Things To Do
in Crawford
Crawford, Texas is a small, close-knit town in central Texas best known as the location of the Bush family ranch and as a quiet entry point to rural Texan life. The town sits amid wide agricultural fields, rolling pastureland and live-oak lined country roads that attract photographers and visitors seeking low-key outdoor recreation. Crawford’s downtown is compact with a handful of local shops, diners and community buildings that reflect classic small-town Texas character.
While amenities are limited, nearby Waco and regional parks expand options for dining, museums and trails within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and a strong cup of coffee. After fueling up, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of downtown, admiring the historic buildings and unique shops. Don’t forget to visit the local art gallery to get a glimpse of the community’s creative spirit.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in nature with a visit to the nearby Crawford State Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch with breathtaking views of the mountains before setting out for a hiking trail that suits your adventure level. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you traverse the scenic paths.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor a hearty dinner featuring regional specialties. Engage with locals at the bar or enjoy some live music, making for a lively atmosphere. End your night with a stroll under the stars, taking in the peaceful ambiance of this small town.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to explore some of Crawford's historical landmarks. Visit the local museum to learn about the town's rich history and the tales of its early settlers. The morning is perfect for taking your time and absorbing all the fascinating stories.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Crawford Courthouse, taking a guided tour to appreciate its architectural beauty. Afterward, stop by one of the town's parks to enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature. The afternoon sun makes it an excellent time to relax and socialize with other visitors.
As evening falls, indulge in a culinary experience at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table dishes. Enjoy the slower pace of the town, where you can reminisce about your day's adventures. Consider catching a community event or a local theater performance for a true taste of Crawford’s culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (at bar) | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small-town Texas character and friendly locals.
- Easy access to rural landscapes, lakes and outdoor photography opportunities.
- Short drive to Waco for museums, markets and expanded dining options.
- Limited amenities, nightlife and specialty restaurants within town limits.
- Requires a car—public transportation options are minimal.
- Services like major hospitals, large grocery stores and entertainment are a drive away.
Places to Visit in Crawford
Visit one of these nice places.
Open ranchlands with rolling pastures, iconic Texas skies and distant structures—excellent for golden hour and wide landscape shots (ranch is private; photograph from public roads respectfully).
Small-town architecture, murals, vintage storefronts and the courthouse area provide classic Americana street scenes.
Sunrise and sunset reflections on the water, marshy edges for birdlife photography and calm boating scenes.
Long country roads lined with mesquite and live-oak trees, fence lines and grazing cattle—great for minimalist compositions and storm-chasing clouds.
Food in Crawford
Crawford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked brisket, ribs and sausage—look for local smokehouses in the Crawford/Waco area or roadside barbecue joints along county roads.
Must-Try!
Tacos, enchiladas and plate combos with rice and beans; found in local restaurants and family diners across the region.
A Southern comfort classic frequently served in cafés and breakfast spots nearby — crispy, gravy-covered and filling.
Czech-influenced sweet or savory pastries popular in Central Texas; great for breakfast or a snack at bakeries and farmers markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal roadside stands and small farmers markets sell fresh peaches, okra, tomatoes and baked goods—best in summer and early fall.
A short drive away, Waco hosts larger farmers markets and food truck gatherings (for example around Magnolia Market) that offer regional specialties and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People are generally polite and greet neighbors; a friendly hello or nod goes a long way. Dress casually and be respectful in public spaces.
Many scenic spots are on private land (ranches and farms). Do not trespass—photograph from public roads and obey posted signs.
Crawford is culturally conservative; keep conversations respectful, avoid confrontational topics in casual interactions, and be mindful of local traditions and religious observances.
Safety
Tipping in Crawford
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxi or rideshare drivers. Tip service staff when service is satisfactory; small-town businesses appreciate cash tips but cards are also fine.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; smaller vendors and roadside stands may be cash-only or use mobile card readers—carry some cash for convenience. Contactless payments and apps are increasingly supported in larger nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and often very dry—daytime temperatures can be high. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, bring ample water and sun protection, and expect afternoon thunderstorms occasionally.
Generally pleasant with cooler mornings and warm afternoons; fall can be a beautiful time for harvest produce, outdoor dining and photography with softer light.
Mild winters overall with occasional cold snaps and rare light freezes; snow is very uncommon. Evenings can be chilly—pack layers.
Wildflowers and green fields appear after winter rains; spring brings comfortable temperatures but also the potential for severe weather, including thunderstorms and occasional tornado risk in the region.
Crawford at Night
Hiking in Crawford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails along the Brazos River with varied terrain, river bluffs, oak-wooded sections and scenic overlooks—great for hiking, running and mountain biking.
Shoreline trails and boardwalks around Lake Waco offering easy to moderate walks, birdwatching and lake views.
A bit further afield, Meridian State Park has trails through woodlands and along scenic areas suitable for day hikes, camping and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Crawford by plane.
The closest regional airport offering limited commercial flights and general aviation; convenient for short regional connections and about a 30–45 minute drive from Crawford.
Regional airport north of Crawford offering commercial flights; serves central Texas and is a moderate drive from Crawford.
A major airport with a wide range of domestic flights and some international service; approximately 1.5–2 hours by car, depending on traffic.
Large international hub with extensive domestic and international connections; roughly 1.5–3 hours' drive depending on route and traffic—best choice for long-haul flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with multigenerational ties to the land; involved in agriculture, ranching and local community institutions.
People who live in Crawford and commute to Waco or surrounding towns for work, education and services.
A significant portion of the population in central Texas identifies as Hispanic/Latino, contributing to regional culture, food and community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school football is a major local phenomenon in central Texas—Friday night games draw strong community support and are a cultural staple.
Rodeos and horse events reflect the region’s ranching heritage and are held seasonally in nearby towns and county fairs.
Recreational fishing and boating on local lakes are popular among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Crawford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist but are limited in small-town Crawford; plan to find more vegetarian and vegan choices in Waco. Ask local diners to adapt sides (salads, grilled vegetables) and check farmers markets for fresh produce.
Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination is possible—bring snacks and verify preparation with staff.
Small kitchens may have limited ingredient transparency; phone ahead to discuss major allergies or opt for larger restaurants in Waco that are better equipped to handle requests.