P.5
Howdy! Howdy! From Bryan, Texas
GAMEDAY GUIDE P.22
FIRST FRIDAY Celebrating 20 years P.10 P.26
Howdy
Welcome to Bryan, Texas!
Born of converging cultures and built on deep Texas roots, Bryan is a community filled with authentic stories, people, and places — our legends. Our legends are ever evolving while staying true to our Texas spirit. Here, you'll find more than 150 years of history intertwined with modern-day revitalization and growth in the heart of the Brazos Valley.
Our small-town atmosphere pairs well with our convenient location, less than a 3-hour drive from each of the largest metro areas in the state. After living in the area for 19 years, I can say with confidence that this is the ideal place to take a step back, slow down, and experience what makes Bryan "A Legend Reborn".
This guide is the starting point for discovering what's in store for you in our community. Live music and shopping in Historic Downtown Bryan, wine tastings at Messina Hof Estate Winery, and adventures at Aggieland Safari. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your time here.
We’ve packed these pages with our best tips on experiencing Bryan this season, but as I’ve come to learn, our town always has more to share. If something catches your eye while exploring or you want to learn more about our history and growth, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Welcome to town. We’re glad you’re here.
John Friebele, Executive Director Destination Bryan
TOP 10 POINTS OF INTEREST
1. LAKE BRYAN
Enjoy 20+ miles of hiking, biking, and running trails, swimming areas, campgrounds, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a lakeside restaurant with regularly scheduled live music.
2. TAMU RELLIS CAMPUS
The Texas A&M RELLIS Campus is the first integrated education, research, and testing institution in Texas. They combine innovation and passion for students looking to build a better world for the future.
3. AGGIELAND WILD ANIMAL SAFARI
This 250-acre safari park & zoo is home to more than 300+ di erent exotic animals! Make lasting memories with friends and family at the Drive Through Safari, Walkabout Adventure Zoo, and Animal Encounters.
4. HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRYAN
This Cultural District has been the Brazos Valley’s hub for culture, music, arts, shopping, and dining for more than 150 years. Discover historic icons like The LaSalle Hotel in the heart and soul of our community.
5. MESSINA HOF WINERY
Recognized as one of the most award-winning wineries in Texas, Messina Hof has pioneered growth of the Texas wine industry since 1977. Get a behindthe-scenes look with grape-to-glass vineyard tours.
GREATER BRYAN AREA
6. MIDTOWN PARK
This is one of the fastest growing areas in Bryan — a world-class recreational destination featuring outdoor athletic fields, Legends Event Center, entertainment venues, and a 150-acre park.
7. LAKE WALK
Home to The Stella Hotel, shopping, dining, a spa, and a co eehouse within walking distance. There’s also a 3.5-mile walking trail and a 75-foot tall Lookout Tower o ering a birds-eye view of Aggieland.
8. EASTERWOOD AIRPORT
Less than 15 minutes from Bryan, Easterwood Regional Airport o ers connecting flights to DFW International Airport, making it easy to get here from anywhere in the world.
9. GEORGE BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
Take an in-depth look at President George H.W. Bush’s life and dedication to service at this impressive Presidential Library (1 of 15 in the U.S.).
10. TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
Since opening in 1876, Texas' first public institution of higher learning has become one of the world’s top universities. “Howdy!” is the o cial greeting in Aggieland, one of the friendliest campuses in the U.S.
AT A GLANCEYear
Throughout the year, you’ll find a lot of exciting things happening in Bryan, Texas! Whether you’re a music lover or wine connoisseur, there’s something here for you. Be sure to mark your calendar so you don’t miss any of these annual events!
MONTHLY
First Friday: First Friday of every month
Sponsored by Baylor Scott & White
SPRING
Wildflower Days: March
Troubadour Festival: March
Wine & Roses Festival at Messina Hof Estate Winery: April
Downtown Bryan Street & Art Fair: April
SUMMER
Juneteenth Parade: June
Brazos Valley Pride Weekend: June
4th of July Fireworks & Drone Show at TAMU’s RELLIS Campus : July
Messina Hof’s Annual Harvest Festival: August
FALL
Fiestas Mexicanas: September
Festa Italiana: September
Wheels, Watches, Whiskey: September
Bryan, TX Songwriter Festival: October
Boonville Days: October
Halloweentown: October
Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo: October
OUToberfest: October
WINTER
Lights On!: November
Holiday Showcase & Lighted Parade: December Presented by Xfinity
Holiday Night Bazaar: December
Holiday Showcase at the Brazos Valley Natural History Museum: December
First Friday
Lake Walk Lights On!
Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo
Seasonal
CELEBRATIONS
The Holidays
With dazzling lights, festive community events, and decked out shopping experiences, Bryan, Texas, is perfect for a merry and bright holiday getaway. Stroll along Main Street for historic charm and local shops where you’re sure to find the perfect gift, or explore one of our local markets around town. Holiday Night Bazaar, The Holiday Showcase at The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, and the annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show each host an array of unique and local goods perfect for holiday gifting — and these holiday markets are just the start (flip to p.21 for more!).
HOLIDAY EVENTS
• Halloweentown in Downtown Bryan Sunday, October 26
• Lights On!
Friday, November 21
• Holiday Night Bazaar
Saturday, December 6
• Downtown Bryan Holiday Stroll & Lighted Parade Thursday, December 11 • Presented by Xfinity
Check out our calendar at destinationbryan.com/events for a full list of events happening this season.
Fall
Cooler weather, Aggie football games, and festive experiences are the telltale signs that autumn has arrived in Bryan, Texas. It’s truly one of the best times to visit our community. Fiestas Mexicanas kicks o the fall season with a celebration and parade while The Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo hosts must-see musicians and athletes with family-friendly activities throughout the weekends. Fall is the perfect season to enjoy Ronin’s farm-to-table fare under the stars. There’s always something new to experience in Bryan, and fall is no exception. Enjoy a new music festival, Bryan TX Songwriter Festival, this October featuring some of country music’s best singer-songwriters.
FALL EVENTS
• First Friday Sponsored by Baylor Scott & White
• Ronin Farm Dinners
• Festa Italiana
• Fiestas Mexicanas
• Boonville Days
• Bryan TX Songwriter Festival
• Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo
Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo
Holiday Stroll & Lighted Parade
CREATING A LEGACY, ONE PIECE AT A TIME
Old Bryan Marketplace
When Kay Conlee bought the historic building that’s now Old Bryan Marketplace, Downtown Bryan was nothing like it is today. It was 1996, and the buildings were boarded up. The streets were empty. But Kay, a fourth-generation Bryan resident, believed in the potential of her hometown.
“I grew up walking the streets of downtown, going to the movies for a quarter, eating at Jared's Pharmacy,” said Kay. “We rode our bikes and we spent the day, and all of a sudden it was gone. Downtown needed to come back, bad — and I wanted to help it.”
“When you’re Old Bryan, you didn’t move to town, you started here. I was born in the Bryan Hospital; My parents lived here, my grandparents lived here. We’re Old Bryan. We’re part of the roots.”
— Kay Conlee
Kay had opened a small consignment store on Main Street, and with the encouragement of her father, decided to look for a larger building. She landed at 202 S. Bryan Avenue, in a warehouse that had been around since the early 1900s.
It took Kay several months to renovate what was once an auto-dealership and warehouse used for cotton, but with the help of locals in the community, she transformed the space into an incredible home decor store. Together, they added windows, built an archway, installed
tresses, and laid 14,000 square feet of stained hardwood flooring.
Thirty years later, Old Bryan Marketplace continues to be an anchor in Historic Downtown Bryan. They specialize in selling quality pieces that tell a story, whether it’s larger items like furniture or smaller decor that add touches of personality to a space. Many items are found at estate sales and markets, and displays inside the store hold treasures that are sure to last a lifetime.
They’re also well-known for their signature scent, “202”, and their jaw-dropping assortment of holiday decor. Every item in Old Bryan Marketplace is curated with intention and a “quality-first” mentality, hand-picked for customers who want to turn a house into a home.
“A home is connecting dots of family treasures, scents, and lighting,” explains Kay. “A home embraces you, because you’ve put the things you love in it…Otherwise you’re just walking in and out of a house.”
After years of love and dedication from Kay, the family-owned business is now operated by her children, Grant and Whitney. As they continue to provide quality home decor to visitors and locals alike, the Conlee family is truly continuing a legacy in Historic Downtown Bryan — one special piece at a time.
Address: 202 S Bryan Ave.
Business Hours:
Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 6pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday Closed
DOWNTOWN BRYAN
For more than 150 years, Historic Downtown Bryan has been a cultural hub for the Brazos Valley. People have enjoyed music, shopping, art, and dining along Main Street since the early 1900s, back when The Palace Theater was an opera house and Ca e Capri was a general store. Take a stroll and experience our historic past intertwined with a vibrant present in Historic Downtown Bryan.
The Carnegie History Center
Arts & Culture
The Queen Theatre is an iconic landmark in Bryan, Texas. It opened in 1939 as one of the finest movie houses in Texas, and has since been renovated into a boutique theatre with reclining seats and food service (all while keeping its historic charm).
The Palace Theater has also been a long-time favorite along Main Street, operating as an opera house, a movie theater, and now, an open-air music venue. Catch a free concert on First Friday, see local talent during Open Mic Night on Wednesdays (7-10PM), or enjoy one of their many concerts throughout the month.
Murals and Sculptures can be found throughout Historic Downtown Bryan. Don’t miss “Wildflowers” (located behind The Attic Antiques) or the comical “I love beer so much” on the side of Blackwater Draw Brewing Co.
StageCenter Theatre is a small community theatre that’s been putting on performances since 1964. They feature six performances a season, varying from o beat comedies to intense melodramas. For musical theater, The Theater Company is a short drive from Downtown, o Villa Maria Road.
Shopping
There are a lot of unique boutiques and antique stores to shop from along Main Street and Bryan Avenue. Discover charming home decor at Old Bryan Marketplace, Burr’s Vintage Boho, and Sparrow Lane, or find something oneof-a-kind at Brazos Valley Glassworks, Alice’s Attic, Bird’s Nest Antiques and Gifts, Corner of Time Antiques Mall, and The Attic Antiques
Your new favorite outfit could be waiting for you at Cowgirl Country Club Boutique, Itza Bip, Sweet Repeat Resale, or Texas Rose Boutique
Or, maybe you’ll find your next favorite book at Ed’s Bookstore (specializing in Texana literature, used, and rare books) or Bryan’s newest bookshop, Whimsical Words (coming this fall).
Dining
Historic Downtown Bryan has plenty of flavor to choose from: classic Italian at Ca e Capri, Mexican dishes at Taco Crave, German at Bavarian Brauhaus, or Spanish tapas at Elia Cafe Tapas Bar. You can also find chicken fried steak at Longhorn Tavern, mouthwatering bagels at Zeitman’s Grocery and Sunbeam Bagels, and elevated twists on American classics at Station 36
Breakfast is a must at 3rd on Main, or if you’re looking for something lighter, 979 Nutrition has smoothies and acai bowls. For co ee and tea, stop by Tavo Co ee Co., housed in the historic Parker Lumber Company building, or Harvest Co ee, across from The Palace Theatre. This is just a taste of all that Downtown has to o er — check out downtownbryan.com for more.
Culture and community shine in Historic Downtown Bryan during First Friday, a Bryan tradition that has brought together art, live music, and interactive activities during the first Friday of every month for 2 decades. Local musicians set up on street corners and in front of local businesses, alongside artisans and nonprofits highlighting all of the things that make Bryan, Texas unique.
It’s true that there’s always fun to be found in Historic Downtown Bryan, but there’s something special about the atmosphere during First Friday. Since it first began in 2005, this free community event has welcomed locals and visitors to experience the beauty of arts and culture in Bryan, Texas. This October marks the 20year anniversary of First Friday. Join us for a year of fun First Friday celebrations throughout 2026.
Walk down Main Street on First Friday, and you’ll see everything from classic cars to ballet folklorico performances. Pop-up booths sell handmade art, and shops stay open late with special o erings for First Friday guests. There’s free parking throughout Downtown and a free shuttle from Texas A&M University so students can easily catch a ride to enjoy First Friday.
Tis The Season
How to Know Which Cowboy Hat to Wear in Texas
For over forty years, Catalena Hatters has been shaping cowboy hats in Historic Downtown Bryan. Sammy and Carolyn Catalena opened their doors in 1983, alongside their two sons, Scott and Travis Catalena. Since then, they’ve delivered finely made hats to customers around the world, from Italy to New Zealand.
Chance Black has seen several hat seasons come and go while shaping hats for Catalena customers over the past six years. The general rule of thumb in Texas is that felt hats are worn in the fall (anytime after Labor Day), while straw hats get brought out in the spring, usually after Easter.
“A lot of people will put their hat up when it’s out of season,” said Chance. “ When your hat’s up, it’s out of sight, out of mind, and a lot of things can happen. It might get shu ed around in the closet, or kids will take it out and play with it, and heat and cold mess with the hats as well. All of this a ects the shape.”
When hats get hot, they’ll shrink up and warp, and when they’re cold, they can become tight on your head. Fortunately, Catalena Hatters is able to re-shape any hat that
they’ve sold throughout the years so that it’s perfect for the proper season.
"We
custom make our felt hats in house from start to finish. That's our bread and butter."
– Chance Black, Hatter
Although felt hats are primarily worn in colder months and straw hats in warmer months, at the end of the day, “hat seasons” aren’t a hard and fast rule in Texas. Ultimately, which hat you choose to wear depends on the weather.
“Last October, we had several cowboys walk in wearing straw hats,” said Chance. “They were coming to get new straw hats, and they were sitting here
saying, ‘They keep teasing us that this weather is about to cool o and it’s time to break out the felts!’. Those guys are more cowboy than me, and they’re wearing straw hats on a hot day.”
No matter what the Texas weather has in store, Catalena Hatters is a go-to worldwide for both felt and straw hats. Their famous steam press can be seen in their store, often with a hat-shaper like Chance standing behind it, using it to create the perfect cowboy hat.
If you want to add more flair to your hat, head down the street to Cowgirl Up Hat Bar and Custom Bar Jewelry, located inside
Address:
203 N Main St, Bryan, TX 77803
Business Hours:
Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday Closed
FROM GRAIN TO GLASS IN BRYAN, TEXAS
Hush & Whisper Distilling Co.
It’s no secret why Hush & Whisper is where visitors and locals spend their evenings sipping on award-winning spirits and curated cocktails. The distillery opened its doors in November 2023 with a team of connoisseurs, producing over 3,000 oak barrels of bourbon each year along with gin and vodka.
Hush & Whisper exudes classic charm with its late Art Deco style, featuring eyecatching and timeless architectural design. It seamlessly blends industrial elements with elegance, showcasing the distillery equipment through a large glass window and placing the still front-and-center as the tasting room centerpiece spanning from floor to ceiling.
The distillery’s location is closely tied to the story of Historic Downtown Bryan — It ushered in a new age for the Varisco Building, an architectural gem that was constructed in 1948 by Biagio “Brazos” Varisco (an Italian immigrant turned agriculturist and developer). During extensive renovations, Hush & Whisper preserved as much of the building’s historic elements as they could, like the beautiful, midcentury modern hand railings adorning the stairwell leading up to the second floor.
“Part of the Hush & Whisper name is that we want to let you in on the secrets. We want to show you what this building was and how it’s not done creating memories and creating stories. There’s more here for people to find.”
- Caleb Clanton, Founder and Manager of Hush & Whisper
The first floor of the Varisco Building (now home to Hush & Whisper) was formerly a J.C. Penney. Then it became a furniture store, followed by an emergency operations center for hurricane relief, and finally sat vacant from 2014 until 2022 when Caleb’s idea for the distillery came to life. The renovation took a lot of care and e ort, and even uncovered a few unique artifacts in the process.
“We found an old plow that was used to even roads after it rained, before Downtown Bryan had concrete streets,” said Caleb. “It was sitting in one of the annex rooms, where the fermentation room is now, unused and unrusted.”
One of the more hefty tasks was placing the still on the main floor, which required drilling into 6-inch concrete. This was the largest change made to the building: cutting into the basement so that guests could admire the floor-to-ceiling still.
The team took advantage of the building’s abundant space by creating di erent areas where visitors can see the process of making craft spirits. Guests are welcome to join in a guided tour of the distillery (o ered every hour, on the hour at $10 per person), or sip on the
grain-to-glass whiskey, gin, and vodka in the spacious tasting room.
Some of their handcrafted cocktails include the Whispering Old Fashioned, the Gordon’s Cup, and the French 95. The secret behind their cocktails is their award-winning Original Gin, which received a gold medal and best classic gin at the 2024 American Distilling Institute, along with other grand spirits including their Original Vodka, White Whiskey, and Rye Whiskey.
Ingredients are locally sourced from Field to Family, a fifth generation family of farmers and ranchers in College Station, and from another local farmer, Lee Denena, from Denena Farms. By receiving grain and corn from local sources, Hush & Whisper ensures an authentic approach to distilling. They oversee the entire process, from the delivery of local grains to bottling and creating unique craft cocktails at their bar.
Address: 219 N Main St. Bryan, TX 77803
Business Hours: Monday Closed Tuesday Closed Wednesday Closed Thursday 2pm-11pm Friday 2pm-11pm Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday Closed
GATHER AROUND THE TABLE IN BRYAN, TX
Whether you're craving pizza or tacos, seafood or steak, there are plenty of restaurants in Bryan, Texas, where you can find delicious entrees and ample space for your group to enjoy a meal together. Big and small groups will all find a place around the table at these local restaurants.
Historic Downtown Bryan
Mr. G’s Pizzeria
Classic New York Italian-style pizza and pasta
Longhorn Tavern Steakhouse
Steaks, burgers, and Southern comfort food
Bavarian Brauhaus
Authentic German food and drinks
Ca e Capri
Italian dishes from family recipes
Elia Cafe & Tapas Bar
Spanish classics, including paella and tapas
Around Town
Christopher’s World Grille
Award-winning steaks and seafood plates
Campfire
Texas-inspired dishes with seasonal, locallysourced ingredients
Kanji Sushi
Creative small plates and mouthwatering sushi in a stylish atmosphere
Remnant of Nawlins
Weekly specials on Cajun classics like jambalaya, boudin balls, and Nawlins boil with crab legs
Sodalak’s Beefmasters Restaurant
Texas comfort food with generous portions
Big Dawg BBQ
Classic Texas burgers and barbecue
Shipwreck Grill
Cajun seafood, burgers, and tacos
C&J Barbecue
Texas BBQ and sides
Elia Cafe Tapas Bar
THE ART OF MODERN JAPANESE CUISINE
Kanji Sushi
Enjoy an elevated dining experience at Kanji Sushi, where Chef Tai and his team combine creativity with authenticity in the art of sushimaking. Here, you’ll find sushi that’s both traditional and inventive — all of it made with the freshest ingredients, featuring fish flown in multiple times a week from Japan, Spain, and Mexico, along with oysters flown in from local Texas water.
When he’s behind the sushi bar, Chef Tai loves talking with customers and making one-of-akind rolls for them based on their preferences. His team shares his dedication to artistry and quality, and have been working with him for the past nine to eighteen years to create unmatched dining experiences at various restaurants.
“We emphasize artistry, precision, and quality, blending the traditional Japanese culinary techniques with innovative, global-inspired flavors,” said Chef Tai, who sees sushi as ‘edible art’.
wrapped in a high-end nori (dried seaweed) with short-grain rice (authentic Japanese rice). It was Kanji’s first number-one selling item, and continues to be a fan favorite at the restaurant.
Other highly-recommended sushi rolls include the Summer Roll (spiced crabmeat, cucumber, and avocado layered with salmon, lemon, and pico de gallo) and Chef Tai’s Signature Spicy Tuna Roll (layered with cucumber, avocado, tuna, and a unique sauce inspired by Korean chili paste). Guests are also invited to try the Nigiri Omakase experience, where Chef Tai will curate a personalized sushi feast with nine pieces of nigiri, two appetizers, miso soup, and dessert.
“The area has grown and we have so many wonderful culinary gems here in town. We’re all working toward elevating the entire dining scene as a team.” — Chef Tai
Chef Tai’s passion for sushi was ignited in the early 2000s, while he was attending Texas A&M and working at one of College Station’s only sushi bars. It was there that he met Master Chef Soon Park, who taught Chef Tai how to make sushi and became his mentor and friend.
Master Chef Soon Park became Chef Tai’s business partner in 2023, when the two partnered together to open Kanji Sushi.
A special roll on the menu gives a nod to Chef Tai’s mentor: the “Chef Soon’s Special”. This symphony of flavors combines yellowtail, avocado, and jalapenos layered with fresh tuna,
Along with sushi, Kanji has an array of dishes that highlight fresh seafood and Japanese cuisine, including Miso Glazed Sea Bass, Seared Steak Carpaccio, and Crispy SoftShell Crab. Certified A5 Japanese Wagyu beef is also on the menu, as well as some of the best Texas oysters you’ll ever taste. With high-quality ingredients and Chef Tai’s inventive flair, all of Kanji’s menu items o er an explosion of flavor you won’t find anywhere else in Aggieland.
Address: 4115 Lake Atlas Dr., Suite 310
Business Hours: Monday Closed Tuesday 11:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–9:30pm Wednesday 11:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–9:30pm Thursday 11:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–9:30pm Friday 11:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–9:30pm Saturday 11:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–9:30pm Sunday Closed
MESSINA HOF ESTATE WINERY
A Bryan Legend
This renowned Texas winery first began as an experimental vineyard in 1977. Since then, it’s become one of the most award-winning wineries in the state.
Messina Hof Estate Winery in Bryan, Texas has earned its reputation as a leading producer of 100% Texas wine. Visit the vineyard and see firsthand where the Texas wine industry was pioneered by Paul Vincent and Merrill Bonarrigo.
Today, the next generation of the Bonarrigo family oversees a vast vineyard, production and bottling facility, winery tours and tastings, annual events, The Vintage House (a dedicated Vintage Cuisine™ Restaurant), and even a bed and breakfast.
Tasting Room
Monday-Tuesday: 3pm-8pm
Wednesday-Saturday: 11am-9pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm
Happy Hour
Monday-Friday: 4pm-6pm
The Vintage House
DON’T MISS
Wine & Roses Festival | April
• Wine Tastings
• Grape Stomp Competition
• Art for Sale
Harvest Festival | Weekends in August
• Help Harvest & Stomp Grapes
• Sample Wines
Vineyard Tours | Saturdays & Sundays
• Estate Tour
• Wine Tasting
A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Aggieland Safari
Make lasting memories with animal encounters at Aggieland Safari! This unique park is home to more than 300 animals who roam freely through the award-winning drivethru safari, including emus, bison, wildebeests, and ostriches. During a 45+ minute drive through the park, animals will come up to your car, giving you the opportunity to see their natural behaviors and admire their beauty at a close range.
An Adventure Pass ticket to Aggieland Safari includes the walk-thru safari, where you can see gira es, otters, lemurs, and more than 50 unique species. Add-on encounters are also available, where you can pet and feed capybaras, gira es, South American anteaters, and nilgai, the largest antelope in Asia.
Open Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
SHOP SMALL
Where to Find Fresh Produce + Artisan Goods
The Farm Patch Address: 3519 College Ave, Hours: Vary seasonally
Take a stroll through Bryan’s open-air market, The Farm Patch, where visitors can find seasonal plants that are in bloom and shop for fresh fruits and veggies. Founded by the Scarmardo family in 1974, the Farm Patch makes a ordable produce accessible to the local community. The down-to-earth, friendly atmosphere at The Farm Patch lends itself to an “old market” charm with classic Southern hospitality. The sprawling indoor/outdoor market has plenty of produce to choose from, and the garden center features a variety of seasonal flowers, hanging plants, trees, and berry bushes. They also have a delicious chicken salad — a secret recipe that has been passed down through generations — and their freshly baked pecan pies prepared from scratch keep customers coming back for more.
During the autumn months, the Farm Patch welcomes family and friends to their annual tradition: the Pumpkin Patch! Open throughout October, the Pumpkin Patch is a free seasonal attraction that features kids’ activities, photo-ops, and rows of pumpkins perfect for carving, painting, or baking.
Local Markets Weekly
The Farmers’ Market in Brazos County Saturdays, 8:00am – 12:00pm Midtown Park | 206 W Villa Maria Rd.
Rountree Market Sundays, 12:00pm – 5:00pm Midtown | 2603 Rountree Dr.
Monthly
The Local at Lake Walk Check thelocal.com for exact dates Lake Walk | 4107 Lake Atlas Dr.
First Friday
Every First Friday of the Month, 5:00pm – 10:00pm Historic Downtown Bryan | 105 S. Main St.
The Market o Main 3rd Sunday of the Month, 11:00pm – 4:00pm Polite Co ee | 800 S Bryan Ave.
The Farmers' Market The Farm Patch
Whoop! A Guide to Gameday in Aggieland
Whether you’re an Aggie fan or you’re in town to cheer for the visiting team, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your weekend in Aggieland. Get ready for the game with unique shopping, restaurants, and fun experiences before heading to Kyle Field.
Getting to the Game
The free Gameday Shuttle runs from Historic Downtown Bryan to the Memorial Student Center (right next to Kyle Field) before, during, and after every home game. The airconditioned shuttle runs on a loop that begins 3 hours pre-game, throughout the game, and 1 hour post-game
With plenty of parking in Historic Downtown Bryan, it’s easy to avoid tra c around campus by taking the shuttle from Roy Kelly Parking Garage to the game. Explore restaurants and shops, then catch the bus with other excited fans for the ultimate gameday experience.
Downtown Entertainment
Before and after home games, Historic Downtown Bryan is buzzing with excitement during Gameday on Main. Don’t miss gameday watch parties and live music at The Palace Theater, a local open-air music venue (formerly a historic opera house and movie theater). Another historic venue with fun gameday activities is The LaSalle Hotel. This landmark dates back to the 1920s and was recently re-opened with high-end dining at Station 36 and an extensive cocktail menu at their underground speakeasy, The Boiler Room
Can’t-Miss Traditions
Restaurants
If there’s another college game you want to see, you’re sure to find it on TV at a local spot in Historic Downtown Bryan. Proudest Monkey has TVs in every booth and a menu of o -the-wall tacos, while Taco Crave o ers build-your-own style taco plates and TVs around the restaurant. Rx Pizza is known for their delicious, wood-fired pizzas, perfect for sharing while watching the game with friends.
Papa Perez is another great Downtown option with multiple TVs and a variety of Mexican food. The Owl has a traditional pub menu, with plenty of TVs, darts, a giant patio, and a photo booth.
Want to enjoy football at a landmark burger joint? Head to Margie’s, known for their Opersteny burger that’s been famous since 1924.
From Midnight Yell to above-and-beyond tailgating, Texas A&M University is known for its traditions surrounding football games. Before home games, Kyle Field comes alive at midnight during Midnight Yell, a free event where fans get in the gameday spirit by practicing Aggie yells with Yell Leaders. Midnight Yell is free and open to the public. It usually lasts around 30 minutes.
Tailgating at Aggie Park brings together fans who bleed maroon and those rooting for the other team. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the March-In, where the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, Parsons Mounted Calvary, and cherished mascot Reveille X “march in”, leading the way to the stadium. The route varies throughout the season.
Gear Up for the Game
In Aggieland, there’s no such thing as “too much maroon!” Add something new to your gameday wardrobe with a visit to Texas Rose Boutique, Cowgirl Country Club Boutique, or 6Whiskey before the game.
Post-Game Celebrations
A winning game calls for celebration! Enjoy spirit-forward cocktails at Hush & Whisper Distilling Co. or say “cheers” with a locallybrewed beer at KinderHill Brew Lab and Kitchen. You can also find a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of TVs playing other football games at Carney’s Pub & Grill (a laid-back bar with a pool table and a kids play area) and The Grove @ Kyle House, located next to the former home of Edwin Kyle, namesake of Kyle Field.
RX Pizza
Texas Rose Boutique
Itineraries
RAISE A GLASS: DRINK LOCAL
Whether you’re toasting to a great vacation or a special occasion, there are plenty of places to enjoy local flavors in Bryan, Texas. Enjoy a glass of 100% Texas wine at Messina Hof Estate Winery, one of the most award-winning wineries in Texas, or head to Hush & Whisper Distilling Co. to try high-quality cocktails made with grain-to-glass Vodka, Gin, White Whiskey, and Rye Whiskey.
Blackwater Draw Brewing Co. has been perfecting their beer since 2013, with several fan favorites on draft and a rotating seasonal menu. Their large seating area, board games, and food truck make it a great spot to wind down the evening in Historic Downtown Bryan!
At KinderHill Brew Lab, there’s always something new to try. This brewpub, biergarten, and Detroit-style pizza restaurant is owned by husband and wife duo, Laura and Jason, who are committed to producing unique, boundary-defying beers.
If you want to try something a little di erent, head to Lonestar Meadery for a mead flight. This local spot is run by a group of friends that specialize in making one of the oldest forms of alcohol known to man, giving it their own twist with seasonal flavors like “Pomona’s Prize”, a sweet, sparkling blackberry and vanilla mead. Cheers, y’all!
Blackwater Draw Brewing Co.
HIDDEN GEMS & LOCAL FAVORITES
Some of Bryan’s best experiences are o the beaten path. From tucked-away eateries to meaningful local shops, these hidden gems reward curiosity with character and charm.
Start with breakfast at 3rd on Main or grab bold tacos al pastor at Taqueria Poblana
During the day, you can shop unique styles at Cowgirl Country Club Boutique, then stop next door to Sweet Repeat Resale for some incredible vintage finds. The Vintage Circle is one of the ultimate thrifting experiences in town, and LoveDowntownLocal is a great place to stop for souvenirs made by local artisans. Last but not least, stop by Curious Collections Vinyl Records & More to browse an awesome array of used and new records and CDs.
For a birds’ eye view of Aggieland, be sure to check out the Lookout Tower at Lake Walk.
In the evening, track down Word of Mouth, a true speakeasy in Historic Downtown that requires a secret code and a keen eye to find.
A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY
Discover Bryan’s rich heritage by exploring its historic hotels, classic eateries, and cultural landmarks. Stay at The LaSalle Hotel or the Milton Parker Estate B&B, where historic charm blends seamlessly with modern comfort, o ering a true connection to Bryan’s past.
Savor timeless flavors at Margie’s Bar & Grill and Zeitman’s Grocery Store, where recipes and stories have been lovingly preserved over the years. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Queen Theatre, a beautifully restored 1939 film house.
Step back in time at Boonville Heritage Park, a living historic site featuring preserved 19th-century buildings free to explore daily. Visit the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, The Carnegie History Center, and the Brazos Valley African American Museum. to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Earn points and win prizes with our History Tour, Taco Trail, and Aggieland Art Trail digital passes.
Scan the QR code to sign up and discover more suggested itineraries.
Historic Downtown Bryan
KICK UP YOUR BOOTS
Unique Places to Stay
The LaSalle Hotel
Historic Downtown Bryan
Captivating history meets boutique charm at the newly renovated LaSalle Hotel. The hotel first opened in 1929, o ering respite to travelers passing through town on the nearby train. Today, the LaSalle provides a comfortable and convenient hotel stay in the heart of Historic Downtown Bryan. Don’t miss Station 36, the top-notch restaurant within the hotel, and the Boiler Room (an underground speakeasy).
Great Escapes RV Resort West Bryan
Looking for a change of pace? Head to Great Escapes, where you’ll find family-friendly cabins and RV sites. Its central location is close to the Brazos County Expo Complex, Historic Downtown Bryan, Lake Walk, Legends Event Center, and Texas A&M University. Best of all, there are plenty of ways for kids (and adults) to have fun at Great Escapes: two pools, tennis and pingpong, hay rides, and a large floating obstacle course.
The Milton Parker Estate Bed & Breakfast
Historic Downtown Bryan
Discover luxury accommodations in a vintage setting at one of Bryan’s oldest homes, just a few blocks from Historic Downtown Bryan. The Milton Parker Estate was built in 1885 by Milton Parker and his wife, Molly, and is now owned by Bob & Denise Barbier, a local couple who lovingly renovated the Victorianstyle home into a charming Bed & Breakfast. The breathtaking architecture and period furniture will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The Villa Bed & Breakfast
Messina Hof Estate Winery
Stay on-property at Messina Hof Estate Winery, where you can enjoy scenic vineyard views and complimentary wine tastings. The Villa B&B has 11 spacious suites that are uniquely furnished with antiques that the Bonarrigo family has collected during their travels. One of the most notable pieces is the stained-glass window on the second-floor balcony — procured from the Louvre’s original greenhouse in Paris.
The Stella Hotel
Lake Walk
Enjoy a breath of fresh air at The Stella Hotel, an Autograph Collection hotel located in the heart of Lake Walk. The Stella’s resort-style pool, elevated cuisine, stellar rooms and suites, and spa within walking distance is sure to give you the R&R you’ve been craving. The only thing better than The Stella itself? The expansive views of Aggieland you can soak in from your hotel room window.
The LaSalle Hotel
The Milton Parker Estate B&B
The Stella Hotel
Thank You
Thank you to the passionate, dedicated people of Bryan who have revitalized this town with new businesses, events, support, and ideas implemented with creativity and care.
Because of you, Bryan, Texas, is
“A Legend Reborn”
About Destination Bryan
At Destination Bryan, we are committed to making a positive impact by ensuring everything we do aligns with our goal to leave Bryan better than we found it.
We love our town, and we love sharing it with others—like you!
Destination Bryan is a 501c(6) non-profit dedicated to creating economic impact through tourism. We are the o cial destination marketing organization for Bryan, Texas, led by Executive Director John Friebele and our dedicated Board of Directors. Our organization drives economic growth through tourism marketing and destination development to improve the quality of life for Bryan’s residents.
With 10 full-time sta -members and a growing internship program, Destination Bryan is dedicated to working together, building our community, and leaving a lasting legacy in Bryan, TX.
Director of Marketing: Chris Riggins
PR & Communications Coordinator:
Content
Contributing
Brand
Lina Adams
Coordinator: Mary Murphy
Writer: Maryhelen Guerrero
Photographers: Alex Beckman, Ryan Price, Jet Norway
Lake Walk
My List
of Things to Do in Bryan, TX
