Art Excursion Tour

8 Must See Galleries

The Arts Council of Brazos Valley

Located at 4180 Texas 6 Frontage Rd, College Station, TX 77845, The Arts Council of Brazos Valley has served the arts, cultural and heritage needs of the residents, artists, businesses and visitors of the Brazos Valley. The Arts Council's extensive programs include frequent exhibitions in the 4180 and Bradfield Fine Art Galleries. The Arts Council’s building is the home to three working artist studios, often the artists are available and love to interact with the visitors. Right down the street is Stella Southern Cafe with a beautiful wall mural painted on the side of the building. Stop in for brunch and a quick photo op!

DEGALLERY

Located at 702 University Drive East Suite 102 D, College Station, TX 77840, step out of the ordinary and into the extraordinary world of art at DEGALLERY. Explore rotating exhibits of fine art from around the world or create a masterpiece of your own with our tailor made step-by-step art classes for artists of all ages! Whether you’ve never picked up a paint brush, or have a fully stocked art studio of your own, our classes offer an incredible experience for artists of every background and age. Degallery: Where everyone is an artist. Looking for a wine and dine experience following your exploration into fine art? The Republic Steakhouse is just a few feet away.

Benjamin Knox Gallery

Located at 405 University Dr E, College Station, TX 77840, the main building of the Benjamin Knox Gallery and Art Center is the rebuilt historic College Station train depot designed by Benjamin Knox. He designed the adjoining buildings in the same colorful train depot style combined with Texas vernacular architectural elements. Included on the facility grounds are mature oak trees, antique railroad memorabilia, and a 1905 antique caboose moved from Bergamot Station, Santa Monica, CA. Benjamin’s vision of bringing back the depot became a reality in 2001 after six years of intensive research, dedication, thorough design, and perseverance. Catch an early dinner at Chrisopher’s World Grille or Veritas Wine and Bistro while on this side of town. We promise you won’t be disappointed at these fine dining establishments.

The Gardens at Texas A&M University

Located at 556 John Kimbrough Blvd, College Station, learning and progress is important, especially on campus – but there’s tremendous value in taking time for fun and relaxation. Seasonal community events-from holiday lights to summer celebrations get people outdoors and enjoying each other and nature. Additionally, cooking classes, music, literature, art, and entertainment are all heightened with nature as the backdrop. A space for special events and gathering with loved ones enriches our community and campus.

Brazos Glassworks

Located at 202B W 26th St, Bryan, TX 77803, we are a handcrafted gift gallery and stained glass shop in historic downtown Bryan, Texas. We also offer a variety of classes and workshops for individuals or small groups. Stop by to browse our collection of one of a kind handcrafted gifts or let us design a special piece just for you!

SEAD Gallery

Located at 216 W 26th St, Bryan, TX 77803, SEAD Gallery provides a venue to explore collaborations across the disciplines of Science, Engineering, Art and Design. Through exhibits and events, Advent GX seeks to encourage innovation and discover new ways to understand and positively impact our communities and our world. The name SEAD is inspired by the work of the Network for Science, Engineering, Art and Design, which facilitates research, dialogue, and communication among those working in these disciplines. Take a short walk to the Village Cafe for lunch or dinner before exploring the rest of our unique downtown Bryan.

J Wayne Stark Galleries - University Art Galleries

Located in Room 1110, Memorial Student Center, 275 Joe Routt Blvd, College Station, TX 77843, is part of the Texas A&M University Art Galleries, home to the J. Wayne Stark Galleries and the Forsyth Galleries, provides a variety of opportunities to experience art exhibitions, events, hands-on art activities, and lectures on the Texas A&M University campus.

Forsyth Gallery

Located in 4229-TAMU MSC Suite 2440, College Station, TX 77843, is part of the Texas A&M University Art Galleries, home to the J. Wayne Stark Galleries and the Forsyth Galleries, provides a variety of opportunities to experience art exhibitions, events, hands-on art activities, and lectures on the Texas A&M University campus. After finishing up on campus, swing right down Texas Ave to Fuego for the best, and most unique, tacos you have EVER had.

10 Unique Street Art Murals

Gogh Gogh Coffee Company - 4121 Hwy 6, College Station, TX 77845

Stella Southern Cafe - 4040 Hwy 6 #100, College Station, TX 77845

Aggieland Outfitters - 208 George Bush Dr, College Station, TX 77840

Mad Taco - 404 Jane St #400, College Station, TX 77840

Century Square - 144 Century Ct, College Station

West 31st Street - West 31st, Bryan TX, 77806

Village Cafe - 210 W 26th St, Bryan, TX 77803

Cafe Capri - 222 N Main St, Bryan, TX 77803

Revolution Bar - 211 S Main St, Bryan, TX 77803

Blues Alley - 129 E Washington Ave, Navasota, TX 77868

9 Remarkable Historical Sites

Washington on the Brazos

Located at 23400 Park Rd 12, Washington, TX 77880, the picturesque Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located on the Brazos River. The expansive park grounds along the Brazos River provide a beautiful setting for picnicking, sightseeing and bird-watching. The Star of the Republic Museum, Independence Hall and Barrington Living History Farm, offer the visitor a unique insight into the lives and times of the men who fought and won Texas' independence from Mexico.

Museum of the American GI

Located at 19124 Hwy 6, College Station, TX 77845, this museum endeavors to keep the living history of the American Servicemen who proudly served our country and continue to do so today. Experience the awesome power of American fighting machines at the Museum of the American G.I. in the city of College Station. With one of the finest collections of fully restored military vehicles from World War I, World War II, and beyond, the museum offers both up-close encounters with these incredible feats of engineering, as well as insights into the lives of the brave soldiers who rode them into combat. Don’t miss the museum’s annual Living History Weekend, featuring tank and helicopter rides, battle reenactments, swap meet, and more.

Sanders Corps of Cadets Center

Located at Texas A&M University, 1400 Coke St, College Station, TX 77843, the Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadets Center is home to a museum that houses thousands of Aggie artifacts and a library with over 3,000 military research volumes. The Sanders Corps of Cadet Center depicts the Corps of Cadets from its beginning in 1876 to today. The exhibits describe the traditions and history of Texas A&M University and include Silver Taps, the Aggie Band, Parsons Mounted Cavalry, the 12th Man, the Ross Volunteers, Aggie Muster, Bonfire, Reveille, Cadet life and an Aggie Ring case. Also housed in the Corps Center is the Metzger -Sanders Antique Firearm Collection.

Hall of Honor

Located in the Texas A&M MSC, the building, which serves as the campus’ student union, was dedicated in 1951 to all Aggies killed in action. The eight Aggie recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor — the nation’s highest military award for bravery — are also honored through a permanent display showcased inside the MSC. The names and likenesses of those former students are commemorated in the Hall of Honor. The Aggies Lost in Service Memorial at the east end of the hall lists the names of Aggies who have died in past wars.

Bonfire Memorial

Located at Texas A&M University, History Walk / Spirit Ring, College Station, TX 77843, the Bonfire Memorial embodies many layers of meaning associated with the Aggie Spirit—a deep sense of belonging, a strong spirit of teamwork and leadership and an enduring sense of tradition that unites thousands. On November 18, 2004, the Bonfire Memorial opened on schedule and in pouring rain. Today, the site is frequently visited by individuals who leave flowers or mementos at the Centerpole marker. According to Shemwell, “People now have candlelight vigils at 2 a.m. in the fog,” as they reflect upon loss, school spirit, and tradition. I would say this is hands down the most moving monument in the county. Looking for lunch right off campus? Layne’s Chicken is right across Texas Ave and is a College Station favorite.

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Located at 1000 George Bush Dr W, College Station, TX 77845, get an in-depth, interactive look at eight years of presidential history at America's 13th presidential library and museum. Explore important issues and events of the administration of President George W. Bush as framed by four themes: freedom, opportunity, compassion and responsibility. Exhibits are constantly changing, so you can always come back for more. Extend your visit with a stroll through the 15-acre Native Texas Park and take home a piece of the presidency from the Museum Store.While you are in the area , there is none better in the Brazos Valley than Amico Nave for local italian flare and Shipwreck Grill for the freshest seafood in town. They are just a short drive away for a local lunch or dinner spot!

The Queen Theater

Located at 110 S Main St, Bryan, TX 77803, the Queen operated as a movie theatre from 1939 to the mid 1970's. The Downtown Bryan Association purchased the Queen in 2010 and began to revive the iconic building. The Queen Theatre reopened May 4, 2018 as a single screen film house and performance venue. The Queen also houses the Downtown Bryan Association offices, a Downtown Bryan visitor's center in the lobby and is available to rent for private events. While you are exploring downtown Bryan, make sure to stop in All the King’s Men for some of the best BBQ in town.

Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History

Located at 3232 Briarcrest Dr, Bryan, TX 77802, the Museum strives to stimulate understanding of the dynamic relationships between the people and their natural environment and to encourage responsible stewardship of all natural resources. The focus of the Museum is science and natural and cultural history. Galleries include: fossil exhibits, sculptures, antique farming and survey equipment, a discovery room with more than fifteen varieties of live animals, dozens of taxidermy mounts, educational resources and several rotating exhibits. Through activities at the Museum and through outreach to schools and other community organizations, the Museum teaches respect and appreciation for the region's natural and cultural history.

Veterans Memorial Park

Located at 3101 Harvey Rd, College Station, TX 77845, Tucked away in College Station’s Veterans Park and Athletic Complex at 3101 Harvey Road is a hidden gem – a 12-acre site dedicated to veterans from our nation’s wars. The Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial includes life-sized statues, a Wall of Honor, interpretive panels and memorial sites. I dare say there isn't another memorial park in the US other than in Washington, D.C. as well-done as this one. It's must-see for anyone passing through this area if the red, white, and blue flows through your veins.

6 Eye-Opening Cultural Experiences

Horlock House: Art Gallery & History Museum

Located at 1215 E Washington Ave, Navasota, TX 77868, the house is almost fully restored to the "Stick" Victorian Style with some Eastlake influence. The house was donated to the Grimes County Heritage Association in 1981 and is currently owned by the City of Navasota. The Navasota Artist in Residence program gives three artists the opportunity to live and create art at the Horlock Art Gallery & History Museum. The house features living quarters, studio space, and gallery space, combining to create an unique experience and atmosphere for the artists.

Bottle Cap Alley

Located at 303 University Drive, College Station, TX, Bottle Cap Alley has become an important fixture of Texas A&M University. The strange ritual’s origins are not known, but they likely go back at least four decades. It may have started with the adjacent restaurant, The Dixie Chicken, dumping its bottle caps in the alley every night, along with other local bars and restaurants. What better recycling bin is there than an entire street dedicated to bottle caps themselves? Of course, you can’t visit Northgate without stopping in at the Dixie Chicken. Conveniently, it is one of the buildings bordering Bottle Cap Alley!

Brazos Valley African American Museum

Located at 500 E Pruitt St, Bryan, TX 77803, the African American National Heritage Society (dba) Brazos Valley African American Museum was built on the site of one of the original black schools in the Brazos Valley. It was the brainchild of retired educator, Mrs. Mell Pruitt and became officially recognized and functioning in 1999. The museum is the first establishment of its kind to promote the history of African American citizens in the Brazos Valley. The museum opened its doors to the public on July 22, 2006.

Downtown Bryan - A Quaint Cultural Hub

The Downtown Bryan square essentially embodies of Main Street USA. In addition to housing some of the city’s best restaurants (3rd on Main, Casa Rod Mexican diner, Café Capri, and Madden’s to name a few), if you time your visit right Downtown Bryan hosts First Friday, a free event that shuts down the streets for after-hours art and culture-based fun every month. Looking for a unique weeknight activity? Don’t miss Village Café’s Wednesday night salsa lesson.

The Century Tree

Located near the Academic Building, is a place that holds a special place in the heart of many Aggies. Well over 100 years old, the tree was one of the first trees planted on Texas A&M's massive 5,200-acre campus. The beautiful live oak has been the site of countless Aggie marriage proposals, weddings, and tourist snapshots because of its immense size and its unique drooping branches, many of which rest on the ground. Tradition says that if a couple walks together underneath the Century Tree, they will eventually marry — and if a marriage proposal takes place under the tree, the marriage will last forever.

Boonville Heritage Park

Located at 2421 Boonville Rd, Bryan, TX 77802, provides an excellent overview of early life in Brazos County, Texas. Prior to its move to Bryan, Boonville was the county seat of Brazos County. Found on the property is the restored Turner-Peters Log Cabin, which dates back to the 1800s. There are also replicas of the Brazos County Courthouse, a smokehouse, and Brazos Union Lodge No. 129. In addition, there is a replica of a cannon consistent with the period.

7 Fun Hands-On Activities

Peach Creek Vineyards

Located at 2029 Peach Creek Rd., College Station, TX 77845, one of seven wineries along the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail—is conveniently located just a few miles south of College Station. Peach Creek offers five acres of vineyards, along with a tasting room and large event pavilion. Guests are invited to visit the Peach Creek Vineyards Tasting Room and sample one of the half-dozen varieties of wine, which range from red blends, muscat offerings and a white made from chenin blanc grapes. Visitors can enjoy their selection from one of Peach Creek’s decks, which overlook the vineyards and pond. The tasting room is open Saturdays from noon until 6 p.m. and Sunday afternoons from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., as well as by appointment.

Santa's Wonderland

Located at 18898 State Highway 6 South, College Station, TX 77845, this is our favorite seasonal option. Be on the lookout for early bird ticket pricing going on now! Come experience hayrides or carriage rides through thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights, meet Santa at Santa’s Cottage, visit Gingerbread Village or Lone Star lane, petting zoos, the best food in town, and so much more!

Messina Hof Winery

Located at 4545 Old Reliance Rd, Bryan, TX 77808. Texas Wine Is A Local Specialty. Who needs California grapes when an award-winning winery, Messina Hof, is nestled in the Bryan countryside? In addition to being the most recognized and renowned Texas winery, Messina Hof boasts a patio restaurant, romantic strolls through the vineyard and even a bed and breakfast for those looking for a small stay-cation. Unable to make it out to the winery? All local grocery stores carry Messina Hof wine, including College Station’s holy grail of supermarkets, H.E.B. Messina Hof is a family-owned business based on the three cornerstones of family, tradition and romance; and is dedicated to produce a gold medal winning wine in every varietal and to maximize opportunities developed from the wines in a tourism destination focused on the best in hospitality, food and customer service.

Aggieland Safari

Located at 18075 FM974, Bryan, TX 77808, Get WILD at the Serengeti of the South! Created by Texans and Aggie-owned and operated, Aggieland Safari’s organization was born from a love of animal stewardship and dedication to conservation. Giraffes, hippos, and monkeys, oh my! We are so excited to have guests explore our beautiful and spacious Adventure Zoo, Drive-Thru Safari, and Wildlife Recreation Center. Aggieland Safari offers the perfect outing for families, field trips, small groups, and large groups alike!

Royalty Pecan Farm

Located at 10600 Highway 21 E, Caldwell, TX 77836, Royalty Pecan Farms is a family owned and operated working pecan farm that also features a farm store, event venue, and is a tourist destination. We use sustainable farming practices to grow, nurture, and harvest quality pecans. Our farm store overlooks 500 acres of lush pecan trees, with a covered veranda and plenty of space for lawn games and picnics. Bring friends and family for a day of shopping, sampling, wine tasting, and more!

Kingsbury Blueberry Farm

Located at 760 County Rd, Caldwell, TX 77836, Kingsbury Blueberry Farm has 100 bushes with 4 varieties of organically grown blueberries that they would like to share with you. Bring your own bucket, basket or container and fill it to your heart's content with some of the best blueberries around! It's only $3 per pound! Appointments are required for this experience.

Franklin Drive-Thru Safari

Located at 4324 W Hwy 79, Franklin, TX 77856, bring the entire family to Franklin Drive Through Safari where you can play, feed, and interact with exotic animals from around the world. We are always adopting more exciting animals to our petting zoo and 100+ acre drive through animal adventure park.

We hope you and your favorite road trip partners decide to come out and see all that the Brazos Valley has to offer. From art and history, to Texas A&M and BBQ, we have so much for you to experience. We look forward to seeing you here.