9. Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, the official State Hall of Fame for the Texas Rangers Law Enforcement Agency, is conveniently located off I-35 near downtown Waco. The Texas Rangers, the oldest state law enforcement agency, play an important role in solving crimes and apprehending fugitives. The Modern Texas Rangers focus primarily on investigations, and are known as the Elite Law Enforcement Officers of the 21st Century. It took Texas Ranger law enforcement to bring down Bonnie and Clyde, and it still takes a Texas Ranger to keep this spirited state of Texas in line today. From their cowboy hats to the silver stars on their shirt pockets, it's easy to see why Texas Rangers are famous for their strong presence. The Homer Garrison Museum Gallery focuses on the equipment of the Texas Rangers and places it into historical context — from the early days to the present. The Brownfield and Morris Galleries chronicle the history of Texas Rangers from their founding in 1823 to recently retired officers. The Brownfield Gallery also houses case studies of important Texas Ranger law enforcement investigations such as kidnappings, riots, and the Texarkana Phantom Killer. Visitors can also find such infamous collections as Bonnie and Clyde's shotguns — confiscated from the "Death Car" after the final shoot-out — and the firearms used by Texas Rangers at the ambush. In a memorial tribute, The Hall of Fame memorializes 31 Texas Rangers who gave their lives in the line of duty or served with great distinction. For history buffs, the Texas Ranger Research Center houses books, archives, and photographs related to the Texas Rangers. Here, visitors can pore through original clippings, research genealogies, and learn the real stories of life as a Texas Ranger from oral history accounts. The Research Center hours vary Monday through Friday. Appointments are suggested.