Step into the hidden gem of Central Texas, where the past meets the present—Bellmead! Tucked away with its own unique story, this community has quietly thrived, shaped by its railroad roots and history. Located only 10 minutes away from the growing city of Waco, Bellmead also boasts a tight-knit community with big city amenities and a character all of its own. Welcome to a closer look at the heart and soul of this Texan treasure!
La Vega ISD
Many residents choose Bellmead because of the La Vega Independent School District. As the school district for the greater Bellmead area, La Vega ISD is known for its excellence in education and caring faculty. Teachers truly care about their students which is evident through student success academically, socially and athletically. La Vega is competitive in athletics, making sure their athletes excel on and off the field.
Community Events and Culture
Bellmead is a city that prides itself on its close and engaged community. It has four different community parks and a civic center that is available to the public. The city puts on events throughout the year, sure to please all ages.
Summer starts with a Summer Fun Kick Off party, with various other events happening throughout the Texas summer. Fall is ushered in with the annual Bellmead Burgers and Brew Festival. The event features games and activities for kids and entertainment and beverages for the adults. Other community favorites include the La Vega Homecoming parade down Bellmead drive, and the Bellmead Christmas Parade every December.
America’s Pastime
As America’s pastime and Bellmead’s favorite pastime, the city boasts a thriving little league. The La Vega Baseball & Softball Association provides a safe and fun opportunity for the kids of the Bellmead community. The LVBSA is committed to maintaining the fields and teaching young athletes the sport of baseball. The league also teaches life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, patience, discipline and leadership. The fields are located at Lion’s Park and, outside of the little league season, are open for reservations to the public.
Entertainment in Bellmead
Bellmead is located just a few minutes up the highway from Waco, and residents can easily enjoy all that Waco has to offer. Attractions such as Waco Surf, Brame Park, Cameron Park Zoo, Magnolia Market, Skate Waco and more provide plenty of family friendly options for entertainment in and around Bellmead.
Looking for some local cuisine? A Bellmead favorite is the Lonestar Tavern and Steakhouse. The restaurant is locally owned and operated and has been serving hand-cut steaks to the Waco and Bellmead area since 1962. Stop by for mouthwatering steaks, homeade desserts, and ice cold drinks!
History of Bellmead
The community’s origins trace back to the mid-1920s when the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railroad selected the location for its locomotive shops. These shops employed several hundred individuals, prompting families to settle in the area. The inaugural school, named Bellmead in tribute to Belle Meade Farms, a prominent Tennessee horse farm, was established. In 1927, the consolidation of local schools gave rise to the La Vega Independent School District. The Bellmead post office was instituted in 1937 but was later replaced by branch service from Waco in the mid-1940s.
In 1942, the Waco Army Air Field, later known as James Connally Air Force Base, commenced operations just northeast of the town. Although the population was only 25 in the early 1940s, it surged after World War II, reaching 800 by 1949. The community underwent reincorporation in 1954, adopting a mayor-alderman government. By 1960, Bellmead boasted a population of 5,127 residents and 85 businesses. Following the closure of the air force base in 1965, Texas A&M University established the James Connally Technical Institute on the premises.
Making Bellmead Home
Ready to make this charming town your home? Reach out to the Onward Real Estate Team at Keller Williams, a group of dedicated and experienced realtors specializing in Waco and the surrounding areas. We are here to make your dream home and lifestyle a reality!