Waco: Fixer Upper and City Theme Bus Tour

If you’re a fan of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, or simply someone interested in Waco’s charming neighborhoods, this guided bus tour promises a fun, behind-the-scenes look at many of the show’s most memorable locations. For $59 per person, you get approximately 2.5 hours of storytelling, sightseeing, and a chance to peek inside a Fixer Upper home, making it a popular pick for those eager to connect with the show’s magic.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines entertaining storytelling with authentic site visits, all led by guides who are both knowledgeable and passionate. That said, keep in mind that if you’re not a huge fan of homes or HGTV, this tour’s focus on Fixer Upper might feel a bit niche. It’s best suited for show enthusiasts, home renovation fans, or anyone wanting a personalized, small-group experience exploring Waco’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Specialized Theme: Perfect for fans of Fixer Upper, offering insights into the show’s most iconic renovations.
• Authentic Experience: Includes stops at original shops and, when available, inside a renovated home.
• Expert Guides: Guides are highly rated, friendly, and full of interesting stories.
• Flexible & Convenient: 2.5-hour duration with easy booking options including pay later and free cancellation.
• Value for Money: At $59, it’s an affordable way to explore Waco through a focused lens.
• Limited Access: You can only see certain homes from the outside unless a visit inside is available that day.

Starting with the Basics: What’s Included and What’s Not

The Waco: Fixer Upper and City Theme Bus Tour is a compact, focused experience that spends most of its time exploring the neighborhoods, shops, and landmarks associated with the show. Included in the price is water to keep you hydrated during the 2.5-hour trip, which is practical given Waco’s warm climate. Car seats for children are not included, so families traveling with little ones should plan accordingly.

The meeting point is at the former Harp Design location, a site that has become iconic thanks to HGTV, and the tour concludes back at this same spot. This makes logistics straightforward for those staying nearby or planning other activities in Waco.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour kicks off at Clint Harp’s shop, the craftsperson behind many of the show’s beautiful furniture pieces. It’s a great starting point, especially for those eager to see where the magic begins in the show. From there, you’ll head to Jimmy Don’s Iron Design shop, where there’s a good chance the owner himself will be around to say hello—something that many reviewers found to be a real highlight.

Throughout the tour, you’ll pass by some of the most memorable houses featured on the show. The guides do an excellent job of pointing out details and sharing fun stories behind each home’s transformation. While most stops are from the outside, there’s the possibility of entering a house that’s been renovated—an experience treasured by fans. One reviewer mentioned how the guide provided interesting details and stories about the episodes, helping to bring each location to life.

A notable mention from reviewers: “You never know what you might see on the Fixer Upper tour,” which adds an element of surprise to each trip. Several guests appreciated the small-group setting, which allowed for more personalized interaction and questions.

The Highlights in Detail

Harp Design’s Original Shop

This is a must-see for any Fixer Upper fans. It’s where Clint Harp’s craftsmanship is front and center. The shop’s atmosphere is casual, friendly, and inspiring—perfect for snapping photos or picking up a unique gift or souvenir.

Cottonland Castle

Though not a house from the show, the Cottonland Castle’s striking appearance makes it a photo-worthy stop. It adds a bit of fairy-tale charm to the tour and showcases Waco’s eclectic architecture.

Inside a Renovated Home

When available, this is the tour’s pièce de résistance. Being able to step inside one of the homes featured in the show provides a tangible connection to the design process. Several reviews mention how special this experience is, especially when the guide shares behind-the-scenes stories about the renovation.

Jimmy Don’s Iron Shop

Jimmy Don’s personality shines, and his shop is a lively stop. Meeting the artist himself adds authenticity and a personal touch to the trip. One review notes he’s “most personable,” and that meeting him was a highlight.

What to Expect: The Experience on the Bus

Guides are a major part of what makes this tour enjoyable. All are 5-star rated, enthusiastic, and eager to share their knowledge. One reviewer described the guide as knowing a lot and being friendly, helping the group feel at ease and engaged.

Expect a comfortable bus ride through Waco’s neighborhoods, with commentary that mixes fun facts, episode stories, and local insights. Some guests mentioned that the guide spoke quickly at times, but overall, the information was clear and engaging.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately. While the weather can be unpredictable, this shouldn’t hinder the experience; just bring an umbrella if needed.

The Value of the Tour

At $59, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the insider access, engaging guides, and the chance to see homes that are often only visible from the outside. The experience is especially appealing for HGTV fans or home renovation enthusiasts who want an in-depth, yet relaxed look at Waco’s design scene.

The small-group size enhances the experience by allowing more personalized attention and space for questions. It also minimizes crowds, which can be a big plus in busy seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for fans of the show, design buffs, and anyone who appreciates personalized guided tours. It’s ideal for those wanting to see familiar homes, meet local artisans, and learn the stories behind the transformations. Families with older children might enjoy the tour, but parents should note that car seats are not provided.

If you’re after a quick overview of Waco’s major sites or prefer a broader city tour, this might feel a bit narrow. However, for dedicated Fixer Upper fans, it’s a must-do.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Waco: Fixer Upper and City Theme Bus Tour offers an engaging, relaxed way to connect with the show’s world. The guides’ passion and knowledge are clear, and the stops are well-chosen, offering both visual appeal and storytelling gold. The chance to see a renovated home from the inside is a highlight, making it a memorable experience.

While it’s tailored for Fixer Upper fans, anyone interested in local Waco landmarks and design will find value here. The affordable price, flexible booking options, and positive reviews make it a solid choice for a fun, informative half-day outing.

If you love HGTV’s Fixer Upper, want to see Waco’s homes and shops up close, or just enjoy small-group guided tours, this experience is likely to delight.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour does not specify age restrictions, but note that car seats are not provided. It’s best for older children who can sit comfortably on the bus and enjoy the stories.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for a half-day outing.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at the former Harp Design location and concludes back there, which simplifies planning.

Are there options to pay later or cancel? Yes, you can reserve your spot with the “reserve now & pay later” option, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably and be prepared for weather changes since the tour takes place rain or shine.

Can I go inside the homes? Usually, you see the homes from the outside, but occasionally, a home may be available for interior visits when the schedule permits.

What is included in the price? Water is included. Other extras like souvenirs or additional stops are not included.

Is the tour bilingual? The tour is conducted in English only.

What are the guides like? Reviewers consistently praise guides like Danielle, Bonnie, and Kim for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

To sum it up, this Waco Fixer Upper tour offers a genuine, well-rounded experience that caters to HGTV fans and design lovers alike. With engaging guides, insider stories, and the chance to see beloved homes, it’s a fun way to explore Waco’s charm while indulging your renovation fascination. Perfect for small groups, it balances entertainment with authenticity, making it a worthwhile add-on to any Texas trip.