This article is a part of the 2023 Winter Travel Guide, a sponsored collection brought to you by our travel advertising partners. You can find more winter travel destinations and events here.

Late fall and early winter makes for a great time to visit College Station. Our air is crisp, our cocoa is hot, and our smiles are always warm.

If your winter wish list includes great food and shopping, relaxing evenings, and perhaps a meet-and-greet with a jolly old elf, then read on. Here’s our take on 10 great things to do, see, and enjoy in College Station this season.

Santa’s Wonderland

Opening November 10 and running through December 30, Santa’s Wonderland is the largest Christmas experience in Texas. Enjoy the spectacle of four million holiday lights, family hayrides, horse and carriage tours, and opportunities to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Northgate Entertainment District

Locals and visitors alike love Northgate for its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. This is where you’ll find renowned spots like Dixie Chicken (which serves more beer per square foot than any bar in the U.S.) and the highly Instagrammable Bottle Cap Alley next door to the Dry Bean Saloon.

Nutcracker Ballet

Featuring performers from dance studios across the region, Ballet Brazos puts on truly mesmerizing performances of this holiday classic at Texas A&M University’s Rudder Theatre.

Holiday Artisan Market

Upgrade your stocking stuffers with one-of-a-kind gifts at the Holiday Artisan Market at Century Square. Enjoy live music performances and shop for handmade gifts of every type.

Howdy Holly-Days

Keep the holiday retail therapy going as you pop around the corner to Howdy Holly-Days to complete your shopping list. The Northgate promenade plays host to more than 50 vendors and food trucks, a skating rink, special appearances by Santa, and even snow. (Yes, you read that right.)

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum            

From a presidential limo to a State Dinner table setting, the Bush Library & Museum gives you an incredible glimpse into the life of our 41st president and the times during which he served.

Christmas in the Park

With actual snow slides, live entertainment, a children’s train, and photos with Santa, Christmas in the Park checks all the holiday boxes.

Texas A&M University

No College Station experience would be complete without a visit to Texas A&M, the largest university in the nation by enrollment. The fall and winter months see Aggie athletes in action across a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and volleyball.

Charming Hotels

Every seasonal adventure needs a home base. Book early for lodging specials throughout the holidays at centrally located hotels including Cavalry Court, The George, Embassy Suites, and the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center.

Century Square

Whether you’re looking for a swanky new pair of Lucchese boots or just a spicy tikka chicken taco, Century Square is where fashionistas and food-lovers find the objects of their affection.

About College Station

Rich in history and culture, College Station is one of America’s friendliest cities. Nestled in the Brazos Valley of central Texas, College Station is an easy drive from Dallas, Houston, or Austin. Easterwood Airport (serviced by United Airlines and American Airlines) offers a low-stress and convenient option for those who prefer to fly in.

For a complete calendar of fall, winter, and holiday events in College Station, check out the official Visit College Station website or Christmas in College Station.


Visit Visit.cstx.gov for more information.