The video above takes a ride through Waxahachie TX, a fast-growing Dallas suburb about 30 miles south of the city down I-35. What stands out is how much the historic downtown has going on — from live music venues and breweries to a winery, coffee shops, and a restored theater. David Bridwell stopped through on his way from Fort Worth to Austin, where he had a run of gigs including a show opening for Rob Dark Smith at the Redbird Listening Room. Even as a quick stop, Waxahachie made an impression worth documenting.
Historic Downtown Waxahachie and What to Expect
Waxahachie's downtown is still genuinely rooted in its history. Many of the original buildings from the late 1800s remain intact, and the centerpiece is the Ellis County Courthouse, a striking Romanesque Revival structure that dates back to that same era. Around it, there are an estimated 120 local businesses — restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, and entertainment spots. You'll also find a good number of murals scattered around if you take the time to walk the area. The town itself has grown from around 40,000 to roughly 50,000 people between 2020 and mid-2025, making it one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the country. It's officially designated the Crepe Myrtle Capital of Texas, and they hold the Crepe Myrtle Festival and parade every year around the Fourth of July. Proximity to Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington — for Cowboys, Rangers, Mavericks, and Stars games plus Six Flags — keeps it well-connected without feeling like just another sprawl town.
Where Can You Find Live Music in Waxahachie TX?
There are more spots hosting live music in Waxahachie than you'd expect for a town this size. Here's a rundown based on what's covered in the video:
- Texas Theater — A historic venue dating back to the late 1800s, hosting live performers and classic film screenings with a bar on-site. They describe themselves as a cozy music theater.
- College Street Pub — A British-style pub with a Texas flair that books live music regularly. This is where the locals go.
- Cork House Winery — Waxahachie's first winery, featuring solo artists performing live on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Southern Roots Brewing Company — A casual brewery with artisan pizzas, craft beer, and wine. They've hosted live music and currently run an open mic night.
- Railport Brewing Company — The first family-owned and operated brewery in Ellis County, bringing in bands for live music events.
- Big Als Down the Hatch — A spot for live music from both local and national artists, plus karaoke, open mic nights, and comedy shows.
- White Rhino Coffee — A craft coffee shop with a southern bistro style that occasionally hosts live music alongside pastries and food.
Getting to Waxahachie from Dallas and Fort Worth
The location is straightforward. Head south from Dallas on I-35 and you're there in about 30 minutes. From Fort Worth, take Highway 287 southeast and it's roughly a 45-minute drive. That puts Waxahachie within easy reach of the broader DFW metro while still feeling like its own town with its own identity. If you're doing a Texas road trip between Dallas and Austin, it's a natural place to pull off the highway, stretch your legs, and grab a beer or catch some music downtown before continuing south.