By Olivia Eiken | Staff Writer
With Interstate-35 separating Baylor’s campus from the “grease pit,” navigating Waco can seem awfully challenging without a car. However, there are plenty of things to do and places to see all within walking distance of campus.
Good eats
If you’re a freshman, you must visit Shorty’s Pizza Shack at least once this semester. It is a Baylor student staple for a reason. Just a short walk from Baylor’s campus, Shorty’s is located at 1712 S 12th St. and is open every day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The good food and lively outdoor patio have kept Shorty’s a student favorite year after year.
If you’re looking for a filling, Texas-sized meal, Vitek’s Market is the place to visit. Located at 1600 Speight Ave, Vitek’s serves great barbecue and even better vibes. They host community events and live music. In their own words: “There is always something going on at Vitek’s.”
While we’re on the topic of Baylor essentials, Common Grounds can’t go unmentioned. The tiny but mighty coffee shop located at 1123 S Eighth St. is ideal for students looking to hang out or study off campus without having to go too far. Common Grounds is known for its delicious drinks, often featuring its “Secret Sauce.” Inside, it is packed with vintage couches and chairs to study in or just relax. Out back, there are plenty more tables and seating options, as well as a stage where they regularly host open mic nights and showcase student bands.
Game day shopping
Football season is just around the corner. If you’re an out-of-state student and didn’t know already, Texans take football and dressing to the nines very seriously. Barefoot Campus Outfitter at 1508 Speight Ave. has plenty of options for game day in Waco. It offers both men’s and women’s apparel, with everything from jerseys to dresses.
The Baylor University Bookstore is also stocked with the best gear. At 1201 S 5th St., it is conveniently located next to the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat. When you get done visiting Belle and Indy, swing by the Bookstore to guarantee you look your best for Baylor game days.
Outdoor activities
Grab your friends and enjoy some leisure and relaxation by floating on the Brazos River. Located across from Baylor’s campus, the Pullin Family Marina provides students with the perfect way to spend an evening after a long day of classes. The marina offers students, faculty and staff paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and even sunfish sailboats to check out. The only requirement to obtain a rental is to present your Baylor ID at checkout.
What better way to start your weekend than taking a “hot girl walk” with your friends to the Waco Downtown Farmers Market? Located at 500 Washington Ave., the market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. It hosts nearly 40 vendors with everything from local produce and handcrafted jewelry to baked goods and home decor. Visiting the market is a great way to support local businesses while also ensuring you start your weekend off on the right foot.
