If you have a family member fascinated by railroads, or if you yourself used to have a train set and want to get a look at where it all began, then the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum is a must-see attraction. The city of Temple was founded in 1881 by the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway Company as a major junction point, and it makes sense that one of the city's main attractions is this railroad museum. Among seeing vintage pieces and artifacts, the center point of it all is the Rails Across America exhibit that presents the impact of railroads in American life for the past 50 years.
Since 1976, locals and visitors alike have enjoyed the Westfest Polka Festival, held in West, Texas, a short 15 mile drive from Waco. Visitors pay homage to the German culture in Texas with a big variety of food booths, kids' activities, a parade, baking contests, arts and crafts, a tractor pull and even a polka mass! Of course, there is also plenty of polka music and dance contests to enter and enjoy. The event is traditionally held over the Labor Day weekend, so plan to make your way out West for an unforgettable time at the Westfest Polka Festival.