC Hotel Waco Downtown is the new kid on the block, opening in 2024. At $137 a night and a 9.2 rating, it brings modern style right to downtown Waco.
La Quinta Inn & Suites is the budget champ at $78 per night. It might not scream luxury, but with a 9.2 rating, it clearly gets the basics right.
Overall Recommendation and Best Fit for Traveler Types: Hotels in Waco TX
Best Overall Value: Out of all the hotels in Waco TX, 1700 South 2nd really stands out. It gets an impressive 9.8 rating and costs just $116.
This place gives you a ton of quality for the price. If you’re looking for a solid deal, it’s hard to argue with that.
Budget Travelers: La Quinta is another one of those hotels in Waco TX that delivers way more than you’d expect for $78 a night.
With a 9.2 rating, you get reliable service without blowing your budget.
Business Visitors: AC Hotel Waco Downtown feels like it was made for business travelers. It’s packed with modern amenities and sits right in the heart of downtown Waco TX.
You’ll pay about $137 a night, but the convenience and comfort are worth it if you’re working on the go.
Luxury Seekers: For folks who want to treat themselves, Hotel Herringbone is the go-to choice among hotels in Waco TX.
It’s definitely pricier at $225, but the premium experience and genuine four-star service really set it apart.
University Visitors: If you’re heading to Baylor University, Hotel Indigo should probably top your list of hotels in Waco TX.
It’s super close to campus and the $149 rate feels fair considering the location.
Extended Stays: SpringHill Suites offers suite-style rooms that work great for longer visits or families needing extra space.
At $139 a night, it’s a smart pick for anyone planning to stay a while in Waco TX.
| Hotel Name | Overall Score (out of 10) | Luxury Level | Price per Night for Two (USD) | Booking Link | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Herringbone | 9.0 | ★★★★ | 225 | Book Here | |
| 1700 South 2nd | 9.8 | ★★★★ | 116 | Book Here | |
| Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor | 9.2 | ★★★ | 149 | Book Here | |
| Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront | 9.2 | ★★★ | 131 | Book Here | |
| SpringHill Suites Waco | 9.1 | ★★★ | 139 | Book Here | |
| AC Hotel Waco Downtown | 9.2 | ★★ | 137 | Book Here | Opened in 2024 |
| La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Waco Downtown – Baylor | 9.2 | ★★ | 78 | Book Here | |
| *Prices do not include taxes and fees. Rates fluctuate daily; actual price is based on the booking site at time of reservation. | |||||
