The memorial, dedicated in November, 2004, was built to commemorate the Bonfire that collapsed on November 18, 1999, killing 12 Aggies and injuring 27 others. The memorial was built as a momument to their memories and the tradition and spirit that the Bonfire represented. Three parts compose the memorial, including Tradition Plaza (the entrance to the memorial), Spirit Wall (separating the outer world from the experience of the memorial), and Spirit Ring (surrounds the site of the 1999 Bonfire). For more information about the memorial and its self-guided tour, visit http://bonfirememorial.tamu.edu/index.html
Texas A&M University has a variety of galleries on campus that provide visitors with an interesting look at campus history, local artists, and collections of note.
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is located on the west campus of Texas A&M University. With a variety of exhibits, tours, and events happening year round, it is a rich and interesting destination.
Hours of operation are Monday thru Saturday, 9:30 - 5:00 and Sunday, 12:30 - 5:00. Tours are available by reservation and are on a first come, first served basis. Admission is $7.00 per person. For more information on tours, events, and the library itself, visit www.http://bushlibrary.tamu.edu/index.php.
The museum houses a variety of collections, including the current Indigenous Arts of the Amazon, which consists mainly of artifacts and items, including pottery, masks, baskets, and textiles, collected by communications Professor Antonio LaPastina.
The museum, located at 3232 Briarcrest Drive, is open Monday thru Saturday, 10:00 - 5:00, and Sunday, 1:00 - 5:00.
For more information, visit http://bvmuseum.myriad.net/.
Messina Hof is a local winery that features tours and lovely restaurant. Reservations required.
"In a community steeped in tradition, Messina Hof Winery & Resort holds its own with a 200-year history of award winning wines. Although the winery itself was officially established when we released our first vintage in 1983, the rich wine heritage of Winemaker Paul Bonarrigo dates back six generations to Messina, Sicily. Merrill Bonarrigo's family originates from Hof, Germany. Together they have pioneered the Texas Wine Industry in creating premium wines of distinction and a landmark wine country destination.
With tours, festivals, the Harvest Pickers Club, wine seminars, Vintner Dinners and other events, we strive to accompany our excellence in wine production with excellence in education and entertainment."
For more information, visit www.messinahof.com.
The Star of the the Republic Museum, located in the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, was opened on Texas Independence Day, March 2, 1970. Its mission is to provide education about the history of the Republic of Texas and its influence through a variety of exhibits, tours, and media programs. There are a variety of other other things to see at the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, including Barrington Living History Farm and Independence Hall.
Hours of operation are Monday thru Sunday, 10:00 - 5:00. Several different tours are available; for more information on tours, events, and the library itself, visit http://www.starmuseum.org.
A favorite spot for kids of all ages is the Blue Bell Creamery. Established in 1907, the company has grown and changed. You can taste their ice cream, tour the factory, or look around the museum. For information about the creamery, visit http://www.bluebell.com/Default.htm. For directions, visit http://www.bluebell.com/about_visiting.htm.