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Forks Up in Waco: Sun Devils, Magnolia & Baylor Game Day Energy

  • Writer: Erin Gore
    Erin Gore
  • 48 minutes ago
  • 13 min read

Football, Friendship & a Texas Getaway


Two women in sunglasses and gold shirts smile for a selfie at a sports event. Fans are visible in the stadium background.

Some weekends are made for football, and this one belonged to the Sun Devils. My bestie and I headed to Waco, Texas, for a girls’ trip that blended game day energy, Magnolia Market charm, and riverfront strolls into one unforgettable weekend.


It wasn’t my first time traveling for a game, but it was the first time I got to see ASU win on the road. That alone made the trip historic in my book. To share it with my best friend — laughing through every moment, chanting Forks Up in enemy territory, and celebrating a last-second victory — was the icing on the cake.


Waco surprised me with its mix of college-town energy and small-city charm. Even if you’re not a football fan, the combination of the Brazos River, Magnolia Market, and walkable downtown make it a destination worth exploring. For us, it was the perfect backdrop for a weekend that blended travel and tradition.




Airplane tail with blue and red stripes seen at the airport. Cloudy sky in the background. Open door with light inside suggests boarding.

Getting to Waco

Our adventure started with a flight into Dallas, the closest major airport to Waco. I always fly American Airlines — credit card perks and miles, of course — which makes booking these kinds of trips simple and rewarding. From there, it’s about a 90-minute drive to Waco, the perfect stretch for road trip playlists, iced coffee in hand, and the kind of conversations that only happen when you’re headed somewhere new with your best friend.


As we made the drive south, city skylines gave way to wide Texas skies. By the time we reached Waco, we could already feel the shift — less hustle, more ease, but with the buzz of a college town gearing up for game day.


That drive was the first reminder of what this weekend was about: slowing down, being present, and soaking in every part of the journey, not just the destination.




Tall Hilton hotel under a blue sky, with a statue of a cowboy on horseback in the foreground. Trees and cars are visible nearby.

Our Downtown Home:

Once we arrived in Waco, we checked into the Hilton in Downtown Waco, which became the perfect home base for our weekend. Nestled right along the Brazos River and steps from the historic Suspension Bridge, the location couldn’t have been better. We were close to everything — Magnolia Market, downtown dining, and, most importantly, McLane Stadium.


The Hilton gave us exactly what we needed: comfort, convenience, and a little touch of Texas hospitality. Our room was spacious and inviting, with cozy beds that felt like heaven after a long day of travel. Between grabbing coffee in the lobby each morning and winding down with late-night laughter after exploring the city, it felt less like a hotel and more like a retreat.


What really stood out was the walkability. On game day, instead of worrying about parking or shuttles, we simply stepped outside, followed the Brazos trail, and walked straight to the alumni tailgate at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. That ease — paired with the energy of being in the heart of downtown — made our Hilton stay unforgettable.




Large historic courthouse with a dome and statues, surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky. Steps lead up to the entrance.

Touring Waco

Friday was all about soaking in everything Waco has to offer. We gave ourselves the whole day to explore, and the city delivered with charm, history, and plenty of surprises along the way.











A woman stands outside a store named "Rally House Texas" with red lettering. The windows display sports merchandise. Clear blue sky above.

Our first stop was Rally House, which was packed wall-to-wall with Texas sports gear. My bestie is a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, so she was in heaven picking out new merch to add to her collection. I couldn’t resist doing a little shopping for the kids, too — a Dallas Stars mascot stuffy for my son’s growing collection and a Cowboys cheerleader bow for my daughter.


Even though it wasn’t Sun Devil territory, it was still fun to lean into the Texas spirit. Rally House set the tone for the weekend: a mix of sports pride, local flavor, and a little something for everyone.




Building with Dr Pepper signage, colorful drink-themed mural on the wall, clear sky, and a gated entrance. Mood is playful and bright.

Next up was the Dr Pepper Museum, one of Waco’s most famous attractions. We didn’t have time to tour it this trip, but it came highly recommended by friends who said it’s worth the stop. From the history of America’s first soft drink to the quirky exhibits, it’s definitely one to save for next time.









Woman in sunglasses sits at outdoor counter by "Welcome to the Magnolia Silos" sign on white brick wall, holding a drink, sunny day.

The Silo District was a major reason we picked the Baylor game for our Sun Devil road trip this year. I’d been dreaming of seeing Magnolia Market at the Silos in person, and building a weekend around both Magnolia and football felt like the best of both worlds. It’s one thing to watch Chip and Joanna’s projects on TV — but standing in the middle of their vision, surrounded by shops, food trucks, and people enjoying the space, was a whole different kind of magic.


Magnolia Market itself was everything I hoped it would be. The boutique shops were full of beautifully curated pieces, from home décor to clothing and gifts. Every corner felt intentional — a little mix of rustic, modern, and whimsical that makes you want to take a piece of Waco home with you. The Magnolia Press Coffee Co. and the iconic bakery were tempting, but it was the lineup of food trucks that really caught our attention.


We decided to make it a lunch stop, and it was the perfect choice. The trucks had something for everyone — fresh sandwiches, tacos, and treats that tasted even better enjoyed out in the Texas sun. Sitting at one of the picnic tables with our food, looking up at the silos, and soaking in the cheerful energy of the lawn made the whole experience feel complete. Magnolia wasn’t just a shopping stop — it was a full afternoon of food, design, and atmosphere that grounded the whole trip. For me, pairing that slower, intentional energy with the adrenaline of football was exactly why Waco made sense for this year’s road game.




Memorial wall titled "The Seven Shepherds of the Advent Movements" with engraved names, surrounded by trees and flowers under a blue sky.

Another stop on our tour was the Branch Davidian Memorial. Before the trip, our spouses kept asking if we were really going to check it out, and the more they brought it up, the more curious we became. The 1993 tragedy is one of those moments in history that most people remember, and standing at the site where it all happened carried a weight that’s hard to put into words.


The memorial itself is quiet and reflective, honoring the lives lost during the standoff. Plaques and markers share names and stories, reminding visitors that what may feel like a distant headline was very real for the families who lived through it. Even in the stillness, you can feel the gravity of the history there.


It wasn’t an easy stop, but it was an important one. Visiting the memorial added a deeper layer to our Waco experience, balancing out the lighter moments of shopping, food trucks, and football with something that made us pause and reflect.




Stone castle-like building with a round tower, surrounded by trees and bushes, under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. Beige stone wall in front.

One of the most unexpected sights in Waco was Cottonland Castle. Driving up to it felt like stumbling across a fairytale in the middle of Texas. The stone façade, turrets, and old-world architecture stood in striking contrast to the modern streets around it. Built in the late 1800s and modeled after castles in Germany, it’s been through several owners and restorations over the years — each one adding to its story.


Even just admiring it from the outside was worth it. It’s the kind of landmark that makes you pause, snap a dozen photos, and wonder what life must have been like inside those walls decades ago. For us, it was one of those “only in Waco” moments — proof that this city holds more history and quirkiness than you might expect at first glance.




Brick building with "Hotel 1928" sign, striped awnings, and a "Valet" umbrella. Bright day, clear sky. Urban street setting.

Another standout was Hotel 1928, the boutique hotel recently reimagined by Chip and Joanna Gaines. Walking through the lobby felt like stepping into another era — the 1920s glamour is still alive in the details, from the tile floors to the grand staircase, but with Magnolia’s signature cozy touches woven throughout.


We didn’t stay overnight, but it was absolutely worth the stop to soak in the design and ambiance. With its restaurants, rooftop lounge, and thoughtful details, Hotel 1928 has quickly become one of Waco’s hottest spots.




Tan-bricked skyscraper with "ALICO" atop, American flag, and blue sky background. Urban setting with green trees in front.

We finished our downtown tour at the Alico Building, Waco’s most recognizable skyscraper and one of the oldest standing high-rises in Texas. Rising 22 stories above the city, it’s been a part of the skyline since 1911 and has survived everything from tornadoes to waves of development.


Seeing it in person gave us that classic “we’re really here” travel moment. Against the evening sky, the big ALICO letters glowed proudly, anchoring the city with a sense of history. For me, it felt like the perfect cap to a day of exploring — a reminder that Waco has layers: old and new, playful and serious, familiar and surprising.




Green brick wall with large mural of an open book and quote at Fabled Bookshop & Cafe. Blue sky and utility poles in the background.

Game Day Saturday

Saturday was all about game day in Waco. From coffee at Fabled to tacos at Ninfa’s, a quiet stroll along the Brazos, and the ASU Alumni tailgate, the day built toward one unforgettable moment — watching the Sun Devils seal a last-second field goal victory at McLane Stadium.









Bookstore interior with bookshelves, a large owl sculpture, and a cozy seating area. Sign reads "More Books This Way." Warm lighting.

We kicked off Saturday with a stop at Fabled Bookshop & Café, and for me, it was the dreamiest way to start game day. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, cozy reading nooks, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the kind of bookstore that makes you want to linger for hours, thumbing through titles and sipping lattes.


We browsed the shelves, picked up a couple of finds, and soaked in the whimsical vibe of the shop. For a book lover like me, it was heaven — a little pocket of calm before the whirlwind of football festivities.



Taco plate with beef taco, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and yellow rice on a white plate. Wooden table setting with colorful lights.

From there, we headed to Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant, a Waco institution. The minute we sat down, the chips and salsa appeared, and I swear they were some of the best I’ve ever had — fresh, zesty, and impossible to stop eating.


I ordered tacos, which came perfectly seasoned with all the classic Tex-Mex flavor, while my bestie went for a taco salad that was as big as it was delicious. Both plates hit the spot, and between bites we couldn’t stop talking about everything we’d already done and what was still ahead.


Sharing that lunch felt like a celebration in itself. There’s something about Tex-Mex that’s festive by nature — colorful, flavorful, and a little larger than life. It was exactly the fuel we needed for the exciting afternoon ahead.



Bronze statues of a cowboy on horseback and cattle, set on rocky ground. Surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky.

With lunch behind us, it was time for one of the most iconic parts of Waco: a walk along the Brazos River. Because we were staying at the Hilton, it was as simple as stepping outside and following the river trail toward our next stop.


Since it was still several hours before kickoff, we had the Riverwalk almost entirely to ourselves. The quiet was refreshing — just two friends walking by the water, talking about life, and building anticipation for the game ahead. The river shimmered in the afternoon sun, and the stillness made it feel like a private moment before the roar of game day.


Along the way, we paused to admire the bronze sculptures that line the trail, including the cattle drive and cowboy figures that celebrate Waco’s history. They gave the walk an added layer of story and connection to the city itself. Instead of crossing the Suspension Bridge with the crowds, our path ended at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, where the ASU Alumni tailgate was already buzzing with energy and maroon-and-gold pride.




Mascot in white jersey and woman in yellow shirt celebrate indoors, flashing peace signs. Background shows people, muted colors, and a projected screen.

By the time we reached the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the atmosphere had completely shifted. The quiet of the Brazos gave way to the buzz of the ASU Alumni tailgate, and instantly we felt like we were back home in Tempe. Maroon and gold filled the space, Sun Devil flags waved proudly, and the sound of laughter and cheers carried across the lot.


The tailgate was catered by a local Texas BBQ spot, and the food was everything you’d hope for. Plates piled high with tender brisket and juicy chicken became the centerpiece of the gathering, paired with all the classic sides you’d expect at a Texas cookout. The smoky aroma alone could’ve drawn in a crowd, but it was the combination of food and community that made it memorable.


And of course, Sparky was there, working the crowd like only he can. We couldn’t resist grabbing a selfie with him, and everywhere you looked people were singing the fight song, throwing up pitchforks, and reconnecting with old friends. The alumni tailgate wasn’t just a warm-up for the game — it was a full celebration of Sun Devil pride, flavored with the best of Texas BBQ.




McLane Stadium by a calm river under a clear blue sky. Flags fly near the stadium, creating a peaceful and open atmosphere.

McLane Stadium & Game Day Victory

Walking into McLane Stadium felt electric from the start. The setting itself is stunning — right on the Brazos River, with the crowd pouring in from every direction. Baylor green and gold dominated the stands, but the maroon-and-gold section of Sun Devils stood out proudly, pitchforks in hand and voices ready. Even far from Tempe, it felt like our family had shown up big.


The pregame flyover sent goosebumps through the crowd, the roar of the jets cutting across the Texas sky. Then came kickoff, and from the first snap, the energy was nonstop. The Baylor fans were loud, but our Sun Devil section matched them chant for chant — “A-S-U!” echoing proudly against a wall of green and gold. Every big play was met with cheers, fight song verses, and high-fives with complete strangers who instantly felt like old friends.


The game itself was a nail-biter, back and forth with tension mounting in every quarter. By the time the fourth rolled around, the stadium was on edge. When ASU lined up for that last-second field goal, it felt like the entire place went silent for a heartbeat. And then — the kick sailed through. The ball was good. Sun Devils had pulled it off.


Our section erupted. We screamed, hugged, and threw our pitchforks high in the air. Chants of “ASU, ASU, ASU!” rang out as Baylor fans filed quietly out of the stadium. For me, it was more than just a win — it was history. My first time seeing the Sun Devils win a road game in person, celebrated shoulder to shoulder with my best friend. That kind of memory doesn’t fade.




Exterior of J.S. Barnett's Whiskey House. American and other flag hang outside. Beige building with large windows and vertical sign.

Sunday Brunch at Barnett’s Whiskey House

Sunday morning in Waco meant one thing: brunch. And after the Sun Devils pulled out a last-second field goal win over Baylor the night before, coffee and comfort food were exactly what we needed.


Barnett’s Whiskey House & Restaurant was packed with locals — always the best sign. We started with coffee ☕ (non-negotiable after celebrating), then couldn’t resist flipping through their famous whiskey bible: page after page from the most extensive whiskey collection in Texas, featuring over 1,200 exceptional varieties.


For our meals, my bestie ordered the Breakfast Plate — cage-free eggs, hickory smoked bacon, duroc maple sausage, pimento cheese potato casserole, salad, and a cornbread biscuit. I went with the Southern Style Benedict, layered with a cornbread biscuit, pimento cheese, and candied bacon. Every bite was rich, flavorful, and exactly what you want in a Southern-style brunch.


And because brunch deserves a sweet ending, we split the Bourbon Bread Pudding. Warm, decadent, and drizzled with bourbon sauce, it was the kind of dessert you talk about long after the weekend is over. 🍮✨


Barnett's isn’t just a brunch stop — it’s an experience. Between the award-winning seasonal cuisine and walls lined with rare and vintage spirits, this is the kind of place that belongs on every Waco itinerary.




Hand holding "The Paris Novel" by Ruth Reichl, seated, wearing yellow pants and shoes. Colorful bag on the floor, setting is an airport.

The Drive Back to Dallas

After brunch, it was time to say goodbye to Waco. We checked out of the Hilton, loaded up the car, and made the easy 90-minute drive north. The road stretched out under wide Texas skies, giving us one last chance to replay the weekend: the strolls along the Brazos, Magnolia magic, the alumni tailgate, and that unforgettable final field goal.


By the time we reached Dallas, the adrenaline had worn off and the glow of the trip had settled in. Sitting at the airport, waiting for my flight with The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl in my hand, felt like the perfect closing note. Football, friendship, food, and now a book to carry me home — the weekend had given me everything I needed.


Travel days are often just transitions, but this one felt like a soft landing. I left Texas tired in the best way, full of gratitude, memories, and a little extra spark of Sun Devil pride.




White building with text "EVERYONE HAS A STORY WORTH TELLING," black fire escape, and string lights against a bright blue sky.

Why These Moments Matter

Weekends like this are about more than just the itinerary. Sure, Magnolia Market lived up to the dream, Barnett’s delivered the perfect brunch, and ASU’s last-second win gave us memories we’ll be talking about for years. But what made it truly unforgettable was sharing it all with my best friend — the laughter, the long talks on the Brazos, the selfies with Sparky, and the quiet moments in between.


Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the grind. Trips like this remind me to pause, make space for connection, and celebrate the little things — a good meal, a bookstore find, a football chant shouted with strangers who feel like family. Those are the moments that stick.


Waco gave us all of that and more. It wasn’t just a road game, or a girls’ trip, or a sightseeing checklist — it was a reminder that joy is in the mix: tradition and travel, adventure and rest, friendship and pride. And that’s what makes weekends like this worth every mile.


Planning Your Own Waco Weekend?

If you’re planning your own Waco getaway — whether for football, Magnolia, or just a quick Texas escape — here are my top recommendations to bookmark:


Stay: Hilton Waco, right on the Brazos River and walking distance to downtown + McLane Stadium

See: Magnolia Market at the Silos & the iconic Alico Building

Eat: Brunch at Barnett’s Whiskey House (don’t miss the Bourbon Bread Pudding!)

Explore: Stroll the Brazos Riverwalk and browse Fabled Bookshop & Café

Cheer: Catch a game at McLane Stadium (bonus points if it’s the Sun Devils on the road 🏈✨)




A woman in a white sweater makes a heart shape with hands on a sunny beach. Rocks and ocean in the background. She looks happy.

I’m already dreaming of the next Sun Devil road trip. With the Big 12 now on our schedule, there are so many campuses and towns to explore beyond Waco. Have a favorite Big 12 destination, hidden local spot, or must-see game day tradition we should add to our list? Leave a comment or send me a message — I’m always up for discovering something new on the road with the Devils.






With love, light, and boundless gratitude,

Erin 🌟✨


🏖️ Follow my daily adventures on Instagram 🌊



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Waco Weekend Getaway | Sun Devils Big 12 Road Trip | ASU vs Baylor Game Day

Hilton Waco Downtown | Magnolia Market at the Silos | Chip and Joanna Gaines Waco | Silo District Waco | Fabled Bookshop and Café | Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant Waco

Barnett’s Whiskey House Brunch | Branch Davidian Memorial | Cottonland Castle Waco

Hotel 1928 Waco | Alico Building Waco | Brazos Riverwalk Waco | Texas Sports Hall of Fame McLane Stadium Baylor | College Football Travel Guide | Girls Trip Waco Itinerary

Texas College Town Travel

 
 
 

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