During our recent Texas road trip, my wife and I spent a day in Waco. Waco, TX has become famous as the home of HGTV “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gains. One of their projects was a retail complex called “The Silos”. It is an interesting tourist destination, but honestly, there is much more to see and do in Waco, TX. There are beautiful buildings everywhere in the downtown area just waiting to be photographed and, if you know me by now, you know that I was more than happy to pick up the camera and snap a few images.

Okay, here is the obligatory ” Magnolia Silos” photo. There is a store with home decor, a bakery, and a multitude of food trucks on site. There is also a central gathering area for sitting and relaxing. Even though we visited on a Tuesday around noon, the place was very busy. I cannot imagine the week-end crowds. Okay, let’s move on.

Usually it’s proper to save the best for last, but I fell in love with this restored service station. It was built in 1929 and behind the gas pumps and office are five service bays. Two brothers bought the property in the 80’s and restored it so they could just hang out and work on their own cars.

There was a time when a church looked like a church. This is First Baptist Church Waco, TX. It sits on a corner lot and the entrance is flanked by two walls of stained glass. I would love to go inside and photograph all of the stained glass in this place of worship.

Just a few blocks away from the Baptist Church is this Methodist place of worship. Along with stained glass, cast stone was a featured material in church architecture at one time.

This is a small courtyard entry into another church. You can see the craftsmanship and attention to detail in every aspect of the construction. Stepping away from religious architecture, Waco has some marvelous homes.

This incredible residence has been a temporary dorm for Baylor University, a bed and breakfast, and a wome’s drug rehabilitation dorm. It was built in 1910 and is 10,000 sq. ft. of living space plus a three car garage with quarters above. Just across the street…

stands this amazing residence. This home was completed in 1891 and is an example of Shingle Style architecture which was rarely seen in the south at the time. The exterior wood and brick were locally produced products. Stunning is the only word that comes to mind when you see this home.

We spent most of the day in Waco and, as you can see, there is plenty to see besides “The Silos”.  It was a Happy Tuesday behind the camera for me. Have a blessed week.