Baylor Homecoming Itinerary: For families with younger children
Homecoming is the perfect time to introduce Future Bears to the wonder that is Baylor. From working out some wiggles on campus to visiting our live bears, the majesty of the bonfire to the fun of the parade, there’s a host of things to explore — if you plan appropriately.
We know you’re busy, so we’ve got you; here’s a suggested itinerary already drawn up for Baylor alumni with kids:
FRIDAY:
You won’t want to start the weekend hungry, so make sure you’re back in Waco by midday Friday — in time to start with lunch at one of your old favorites. Spots like George’s, Vitek’s, Baris, Ninfa’s and Poppa Rollo’s have served generations of Bears, and are still Waco staples today.
Then go work off those wiggles with a walk on campus. Stop by the Williams Bear Habitat to see Indy and Belle, then show the kids your favorite spots on campus (the Quad, SUB, your dorm, etc.). If you’ve got time, you can also check out of Baylor’s newer highlights (East Village, the Foster Campus for Business and Innovation, McLane Stadium, Foster Pavilion, etc.). Need a map? We’ve got you there, too.
Leave some time in the afternoon to check into your hotel, and maybe get the kids a nap (there’s a late night ahead). While they rest, you can consider dinner options; some kid-friendly options include historic favorites like Health Camp and Slow Rise, or even one of the Baylor dining halls.
After dinner, start your evening with Homecoming at the Hurd for make-and-take crafts and fall festival-type games, then follow Third Street to Fountain Mall for the Pep Rally and Bonfire. (Don’t forget to take a requisite family photo/selfie in front of the roaring flame.)
SATURDAY:
If coffee helps start the morning, stop by an old favorite like Common Grounds or one of Waco’s newer options. Then head to campus (Fifth Street) to secure your spot for the Homecoming Parade — still believed to the nation’s largest collegiate homecoming parade, with floats and balloons the kids are sure to enjoy (not to mention the free candy shared by parade participants!).
Then head to McLane Stadium for the homecoming game. If time allows, check out Touchdown Alley for a host of kid-friendly pregame activities before heading into the stadium to cheer on the Bears.
If you’re still looking for more to keep the kids busy, we’ve compiled a much longer list of 99 things to see and do at Homecoming that offers even more ideas to help fill out your Homecoming weekend.
We look forward to having you (and your little ones) here on campus!
Sic ’em, Bears!