This post is sponsored by Waco Convention & Visitors Bureau. All opinions are my own.
If you’re a Dr Pepper fan raise your hand!
I am, well my whole family is really. That’s why I was so excited when on our visit to Waco we were able to visit the Dr Pepper Museum! Saturday, our Dr Pepper journey began in the two story building full of unique history and revelation on a ton of biographic information I had no knowledge of. The transformation of the brand was very immersive and the exhibits took me back in time to where it all begin.
While we love to have fun. We never miss an opportunity to fit in something educational during our travels. Bonus points if its fun and educational and the Dr Pepper museum definitely fit the bill!
If you didn’t know, Dr Pepper was invented in 1885 by a Pharmacist, Charles Alderton. This begin the journey of manufacturing and bottling it which didn’t begin until 1891 right there in the city of Waco, TX! Although the transformation includes relocation over the years, the culture and heart of the business still remains in the heart of Waco and I could feel the pride of the city as I walked about the facilities.
Check Out More About Our Visit Below!
The lower level contained really in depth displays on the manufacturing, archaeology and bottling operations. It was really cool to see how the bottling has changed over the years. There were also a ton of videos you could sit and watch along the way and interactive exhibits that filled you with more historical facts. I was particularly drawn to “The Well” exhibit! I was swept into the trance of peeking down into the actual wells never ending tunnel, imagining how it all flowed back in the day.
The upper level boasted a play area for the kids, additional history on some of their affiliate brands and a media room. This level is where I stole some of the loudest laughs while in the media room. This room played their commercials. It was comical to see how the commercials have transformed over time! Also, I learned on this level about many brands I didn’t know where affiliated with Dr Pepper. Such as, Mistic, Mott’s, and Bai, to name a few!
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The second building just across the way was also really fun! This is where you get to binge on some of their cool eats, grab some souvenirs, check out other cool exhibits and sit in on the Liquid Lab. The liquid lab was my favorite part of this experience! It allows for a complete hands-on experience as you can use all your senses to explore soda and the history behind it. The kids had a blast tasting their way through the demonstration to better understand the connection of how it all works and the importance of each ingredient. For example, Niah volunteered to go up and taste mineral water. The funny part! All the kids who volunteered made the funniest faces as they exclaimed how nasty it tasted. Another area of opportunity was tasting tonic water and it ended with the same results.
Here are a few tips to make your visit at the Dr Pepper museum better…
Tip #1
Take your time – I don’t suggest visiting when you are in a rush. There are many things to read, watch, see and do! You don’t want to cheat yourself out of a great experience so visit when you have plenty of time to really engage with the exhibits and other offerings.
Tip #2
Pack your patience – This is a really popular Waco attraction. As a result, it can get pretty crowded. Packing your patience and allowing yourself plenty of time to stroll about is key! Some lines may be longer than you like. Some seating may be taken. You may have to wait a second to grab your ideal photo opportunities but being patient will make for a memorable visit.
Tip #3
Wear comfortable shoes – As with any museum, there is a lot of walking and standing so wear comfortable shoes. The first building has two floors. While elevators are available there can be a wait, which means if you opt to take the steps you will need comfortable shoes to walk up and down them. Also, building two is a short walk across the way so you’ll need comfortable shoes to walk there and stand in any lines that await. For example, the souvenir and cafe line can get extensive.
Tip #4
Parking – If you are unsure on where to park, try the free lot directly across the street first. It is there designated parking it. However, it can get a bit cramped. We were lucky enough to find someone coming out as we were pulling in.
Tip #5
Buy a Dr Pepper – Try a Dr Pepper on your way out. It taste so much better out the bottle!
Plan Your Visit:
300 South 5th Street
Waco, Texas 76701
Mon-Sat: 10:00 AM-5:30 PM
Sunday: Noon – 5:30 PM
Find out more about the Dr Pepper Museum here.
Are you a Dr Pepper Fan?
What are you waiting for!?! GO OWN YOUR FANCY!!!
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