15 Fun Things To Do In College Station That You Didn't Know

College Station, home to the flagship campus of Texas A&M University, stands as a dynamic blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit. Founded alongside the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas in the 1870s, the campus opened its doors to 40 cadets and six faculty members on October 4, 1876, rooted in prominent land-grant ideals that stressed practical education, military discipline, and leadership formation. Over time, Texas A&M evolved into one of only a few U.S. institutions to hold coveted land-, sea- and space-grant status—cementing its role as a powerhouse in research and learning.

Today, College Station is a thriving city of nearly 128,000 residents as of 2025, part of the broader Bryan–College Station metro area home to over 287,000, more than quadrupling its mid-20th-century population. Central to this growth is the university itself, with over 76,000 students on the main campus, known affectionately as Aggieland.

Visitors enter through a mosaic of history and modernity—from the iconic Academic Building (1914) and the legendary Century Tree to contemporary landmarks like Kyle Field’s sea of maroon and the Memorial Student Center’s bustling heart. This is a place where military heritage meets cutting-edge architecture, where student-led traditions like the Corps of Cadets honor the past while the 12th Man ethos rallies thousands in present-day camaraderie.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore fun things to do in College Station, Texas.

1. Explore Texas A&M University Campus

📍Location – 400 Bizzell St, College Station, TX 77843

Wandering through the Texas A&M University campus is like stepping into a living tapestry of tradition, architecture, and community energy. Founded in 1876 under the Morrill Act as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas—Texas's first public university—the campus was built on land donated by Brazos County and began with a modest class of just 40 cadets and six faculty members. Today, the campus stretches over 5,200 acres and hosts over 76,000 students, showcasing evolution from its humble origins into a modern educational hub.

Start your exploration in the heart of campus, known as Academic Plaza, where the iconic dome of the Academic Building rises above leafy walkways. This is a fitting introduction to the campus’s architectural rhythm: stately early-20th-century buildings nestling beside gleaming new research structures. Nearby, the Century Tree—a beloved landmark estimated to be over a century old—beckons visitors to partake in the timeless tradition: couples walk beneath its branches as a wishful ceremony said to ensure long-lasting love.

From there, amble through Aggie Park, a lush 20-acre quad accented with water features, an outdoor amphitheater, and a quaint ice-cream stand—perfect for pausing between stops. Skillfully integrated throughout the campus are statues like Sul Ross, which draws student crowds before major exams—students leave pennies at its base for good luck, continuing a century-old ritual.

Be sure to visit the Appelt Aggieland Visitor Center in the Rudder Tower complex, where friendly student ambassadors guide self-paced or scheduled tours. Towering above is Rudder Hall, whose observation deck offers sweeping views toward Kyle Field—the stadium that pulses with Aggie spirit on game days.

Across campus, the Cushing Memorial Library and Sterling C. Evans Library preserve archives and rare collections, inviting scholars and curious minds alike. And while strolling, you might hear an echo of tradition: band drills or cadets marching, reminders that Texas A&M remains firmly rooted in its rich history as one of the six senior military colleges in the U.S.

Exploring Texas A&M’s campus is more than a walk—it’s immersion in over a century of stories, a deep sense of belonging, and a living embrace of Aggie identity.

2. Experience Game Day Energy at Kyle Field

📍 Location: 756 Houston St, College Station, TX 77843

There’s no sensation quite like standing shoulder‑to‑shoulder with over 100,000 fellow Aggies inside Kyle Field, Texas A&M’s legendary football cathedral. Originally built in 1904 and expanded numerous times, the stadium now seats 102,733, securing its place as the fourth‑largest stadium in college football and one of the loudest home-field environments in the nation.

Game day at Kyle Field is more than football—it’s a ritual. Fans arrive early to tailgate at Aggie Park, participate in Midnight Yell the night before, and line the Military Walk as the Corps marches into the stadium. Once the game begins, the roar of the 12th Man—especially within the 36,000‑strong student section—creates a charged atmosphere that players call “second to none”.

Recent upgrades—like LED lighting, enhanced Wi‑Fi, and mobile water refill stations—have improved comfort while preserving tradition.

3. Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

📍Location – 1000 George Bush Dr W, College Station, TX 77845

Located on Texas A&M’s west campus, the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum spans a sprawling 90-acre site and was dedicated in November 1997, marking Aggieland as the home of one of just four presidential libraries on a university campus. Designed by HOK/Helmuth, Obata + Kassabaum, its architecture reflects both presidential stature and campus harmony, situated beside the Bush School of Government and Public Service and the Annenberg Conference Center.

Inside, visitors explore over 80,700 sq ft of interactive exhibits that document Bush’s life—from his early years through his vice presidency and the challenges of his term as the 41st president. Highlights include a faithful reconstruction of the Oval Office, multimedia stories about key moments like the fall of the Berlin Wall, and rotating special exhibits designed to provoke thought and civic engagement.

The library also houses the Bush family gravesite outdoors, offering a contemplative space beside the buildings where the president and former first lady Barbara Bush are laid to rest. Among the newest attractions is the Union Pacific 4141 locomotive, painted in Air Force One livery, now on permanent display in the museum pavilion

4. Relax at Lick Creek Park

📍Location – 13600 Rock Prairie Rd, College Station, TX 77845

Escape the spirited hustle of campus and city life, and immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of Lick Creek Park, a 523-acre nature preserve in College Station that many locals consider the crown jewel of the region. Located at 13600 Rock Prairie Road, this sanctuary is where the native Brazos Valley ecosystem thrives amid miles of scenic trails, creeks, and woodland.

Five miles of clearly marked pathways weave gently through prairies and forests, ideal for hiking, cycling, bird watching, and horseback riding. Visitors often spot regional wildlife—from songbirds and turtles to the endangered Navasota Ladies' Tresses wildflower—adding unexpected moments of wonder to every stroll. At its heart stands a modest yet welcoming nature center, open mornings and afternoons most days, offering restrooms, interpretive displays, and seasonal educational programs.

Benches and shaded trailheads pepper the landscape, creating inviting pauses for reflection by the creek or among tall Texas oaks. Whether you're a serious birder, a family seeking a quiet afternoon, or simply in need of fresh air, Lick Creek balances wild beauty with easy comfort: clear signage, guided outreach, and a sense of being far from—and yet so close to—campus life .

5. Enjoy Cultural Events at The Theatre Company

📍Location – 3125 S Texas Ave #500, Bryan, TX 77802

From the calm trails of Lick Creek Park, it’s time to reconnect with creative energy at The Theatre Company, the heart of live performance in College Station. Founded in 1967 and housed in a charming renovated storefront downtown, this community theater is a local institution that nurtures both emerging and seasoned artists.

The stage, seating fewer than 200, offers an intimate setting where theatrical displays feel deeply personal—whether you’re watching a heartfelt drama, a rousing musical, or a playful comedy. The volunteer-driven productions vary throughout the year, and programming often includes classic plays, holiday performances, and special educational events for children and families.

Audiences appreciate the cozy ambiance and strong community vibe. One review shared: “It’s like watching theater in your friend’s living room—so heartfelt and engaging.” The storefront lobby hosts refreshments and vibrant chatter before and after the show, creating a lively cultural hub from modest surroundings.

6. Discover the Brazos Valley Farmers Market

📍Location – 500 N Main St, Bryan, TX 77803

The Brazos Valley Farmers Market is a Saturday morning staple in the College Station area, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delicacies. Located in nearby Bryan, the market is open year-round, rain or shine, and features a range of vendors selling everything from seasonal vegetables to baked goods and artisan crafts.

This bustling market allows visitors to experience the flavors of the Brazos Valley region, from organic honey and fresh-baked bread to locally grown vegetables. It’s an excellent place to chat with local farmers and artisans, sample unique Texas-made products, and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Supporting the Brazos Valley Farmers Market not only promotes local businesses but also connects you with the heart of the community.

7. Explore the Trails and Wildlife at Lick Creek Park

📍 Location: 13600 Rock Prairie Rd, College Station, TX 77845

Return to Lick Creek Park with fresh eyes for its trails and wildlife—a gift not just of scenery, but of community stewardship and serene adventure. Spanning over 523 acres with five miles of marked trails, this preserve leads visitors through prairies, cypress bottoms, and hardwood forests where native species flourish, including the endangered Navasota ladies'-tresses wildflower.

The trail system includes named routes like Deer Run (~1.7 mi), Iron Bridge (~1.2 mi), Post Oak (~0.9 mi), Raccoon Run (~0.8 mi), and Yaupon Loop (~0.4 mi), designed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding—with equestrian access by permit only. The easy-to-follow trail markers and junction maps make navigation intuitive; one visitor noted the well-maintained meadows and woodland paths—but also cautioned about mosquitoes near stagnant water in summer.

Lick Creek is a wildlife haven. Birdwatchers come across summer tanagers, warblers, vireos, and egrets. On the ground, deer, turtles, armadillos, and occasional reptiles weave through the underbrush, offering unexpected glimpses of Texas fauna. The onsite Gary Halter Nature Center serves as both trailhead and educational hub, providing restrooms, seasonal interpretive programs, and occasional events like the City Nature Challenge

8. Experience Northgate District

📍Location – University Dr & College Main St, College Station, TX 77840

From tranquil nature to spirited traditions, now shift your focus to the vibrant pulse of student life: the Northgate District. Just north of Texas A&M’s campus, this lively entertainment hub thrives on music, camaraderie, and community energy.

Centered around Northgate Boulevard, the area bustles with dozens of bars, restaurants, live-music venues, and late-night spots—many featuring free cover, live DJs, or Aggie band pop-ups. Venues range from cozy pubs to high-energy bars, creating a social landscape that evolves throughout the week: open mic nights, trivia contests, and themed weekends dominate the mid-week, while game-day festivities bring the district to life with tailgate energy and marching band serenades.

For food lovers, Northgate offers an eclectic lineup—Tex-Mex nachos after a football win, late-night tacos, upscale gastropubs, or a slice from a 24-hour pizza joint. Locals say it’s the place where "the student experience meets live culture," creating memories that last well past graduation.

9. Learn at the Museum of the American GI

📍Location – 19124 Hwy 6, College Station, TX 77845

Shifting from student districts buzz and urban trails, the Museum of the American G.I.—nestled at 19124 Highway 6 South—offers an immersive dive into U.S. military history that’s as educational as it is visceral.

Housed in a 20,000 sq ft hangar, it holds one of the finest collections of operational military vehicles in the U.S.—from WWI FT‑17 tanks and Sherman tanks to half‑tracks, jeeps, Vietnam-era patrol boats, and helicopters. Uniforms, medals, and propaganda posters add personal depth, while the moving displays memorialize Texans—from WWII to Vietnam—with over 3,400 dog tags in the poignant “Texas Vietnam Heroes” exhibit.

The museum’s signature Living History Weekend in March brings history to life: visitors can fire a howitzer, ride in a tank or chopper, watch reenactments, and browse a wartime swap meet. Monthly “Night at the Museum” events (June–September) also allow close-up interaction with working vehicles and WWII weaponry.

10. Go Wild at Aggieland Safari

📍 Location: 18075 FM 974, Bryan, TX 77808 (just outside College Station)

If your crew includes curious kids or animal lovers of any age, Aggieland Safari is an unforgettable stop. It’s a drive-thru safari park and adventure zoo rolled into one—and just a short ride from the heart of College Station. You can stay in your car and feed exotic animals through the window (seriously) or get out and walk the petting zoo, aviary, and reptile house on foot.

From towering giraffes to playful goats, this place keeps everyone smiling. There are shaded picnic areas and a snack bar, so you can make it a full afternoon trip without scrambling for lunch. Educational talks and feeding demos happen throughout the day, which means you get more than just a drive-by experience. For visitors looking for things to do in College Station for families, this place checks every box—fun, interactive, safe, and way more exciting than your average petting zoo.

11. Bite Into Big Flavor at Fuego Tortilla Grill

📍 Location: 108 Poplar St, College Station, TX 77840

Few places capture the spirit of College Station like Fuego Tortilla Grill. It’s loud, lively, and the tacos are ridiculous in the best way possible. We're talking over-the-top combos like brisket mac & cheese, chicken with poblano cream, and monster breakfast tacos the size of your face.

The line moves fast, the salsa bar is legit, and the energy never dies. It’s not just food—it’s a local ritual. The vibe is casual, the portions are generous, and the prices won’t make you cry. If you’re Googling places to eat in College Station and haven’t seen Fuego pop up, you’re probably using the wrong internet. Locals, students, and out-of-towners all agree: this place is a must. Tip—order online if it’s packed and just swoop in like a taco ninja.

12. Walk the Legend: The Century Tree Tradition

📍 Location: Academic Plaza, Texas A&M Campus, College Station, TX 77843

In a town full of traditions, The Century Tree might be the most romantic one of all. Located in Academic Plaza on the Texas A&M campus, this massive live oak is the site of countless marriage proposals and whispered “what ifs.” Legend has it that if a couple walks hand-in-hand under its arching limbs, they’re destined to get married. People don’t just take this lightly—some even plan entire proposals around the walk.

Even if you’re not part of a love story, the tree is still a beautiful, peaceful spot to visit. The limbs stretch dramatically over a walkway, casting perfect shade and offering a calm break from the rest of campus. There’s often a quiet crowd—students studying, alumni reminiscing, or visitors just soaking it in. As an attraction in College Station, the Century Tree is subtle but unforgettable. It’s not flashy, but it carries so much history and emotion that it tends to stick with you long after you’ve left.

13. Discover Aggie Spirit at the Benjamin Knox Gallery

📍 Location: 405 University Dr E, College Station, TX 77840

If you’re asking yourself what to do in College Station that combines art, culture, and local pride, make time for the Benjamin Knox Gallery. Located just across from campus, this beautifully designed gallery and wine bar is filled with original works by the Aggie alum himself. His style blends realism with storytelling, often capturing game day, campus scenes, and nostalgic Texas moments in vivid detail.

It’s more than just a place to buy art—it’s a full experience. You can tour the gallery, watch videos of his creative process, or even chat with staff who are just as passionate about the pieces as the artist. There’s also a wine bar on-site if you feel like relaxing with a drink while taking in the view.

14. Tour and Taste at Blackwater Draw Brewing Co.

📍 Location: 701 N Main St, Bryan, TX 77803

After soaking in campus culture at the Benjamin Knox Gallery, it's time to sample local craftsmanship in liquid form. Blackwater Draw Brewing Co., nestled in historic Downtown Bryan at 701 N Main St, is a community-focused brewpub known for bold Texas flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.

Founded in 2013 by Aggie alumni, Blackwater Draw crafts its beers on-site using locally sourced ingredients—from their signature Contract Killer coffee porter made with beans from nearby roasters, to seasonal creations served fresh from their brewhouse behind the bar. With four house-brewed taps and rotating guest selections, it's the go-to spot for beer lovers and casual tasters alike.

Inside, the rustic-industrial space features exposed tanks, barrel-stave taps, and long communal tables perfect for sharing a pint and conversation. One Yelp review sums it up well: “Great view and friendly service from a local company. Ambiance is exactly what I expect from a Bryan/College Station brewery.”

15. Eat, Shop, and Chill at Century Square

📍 Location: 175 Century Square Dr, College Station, TX 77840

Looking for one spot that checks all the boxes? Century Square is College Station’s modern answer to, well… everything. This vibrant development has trendy shops, dining spots, a boutique hotel, rooftop bars, and even outdoor seating areas with fire pits and yard games.

Some locals come for the tacos at Velvet Taco. Others show up for happy hour at PORTERS or the seasonal craft cocktails at The Canteen. And yes, there’s dessert—hello, Sweet Paris crêpes. The lawn in the center often hosts family movie nights, fitness classes, or live music on the weekends. It’s an all-ages hangout spot with a college-town pulse. Think big city energy with small town friendliness.

It’s also an ideal place to bring out-of-towners who want to get a taste of what College Station has become—modern, stylish, but still totally Texan.

Conclusion

College Station, TX, offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrant energy, making it a destination that captures the essence of Texas charm. From the iconic Texas A&M University campus and the historic George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to the natural beauty of Lick Creek Park and the lively scene in the Northgate District, this city has something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, explore scenic landscapes, and experience the rich cultural fabric that defines College Station.

The city’s thriving arts scene, fresh local flavors at the Brazos Valley Farmers Market, and engaging museums like the Museum of the American GI all contribute to its unique appeal. College Station combines the warmth of Southern hospitality with the excitement of a college town, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. No matter your interests, College Station, TX, promises memories that will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.

Find amazing deals on College Station vacation rentals with Karta and get ready to discover the charm and excitement that await in this dynamic town. 

FAQ

1. What is College Station, TX known for?

College Station is best known as the home of Texas A&M University and for its lively Northgate District. It also features attractions like the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Lick Creek Park.

2. Is College Station a good place to visit for families?

Yes! Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Lick Creek Park, visit the Museum of the American GI, and explore educational sites like the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

3. How far is College Station from Houston?

College Station is approximately 95 miles northwest of Houston, about a 90-minute drive.

4. Are there any outdoor activities in College Station?

Absolutely! Lick Creek Park offers hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching, and the Brazos Valley Farmers Market provides an outdoor shopping experience.

5. What are the best nightlife options in College Station?

The Northgate District is College Station’s nightlife hub, offering bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

6. Can I tour the Texas A&M University campus?

Yes, visitors can explore the Texas A&M campus, including landmarks like Kyle Field, the Memorial Student Center, and the Bonfire Memorial.

7. What is there to do in College Station besides Texas A&M?

Beyond Texas A&M, College Station offers attractions like the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, Lick Creek Park, and the Museum of the American GI.

8. Where can I find local food and crafts in College Station?

The Brazos Valley Farmers Market in nearby Bryan is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, and unique local crafts.