Visiting Magnolia Market in Waco, Texas
If you watch HGTV, chances are Magnolia Market, the home decor haven created by Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines is probably on your radar. With shopping, food, photo ops and drool-worthy desserts, this spot is definitely worth a visit, and is a short drive from Austin and Dallas (both great home bases for your trip). Of course, with popular attraction, my first thought is always how to plan a visit to make it as enjoyable as possible (ie. beat the crowds). Here’s a few tips from our visit that might come in handy when planning your own.
VISIT ON A WEEKDAY
Rumour has it Saturdays are known for big line ups, and lots of crowds (Magnolia is closed on Sundays). We held out till Monday, which turned out to be the perfect time to go. There were still small lines at the Magnolia Cafe and Magnolia Bakery, but once inside the atmosphere was relaxed and uncrowded. Also, if you don’t mind a short walk, free street parking was very easy to come by. Bonus tip: A rainy day also helped our cause. While I’d love to take some sunny shots here, grey skies and a little light rain made for a relaxed experience (and the chance to snap a few photos of empty patios!)
2. DON’T WORRY IF YOU DON’T CATCH THE BAKERY
From the stories of the line ups, the Magnolia Bakery seems to be the number one spot on everyone’s wishlist. We popped in at the end of our visit, but had a great time checking out all the other spots first. Magnolia Press is a cute spot to relax with a hot or cold drink (I reccomend the 1905 latte!) If you must have a cupcake, there is a big selection of food trucks out back, including a Magnolia Bakery truck. There is also lots of savoury snacks available - including a grilled cheese truck!
3. VISIT IN SPRING FOR PEAK GARDENS
This mainly applies to those of use who are still in the height of winter in March… but I think anyone will find visiting Magnolia Market in actual Magnolia season a treat.
4. PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR MAGNOLIA TABLE VISIT
A short drive from the silos, you’ll find Magnolia Table. We didn’t plan our visit ahead of time, so didn’t expect to be seated, mainly just wanted to check it out! The restaurant was full that day, but if you plan to visit Monday-Thursday you can make a reservation up to 2 weeks in advance, which would be a must to avoid disappointment. There is a pick up window, which serves a lot of things off the restaurant menu and is a good back up plan if you aren’t able to get a reservation. Just beware that the restaurant kitchen can reach capacity, and the pick up window can also close. In that case, implement your back-up back-up plan! There is a delicious Rudy’s BBQ next door with well priced and delicious food - win win.
HAVE YOU VISITED MAGNOLIA MARKET? ANY TIPS YOU’D ADD?
