16+ Things to Do in Bryan TX

Experience an African Safari

Walk through or drive-thru the Aggieland Safari and see all of their different animals. Meet George, the friendly giraffe, who is a favorite among visitors.

You can even feed giraffes and make new animal friends. If you go early, you can take a complimentary bus tour that offers a lot of extra information about the animals.

here I am holding parakeets at the aggieland safari

Escape to Paradise

Lake Walk is a great spot to add to your list of things to do in Bryan TX. Visitors can relax by the water feature, enjoying the soothing environment. It features a collection of dining, retail, technology, and wellness offerings for the community complemented by a water feature and a tower overlooking the Brazos Valley. Many of the businesses here work as a community to celebrate music, art, design, nature, and there are often a variety of events taking place at Lake Walk, like community yoga on the lawn, along with numerous outdoor activities such as scenic hikes, picnics, and birdwatching.

Learn About the Brazos Valley

The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History shares the science, history, and culture of the area. I loved getting to see so many dinosaur fossils, a Native American sculpture made of whalebone, and an exhibit filled with live snakes, reptiles, and other creatures.

dinosuar head fossil at the brazos valley museum of natural history

a piece of fluorite at the brazos valley museum

Explore Downtown Bryan

The first Friday of every month in Bryan kicks off with a celebration in the downtown square where you can find vendors, mobile food trucks, and live performances, like Fiestas Patrias with a mariachi band and folklorico dancers! The lively streets come alive during First Friday events, offering a vibrant social and cultural atmosphere. Use this time to support local businesses and learn about the history of Bryan.

In addition, there are so many exciting shops to check out, including hip new boutiques that add to the town’s charm. Corner of Time has a wide range of fun antiques and treasures to find. If you’re looking for a new hat, head over to Catalena Hatters for made by hand cowboy hats. You can find the most ornate chocolates and tasty treats at the Chocolate Gallery. Plus, don’t forget Frame Gallery for unique art pieces.

Bryan and College Station offer unique experiences for visitors, from cultural events to shopping and dining, making it a memorable destination for all.

mexican dresses from a vendor at the fiestas patrias event

Visit an Underground Bar

Tucked away in the basement of the LaSalle Hotel, the doors of 5 Knocks Speakeasy open to a unique experience, making it one of the many fun and unique bars that you can find in Bryan TX. Its interior will take you back to the Prohibition Era where you can pretend to enjoy their craft beer and cocktails in secret while absorbing the historic atmosphere.

red light illuminating a couch at the 5 knocks speakeasy.

See Some Razzle Dazzle

This is another bar reminiscent of days long past. Kick off your night at the 3rd Floor Cantina, a 1930s Era lounge that offers an extensive menu of draft beer, champagne, and martinis. The bar also features Cabaret performances, drag shows, dueling pianos, and live music.

Release Your Inner Shakira

For more of a party adventure, head over to the Halo Bar where they host drag shows almost every weekend, plus a live DJ and karaoke! Check their Facebook to see who will be on stage.

Support Texas Farmers and Artisans

The Brazos Valley Farmers’ Market is abundant with Texas-raised produce, flowers, and even meats that visitors can gather! The vibrant atmosphere of the market road adds to the charm, making it a delightful experience for everyone. You may even find some imported treasures you won’t be able to resist taking home with you, like olive oil pressed in Italy. Looking for a gift for that special someone? Choose from hand-made pottery, beauty care items, art pieces, or gifts for the foodie in your life.

multiple tents showcasing different foods and goods at the brazos valley farmers market.

Celebrate African American History

The Brazos Valley African American Museum opened in 2006 and focuses on promoting the history and education of African Americans in the Brazos Valley. It’s a great way to learn about the contributions that African Americans have made to the area and to America in general. You’ll have to keep coming back because they have rotating exhibits and guest speakers, so who knows what you’ll learn next!

an image of frederick douglas surrounded by pews and displays at the brazos valley african american museum

Eat, Sleep, and Drink Wine

We were so excited to visit the original Messina Hof Winery! Visitors can relax while enjoying the beautiful vineyards. As one of the best wineries in Texas, we knew we were in for a treat. They have beautiful vineyards to stroll through, a restaurant on-site that we booked for brunch the next day, and a beautiful bed and breakfast for people who want to stay the night. We loved getting to try the different wines and I wish I had more days just to come back and sample more. They also offer winery tours that highlight the vibrant food scene and cultural offerings in Bryan, Texas.

Kayak at Sunset

To end the day, we enjoyed the sunset at Lake Bryan. We saw so many people swimming in the lake, as well as hiking the trails, and camping. There are several kayaks you can rent and take for a spin on the lake, so we enjoyed a scenic paddle into the sunset.

Hunt for Antique Treasures

If antiquing is your idea of a good time or you love to shop and have always wanted to give it a try, Bryan TX has the perfect place for you: the charming Corner of Time Antiques & Collectables Mall. With 6,000 square feet full of local antique dealers and the opportunity to experience a real-life auction (just check their online schedule!), you’re bound to leave with a new favorite item for your home or a souvenir for someone dear to you.

We can’t forget to mention it’s also home to the largest working soda fountain bar in Texas! Reminiscent of the 1890’s, you can order tasty ice cream floats and phosphates, which pre-dated ice cream in the 1900’s, to make your antiquing trip in Bryan TX even better!

Dine Like Royalty

The Vintage House Restaurant sits right on the Messina Hof Estate, combining fresh produce from the estate garden with the perfect selection of Messina Hof wines. Visitors can relax while enjoying their meal in this serene and picturesque setting.

Party in Bryan TX

The Hullabaloo Blues Fest is a celebration of Labor Day weekend in Bryan TX. There is free live music from a variety of blues bands & local food trucks to enjoy.

Eat a Chef-Prepared Meal in the Forest

Ronin Restaurant is the definition of a farm-to-table dining service. The majority of their ingredients come directly from their farm near Lake Bryan. The menu changes daily based upon the available ingredients, and they also host farm dinners, as well as different cooking classes and workshops. In addition to these culinary experiences, they offer art classes that provide hands-on opportunities for both kids and adults to explore their creativity. These dinners allow you to tour the farm followed by a dining experience in the forest.

Gone, But Not Forgotten

Busha’s Custom Cookies is now permanently closed.

Make Custom Cookies

Busha’s is a local business that offers custom cookies for any occasion, as well as classes where both kids and adults can learn how to make their own custom cookies! You can book a beginner’s class or a private lesson where you’ll learn to make six different custom designs. They supply all the materials, and you get to leave with all six of your beautifully decorated cookies. Snap some photos of your creations and then chow down! Who knows, you may leave with a new hobby you’ll want to continue practicing at home.

Things to Do in Bryan TX: Final Thoughts

Although it’s most well-known as home of the Aggies, Bryan TX embodies the Texas spirit by celebrating its rich culture and community. There are activities available for the whole family, ensuring fun and engagement for all ages. Bryan also seeks to incorporate and preserve nature while celebrating the history, creativity, and ingenuity of local Texans. You can also find a richly diverse food and bar scene to fuel you as you discover all the uniquely Bryan experiences. Next, read what else we experienced on our second trip to Bryan TX!

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Last Updated 1 day ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: January 22, 2022