A 45-minute drive from downtown Dallas, Waxahachie is Ellis County’s largest town and a popular movie and TV location. Portions of Queen of the South, Places in the Heart, Bonnie and Clyde, and Tender Mercies were all filmed here. Visit in the summer for the Crape Myrtle Festival and The Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes, or come anytime to indulge in Southern dining and antiques shopping. Whatever you do, say it right: walks-uh-HATCH-ee.
The Gingerbread Trail
Nicknamed Gingerbread City, Waxahachie has made an effort to preserve historic homes that date back to the early 1900s. The official Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes takes place annually in June, but any time of year you can take your own driving tour of the candy-colored Victorian homes with lace-like trim. Don’t miss the cotton-candy pink Williams-Erwin House, which was built in 1893, at 412 W. Marvin St.
5 Things to Do in Waxahachie
Pop’s Burger Stand
For seven years, Pop’s has gone full-throttle with the vintage feel. On Thursday Cruise In nights throughout the summer, cool classic cars stop by for an evening of bacon, grilled onion, and barbecue burgers—and bragging.
107 S. Monroe St. 972-923-8922
Jordan E’s Popcorn & Candy Co.
Mother-daughter duo Amber Haning Hatley and Jordan Hatley Molina opened this adorable candy shop where you can find all your nostalgic favorites. The popcorn, made in-house, comes in 60 flavors. Pick up the Dallas mix (butter, cheese, and caramel) for the drive home.
315 S. Rogers St. 214-463-5005
Webb Gallery
The building dates to 1902; the quirky gallery has been in it for 33 years. In addition to offbeat antiques (e.g., carnival banners and fraternal lodge mementos), you’ll find works by contemporary folk artists, including co-owner Bruce Lee Webb. Call ahead to schedule a visit.
209 W. Franklin St. 214-632-7473
Ellis County Museum
The former Masonic Temple should be fully refurbished and reopened by November, so you can learn all about the county’s early settlement days.
201 S. College St. 972-937-0681
Munster Mansion
This replica, built by Sandra and Charles McKee, is a testament to the couple’s love for the classic 1960s sitcom. Schedule a tour, or sign up for a themed murder mystery night ($120 each; costumes required).
3636 FM 813 469-305-0033
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