As a travel blogger who lives for epic hikes, wild rivers, and random drop-ins at killer BJJ gyms, I’ve rolled all over this country. Lately though, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become my travel addiction almost as much as kayaking. So when I rolled into Mineral Wells, Texas, I already had two things on the list: paddle the lake and find some mats. Crazy BJJ delivered hard on the second part, and the town crushed it on everything else. Here’s why Mineral Wells needs to be on your radar for things to do in Mineral Wells.
First Things First I pulled in dusty from a full day paddling and hiking Mineral Wells State Park (more on that gem in a minute). Legs smoked, brain fried, but I still needed that jiu-jitsu fix. Googled “BJJ near me,” saw Crazy BJJ, and ten minutes later I was bowing in.
First Impressions Walking into Crazy BJJ felt like walking into a friend’s place that just happens to have 2,000 sq ft of zebra mats. Zero attitude, big smiles, good music, and a crew that instantly made this wandering beginner feel like family. Exactly the vibe you hope for when you’re looking for legit things to do in Mineral Wells besides the usual tourist stuff.
Training Experience Class was fire. Coach broke everything down clean, drilled it hard, then we rolled live. Everyone was technical, controlled, and cool — no spastic meat heads or ego trips. I left soaked in sweat, smiling, and already plotting how to move to Mineral Wells. If you’re in town even for a weekend, dropping in here is easily one of the best things to do in Mineral Wells.
Things to Do in Mineral Wells
Mineral Wells State Park Hands-down my favorite outdoor playground in North Texas. Miles of trails, rock climbing, kayaking on the lake, fishing, camping — whatever flavor of adventure you want, it’s here. I paddled out at sunset and nearly forgot I had a evening class to make.
The Famous Mineral Water Company Yeah, the water actually tastes like minerals, and locals swear it’ll fix what ails you. Tour the place, fill up a jug, feel like you’re in an old Western movie. Fun, weird, and 100% Mineral Wells.
The Crazy Water Hotel This restored historic beast is gorgeous. Stay here, eat here, drink at the rooftop bar here. Pro tip: Rickhouse Brewery downstairs pours some of the best craft beer in the region — perfect recovery fuel after you’ve been smashed at Crazy BJJ.
Rickhouse Brewery & Bankhead Wine Bar Two spots, same downtown vibe. Crush a flight of beers or a solid glass of red, swap stories with locals, and laugh about the armbar you barely escaped earlier. Both are absolute musts when you’re checking off things to do in Mineral Wells.
Local Events and Festivals Hit the Crazy Water Festival if you’re here in the fall — live music, vendors, and more mineral water than any human should drink. Year-round there’s always something popping downtown.
Dining and Cuisine From legit Texas BBQ at The Mesquite Pit to killer Mexican at La Casona, your taste buds won’t be bored. And yes, I carb-loaded on brisket the night before training — no regrets.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Road-Trip Stop Mineral Wells surprised the hell out of me. Small-town soul, big adventure energy, and a BJJ gym that punches way above its weight class. I came for a quick paddle and a roll, left plotting my next trip back. Whether you’re passing through on a Texas road trip or hunting for a chill weekend getaway, this place has it all — hiking, history, cold beer, and mats that’ll make you better.
So next time you’re mapping out things to do in Mineral Wells, block off an afternoon (or three) to train at Crazy BJJ. Bring your gi, rent a kayak, drink the crazy water, and thank me later. Mineral Wells isn’t just a dot on the map anymore — it’s a legit destination, and Crazy BJJ is the heartbeat of it. See y’all on the mat. Oss!