You might be surprised to learn that this historic Texas city is as passionate about health as it is about tradition. Mineral Wells‘Ambitious personalities often attempt the impossible.
The natural mineral waters are revered for their healing powers, and the town became famous for its baths, springs and spas in the early 1900s. The historic mineral baths and spas have been restored and modernized, so you can still experience the waters through tastings and mineral baths.
Mineral Wells also became the official Wellness Capital of Texas in June 2023. The city is also a member of the Wellness Tourism Association and works with the association to meet the needs of today’s wellness traveler.
There’s plenty more to discover in Mineral Wells.
Going outside
The city is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with three state parks, four lakes, the Brazos River, and over 30 miles of hiking/biking trails all within 30 minutes.
There are plenty of activities to try out, including camping, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, fossil hunting, and even simple forest bathing.
Mineral Wells Fossil Park It’s free, open all year round, and features real fossils on display – you can take home any fossils you find, as long as you promise not to sell them.
A look back at history
The most famous mineral spring in the city is Crazy WellIt got its name from the fact that a “crazy” woman who drank the water there daily was cured, presumably because it contained traces of lithium.
today, Crazy Water HotelAdditionally, it connects visitors to Mineral Wells’ glory days of the 1920s and pays homage to the original Craigie Hotel, built in 1912. Crazy Water Hotel It will include 67 beautiful suites in addition to apartments, event space, a coffee and water bar, and premium shopping and lifestyle amenities.
The Baker HotelAffectionately known as the Grand Lady of Mineral Wells, the resort opened in 1929 and has been one of the most desirable resorts in the country for over 25 years. Today, the Grand Lady serves as a monument to the town’s history and is undergoing restoration, with plans to reopen in 2026.
Old Camp Walters It holds an important place in the town’s military history, having served in various military functions from World War II through the Vietnam War (when it was renamed Fort Wolters), which is now privately owned but parts of it are still used for training the National Guard. Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial It can also be seen in Fort Wolters.
of Vietnam War National Museum As you approach town, you’ll find beautiful gardens perfect for quiet reflection. One of the most famous features is the life-size Vietnam War-era Huey that sits atop an elevated platform in the Memorial Gardens.
Take a seat
Stop by Crazy Coffee & Water Bar They sell Crazy Water as well as coffee, tea, sodas and syrups made from the city’s “super delicious Crazy Water.”
Second Bar & Kitchen This restaurant by celebrity chef David Bull serves healthy dishes made with locally sourced produce, meats and breads.
The two historic eateries are highly regarded for their burgers. Daily Mart and Woody’s BarIf you still want to eat meat, Nutty Flats andMesquite Pit It’s a location.
Put it on your calendar
- 87th Annual PPLCA-PRCA Rodeo (May 2-4): One of the longest running outdoor rodeos in Texas and the longest running event in Palo Pinto County.
- Crazy Wellness Day, June 8: This coincides with Global Wellness Day.
- Flying Pig Festival, June 15-16
- World Wellness Weekend, September 20-21
- 44th Crazy Water Festival, October 10-12
- Crazy Fossil Excavation, October 19th
- Merrywell’s Christmas Festival and Light Parade, November 30th to December 24th
A little waiting
Magpie Inn is a historic, chef-run bed and breakfast located just three blocks from downtown.
The Crazy Water Hotel has been impeccably restored and offers spacious rooms with full kitchens and all modern amenities.
Rest Yourself River Ranch is a unique stay on a historic ranch overlooking the Brazos River. This unique property has also been meticulously restored and can be rented as a private room or the entire property for a family reunion or get-together.
A newly renovated downtown area filled with boutique hotels, spas, artisan shops and dining establishments combines nostalgia for the town’s past with a fresh, contemporary vision to create a new Mineral Wells. Learn more and plan your visit today.
