For years I operated under the assumption that Bryan was just an extension of College Station, more or less dependent on its neighbor to the south—and Texas A&M University—for its identity. I had figured that of the two cities, College Station was the one with something to offer in the way of delicious dishes, trendy drinks, and exciting entertainment. After all, it’s a college town. But I’m happy, and humbled, to report that I was absolutely, unequivocally wrong. Yes, Bryan is proudly part of Greater Aggieland, but no, it doesn’t exist in the shadow of the university. The town, founded in 1871, five years before A&M was established, has a distinctive personality and history. The 90,000-person city is home to more than its fair share of fantastic restaurants, bars, entertainment, and hotels. In fact, the problem with Bryan isn’t that it’s hard to find something there to do; it’s knowing where to start.
Houston
1.5 hours
Austin
2 hours
Dallas
3 hours
San Antonio
3 hours
El Paso
10 hours
1 ⁄ THE STELLA HOTEL
Since opening in 2017, this modern, upscale lodging has been named a Top 20 hotel in Texas four times by readers of Condé Nast Traveler. Though it has garnered national accolades, there is nothing stuffy about the property. Surrounded by a spacious courtyard with a firepit and cornhole sets, the Stella feels as much like a friend’s lake house as a luxury hotel. Rooms start at $189/night.
2 ⁄ ZEITMAN’S GROCERY STORE
Part Jewish delicatessen, part Italian gastronomia, this downtown shop is a rare find in the state. Zeitman’s specializes in house-made bagels and baked goods, and its sandwich options are authentic to those found in New York City’s Lower East Side. Order a Reuben sandwich—advertised as “obnoxiously big”—and fruit-filled thumbprint cookies for dessert.
3 ⁄ CARNEY’S PUB
The pub’s interior is gloriously divey, and it serves classic bar fare and local craft brews on tap. If low ceilings and dim lighting aren’t your style, step out back and enjoy your beer at a table under the shade oak while listening to live local music. There’s no better place, outside of Kyle Field, to watch Aggie football games.
4 ⁄ ED’S BOOKSHOP
With a sizable inventory of used and rare books, it’s easy to lose track of time sifting through the shelves at Ed’s Bookshop. The shop specializes in Western and Texana literature including first editions and historic hardcovers.
5 ⁄ BRAZOS VALLEY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
The museum, founded in 1961, offers an in-depth look at the area from its dinosaur days to its prominent role in ranching and cotton farming. Explore rocks and minerals found throughout the state and artifacts from iconic figures in Texas history.