The drive from Waco, TX to Fort Worth, TX covers roughly 88 miles and typically takes 1 hr 25 min – 1 hr 45 min, mainly on I-35W North. 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
Waco, TX to Fort Worth, TX is about 88 miles. A typical drive takes 1 hr 25 min – 1 hr 45 min, though your actual time depends on traffic, weather, and construction — these are typical estimates, not live traffic.
Remember to stay left for I-35W at the Hillsboro split — bearing right puts you on I-35E toward Dallas instead.
Best route and highways
Primary route: I-35W North. Main highways on this trip: I-35, I-35W.
Alternate route: US-77/US-81 through Hillsboro and Cleburne.
Toll information: Toll-free on I-35W; optional managed lanes exist closer to Fort Worth.
Where to stop along the way
Good places to break up the West, Hillsboro, Burleson corridor include:
West — Kolache country just north of Waco.
Hillsboro — Bear left onto I-35W toward Fort Worth at the split.
Burleson — Gateway to the south side of the Fort Worth metro.
Flying instead of driving
If you'd rather fly, the most relevant airports for this trip are: Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), Waco Regional Airport (ACT).
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 Waco, TX from Fort Worth, TX?
It's approximately 88 miles by road via I-35W North.
How long does it take to drive from Waco, TX to Fort Worth, TX?
A typical drive takes 1 hr 25 min – 1 hr 45 min, depending on traffic, weather, and construction. Use the live directions button for a current estimate.
What is the best route from Waco, TX to Fort Worth, TX?
Most drivers take I-35W North. A useful alternate is US-77/US-81 through Hillsboro and Cleburne.
Are there tolls between Waco, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Toll-free on I-35W; optional managed lanes exist closer to Fort Worth.
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.