The Heartbeat of Aggieland Beyond Campus

When most people think of College Station, their minds go straight to Texas A&M University and the roar of Kyle Field on game day. But just across the street from campus, there’s another place that’s become the town’s “living room”: Century Square.

This 60-acre development has quickly turned into the go-to spot for locals, students, alumni, and visitors. It’s where food meets fun, shopping meets music, and Aggie pride shows up in every corner. From casual weekday coffee runs to all-out game day weekends, Century Square has something for everyone.

Where Locals Eat: From Burgers to Brunch

Century Square’s food scene is one of the biggest reasons it’s become a College Station favorite. You’ll find everything from quick bites to upscale meals, and plenty of variety to keep things interesting.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar – The kind of place you go when you’re craving a burger that’s bigger than your appetite. Locals swear by the Truffle Fries, and the craft beer list makes it a perfect pre-game hangout. Pro tip: On busy weekends, grab a spot early before the line snakes out the door.

• PORTERS Dining + Bar – When you’re celebrating something big, PORTERS is where you book a table. Think wood-fired steaks, fresh Gulf seafood, and one of the city’s best cocktail menus. Their Smoked Old Fashioned is practically a rite of passage in Aggieland.

• Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café – Ideal for brunch with friends or a quiet afternoon pick-me-up. The Chicken & Mushroom crêpe is a local favorite, and if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Nutella & Banana never disappoints.

• Piada Italian Street Food – A quick, flavorful option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Their Italian-inspired flatbreads and colorful salads are perfect for a casual lunch between classes or work meetings.

• Coco Shrimp – One of the newer arrivals, but already a hit. Serving Hawaiian-style shrimp plates that are light, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of hidden gem you’ll want to brag about discovering first.

Game Day at Century Square: Where Aggies Gather
Game day in College Station isn’t just about what happens inside Kyle Field — it’s a town-wide event, and Century Square has become one of the best places to feel the energy.

Before kickoff, you’ll find brunch crowds at Sweet Paris and burger runs at Hopdoddy. By the time the game starts, The Green — the open lawn in the center of Century Square — is buzzing with fans watching on big screens, kids running around in maroon jerseys, and live music setting the tone.

After the game? That’s when Century Square really shines. Some Aggies head to The George for celebratory cocktails, others pile into Star Cinema Grill to unwind with dinner and a movie. On weekends when the Aggies pull off a big win, the patios are packed, the music is loud, and the maroon spirit flows well past midnight.

Century Square on game day feels less like a shopping center and more like a second tailgate — just with better food and air conditioning nearby.

Century Square After Dark: Nightlife with Local Flavor

If you think Century Square winds down after dinner, think again. Once the sun sets, the place comes alive in a whole new way.

• The Canteen Bar & Grill at The George is the beating heart of nightlife here, with trivia nights, live music, and one of the best whiskey lists in town. It’s lively without being overwhelming, making it a perfect choice for both young professionals and seasoned locals.

• 1791 Whiskey Bar offers a quieter, more intimate vibe. It’s where you go when you want to savor a well-made drink in a relaxed setting.

• Star Cinema Grill doubles as both entertainment and nightlife. Catch a late showing, order gourmet food and cocktails right to your seat, and enjoy an experience that’s part movie theater, part full-service restaurant.

Whether you’re looking for high-energy crowds or something laid-back, Century Square has you covered after dark.

Family-Friendly Fun: Green Space, Treats & Outdoor Events

Century Square isn’t just for students and young professionals — families love it too.

The Green, Century Square’s central lawn, is perfect for kids to run and play while parents relax nearby. On weekends, families often bring picnic blankets to enjoy live music, outdoor movies, or seasonal events under the open sky.

And of course, no family outing is complete without a sweet treat. A stop at Lick Honest Ice Creams is a must, and plenty of restaurants offer kids’ menus to make dining easy. Some even feature weeknight specials designed with families in mind.

With its mix of safe open space, casual dining, and entertainment, Century Square has become a spot where families can spend an afternoon together — without ever having to leave the heart of town.

Hidden Gems You Might Miss

Everyone knows about Hopdoddy and PORTERS, but Century Square has a few surprises that even locals overlook.

• Coco Shrimp – Still new, but already building a loyal following.

• Merge Boutique – A stylish local shop with plenty of Aggie flair.

• Seasonal Events on The Green – From yoga classes to outdoor markets, Century Square keeps the calendar full of unique happenings.

If you’ve been to Century Square before and thought you’d “seen it all,” it’s worth another visit — something new always seems to be popping up.

Hidden Gems You Might Miss

Everyone knows about Hopdoddy and PORTERS, but Century Square has a few surprises that even locals overlook.

• Coco Shrimp – Still new, but already building a loyal following.

• Merge Boutique – A stylish local shop with plenty of Aggie flair.

• Seasonal Events on The Green – From yoga classes to outdoor markets, Century Square keeps the calendar full of unique happenings.

If you’ve been to Century Square before and thought you’d “seen it all,” it’s worth another visit — something new always seems to be popping up.

Pro Tips From Locals

• Parking → Garages are convenient, but on game weekends they fill up fast. Ride-shares or hotel shuttles are often the way to go.

• Best Brunch Times → If you want to skip the wait at Sweet Paris, aim for a weekday morning or arrive right at opening on weekends.

• Popular Events → Outdoor concerts and movie nights on The Green tend to fill up early, so bring your blanket and claim your spot ahead of time.

These little hacks can make the difference between a good visit and a great one.

Where to Stay: Hotels That Double as Hangouts

Century Square is home to two boutique hotels that are destinations in themselves:

• The George → Sleek, modern, and upscale with a Texas twist. It’s a favorite for Aggie parents and visitors who want comfort with style.

• Cavalry Court → Retro-inspired, complete with courtyard fire pits, live weekend music, and a relaxed, community vibe.

Even if you’re a local, these hotels are worth visiting for drinks, live shows, or a staycation.

Why Century Square Works: The Local Perspective

At the end of the day, Century Square has become a social anchor for College Station because it brings together everything locals want in one walkable space:

• Great food and drinks.

• Entertainment for all ages.

• A steady stream of community events.

• A blend of national names and Texas-based businesses.

It’s not just a shopping center — it’s a lifestyle hub where College Station comes together.

Bottom Line: Century Square Is College Station’s Living Room

Whether you’re an Aggie alum visiting for the weekend, a family looking for a fun evening, or a student hunting for the best burger in town, Century Square delivers.

It’s where College Station eats, drinks, shops, and celebrates. And chances are, once you visit, you’ll keep coming back — because Century Square is more than a place. It’s an experience.