WACO, TX — Waco's tourism industry is already planning a comeback and it starts with you.
As National Travel & Tourism Week begins, plans are underway to show appreciation to front line tourism workers in the city and offer even more for Wacoans and visitors to enjoy.
In 1885, Dr. Pepper was invented in Waco for the past 29 years tourists flock to pop a top at the Dr. Pepper Museum.
"They come from all over the world because they love Dr. Pepper," said Mary Beth Farrell of the Dr. Pepper Museum.
It opens Thursday but when the museum celebrates its birthday on May 11th, it will be with 25% capacity.
"A lot of people don't know this but we are a non-profit. We are not owned by Dr. Pepper so people coming through our doors is how we stay open," said Farrell.
So they'll host a virtual birthday party too.
"Last year we had 2.4 million visitors to the destination," said Director of the Waco CVB Todd Berkta.
Waco tourism pumps 396 million dollars into the economy.
Locals and our location will be key to picking up where the city was pre-pandemic.
"I would love for our local residents to come back out and experience Waco. The new Waco. The Waco of today," said Berkta.
While the pandemic progressed, Wacoans weren't waiting, they were working toward the Music Friendly Community designation by the Texas Music Office.
"That's a big part of what we're working on as well. We're close and it's a big deal. It's an important deal for us," said Berkta.
So Waco can emerge stronger and better together.
If you'd like to learn more about Waco tourism visit Waco Heart of Texas.
If you'd like to learn more about the Dr. Pepper Museum visit their website.
