Bryan started as a small-town stop along the state’s expanding railway system. One of the first settlers to the area was William Joel Bryan, the nephew of Stephen F. Austin. The town was named “Bryan” in William Joel Bryan’s honor. On August 19, 1867, the first train steamed into Bryan. Since that day the city of Bryan has constantly been evolving and growing.
There’s the old saying “Everything’s Bigger in Texas”, but ask any Bryan resident and they will tell you that “Everything is Bigger in Texas, and Better in Bryan.” What does the Good Life, Texas Style mean? Well, for starters, take a look around.
From outdoor activities to learning about the community and its history, Bryan has “the good life” to offer for those who choose to call it home. With hundreds of acres of parks, trails, activities, and festivals there is something for everyone! It’s a thriving economy, with plenty of new opportunities, and full of hard working individuals coming together to make a community.
Bryan was named as one of the Top 10 places for Military to retire due to the low cost of living, according to military.com. But that is not the only reason why it’s a great place to retire. Bryan Parks and Recreation programs offer residents the opportunity to participate in adult basketball and pickleball leagues, as well as water fitness classes, to keep them healthy and fit. This year, the Parks Department began offering culinary classes that include cake and cookie decorating, and improving knife skills in the kitchen.
Bryan is covered in walking trails, with the Bryan parks system covering more than 750 acres with 43 different park properties. The walking trails are often filled with nature lovers and fitness buffs on beautiful spring and summer days. For those interested in mountain biking, Lake Bryan offers 16 miles of trails suited for athletes of all levels. After a ride or a walk along the trails, Lake Bryan is perfect spot to cool off or go swimming, kayaking, or boating. Camping and fishing are a few other activities to enjoy before heading to the Lakeside Icehouse for live music and a beautiful sunset.
The newest edition to the parks system is for four-legged friends. Whether your pooch is large or small, there is a special place for him or her on the east side of Bryan. The Morris “Buzz” Hamilton Park dog park has state-of-the-art agility equipment, and is an enjoyable place for all residents and their pets.
For those looking to add another pet to their family, Bryan Animal Center is a wonderful place to find a furry companion. This facility cares for as many as 3,000 animals per year, in hopes of finding them a forever home. The City took control of this facility in 2011, and with the help of magnificent volunteers, they are able to care for these animals. The Bryan Animal Center is always in need of additional volunteers to help walk and play with the animals or pet fosters.
It’s the volunteers here, who really make everything better in Bryan. Volunteering is a delightful way to spend time and give back to the community. The City of Bryan volunteer program allows residents to get involved and perform work of value to the community. It also helps instill a greater understanding between the City employees and the citizens it serves. Some areas for
volunteering include the animal center, the golf course, the library, Community Development Department, and the Parks Department is looking for teachers of future programs.
Downtown Bryan’s historic past has been revitalized and is a thriving area of town. With art galleries, restaurants, live music venues, and First Friday, it’s no wonder that Downtown has been the go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. It was recently named as one of the state’s newest Cultural Districts. The fall Texas Reds Steak and Grape Festival and the spring Art Festival are great ways to see local artists and artisans, taste new foods, and enjoy the community. The Queen Theater, the Stafford, and the LaSalle Hotel keep the old town charm alive in Downtown.
While Bryan is deep rooted in history, the medical community is modern-day. St. Joseph hospital is the only Level II trauma emergency room in the Brazos Valley. It’s been ranked among the Top 10 percent in the nation for Outstanding Patient Experience, and locally it’s been named as a Best of the Brazos Valley “Best Hospital” for 12 consecutive years.
Between the park system, the health care, the amenities, and all the opportunities for volunteering, Bryan really does have it all. And that is what the Good Life, Texas Style means to us!
Visit bryantx.gov to learn more about the City of Bryan.