Just south of Dallas along I-35, you’ll find Waxahachie. Known for its charming downtown square, Victorian and gingerbread homes, and some great antiquing, you’ll be enchanted by this warm and welcoming southern suburb. The newly redeveloped south side of the square features even more retail gems and quaint dining options, making the Gingerbread City a perfect quick day trip or weekend getaway destination.
Waxahachie is one of only ten cities in Texas to receive the First Lady’s Texas Treasures award. The charm of the historic homes and buildings brings thousands of visitors to the city each year. Explore unique shopping and dining on the historic downtown square.
Where to Stay
Whether you visit like a local in one of Waxahachie’s quaint Bed & Breakfasts or stay in one of the nationally trusted names located across the city, you’re bound to find accommodations just for you.
One of our favorite places to stay is The English Merchant’s Inn Bed and Breakfast! Wake up to warm muffins, sizzling bacon and fresh toast at this historic mansion which was built in 1916, and comes with an unbelievable story about an English cotton merchant and his bride, who built the house. You’ll be sure to hear stories like this and learn more about the intriguing history of Waxahachie during your stay.
Transport yourself to another era with a stay at the Chaska House. Built in 1900, the luxury bed & breakfast is uniquely decorated and styled after classic authors of the period and filled from floor to ceiling with rich colors and distinct antiques. The Texas Highways Magazine calls it “Victorian Splendor,” but we call it a “Must-Stay.”
Just 30 minutes East of Waxahachie in Bristol, Texas is The Range Vintage Trailer Resort. This getaway features 7 Airstream and vintage trailers, a barn restaurant, an Insta-worthy pool, and fishing across 30 acres of land.
Where to Shop
Multitudes is a forward-thinking shop that always has the most adorable tees at the ready. Make sure you stop in to shop their free-spirited Texan style that we love!
Everyone loves a “twofer.” My3BH is a salon and boutique all in one! You can indulge in the trendy clothing and accessories while also getting a makeover or waiting on your color to set in – talk about an ideal Girl’s Day Out! Plus, 3BH’s newest location features an in-house coffee shop to fuel up and shop in one place.
If you are looking for something special, look no further than Farmhouse. They carry the most charming vintage and up-cycled furniture, home décor and more. Pop in to shop products brought in by more than 10 vendors, you’re bound to discover a new treasure here!
Located in historic downtown Waxahachie, Old Town Village Antiques is a store that will take you back in time. It has something for both the older and younger generations, as it provides a selection of vintage and retro finds. You’ll be sure to find some of your new favorite pieces here!
The Dove’s Nest is a one-of-a-kind store. You can find enchanting home décor and gifts all over this unique treasure trove. BONUS: you can dine-in for lunch at this store’s full-service restaurant! It’s fabulous! Sit back and relax while you enjoy anything from a delicious sandwich or salad to one of their homemade desserts.
Whether you’re a grill master or just like to hang out with your grill friends, Meat Church is a temple to all things BBQ. To owner Matt Pittman, barbeque is more than just a cuisine, it’s a way of life. Meat Church is a one-stop shop for all your grilling needs—from Pittman’s legendary seasonings, rubs, and sauces to BBQ swag and quality meats to create your own BBQ creations at home using Meat Church’s countless recipes.
Where to Eat
When you’re at Prime 115, it’s easy to escape into a foodie paradise and forget about everything except the delicious dish on your plate and the wine in your glass. From date nights to celebrations, the steakhouse is serving up the best of the land and sea with fine dining in a small town style.
Farm Luck Soda Fountain & Dry Goods is the perfect place to take a break while shopping on the square. The pimento cheese sandwich and tomato soup is to die for. This old-time soda fountain will take you back to simpler times when boys and girls would sit on bar stools sharing milkshakes and waiting in line for the jukebox.
If you’re craving a good old-fashioned burger, Oma’s Jiffy Burger is the best place to grab a meal. It’s a Waxahachie tradition, known for the Omita breakfast taco. No matter what day it is, this little joint is packed with locals…and that’s a glowing recommendation in and of itself.
What to Do
Webb Gallery has mysterious, unusual and truly striking photos, tramp art, costumes, books and more. It’s really a sight to behold. Webb Gallery is housed in a 10,000 square foot building just off the square and is open for appointments.
Multiple times a year, Waxahachie sets up shop on the square for Junk in the Trunk. You and your friends can shop through trunks of goodies and find treasures you can’t live without. If you’re in town on June 19th or September 18th, get ready to discover hidden gems from across the area.
Drive into the past with your family and friends to check out the best way to catch the latest blockbuster releases – at the drive-in! Just a short 20-minute drive from Waxahachie, you’ll enjoy a movie-goer favorite while sitting in the comfort of your car. Galaxy Drive-In Theatre is open 7 days a week and features 7 screens! Check out their showings here!
Remember Meat Church? As if a store dedicated to the art of grilling couldn’t get better, owner Matt Pittman hosts BBQ classes and events at the Meat Church Live Fire Kitchen AKA Matt’s own Backyard. And when we say these classes are legendary, we’re talking Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Miranda Lambert legendary—all graduates of the Meat Church classes. Check out the list of upcoming events here and sign up for their newsletter at the bottom of every page of meatchurch.com to be the first in the know.
Nothing says “living like a local” more than visiting the Downtown Farmers Market. Shop fresh produce, discover delicious treats, and take home memorable artisan goods every Saturday from 8am-1pm. The market is located at 701 Howard Road and is open rain or shine.
Waxahachie is known as the Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas, and this summer they’re in full bloom. The Crape Myrtle Parade and Fireworks is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day with the whole family.
Kicking off on July 3rd at 10am, grab your red, white, and blue to head over to College Street for the hometown parade ending at Lumpkins Stadium parking lot. Afterward, get in some retail therapy at Downtown Waxahachie’s Liberty & Lemonade event from 12pm-5pm for some cold refreshments and hot styles.
To end the night in a BANG, the H-E-B Fireworks Show will take place on July 3rd at 9:15pm. For the best seats, head back over to the Lumpkins Stadium parking lot.
On your marks, get set, RACE! The Texas Motorplex is just a 15-minute drive from Waxahachie and is home to record-breaking races at the world-renowned NHRA Drag Racing facility. Get your speed on at this season’s events including Hot Summer Nights, Dragpalooza, and Texas Truck Jams.
Raise a glass at the area’s first family-owned breweries crafted right in Historic Downtown! Railport Brewing Company has 8 in-house brews including American, Belgian, and German Ales available on tap year-round with rotating small-batch, seasonal brews. And what goes better with great craft beer you ask? Live music! With entertainment, food trucks, yard games, and more every weekend, there’s no cover and no excuse not to go.
All aboard Waxahachie’s newest downtown attraction: Railyard Park! The nature oasis features an amphitheater, a luscious music garden, and even a splash pad for the kiddos to cool off from the Texas heat. Plus, starting in August, the park is home to Friday Night Flicks rolling family-friendly movies every Friday night at 8pm through the end of September.
