Waxahachie: History, Culture and Architecture

Waxahachie offers several themes to explore during a stay: historic architecture, local history, cultural events, and trails and recreational opportunities by the water. The attractions vary in form: you can plan self-guided historical tours, exhibitions and stage programs, as well as outdoor activities. Which of these interests matters most for your trip may also influence your choice of a hotel in Waxahachie.

Historic Downtown and Local History

The Downtown Walking Tour takes you around Ellis County Courthouse Square and through the historic commercial architecture of downtown Waxahachie. It highlights historic landmarks and Texas Historical Medallions. There is also a self-guided historical tour of the Ellis County Courthouse. The two tours have different focuses: the Downtown Walking Tour covers the square and commercial architecture, while the courthouse tour focuses on the building itself. This lets you decide whether to center your visit on several historic features or a particular building.

The Ellis County Courthouse has four arched entrance porticos and a central square tower. These features offer specific architectural details to look out for on the historical tour. The Ellis County Museum is housed in the oldest building in Waxahachie’s historic center, built in 1889. Its visual and interactive exhibits tell the story of more than 130 years of the county’s history and its residents.

The Webb Gallery houses a large collection of self-taught and outsider art. The Hachie Hearts Trail offers another way to discover art and local stories: this interactive history tour takes you to 21 individually painted hearts by local artists. Each has a distinct focus—the museum offers exhibits, the gallery showcases art collections, and the trail leads you past decorated works.

Cultural Venues and Events

Waxahachie Chautauqua hosts an annual, free, one-day festival in a unique 1902 open-air auditorium and the surrounding park grounds. The unusual auditorium is octagonal and has 2,500 seats. If the festival is the reason for your trip, check the event date in advance before planning your trip around it.

The Lyceum at Sims Library continues to host library events, including concerts, piano recitals, theater performances and debates. The Texas Theater’s program includes live music, movies, small-scale theater productions and stand-up comedy. The fully restored historic building has two stories and serves as a theater and event venue. Railyard Park has a covered amphitheater for concerts, movies and community events. The interactive splash pad at Railyard Park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

These venues differ in their programs and settings: the Chautauqua festival uses an open-air auditorium, the Lyceum hosts library events, and Railyard Park events take place in a covered amphitheater. When choosing a cultural focus, you can therefore consider both the type of event and its venue.

Trails, Parks and Lake Waxahachie

The Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail is an approximately four-mile paved multi-use trail through wooded areas, creek corridors and community parkland. Getzendaner Park covers 33 acres along Waxahachie Creek. This gives you a choice of an outdoor activity on a trail with an approximate stated length or in a park with a specified area.

Lake Waxahachie has three free public boat ramps. The lake offers fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, white crappie and white bass. The boat ramps and the fishing opportunities mentioned offer two specific ways to enjoy a stay by the lake—whether you want to include boating or fishing in your trip plans.

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