WACO, Texas – The Dr Pepper Museum in Waco saw a year of record-breaking growth in 2024.
Over 250,000 people visited the museum last year, an 18% increase from 2023, the museum said in a statement.
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The Dr Pepper Museum showcases the history of the popular soft drink and its roots in Waco. Dr Pepper is the nation’s oldest major soft drink, according to the statement.
The museum is not the only one benefitting from the growth — the City of Waco also experienced an overall increase in its tourism industry.
“As one of the city’s notable attractions, the Museum not only celebrates the rich history of an iconic brand but also creates an unforgettable experience that draws visitors from around the world to Waco,” said Hanna Andersen, administrative officer for the city’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism. “The City is thrilled to see this level of growth and looks forward to supporting the Museum’s continued success.”
In December, the museum opened a new exhibit titled “Wilton’s Landing,” which shows visitors how convenience stores shaped Dr Pepper’s history and highlights underrepresented communities.
A recent bilingual exhibit, “The People Who Made Dr Pepper/Las Personas Que Hicieron el Refresco Dr Pepper,” won the American Association for State and Local History Award of Excellence in September.
The Dr Pepper Museum said they were the only museum in Texas to win the award.
“This year has been a testament to the power of storytelling, community engagement, and the enduring love for Dr Pepper,” said Chris Dyer, president & CEO of the Dr Pepper Museum. “We are honored to reach 3 million lifetime visitors and share the story of Dr Pepper and the soft drink industry with guests from around the globe.”
Visitors can also participate in different activities at the museum, including soda making and a paranormal experience.
The Dr Pepper Museum first opened in 1991.
