Explore Valley Mills & Beyond
Where to Eat
Helberg Barbecue | 15-min
A family-run favorite that's quickly become one of the most loved barbecue spots in Central Texas. The brisket smash burger is…chef’s kiss.
Olaf’s Restaurant | 15-min
A true ranch-to-table experience. Their beef is raised, grown, and fed on 3R Farms in Clifton. The rest is prepared in-house with fresh ingredients. (Open Thurs.-Sun.)
Corner Drug Cafe | 15-min
Where the locals eat! Breakfast and lunch served in a beautifully preserved historic drugstore. Small-town charm and home-style cooking.
Produce Haus Pizza | 15-min
Brick oven pizza, in-house made ranch & ice cream - need we say more? Right outside is a great green space for kids to run around and play.
Breaking Bread Bakery and Deli | 15-min
A cute little sandwich shop with delicious pastries. The brownies are our favorite!
The Crawford Cone | 15-min
A kid-friendly favorite for soft serve ice cream, sno-cones and burgers.
Red Herring at Hotel Herringbone | 30-min
Upscale Coastal Mediterranean with excellent cocktails, wine & piano lounge.
Milo All Day | 30-min
Farm-to-table, with Southern-inspired food, seasonal ingredients, creative small plates, in a really fun atmosphere.
Magnolia Table | 30-min
Chip & Joanna Gaines' beloved diner. Biscuits, lemon lavender donuts, and a reservation are certainly recommended.
Terry Blacks | 30-min
Because this is Texas, and you can’t get enough BBQ while you’re here.
The Brasserie at Hotel 1928 | 30-min
Tucked inside Chip and Joanna's beautifully restored 1928 Hotel in downtown Waco.
Cafe Homestead | 40-min
Worth. The. Drive. This one may be our favorite. Farm-to-table in the truest sense. Set on the working acreage of Homestead Heritage.
Things to Do
Valley Mills Vineyards | 5-min
A family-run winery. Wines from 100% Texas-grown grapes! If you’re here on the weekends, check their events page for live music & fun events.
Red Caboose Winery Clifton | 15-min
A fun little winery in nearby Clifton, offering wine tastings, locally made spirits, and a relaxed atmosphere. (Their vineyard is 35-min in Meridian.)
The Will of Waco | 20-min
Open on the weekends. A great spot for live music and patio dining. Their Home Grown Vendor Market takes place every Sunday.
Lake Whitney State Park | 25-min
23,500 acres of clear blue water with swim beaches, boat ramps and hiking trails. Walling Bend is a great access point from the property.
Meridian State Park | 25-min
Over 500 acres to explore surrounding Lake Meridian. Easy hiking trails, a quiet spot to swim, and shady picnic tables.
Magnolia Silos | 30-min
The place that put Waco on the map. A full block of shops, gardens, food trucks, a coffee shop and the original Silos. We particularly love the green space for the kids to run around while we shop & eat.
Fabled Bookshop & Cafe | 30-min
Waco's beloved bookshop, complete with a cozy cafe and a hidden children's section. Walkable from Magnolia Silos and other shops.
Homestead Heritage | 40-min
A 510-acre working farm and craft village including Cafe Homestead, Heritage Coffee, Waco Waffle & Brazos Valley Cheese. This spot is particularly worth the drive May-October when they hold their weekly farmers market.
Itineraries to & from Valley Mills ~ Coming Soon!
Coming from Waco
Coming from Dallas-Fort Worth
Coming from Austin or San Antonio
Coming from Houston