Welcome Visitors: A College Station Game Weekend Guide

College Station comes alive during football season, and you’ll feel the energy the moment you arrive—fanfare, tailgating, and plenty of fun things to see and do. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve created a handy guide with must-visit spots to eat, drink and shop, along with a look at Texas A&M’s rich game day traditions for a weekend to remember.

Traditions & Tailgating
Eat & Drink
Things to Do

TRADITIONS & TAILGATING

An Aggie fan wearing a Texas A&M baseball cap looks out over a crowd of Texas A&M fans gathering together

Midnight Yell

Held at Kyle Field the night before every home football game, Midnight Yell is a one-of-a-kind tradition where thousands of Aggies gather to practice yells and get fired up for game day. Even if you’re not an Aggie, it’s worth the late night just to witness the energy.

Tailgating

There’s nothing like game day tailgating in College Station. From early morning setups to late afternoon kickoffs, fans gather across campus at Aggie Park to fire up the grill, share a cold drink and soak up the spirit of Aggieland. Whether you're reuniting with old friends or making new ones, tailgating here is more than a pre-game ritual—it’s a full-on celebration of tradition, community and team pride

Heads up! Visit College Station is teaming up with the Aggie Mom’s Club for the UTSA, Auburn and Florida home games. Swing by our hospitality tent extraordinaire and say “Howdy!” You’ll find friendly faces, great vibes and a warm welcome waiting just for you.

Aggie Fan Zone

Just north of Kyle Field, the Aggie Fan Zone offers a lively pre-game scene with food trucks, drink vendors, games for kids, partner activations and live radio and TV broadcasts. It’s the perfect way to kick off the big game.

Corps of Cadets Step-Off

Roughly an hour and a half before kickoff, the Corps of Cadets—more than 2,500 strong—along with the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, march in formation from the Quad through the Fan Zone and into Kyle Field. It’s tradition, pageantry and pure Aggie spirit in motion.

Members of the Fightin Texas Aggie Band play trumpets while marching in College Station

EAT & DRINK

Historic Northgate District

Home to more than 20 bars, restaurants and entertainment venues, dive into the vibrant energy of College Station's premier entertainment and nightlife hotpot. Perfect for pre-game tailgating or late-night socializing.

Two people look up at The Dixie Chicken sign hanging in front of the wooden restaurant exterior

The Dixie Chicken

College Station’s OG, The Chicken is a tradition for Aggies and visitors alike. Grab a cold beer and burger and be sure to try the mouthwatering Tijuana fries—a local favorite that’s as much a part of the Aggie experience as yell practice.

Chimy’s

The perfect spot to kick off your visit to Aggieland, Chimy’s is known for their cheesy fries, killer margaritas and Dr. Pepper shootouts. This campus adjacent bar is a must visit.

Dry Bean Saloon

Take a walk down Bottle Cap Alley into the old-timey atmosphere where shots rule.

Bottlecaps from a variety of different beers fill the street in Bottle Cap Alley in College Station

The Republic

Known as one of Texas’ best fine dining establishments specializing in steak, seafood, Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, amazing, handcrafted cocktails and one of the largest whiskey selections in the state.

1775 Texas Pit BBQ

Located on the edge of College Station, this veteran-owned and operated spot was named one of Texas Monthly's Top 25 New BBQ Joints in 2019.

Barbecue platter with several cuts of meat and sides on a picnic table at 1775 Texas Pit BBQ in College Station

Biergarten on the Green

Century Square’s outdoor space is transformed during football season. The ultimate venue for cheers and beers.

Juanita’s Tex Mex Cantina

Overlooking the Green at Century Square, get your Tex-Mex dose of fajitas and margaritas in a fun and festive environment.

1791 Whiskey Bar at The George Hotel

The spirit of the Whiskey Rebellion lives on at 1791, serving the finest in whiskeys from all over the world.

Close-up of a glass of whiskey on the rocks served with an orange peel at 1791 Whiskey Bar in College Station

SEE & DO

Shopping at Century Square

For your retail fix, Century Square is your one-stop-shop for local and eclectic boutiques such as Apricot Lane, Lucchese Bootmakers, King Ranch Saddle Shop and much more.

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum

This special museum experience celebrates the life and work of our 41st President George H.W. Bush and first lady, Barbara Bush.

Exterior of the George W. Bush Presidential Library with blue sky and waving American flags

Messina Hof Winery

One of Texas’ most award-winning wineries, Messina Hof is a leading producer of wines using 100% grapes grown exclusively in Texas.

PopStroke

Embark on a mini-golf adventure featuring two 18-hole putting courses. Each course mirrors the challenge of a traditional golf setup, complete with fairways, tricky bunkers and unpredictable rough patches. The visitor's experience is enhanced with a full-service restaurant and lively sports bar vibe where you can indulge in fan-favorite dishes.