Waxahachie offers a variety of ways to enjoy a trip: historic architecture and exhibits, performance venues and events, and paths and activities by the water. Those interested in the town’s history can combine self-guided tours with a museum visit and notable buildings. On other days, a paved multi-use trail, parks, and Lake Waxahachie take center stage.
Historic Downtown and Architecture
The Downtown Walking Tour takes you around Ellis County Courthouse Square and through the historic commercial architecture of downtown Waxahachie. Historic landmarks and Texas Historical Medallions are among the topics covered on the self-guided tour. There is also a self-guided historic tour of the Ellis County Courthouse. The courthouse is notable for its four arched entrance porticos and central square tower.
The Ellis County Museum uses visual and interactive exhibits to showcase more than 130 years of history of Ellis County and its residents. It is housed in the oldest building in Waxahachie’s historic center, built in 1889. The Webb Gallery houses a large collection of self-taught and outsider art. The Hachie Hearts Trail offers another way to discover local history: this interactive tour takes you to 21 individually painted hearts by local artists.
Cultural Programs and Unique Venues
The Waxahachie Chautauqua Auditorium is an unusual octagonal open-air auditorium with 2,500 seats. The annual Chautauqua Festival is free, lasts one day, and uses the 1902 auditorium and the surrounding park grounds. If you’d like to plan your stay around this event, check the festival dates before your trip.
The fully restored historic Texas Theater, a two-story theater and event center, hosts live music, films, small theatrical productions, and stand-up comedy. The Lyceum at Sims Library is also still used for library events, including concerts, piano recitals, theatrical performances, and debates. The covered amphitheater in Railyard Park hosts concerts, films, and community events. The cultural offerings therefore differ not only in their programs but also in their venues.
Trails, Parks, and Water
The Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail is about four miles long and paved. This multi-use trail passes through wooded areas, creek corridors, and community parkland. Getzendaner Park covers 33 acres along Waxahachie Creek. Both offer a connection to the water, but feature different landscapes and ways to get around: the trail is described as a paved multi-use path, while the park is defined by its size and location along the creek.
There are three free public boat ramps at Lake Waxahachie. The lake also offers fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, white crappie, and white bass. You can tailor your stay more toward fishing and access to boat ramps or toward the walking and biking opportunities on the creek trail. Railyard Park also has an interactive splash pad, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day; keep this seasonal timeframe in mind when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Midlothian, Red Oak, Ennis.
View the broader travel overview: Ellis.
