re: Looking ahead: Advice on away games in College Station

I have a son in the Corps at A&M, and it's surely different than the LSU experience, but go with it and enjoy it! You will be treated better than probably any other SEC venue. Reciprocate by being respectful of their traditions (walking on the grass/no hats in the union, etc) and have a good time.

You're right, hotels may be difficult by now. The Hilton east down University is pretty nice, but pricy. We stay there if possible, but I've also had to hunker down at the Days Inn I haven't tried the mall shuttle, but it sounds like a good deal? The Northgate bar scene is pretty cool and right across the street from campus.

We tailgated pregame with my son's outfit. Arriving early to watch the Corps step off from the quad and march to the stadium led by the band is a cool experience and will make you feel better about America's youth. The new stadium renovation is really sweet. We had Flash Seats I bought in the North Upper. Very nice people and very welcoming. There's a lot of post-game tailgating for day games.

Check out the Reveille memorial right outside the North side of the stadium and the bonfire memorial. If you have any interest in military history, the history of the Corps or just looking at multiple MOH's and the stories behind them, I highly recommend checking out the Sanders Corps Center Museum if you get a chance. Of course the George Bush museum is nearby as well.

Lots of cool stuff to see and do. Go with an open mind and enjoy!!

My son's at A&M too, and we went to the LSU game two years ago on Thanksgiving. I don't know if tailgating was less because of that, but with such a huge stadium/campus I was surprised there wasn't more.

The biggest cluster seemed to be west of the stadium near the basketball arena. Fans were nice and there's a brewery that actually tailgates in that area--FREE BEER! Don't remember which one though. We were given free jello shots, beer, food. Ran into a lot of nice fans. One lady offered us a beer and pointed toward her ice chest--when I opened it a bunch of those springy snakes popped out at me. The aggies had a great laugh at the startled LSU fan, but they did follow it up with free alcohol, so all was cool.

And yes, the area north of campus on University Dr. is the best place for bars and pub food. Not too far away. We parked in a church lot about 3 blocks from the stadium for $20 on George Bush (South border of campus). In and out wasn't bad.

Have fun!

Returning to this thread because I have everything booked and I'm looking forward to the game!

Will everything in the Northgate area of campus be open? I know it's Thankshiving day but I'd imagine game day is a huge revenue generating opportunity for them. Thanks for all the advice!