15 Best Things to Do in Brady, Texas

Located deep in the Hill Country, there are plenty of fun things to do in Brady, TX!

Known as the “Heart of Texas” due to its location near the geographic center of the Lone Star State, Brady, Texas is the perfect spot for those looking for a quiet town immersed in Texas culture.

With the variety of food options, gorgeous scenery, and unique attractions, Brady makes for a fantastic road trip stop.

Here’s what to do in Brady, Texas!

stone sign shaped like tx that reads "heart of texas brady"
Billy Hathorn, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
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Fun Things to Do in Brady, Texas

Take a look through both of D and J’s Good Ole Days Antiques and Collectibles Locations.

Home to its antiques and oddities, D and J’s Good Ole Days is sure to exceed the expectations of any vintage lover. 

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Stop by the location at the main square to witness some musical relics, one-of-a-kind collectibles, and mannequin displays that are sure to impress!

The Bridge Street location will satisfy anyone’s shopping needs with great selections of furniture, vinyl, and knick-knacks. 

vintage objects piled onto a table at an antique shop

Visit the James Earl Rudder Statue.

For both military history buffs and general visitors alike, a stop by the James Earl Rudder statue is an essential part of your trip to Brady. 

As a way to remember all those who have served, this Brady-native was granted a statue in the town’s square as a way to honor him and give thanks to all he did for the community. 

Be sure to add this monument to your list of sights when visiting Brady, Texas!

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Channel your inner music lover at the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum.

Whether you’re a devoted country fan or merely like to grow your knowledge in all things history, the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum has everything to offer. 

Ranging from stage sets to replicas to authentic costumes, plus a variety of instruments used by the legends, you can find this entertaining attraction just off of the main square. 

If you fall in love with the museum as so many have done in the past, feel free to speak to a representative about signing up for a group or bus tour.

front facade of the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum, one of the best places to visit brady texas
Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Take a walk through history at the Heart of Texas Historical Museum.

Located in the center of Brady’s main square, this monumental, red brick building houses some of the area’s richest history. 

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As an early jail of the county, this monument houses a variety of military and public defense artifacts. 

With a World War II military training camp located only mere miles from Brady, this museum has one of the largest airplane memorabilia exhibits in the state!

red brick historic jail building that holds a museum in brady tx
Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Experience some of the best barbecue in Texas at the annual Goat Cook-Off.

Held every Labor Day weekend in Brady’s historic Richards Park, the World Championship BBQ Goat Cookoff is the perfect way to get a true dose of Texas hill country culture. 

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With RVs and BBQ pits lined as far as the eye can see, a walk through this annual festival is sure to get your Texas BBQ cravings started. 

Take the family through the carnival for a day of fun, and don’t forget to stop by the thousands of vendors to get your shopping in!

Don’t forget to attend Saturday night’s Goat Cookoff Concert, which always hosts some of the most popular Texas Country bands of the date.

hands cutting brisket at a texas barbecue cook off

Shop around at McCulloch Mercantile.

Owned and operated by some of the sweetest Brady natives, this consignment has just what the everyday shopper needs at the greatest prices.

Walk around and take a look at some of their vintage houseware and decorations as well as their lengthy book collection.

Whether you’re looking for something specific or merely cruising for some antiques, McCulloch Mercantile is sure to scratch everything off your list. 

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Stop by the Historic Brady Train Depot.

What was once a fully operational train depot has now been turned into one of the most unique historical monuments and event venues. 

As you travel just north of Brady’s square, this beautiful building is sure to catch your eye just as you cross the train tracks.

A walk past its iron gates is sure to immerse you in the property’s history as well as the many purposes it continues to serve today.

exterior of brady train depot, one of the best things to do in brady texas
Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Grab a bite to eat at Boondocks Seafood.

Known for its classic spin on homestyle cooking, Boondocks Seafood offers everything to satisfy your tastebuds.

Ranging from freshly fried shrimp, grilled catfish, or seasonal crawfish boils, Boondocks’ menu is sure to offer up a meal that will feel as if you’re right on the coast.

If you’re not looking for some seafood, make sure to order one of their wraps or famous hamburgers!

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Taste some authentic Mexican food at Tex Mex 

This blink-and-you-miss-it hidden gem just outside of Brady’s town square is sure to quash your Mexican food craving!

Pick from their menu of freshly made guacamole, beef fajitas, or cheese enchiladas to experience some truly excellent food. 

enchiladas with a side of rice and beans

Get some activity in at Earnest O. Martin Memorial Park.

If you’re looking to cool off from that hot Texas heat, swing by the Earnest O. Martin Memorial Park and take a dip in their new aquatic center.

After a quick swim, grab the family and visit their various basketball and volleyball courts or even get in a game of washers. 

If you are looking to immerse yourself in some of nature, stroll down one of the many hiking trails that this park has to offer or even relax at their butterfly and bird watchhouses. 

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Play a round at the Brady Municipal Golf Course.

Located just outside of town, the Brady Municipal Golf Course is sure to grant a prime golfing experience.

This 9 hole course stretches along the west side of town while providing gorgeous views of the Texas Hill Country.

Don’t forget to stop by the Pro Shop to cool off with a quick drink and snack.

close up of golf clubs at a course in central texas

Spend your day at Brady Lake.

Falling at about 25 miles of shoreline, a day at Brady Lake will most definitely go down as a day well spent!

With its wide stretch of open water, feel free to break out your jet skis or paddle boats to soak in the views.

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If you’re feeling up for more of a day of relaxation, pop up a tent and start fishing along its shoreline. 

Brady Lake even offers a variety of cabanas, cabins, and RV hookups that are perfect for weekend adventurers!

close up of a fishing rod against water at sunset

Watch a movie at the Palace Theatre.

With its retro style and old-school decor, the Palace Theatre is perfect for any movie buff. 

Step into one of their authentic theaters for a one-of-a-kind, movie-watching experience (with a tub of popcorn in hand, of course!).

As they are always showing the most up-to-date pictures, be sure to check their website for the latest updates in showtimes and selections. 

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Take a stroll down the San Saba River.

Weaving through some of the most beautiful hill country scenery, the San Saba River is the perfect getaway just south of Brady.

This spot is perfect for the passionate fisherman or even your everyday nature lovers!

With its gorgeous white rock terrain, a quick stop by this excursion is sure to provide a picture-perfect moment.

banks of the san saba river, one of the best attractions brady texas

Drive by Evridge’s Brady Texas Mural.

As a new addition to the Heart of Texas, this fantastic mural was created to showcase Brady’s Hill Country culture and greet those who pass through town.

Handcrafted entirely in spray paint, this artwork portraying Brady and its nearby cities is sure to impress any visitor.

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Where is Brady, Texas?

Brady is located in the “Heart of Texas”–right smack dab in the center of the state!

Several highways, including US-71 and US-283, intersect in or near Brady, making this tiny town a common place to pass through on a Texas road trip that’s heading northwest from the center of the state.

Exploring the best things to do in Brady, TX is a fun way to break up a road trip through the area!

McCulloch County Courthouse in brady texas
25or6to4, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

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