Discovering College Station: A Blend of Tradition, Education, and Modern Charm
Nestled in the heart of the Brazos Valley in Central Texas, College Station, alongside its neighboring city Bryan, offers a unique blend of higher education, passionate school spirit, and a surprising array of attractions. Deriving its name from the railroad station that once served Texas A&M University, College Station has evolved into a vibrant city with something to offer every traveler. Just ten minutes away, Bryan (originally called Boonville) complements College Station with its own attractions, including the Texas A&M Health Science Center and the Blinn College-Bryan Campus. Located in the heart of the Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth, and Houston triangle, it’s easy to reach. Although football season is a popular time to visit College Station, you’ll find that this is truly a year-round destination with plenty to offer for just about any traveler.
A Campus Immersion: Texas A&M University
Texas A&M’s campus is the heart of College Station, making it a great place to start if you’ve never been here before. There’s nowhere better to start than Kyle Field, the school’s hallowed ground for football and one of the biggest stadiums in the country. On game days you’ll be in the midst of more than 100,000 people tailgating, sightseeing and rooting for our team.
Kyle Field: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
Begin your exploration with a behind-the-scenes tour of Kyle Field, the legendary football stadium named after Edwin Kyle. Discover the team’s unique traditions and experience the energy of this iconic venue. Take note of the special memorials nearby.
Aggie Park: An Oasis on Campus
Adjacent to Kyle Field, Aggie Park offers an outdoor oasis with water features, a performance pavilion, and even an ice cream shop. It's the perfect spot to relax and soak in the campus atmosphere.
The Gardens: A Learning Landscape
Stroll through The Gardens, located on West Campus, encompassing a diverse collection of themed gardens with lush plantings meant to teach students and the public about food production and the natural world.
Read also: Comprehensive Ranking: Women's College Basketball
George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
While you’re on campus, don’t miss the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Find education and entertainment for the whole family at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library. One of the best known museums in the Brazos Valley, the library features exhibits that are educational and entertaining. The permanent collection focuses on George H.W. Bush’s life and presidency. Get up close to a World War II Avenger Torpedo Bomber, a slab of the Berlin Wall, and more.
Cushing Memorial Library and Archives
Another interesting campus stop is the Cushing Memorial Library and Archives, which holds rare books, special collections, and manuscripts. Its diverse collection includes Sumerian clay tablets dating from 2400 BCE and serves as the official repository of George R.R. Martin's works.
Beyond Campus: Exploring College Station and Bryan
For all its tradition, the A&M campus is not the only place in College Station where the past meets the present. The Benjamin Knox Gallery, where the eponymous artist serves up Aggie-centric paintings and hand-picked wines, is housed inside the old College Station train depot that gave rise to the city’s name in 1877. Across the street from campus, you’ll find Century Square - a modern take on a traditional town square, anchored by two boutique hotels, The George and Cavalry Court.
Century Square: Modern Town Square
Across the street from campus, you’ll find Century Square - a modern take on a traditional town square, anchored by two boutique hotels, The George and Cavalry Court.
Lake Bryan: Outdoor Adventures
Head out to Lake Bryan, where you can spend the morning enjoying 20 miles of hiking, biking, and running trails, or go fishing for largemouth bass, crappie and catfish. Bryan/College Station offers an array of outdoor activities perfect for families seeking adventure and bonding time. From scenic hikes along the picturesque trails of Lick Creek Park to leisurely picnics and birdwatching at Lake Bryan, there's something for everyone. There are endless opportunities for family fun amidst Bryan/College Station's natural beauty.
Read also: Phoenix Suns' New Center
Brazos Valley Museums: A Cultural Journey
If museums are your thing, you have two good ones here. Unlock the doors to exploration and discovery by visiting the vibrant museums of Bryan/College Station. Each museum offers a unique window into history, science, and culture, promising captivating experiences for visitors of all ages. Join us on a journey of discovery and make lasting memories with your loved ones as you uncover the treasures of our community's past, present, and future.
Brazos Valley African American Museum
The Brazos Valley African American Museum was built on the site of one of the original Black schools in the Brazos Valley, and offers art works, artifacts, and special exhibits.
Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History
The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History holds cultural exhibits, as well as a discovery room with live animals, rocks, and minerals.
Messina Hof Winery and Resort: A Taste of Texas
If you need a break, grab a glass and enjoy tasty bites at Messina Hof Winery and Resort, which opened in 1977 as a single acre experimental vineyard. Messina Hof has grown to become the most awarded winery in the state and one of the largest producers of Texas wines. Enjoy wine tastings and tours or book in at the Vintage House restaurant next door for a spot on the patio.
Small-Town Charm
College Station is more than just old brick buildings, weekly farmer's markets, and a unique energy brought only by Texas A&M University. This drive-thru animal park in Bryan, TX, offers spectacular views that set the stage for family fun. Make some new animal friends and get ready for lots of fun and laughter.
Read also: About Grossmont Community College
Dining Delights: Savoring College Station's Flavors
When it’s time to eat, you’ll find a variety of restaurants in College Station.
Barbecue
Since this is the heart of Texas, you can rest assured fantastic barbecue is not far away. Follow your nose to 1775 Texas Pit Barbeque named a “Top 25 New BBQ Joint” in 2019 by Texas Monthly. College Station is home to several good barbecue restaurants, including 1775 Texas Pit BBQ and Fargo’s Pit BBQ.
Local Favorites
Try the crispy chicken fingers topped with the famous secret sauce at local favorite Layne’s, an Aggie staple. Meanwhile, Hullabaloo Diner delivers with comfort foods like chicken fried steak, cheese fries, and biscuits and gravy.
Dixie Chicken
And don’t miss the famed Dixie Chicken, a 50-year-old institution serving cold beer and fried chicken and burgers, all through a set of swinging doors.
Polite Coffee
Begin the day at Polite Coffee, housed in an 1800s Victorian home that once belonged to Edwin Kyle, namesake of the legendary football stadium, Kyle Football Stadium.
Accommodation Highlights: Where to Stay
The Stella Hotel
The Stella Hotel in Bryan offers 176 guest rooms and suites with views of five-acre Lake Atlas and Kyle Field. The hotel also offers onsite restaurants and bars, including the popular Hershel’s, as well as shopping and recreational activities at Lake Walk Town Center.
Cavalry Court
In College Station, accommodations include Cavalry Court, the area’s first boutique hotel, with its white modern farmhouse-style lodge, fire-pits for making s’mores, lawn games, a pool, and live music on weekends.
Family Fun: Activities for All Ages
College Station may be known, first and foremost, for Texas A&M University. But what it should really be known for is its family activities. There are more things to do with kids in College Station than in most other Texas towns. That’s why many families settle here, and even more come to visit once schools are out of session. Make time for family fun during your summer vacation with these handpicked recommendations and tips. Our family vacation itinerary is the only guide to College Station you need. Experience all College Station has to offer whether you stay for a weekend or longer. Begin your family vacation by settling into your accommodation and getting to know the local area. After unpacking, head out to a cozy café for a leisurely breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. Explore nearby attractions, whether it's a scenic park, a bustling beach, or a quaint town center.
OPAS PERFORMANCES
World-Class Performing Arts Just Steps Away Broadway shows, intimate gatherings, and more, come to life thanks to the MSC Opera and Performing Arts Society (OPAS), a partner organization to Texas A&M University’s Memorial Student Center (MSC).
tags: #things #to #do #in #college #station
