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.
The Cameron Park Zoo has the distinction of being the nation's newest natural habitat zoo. The sights and sounds of some of the world's most extraordinary animals await you at this family fun attraction. Explore the Flower Garden Banks Reef and follow the Brazos River to see a herd of bison graze, or watch otters, black bears and jaguars coexist in an amazing recreation of their natural habitat. And don't forget your camera because you'll want lots of photos of the elephants, lions, white rhinos and giraffes.
Connect with nature and unwind at Mother Neff State Park, one of Texas' earliest state parks, pure natural beauty on 6 acres since 1921. Take a leisurely walk, hike, spread a picnic banquet, pitch a tent for camping or rent a campsite cabin, explore with geocaching, enjoy the wildflowers in the prairie, or explore the canyon trails. Interact with various displays at the visitor's center to learn more about this Texas treasure and its rich history.
The Texas Rangers are legendary for their commitment to justice in Texas as well as their unwavering bravery and heroism. That is duly celebrated at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. This attraction recognizes and memorializes the lives of 30 Texas Rangers who gave their lives in the line of duty and served proudly. Inductees are selected by a distinguished pane of retired Rangers. History and heroism is proudly on display at this museum that offers a look at a unique slice of Texas history.