Bledsoe-Miller Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground
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Bledsoe-Miller Park

4.8
·106 reviews·Waco, United States

A scenic park honoring WWII hero Doris Miller, featuring Brazos River views and the iconic Waco Suspension Bridge.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful, great sunrise views

CrowdLow
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Bledsoe-Miller Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground

Bledsoe-Miller Park

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful, great sunrise views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic park honoring WWII hero Doris Miller, featuring Brazos River views and the iconic Waco Suspension Bridge.

4.8
(106 reviews)

"A very picturesque park that I really enjoyed visiting. Definatley worth checking out if your in the area. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, especially during events. Arrive early for the best spots. :car:

🌅 Capture the Sunrise/Sunset

The park offers stunning views of the Brazos River and suspension bridge during golden hours. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Doris Miller Memorial

Doris Miller Memorial

A powerful tribute to the first Black recipient of the Navy Cross, honoring his bravery and sacrifice.

Reddit
Brazos Riverfront Views

Brazos Riverfront Views

Scenic vistas of the Brazos River, perfect for a peaceful stroll or enjoying a beautiful sunset.

Reddit
Waco Suspension Bridge

Waco Suspension Bridge

Iconic landmark offering picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset. A great photo opportunity.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sunrise & Serenity

Visit early morning for a peaceful experience with stunning sunrise views over the Brazos River and suspension bridge. Avoid potential parking struggles and enjoy the park's beauty before crowds arrive. Reddit

Honor a Local Hero

Bledsoe-Miller Park is a significant tribute to Doris Miller, a Waco native and WWII hero. Take time to appreciate the memorials and learn about his remarkable story. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful, great sunrise views
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful sunset colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

This is Doris Miller, the first Black recipient of the Navy Cross

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, especially during events. Arrive early for the best spots. Reddit :car:

🌅 Capture the Sunrise/Sunset

The park offers stunning views of the Brazos River and suspension bridge during golden hours. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy walking and biking paths along the riverfront, perfect for a leisurely outdoor activity. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun

Features a playground, picnic areas, and fishing piers, making it great for families. Reddit :child:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, especially during events. Arrive early for the best spots. Reddit :car:

🌅 Capture the Sunrise/Sunset

The park offers stunning views of the Brazos River and suspension bridge during golden hours. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy walking and biking paths along the riverfront, perfect for a leisurely outdoor activity. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun

Features a playground, picnic areas, and fishing piers, making it great for families. Reddit :child:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(106 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Bledsoe-Miller Park for its picturesque riverfront views, especially during sunrise and sunset, and its significant tribute to hero Doris Miller. It's a family-friendly spot with walking trails and a playground, though parking can be a challenge during busy times or events. Reddit

"Was passing through Waco on a work trip through Texas and had a few hours to waste and decided to check out this park and surrounding memorials and trails. I visited early in the morning and was not busy. People were either running or walking their dogs. This whole area had a very pleasant vibe overall. The sunrise was very pretty and the light bouncing off the suspension bridge was gorgeous. There must have been some event the day before, metal fences were up and the trash cans were overflowing. The fences blocked some of the paths so couldn't walk through some of the paths. Overall a very picturesque park that I really enjoyed visiting. Definatley worth checking out if your in the area."

Adam Reason

"Amazing memorial dedicated to a true hero. Doris is also commemorated throughout the WWII museum in New Orleans and to see his hometown honor him is great."

James M

"Wonderful place for family and kids. Very safe area along the Brazos river with a path for walking and biking. Parking can be a struggle to find if the same lot is taken. The area of different piers for fishing, picnic tables for dining, a playground for children, and has scenic views of the riverfront area of waco as well as the suspension bridge."

Ryan Culp

What People Like

Scenic riverfront views
Doris Miller memorial
Sunrise/sunset beauty

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Overflowing trash cans (during events)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bledsoe-Miller Park is located in Waco, Texas, along the Brazos River. It's accessible by car, with parking available within the park. Check local maps for the most direct routes from your location. Reddit

Information on public transportation directly to the park can be limited. It's recommended to check Waco's local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Reddit

Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays generally offers a less crowded experience and easier parking. Reddit

The park features paved paths along the riverfront, which are generally accessible. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. Reddit

Yes, the park is adjacent to the Waco Suspension Bridge, and you can easily walk between the two areas, enjoying views of both. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Bledsoe-Miller Park is a public park and typically does not have an admission fee. Enjoying the memorials and trails is free. Reddit

As a public park, Bledsoe-Miller Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific event hours or closures. Reddit

No, the Doris Miller memorial is part of the public park and does not require advance ticket booking. You can visit it freely during park hours. Reddit

Occasionally, events may be held in the park, which could lead to temporary closures or limited access to certain areas. It's advisable to check local event calendars. Reddit

Generally, the fishing piers and picnic areas are available for public use without additional fees, though some may be first-come, first-served. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and visiting the Doris Miller memorial. The scenic riverfront and suspension bridge views are major draws. Reddit

Yes, Bledsoe-Miller Park features a playground, making it a great destination for families with young children. Reddit

The Waco Suspension Bridge, the Brazos River at sunrise or sunset, and the Doris Miller memorial offer excellent photography opportunities. Reddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy walking their dogs in the park. Ensure your dog is leashed and clean up after them. Reddit

Amenities include walking/biking paths, fishing piers, picnic tables, a playground, and restrooms. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly within Bledsoe-Miller Park. However, there are numerous dining options available in downtown Waco, a short drive away. Reddit

Absolutely! The park has picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic with scenic river views. Reddit

Downtown Waco, which is very close to the park, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit any taste. Reddit

While not a regular occurrence, food vendors might be present during special events or festivals held at the park. Reddit

Waco has a diverse food scene, with popular options including BBQ, Tex-Mex, and classic American diner fare. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the most dramatic lighting and beautiful colors over the river and bridge. Reddit

The Waco Suspension Bridge, the Brazos River waterfront, and the Doris Miller memorial are prime spots for capturing memorable photos. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation. Reddit

The park features art related to Martin Luther King Jr. and the memorial for Doris Miller, which are significant and photogenic elements. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. For landscape and sunset shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bledsoe-Miller Park is a fantastic destination for families. The park features a dedicated playground where children can burn off energy. With picnic tables available, families can easily plan a delightful outdoor meal surrounded by nature. The walking paths along the Brazos River are also great for a family stroll or a bike ride, offering safe and scenic routes. Reddit

Parents can also use the visit as an opportunity to teach children about local heroes like Doris Miller, making the outing both fun and educational. The overall atmosphere is safe and welcoming, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Visitors & Dog Owners

For those who love to stay active, Bledsoe-Miller Park offers miles of walking and biking trails along the Brazos River. These paths are well-maintained and provide beautiful views, making exercise enjoyable. The park is also a popular spot for dog walkers, offering a pleasant environment for pets to explore on leash. Remember to always clean up after your pet to keep the park pristine for everyone. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Bledsoe-Miller Park to be a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The Waco Suspension Bridge is a must-capture subject, especially during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and dramatic. The Brazos River offers serene landscapes and reflections, perfect for capturing tranquil scenes. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to photograph the Doris Miller memorial, a significant and moving monument. The park's blend of natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and historical tributes provides diverse subjects for any photographer's portfolio. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Doris Miller

Bledsoe-Miller Park serves as a poignant tribute to Doris Miller, a true American hero from Waco. Miller, a mess attendant in the U.S. Navy, displayed extraordinary bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Despite being untrained for combat, he manned a machine gun and fired at Japanese planes, saving lives and embodying courage under fire. His actions earned him the Navy Cross, making him the first African American to receive this prestigious award. Reddit

The park's memorial aims to ensure his story is remembered and celebrated, recognizing his significant contribution to American history and his status as an inspiration, particularly for his hometown. It's a place for reflection and to honor the sacrifices made by heroes like Miller. Reddit

Exploring the Brazos Riverfront

The Brazos Riverfront at Bledsoe-Miller Park offers a serene natural escape within the city. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the well-maintained paths that hug the river's edge. These trails provide beautiful, ever-changing scenery, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

The area is also equipped with fishing piers, allowing anglers to cast a line into the Brazos River. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, offering perfect spots to enjoy a meal with a view. The gentle flow of the river and the surrounding greenery create a peaceful ambiance, making it a popular spot for both recreation and quiet contemplation. Reddit

Photography Hotspots

Bledsoe-Miller Park is a photographer's delight, offering a variety of picturesque scenes. The Waco Suspension Bridge is a standout subject, with its historic architecture providing a stunning backdrop, particularly when bathed in the warm light of sunrise or sunset. The interplay of light and shadow on the bridge is captivating. Reddit

Beyond the bridge, the Brazos River itself provides ample photographic opportunities. Capturing the tranquil water, the reflections of the sky, and the natural landscape can result in beautiful, serene images. The Doris Miller memorial also offers a powerful and meaningful subject for photography, encouraging thoughtful compositions. Reddit

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