Is Waco Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Waco is the county seat of McLennan County, Texas, United States. It is situated along the Brazos River and I-35, halfway between Dallas and Austin. The Waco Metropolitan Statistical Area consists of McLennan and Falls Counties, a 2010 population of 234,906.

Warnings & Dangers in Waco

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Waco is generally not a hazard to tourists. Showdowns most often take place here among the local population. However, always be on the alert and keep track of your belongings. Avoid walking around the city late at night.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

They often drive their cars here. Public transport may not run on schedule, and pickpockets are common on buses. Taxi is a reliable and safe type of travel. Use only licensed taxi services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpockets are found in tourist places and Cameron Park. Be careful, do not be distracted by requests for help - most often, these are requested from scammers to distract you and rob you.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Waco is at risk of a tornado. Follow the directions from local authorities if you are in a city during hurricane season. Check the weather conditions in advance before your trip to Waco.

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

The risk of serious burglary and assault is possible in Waco in certain areas of the city. Try not to carry a lot of cash and expensive items with you. In the event of an attack, give the criminals everything they ask to save their lives.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

There is no high risk of terrorism in Waco. However, it can occur here due to intolerant sentiments in local society and the global threat of terrorists by forgiving the United States. Stay up to date on your trip to this city.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Petty fraud in Waco is uncommon and uncommon. Common sense is usually enough to avoid fraudsters. Do not transfer your data to strangers and withdraw money from ATM at banks.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women traveling alone to Waco should avoid certain areas of the city and only walk in the company if it's already late at night. Use common sense and don't draw too much attention to yourself.

How Safe Is Waco for Tourists?

Waco is considered a very safe city.

Crime here is at a low level, and the city’s main problems are associated with petty theft, vandalism, and drug trafficking.

Most violent crime takes place in residential areas, away from most tourist destinations.

If you find yourself in a place like this (usually for lunch), use your usual caution.

Drive with the doors locked, and do not draw attention to yourself or make eye contact (i.e., look closely at other drivers).

Cameron Park is considered dangerous at night.

Also, the area around Baylor University is quite dangerous at night, so it is not advisable to approach Baylor University if you are walking alone.

It is customary to move around in your car so that it will be more difficult for pedestrians.

With public transport, everything is also not easy – it can go off schedule.

Besides, pickpockets are frequent on buses.

Hurricane winds and tornadoes occasionally hit Waco.

Watch for announcements from local meteorological services and act according to their instructions.

Never leave your belongings unattended.

Keep an eye on your bags and backpacks.

It is good if you use an anti-theft backpack.

Be considerate of those who ask for or offer help.

These may be scammers.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Waco?

Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Waco?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).

How's the Weather like in Waco?

The summers are hot and muggy; the winters are cold and windy, partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Waco for ideal weather are mid-March to mid-May and October to December.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Waco?

Waco Regional Airport is 8 km northwest of Waco, in McLennan County, Texas. The airport is a 20 minutes drive from downtown and central Waco.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Waco?

A thriving arts scene, one-of-a-kind shopping centers, a staggering array of dining options, a wealth of ways to enjoy the outdoors, and attractions like those a big city would be proud of can be found in Waco. Surrounded by all the natural beauty of central Texas and home to two picturesque rivers, Waco is a treat for all senses.

Is the Water in Waco Safe to Drink?

The tap water at Waco is not potable. Use bottled water.

Is Uber Safe in Waco?

There is an Uber taxi in Waco. The fare will depend on trip length and time of the day. You can call a taxi from the app on a smartphone.