
Common Grounds Waco
A beloved Waco coffeehouse and live music venue, known for its unique cowboy-themed drinks and cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Highlights
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Common Grounds Waco

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Waco coffeehouse and live music venue, known for its unique cowboy-themed drinks and cozy, rustic atmosphere.
"Experience the best coffee in Waco and enjoy intimate live music performances in a truly unique setting!"
Strong Coffee Options
For dark roast lovers, Common Grounds brews beans dark in the afternoon for a robust flavor.
Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating and welcoming atmosphere.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Coffee Shop
Price
$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cowboy Coffee Creations
Experience unique cowboy-themed drinks like the 'Cowboy Coffee' and 'Nervous Breakdown' with a quad shot of espresso.

Live Music Venue
Enjoy intimate concerts in the cozy backyard, a stepping stone for many local artists and a vibrant Waco music scene.

Cozy College Hangout
A welcoming venue with rustic decor, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for studying, socializing, or catching up with friends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Strong Coffee Options
For dark roast lovers, Common Grounds brews beans dark in the afternoon for a robust flavor.
Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating and welcoming atmosphere.
Arrive Early for Tacos
Tacos are a popular item; arrive earlier in the day to ensure availability.
Consider Custom Drinks
Don't hesitate to ask for custom drink creations, the staff can be very accommodating.
Tips
from all over the internet
Strong Coffee Options
For dark roast lovers, Common Grounds brews beans dark in the afternoon for a robust flavor.
Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating and welcoming atmosphere.
Arrive Early for Tacos
Tacos are a popular item; arrive earlier in the day to ensure availability.
Consider Custom Drinks
Don't hesitate to ask for custom drink creations, the staff can be very accommodating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Common Grounds is a beloved local spot, lauded for its exceptional coffee, particularly its unique 'Cowboy Coffee' creations and strong espresso options. Diners appreciate the cozy, rustic atmosphere that makes it a great place to study or hang out, and the live music adds to its charm. While most reviews are positive, a few mention inconsistent drink quality, with one review noting a spoiled milk taste in a frozen drink.
"The staff is very try friendly and very helpful. Very nice and pleasant to deal with. The Mocha is literally best I’ve ever had in my life. For someone who like their coffee to have a kick the large has 4 shots of expresso in it which is right up my alley. I would recommend this for anyone. It is a nice little coffee shop. They also have a drive through as well. There is a nice back area with stage for music."
Keith Chavanelle
"Cute little coffee shop. Lots of quiet places to work or do school. Outdoor area is cool with lots of seating also. I got an iced latte "caramel coffee crunch" with oat milk and it was good. Their signature sauce flavor is nice and not too sweet! Next time I'll take my purse with me to get my order so I can grab a bottle for $10."
Brittney Miller
"This coffee shop is a gem! The coffee is excellent, with a rich selection of brews and blends. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, combining vintage charm with modern style. The large outdoor patio is a standout—perfect for enjoying your drink in a relaxed, open-air setting. A great spot to unwind or get some work done!"
Alok Pal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Signature drinks include 'Cowboy Coffee,' 'Nervous Breakdown' (4 shots of espresso), 'The Rodeo Clown,' and 'The Ambre.'
Yes, Common Grounds has a convenient drive-thru option for quick pick-ups.
Yes, Common Grounds hosts live music performances, often in their backyard, featuring local artists.
Yes, Common Grounds has a pet-friendly policy, allowing you to bring your furry friends.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for students with plenty of quiet areas and a cozy atmosphere.
Tacos are a popular item and may not be available later in the day, so it's recommended to arrive early.
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Over the last twenty years, this hallmark among Waco coffee shops has established itself as a welcoming destination for students, professionals, and families alike to connect, study, and hangout, all while enjoying fantastic java and a variety of live music performances, the former of which includes tempting signature beverages such as the secret sauce enriched Cowboy Coffee and no-frills, quad espresso-infused Nervous Breakdown. Whether you’d like to sink into a couch or armchair and appreciate the company of loved ones over a steamy cup of joe, groove to the tunes of a local musician jamming out on stage, or silently work amidst the old world, fairytale charm of a cozy neighborhood gathering space, whatever the case may be, Common Grounds has got you covered.
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Waco is home to Baylor University and with that is a large student population that frequently find their way to Common Grounds coffee shop. With two separate locations across the city, Common Grounds is a hip, vibrant coffee shop offering decadent and creative espresso infused beverages. The main location can be found on South 8th Street, just a short walk from the Baylor campus and offers the perfect spot to catch up on school work or relax among friends while enjoying a friendly ambiance and delicious coffee.
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To top off my visit to Baylor, I stop by Common Grounds, a local institution that caters to laptop-toting students. Just off the southwestern edge of the Baylor campus, the homey coffeehouse doubles as an indie concert venue with an outdoor stage in the backyard. Common Grounds takes coffee very seriously and works with small-batch suppliers such as Pinewood Roasters, a company that houses its headquarters in nearby McGregor, just a couple blocks from Chip and Joanna Gaines' Magnolia House B&B.
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Common Grounds is probably the best‑known Baylor‑area coffee shop, famous for its quintessential laid‑back, college‑hangout vibe. HGTV fans might recognize the house‑turned‑coffee‑shop from Baylor alumni Chip and Joanna Gaines’ show Fixer Upper, but for students, this little shop is an everyday hangout spot that evokes a sense of home. With a big backyard covered in canopy trees (that doubles as a music venue), this place is a study spot and hangout haven.
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If you're a student, or a mom, or a bunch of crazy Magnolia loving ladies looking for a place to relax or even a day date, Common Grounds is the place for you. They have amazing iced coffee options, alternative milk options (just in case you need almond milk or cashew milk), and such a welcoming environment. They play Christian music all throughout the coffee shop which makes this such a great place to sit and sip and catch up with friends.
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Common Grounds Waco is known as the ideal study spot for Baylor University students and home of the Cowboy Coffee, but it also serves local artists with its outdoor stage. While the stage is no bigger than a garage, those wooden planks and red velvet curtains have been the beginning backdrop for many local artists. Their weekly Open Mic Nights have served as the first steppingstone for bands to turn into Spotify artists on tour.
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Common Grounds is the perfect place to create lasting memories and meet new people in Waco, Texas. Nestled on the edge of Baylor campus and conveniently located off I-35, Common Grounds is more than just a coffee house. It’s a community gathering place where you can try their signature Cowboy Coffee and indulge in a delicious selection of food, including breakfast tacos, sandwiches, and pastries.
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First up on our list of great Waco coffee shops, we have Common Grounds. This shop creates the feel of simply sitting on your porch with friends and family enjoying a great cup of coffee. Common Grounds is a cozy, local favorite that has plenty of outdoor seating where you can get your caffeine fix, take in the beautiful weather, and listen to some talented hometown artists.
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Common Grounds coffee shop might take you back to your college days at Baylor, but that’s all the more reason to cozy up here on date night and enjoy some live music !. I’m continually impressed with the quality of musicians, bands, and singer-songwriters that Common Grounds gets into their tiny backyard concert venue. WEBSITE | 3401 Franklin Ave., Waco, TX 76710
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Common Grounds is a coffeehouse and live music venue that has been a staple of the Waco music scene since 1993. It has a cozy, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for catching up-and-coming local acts or established national acts. The venue is open seven days a week and offers a variety of coffee and food options in addition to live music.
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Speaking of coffee, if you need a mid-morning pick-me-up, hit Common Grounds, the collegiate hotspot with a ton of personality, right next to Baylor’s campus. Another coffee option right downtown is the oh-so-hipster Dichotomy. Lunch spots to try include Schmaltz’s Sandwich Shoppe (featuring handmade bread baked daily) on 5th street.
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If you only have an hour and need to get some work done, accompanied by a caffeine hit, Common Grounds Waco is your spot. Housed in a former craftsman bungalow, the feel is homey, with lots of reclaimed wood and upcycled antique furniture. And if you aren’t a black coffee person, you may just fall in love with the Cowboy Coffee.
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Common Grounds: This eclectic coffee shop is a longtime favorite of locals and Baylor students. Located next to the Baylor Campus, it has a charming atmosphere and great coffee, whether you are studying or just relaxing. Grab a Cowboy Coffee, enjoy the atmosphere, and a taste of another one of our fun things to do in Waco.
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Visit Katie's Custard near the stadium for a sweet, rich dessert or go to Common Grounds for a cup of coffee. Get to the game in time to see the pregame traditions, such as the Baylor University Golden Wave Band pregame show, and the Baylor Line field storming. Enjoy your visit to Bear Country.
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Why we love it:A Waco favorite, Common Grounds next to Baylor University has the perfect outside yard for you to bring your leashed pet!. Grab a coffee, tea, or pastry and make sure to ask for a small cup or whipped cream for your pup. Live music is common and offers a great ambience.
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Common Grounds coffee shop is one of the original local coffee spots. This Waco-based coffee shop was started as a result of a Baylor class project. In 1995, a Baylor graduate by the name of Jill Mashburn turned her class project into reality and opened up Common Grounds coffee shop.
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Common Grounds is a well-known coffee shop in Waco that has been serving up delicious coffee since 1994. While their coffee is top-notch, what makes this spot stand out is their outdoor seating area. The patio is spacious and offers a beautiful view of the Baylor University campus.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (270 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Coffee & Tea- Address: 1123 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706-1441- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like:Highest-rated steakhouses in Waco by diners
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Common Grounds is a unique combination of a coffeehouse and live music venue. It primarily features acoustic performances and is known for its intimate atmosphere. This cozy spot is perfect for enjoying a warm cup of coffee while listening to talented local and touring musicians.
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When I was in school at Baylor, I spent way too many hours at this coffeehouse. Not only is the coffee absolutely delicious, but the decor is super cool and eclectic. Marble tables with mix-matched chairs, worn leather sofas, and perfect latte art make for an epic Instagram pic.
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Common Grounds: Order yourself a Red Eye for a blend of drip coffee and a shot of espresso. It’s guaranteed to give you a little kick in the pants!. This place has some serious character and charm inside… such a fun and unique coffee shop experience to add to your time in Waco!.
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Common Grounds probably has one of the coolest hangout spaces and for good reason – it’s located right beside the Baylor University campus. The decor and furniture is eclectic and very laid-back. Honestly, I’m super sad that we missed this one because it’s a local favorite.
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This eclectic coffee shop is a longtime favorite of locals and students. Located next to the Baylor Campus, it has a charming atmosphere and great coffee, whether you are studying or just relaxing. The proprietors are the proud owners of one the Season 2 renovated houses.
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Common Grounds Coffee is one of the local's favorite places in town. Located right next to Baylor University's campus, this place is a popular study and hangout spot for students. The shop isn't just a cafe though, they frequently host concerts in the space, too!
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Part hippie and part boho, free-spirited Common Grounds is a favorite amongst Baylor college students. And it’s not hard to see why. The drinks are pumped with two addictive ingredients: caffeine and sugar (there’s also a secret sauce that packs an extra punch).
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Right next to Baylor campus and a great spot to sit and catch up with friends or cozy up and read a book. Common Grounds is a student favorite to study and hang out. They have a select menu of pastries but it is mainly just coffee, tea, and espresso beverages.
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Common Grounds is a popular location for residents and Baylor University students. With a convenient drive-thru, it only takes a few minutes to pick up a drink on your way to work or class. All of the area coffee shops have delicious menus to choose from.
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Stop at the original Common Grounds shop on the outskirts of the Baylor University campus on 8th Street. Order my favorite, an iced no bull, or go rogue and enjoy your drink inside the quirky coffee shop or out back in the beautiful backyard space.
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Don’t do yourself a disservice by going to the Common Grounds trailer at the Silos. Instead, take the 5-minute car ride to their original, glorious location. Common Grounds has been adored by Baylor students since it opened years ago.
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Near Baylor University Campus, Common Grounds is a laid-back coffee shop that doubles as a live music venue. As you can imagine it’s very popular with the Baylor students. It’s cozy and definitely a popular spot among students.
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Another dog-friendly coffee spot is Common Grounds, located by Baylor. They have a gravel backyard and a shared area outside, behind Heritage Creamery, as well as Common Ground’s location in Hewitt called Slow Rise Slice House.
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Common Grounds was opened by two native Wacoans and has been around for over 20 years. They have tons of outdoor seating and plenty of indoor seating. It’s definitely a place you want to sit and hang out for a couple of hours.
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Technically a coffee shop, Common Grounds makes the list because their frozen Cowboy Coffee (a blend of coffee, ice cream, and cinnamon) is the kind of decadent treat you didn’t know you needed in Waco’s sweltering summers.
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I think Common Grounds is such a regular place for Baylor kids that you can’t not love it,” Ratliff said. “It just feels familiar going there because I’ve been going since freshman year. I also love how big their menu is.
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Common Grounds If you are going for coffee, this should be your stop. They don’t have much on the food front, but their coffee is top-notch. Which, you know, makes total sense as they are across from Baylor University.
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Another vote for Pinewood and my second fave is Common Grounds. I'll be honest I just don't care for Dichotomy's blend, but apparently it's just me as everyone I know loves them.
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Get a jolt of caffeine and catch bands from across the country at Common Grounds, a coffee house where you’ll hear just about every kind of music.
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Common Grounds – college vibe, located on Baylor campus, where I drank my first coffee 20 years ago, 1123 S 8th St next to Heritage creamery
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