The drive from Dallas, TX to Waco, TX covers roughly 96 miles and typically takes 1 hr 35 min – 1 hr 55 min, mainly on I-35E South. Below you'll find the recommended route, major highways, worthwhile stops, airport alternatives, and a button to open live, current directions in Google Maps.
Distance and typical drive time
Dallas, TX to Waco, TX is about 96 miles. A typical drive takes 1 hr 35 min – 1 hr 55 min, though your actual time depends on traffic, weather, and construction — these are typical estimates, not live traffic.
Heading south from Dallas, traffic typically thins out once you clear the metro and pass Hillsboro, making the second half of the drive faster than the first.
Best route and highways
Primary route: I-35E South. Main highways on this trip: I-35E, I-35.
Alternate route: US-77 South through Waxahachie and Italy for a slower, small-town alternative.
Toll information: Leaving Dallas you may use optional TEXpress toll lanes, but the I-35E route to Waco is otherwise toll-free.
Where to stop along the way
Good places to break up the Waxahachie, Hillsboro, West corridor include:
Waxahachie — Ellis County seat with a photogenic downtown square.
Hillsboro — I-35E and I-35W merge back into I-35 here; fuel and outlet shopping.
West — Last major stop before Waco — grab kolaches from the Czech bakeries.
Flying instead of driving
If you'd rather fly, the most relevant airports for this trip are: Waco Regional Airport (ACT), Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW).
Waco Regional Airport (ACT) offers limited commercial service, so many travelers to and from the Waco area also use larger airports in Dallas–Fort Worth or Austin.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Dallas, TX from Waco, TX?
It's approximately 96 miles by road via I-35E South.
How long does it take to drive from Dallas, TX to Waco, TX?
A typical drive takes 1 hr 35 min – 1 hr 55 min, depending on traffic, weather, and construction. Use the live directions button for a current estimate.
What is the best route from Dallas, TX to Waco, TX?
Most drivers take I-35E South. A useful alternate is US-77 South through Waxahachie and Italy for a slower, small-town alternative.
Are there tolls between Dallas, TX and Waco, TX?
Leaving Dallas you may use optional TEXpress toll lanes, but the I-35E route to Waco is otherwise toll-free.
Last verified September 19, 2026
Details like hours, prices, routes, boundaries, and availability can change. This page is provided for general information — always confirm current details with the official source before you rely on them.