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Tell Story Walk

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Overview
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
5 guests
2 nights minimum 
Cottage
Your own private cottage in the country - Just 18 minutes from Downtown Waco: Magnolia, Baylor, restaurants, and shopping. Your own private yard - Surrounded by four acres of grassy lawn, shady oaks, glimpses of deer, fox, wild turkey, and songbirds. Cook gourmet dinners or simple snacks in a fully equipped kitchen. Kick back in the cozy great room with feet to the fireplace. Steal away to the master bedroom for a nap or a good book. Recreate a childhood sleepover on 3 twin beds in the loft. Relax and soak in a claw foot tub - with bath salts. Sip morning coffee on the roof porch or patio. Flame broil steaks on the outdoor grill. Light a fire in the chiminea - and hope for a cool evening. Enjoy a glass of wine in the gazebo, or anywhere. WiFi, TV & Stereo. Book library of classic...Your own private cottage in the country - Just 18 minutes from Downtown Waco: Magnolia, Baylor, restaurants, and shopping. Your own private yard - Surrounded by four acres of grassy lawn, shady oaks, glimpses of deer, fox, wild turkey, and songbirds. Cook gourmet dinners or simple snacks in a fully equipped kitchen. Kick back in the cozy great room with feet to the fireplace. Steal away to the master bedroom for a nap or a good book. Recreate a childhood sleepover on 3 twin beds in the loft. Relax and soak in a claw foot tub - with bath salts. Sip morning coffee on the roof porch or patio. Flame broil steaks on the outdoor grill. Light a fire in the chiminea - and hope for a cool evening. Enjoy a glass of wine in the gazebo, or anywhere. WiFi, TV & Stereo. Book library of classics. Wide range of popular DVD's. Visit Magnolia Silos, the Farmers Market, local wineries and breweries, specialty shops, the Texas Ranger Museum, the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Picnic on the Brazos in Cameron Park. Five min. from Homestead Heritage, featuring crafts guild, general store, cheese shop, and cafe, all set in an early American lifestyle. Retreat from the 'Beaten Path' into the peace of the country.
House Rules
Pets not allowedNot suitable for kidsNo smoking
We accept children age 13 and older. Exceptions on a case by case basis, per discussion with host. Parties or Celebrations? Please discuss plans with host in advance.
Bedrooms
1 Queen3 Twins
Bathrooms
2 Full baths

Meet the host
Mark D
Hosting since March 2016
Languages spoken: English
Response Rate: 100%
Response Time: Within a few hours
Interaction with guests: We deep clean the cottage after each guest departure. The front door will be unlocked; the key will be on the dining room table. A list of all the cottage amenities is on the table. Contact numbers, day and night, are listed at the bottom, in bold. Our residence is located only 200 yards from the cottage. We are available, day or night, should any questions or concerns arise. We have compiled a book of local restaurants, shopping, and sites of interest.

Contribute
Reviews (110)
Cynthia T
Cynthia T
Galveston Island, TX14 contributions
Beautiful, serene views, wonderful hosts, comfortable, charming Cottage!
This Spring trip was my third visit, but first since the Pandemic. Charming, well appointed Cottage, comfortable beds, wonderfully appointed kitchen. Even has a fireplace for chilly nights in the Fall and around Christmas! Close to Waco and all the fun there with Magnolia/Silo sites and Antique Shops. Close to the Homestead Heritage Shops. But the Host and Hostess are just the best! Mark and Mary Dawson are so accommodating and also live down the way on the property.
Visited March 2023
Written April 5, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

bethcraver
bethcraver
Springfield, MO3 contributions
The Best Getaway
Pulling up to the property felt like time stood still. The place looked as perfect as it did the first time we came in 2016. This was our third visit to Tell Story Walk and it was as lovely as we had remembered. From the beautiful grounds to the comfy bed, we were able to unwind and relax. The beauty of the cottage makes you feel at home and is filled with love. Mark and Mary, the hosts, have added their special touches and it draws you in. We enjoy all that Waco has to offer but the reason we keep coming back is Tell Story Walk. Mark and Mary have woven their love of people and Christ throughout the cottage. They became family to us during our first visit and each time we come back it’s like coming home. Our only regret it not having more time to spend catching up with them. If you are wanting a special place to stay, stay at Tell Story Walk. You will not be disappointed. You’ll leave feeling blessed and with new memories to cherish. Thank You, Mark and Mary! May God bless you both. Jim and Beth Craver
Visited December 2022
Written December 18, 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Candace T
Candace T
1 contribution
Amazing!
Everything about the cottage is perfect! Set on several acres of lawn and live oaks, it offers both a tranquil retreat and easy access to local attractions, including Homestead Craft Village and the Shops at Magnolia Silos. The cottage is exceptionally well built, thoughtfully equipped, beautifully furnished, and spotlessly clean. And, as wonderful as the cottage is, the hosts are even more wonderful! Mark and Mary are unbelievably kind, gracious, and giving of their time and energy. Their love of God and His creation is evident in their every word and deed. My sister, niece, and I enjoyed everything about our stay at the cottage, especially the time we spent with Mark and Mary!
Visited April 2022
Written April 30, 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Damon E
Damon E
1 contribution
AMAZING- BEYOND OUR EXPECTATIONS
this is the BEST place we have ever stayed. Everything about TELL STORY WALK property was BEYOND expectations. Mark and Mary were the ULTIMATE host and hostess! we can not wait to book another trip and take our adult children with us. This property was recommended to us by friends, and all we can say is WOW! This property is very special and well worth going the extra mile out of town to stay there. <3
Visited August 2021
Written August 15, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Damon and Darci, Please forgive me for not responding earlier. We just this day were notified of your review. Or should I say, "Award." That's how Mary and I feel about your glowing words. Yours is a lasting affirmation that serving as innkeepers is one of the most rewarding experiences of our long, good lives. And that experience comes with the best of surprises. We served your blackberry honey to friends; that, along with Mary's scones, made them indebted to us forever. Sincerely, thank you for this gracious review. Your thoughts, and our memories, go a long way toward making the daily chores count for more than clean sheets and charming surrounds. When we started Tell Story Walk, we wanted to make a place where people could find a peace and togetherness. At best, we wanted our guests to experience a private beauty only God can make. Your reflections make us feel we've succeeded. Every day. All my best, Mark (and Mary)
Written September 17, 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Michael H
Michael H
1 contribution
Five Star
Great place, great people, amazing vacation. This was a vacation for the memories. We enjoyed every moment.
Visited July 2021
Written August 2, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Michael, I want to thank you for your gracious remarks. Unfortunately, I was only recently notified of your review. Mary and I well recall your visit: The "surprise" birthday for your wife's 40th. And, of course, as is so often the case, your beautiful girls were the highlight. Thank you for coming. And thank you, again, for your kind words. The memories our guests take home are, for us, the best of it all.
Written October 6, 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Carole
Carole
Nicholasville, KY1 contribution
Cozy cottage!
We had such a nice time relaxing in this beautifully appointed house. Every detail was thought through so guests would want for nothing. Thank you so much for making our stay in Waco so special!
Visited May 2021
Written June 5, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Carole, Please accept my apology for this belated response. Due to a problem yet to be explained, we were only recently notified of your review. We do, however, remember your visit here, and we deeply appreciate your taking the time to share your experience. Thank you for your gracious remarks. And, as before, thank you for choosing Tell Story Walk for your accommodations while visiting the Waco area.
Written October 6, 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mary Mayfield
Mary Mayfield
1 contribution
Would stay again and again
Mark and Mary were most gracious and accommodating and genuinely kind. The lovely surroundings reflected their care and love for their guests. The place was pristine, has exquisite linens, is quiet and has a well stocked kitchen. Guests will want to return as we will—just hope it’s available!!
Visited May 2021
Written May 14, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Dear Reviewer, Unfortunately, we were only recently notified of your gracious thoughts. Thank you for taking the time to write about your experience here at Tell Story Walk. I particularly appreciate your remark about our "care and love for our guests." Such words capture everything Mary and I are about as hosts. It is guests like you who continue to encourage us in this deeply gratifying endeavor. Once again, thank you.
Written October 6, 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

radley4
radley4
Canton, TX110 contributions
Second trip and wonderful
There are a few places to which you kind of dream of returning. Tell Story Walk is one. I brought my mum here several years ago and this time came back alone. There is no way to describe how beautifully appointed this cottage is. It is full of charm everywhere you look and it is beyond comfortable. It has a great kitchen that I could live with full time and the main bedroom is cozy. And the outdoor spaces are stunning. There's a patio right off the bedroom that is a great place to relax and the grounds are filled with mature trees. Just the most beautiful, peaceful place ever. And the innkeepers are the best people you'll ever meet. I can't say enough about how kind and considerate they are. Nor can I say enough about how comfortable Tell Story Walk is. There will be a third visit, I have no doubt!
Visited March 2021
Written March 25, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Jan, Would that all our guests knew you. I remember that first visit you spoke of. You brought a dozen magazines, and in spite of your warm, easy openness, you couldn't hide that polish of mind and word reflected so eloquently in your review. When we learned you were, among other things, an accomplished writer, it all made sense. Then, there was mum. We fell in love with that lady. Demure, soft, twinkling: she was the perfect compliment to your presence. And you lived devotedly in her company. Mary and I well remember our offer to host her in our private home if you ever needed to just "get away." Together, the two of you were unforgettable. All of which is to say, when you returned for this recent visit, without mum, you were still that open and engaging presence that appreciates everything we strive for, and echoes everything we love in our guests. Thank you. You and your mother became a part of this place the first year we opened. The last line of your gracious review simply assures me, once again, that you always will be. From the heart, Mark (and Mary)
Written April 22, 2021. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ann J
Ann J
5 contributions
Unforgettable
This beautiful property, nestled among the mature trees was such a gift to experience! We were blessed by Mark and Mary's hospitality - they are so good at pampering their guests. It is easy to see they love what they do and their goal is to provide a unique stay for their guests by going above and beyond in all areas. What a treat it was to visit with them and hear a part of their story. Such special folks sharing their gifts with others. We hope to be back someday.
Visited October 2020
Written October 6, 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark D
Mark D
Ann, Thank you for your thoughtful words. As a veteran host of a VRBO yourself, you know how affirming such thoughts can be. We particularly appreciated your sharing with us your reflections on Minnesota. It is a chapter in my life; it is homeland to my two sons. Would that they'd been on hand to hear you. I think they would have been as impressed as I was to learn of your resident tight end for the Vixens. That, along with the simple fact that you were returning to snow, would have been enough to inspire a return trip. You really nailed it on our love for what we do and our goal. That this showed in us is one of the most encouraging things you could say. So, thank you for coming. Thank you for sharing a part of your lives with us. But thank you most of all for "being blessed." We, too, hope to see you back someday. Mark and Mary
Written October 21, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Leslie A
Leslie A
Rowlett, TX17 contributions
You'll Never Want to Leave!
We are very experienced weekend travelers, and have stayed at many places in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee and points beyond. We are so happy to honestly report that The Cottage at Tell Story Walk is absoutely the best experience we have ever had in all our years of traveling. Mark and Mary are the penultimate hosts, not just providing an exquisite and perfect home away from home to relax and refresh, but also to offer themselves as delightul treasures that feel like family almost immediately. You will not feel like a stranger from the moment these lovely people welcome you to their home. First, you are transported to a location that feels secluded and totally private, but you are only an easy 15 minute drive to downtown Waco. Second, once you walk in, the space is immaculately clean, well appointed and beautifully decorated, so comfortable and yet high end in so many ways. The decor is New England coastal, and no detail is missed in any corner of the house. Yet you will never feel like you shouldn't touch anything. Antique photo albums, classic books, and historic items perfectly placed are wonderful touches that provide the warm and inviting place that feels like Mark and Mary live here, and they are sharing their home with you for the weekend. Third, the grounds are beautiful. You must take the time to walk around the grounds and see all the gorgeous places to sit and sip, chat and refocus on what really is important in your life and your relationships. From the rooftop deck, the gardens off the cottage and the lush fields of green and live oaks, swings and seating areas, you will quickly feel the stresses of busy, hectic city life slip away. You will be greeted by a refrigerator full of refreshing drinks, and your amazing breakfast for the morning. Plenty of water, including Perrier, a refereshing bottle of wine or beer (your choice...they ask you in advance!) juice, milk, fruit, yogurt and whipped cream. A tray of delicious scones and coffee cake, homemade granola, are awaiting you on the counter! Coffee and everything you need to make the perfect cup is already there. The cottage has two beautifully appointed bathrooms, with plush towels and everything you need in case you forgot it at home. A large walk-in 2 shower head shower is downstairs, and a classic clawfoot tub is in the upstairs bathroom for the perfect soak. There are two tv's, one in the living area, and one in the downstairs bedroom. We enjoyed the space and talking to each other so much that we didn't spend a lot of time watching tv. The upstairs loft has 3 single beds, and the downstairs bedroom has a super comfy queen bed. It's perfect for couples, a family with children, or a girls' weekend. In fact, we spent very little time in Waco, because we loved being at the Cottage so much. We have been to Waco before when it was more 'open' and we found a lot of Waco was still not yet 'open for business', so we enjoyed our time at the cottage. Mary and Mark are updating a large home on the property for future use as a bed and breaksfast, and if it is anything like the cottage, we will want to visit as soon as they finish. The Tell Story Walk property is perfect for weddings and family gatherings, and I look forward to returning as soon as we have an opportunity. Mark and Mary feel like family.
Visited May 2020
Written May 24, 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mark Dawson
Mark Dawson
Dear Mark and Leslie, Sometimes, often in praying, the right words just won't come. That's the way both Mary and I feel about your review. After Mary's first "Oh, my GOSH," exclamation to her final "How do you respond to something like that," the beauty and heart and thankfulness of all your words are an affirmation that just keeps coming. Truth be told, there are folks out there who pay publicity agents a small fortune for sentiments like this. The thoroughness with which you describe our place reads like something out of a travel magazine. But so much more than that, it is the personal touch you give in every sentence that comes through. It feels as if you are still here, still having that morning sip of coffee, still seated in that swing. Thank you. Thank you beyond words. It is our highest hope that people will come here and find the peace and togetherness that so easily escapes them in the common world. Your review is a heartfelt reminder: Some hopes are worth everything. May God be with you always. Mark and Mary
Written May 27, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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What this rental offers
  • DVD player
  • Air conditioning
  • Balcony
  • Grill
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Fireplace
  • Housekeeping included
  • Internet access
  • Linens provided
  • Patio
  • Private yard
  • Cable television
  • Secure parking available
  • Staff on property
  • Stereo system
  • Terrace
  • Towels provided
  • Television
  • Wi-fi

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Map
About the neighborhood
Located 7 miles from major corridor (Loop) around Waco Countryside largely ranch land: horses, sheep, dairys, ponds and pasture. Neighborhood typically quiet. Three miles from Homestead Heritage: Crafts, Cheese/Coffee Shop Two miles from Homestead General Merchandise Store One mile from Stanton Glass: Nationally known stain glass restoration Brazos River (canoeing) runs clear and shallow 20 mi. NW of Tell Story Walk. Lake Waco: 35-45 min. S. Lake Whitney: 35-45 min. N.
Getting around
Tell Story Walk is at the hub of roads leading to Waco, West, Lake Whitney. Back roads wind through ranch and farm land. Scenic routes in all four directions. Tours: City of Waco (Landmarks/Magnolia homes). Brazos River. Local Bus routes to all downtown locations.
Access
Car required
How to get there
From Interstate 35: Exit 343 on to FM 308; go west. Take FM 308 W for 3 mi. (308 ends in a T). Turn right at T (FM 933) for 1.6 mi. Turn right on Fort Graham Rd. Remain on Fort Graham Rd. for 1.85 mi. Tell Story Walk on left: Pass through Black iron gate onto gravel drive. Follow drive 100 yds. Cottage on right. Park on concrete slab opposite cottage.

Cancellation Policy
  • 100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
  • 50% refund* if you cancel at least 4 weeks before check-in
  • 25% refund* if you cancel at least 2 weeks before check-in
  • No refund available if you cancel thereafter

*Booking fee is excluded from refund amount


About this property

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Property #FKN2227082733

Frequently Asked Questions about Tell Story Walk

Tell Story Walk is able to accommodate up to 5 guests. See all property details.

Tell Story Walk has 2 bathrooms available. See all property details.

Tell Story Walk has 2 bedrooms available. See all property details.

Stays at Tell Story Walk must last at least 2 nights. See all property details.

Tell Story Walk UPDATED 2023: 2 Bedroom Cottage in Waco with Patio and Private Yard - Tripadvisor