Guest Post by: The ROAMies
We came to Mineral Wells hoping to find something special—it’s why we decided to record a few podcast episodes here in the first place. We wanted to encourage our listeners (and readers) to explore a small town full of hidden gems, quirky charm, and a strong sense of place.
And while we still hope that happens… the truth?
We’re the ones who left more inspired than when we arrived.
This is a town already worth visiting—but it’s clearly becoming something even greater. You can feel it in the air, in the conversations, in the energy of the people. Mineral Wells is blooming with creativity, resilience, and a fierce hometown pride.
Our First Stop: Crazy Water
We started our adventure the right way—with a visit to the Crazy Water Hotel’s Water and Coffee Bar. There, we got a proper water tasting (yes, that’s a thing!) and learned the backstory of this legendary “crazy” water. As a newly certified holistic nutritionist, Alexa has long been fascinated by the idea that food is medicine. Several years ago, she dove into the world of alkaline water and how it helps create a healthier, less acidic environment in the body.
When Rory was diagnosed with cancer in 2017, alkaline water became part of the regimen Alexa—and his doctors—had him on. That same year, Rory was declared cancer-free and has been ever since. So when we heard there was mineral water in Texas with similar benefits?
Easy sell.
After the tasting, we headed straight to the Famous Mineral Water Company to stock up on some big ol’ jugs to take home. Thankfully it was a road trip and not a flight. (TSA doesn’t love gallons of magic water.)
The Baker Isn’t the Story. The People Are.
As we explored the town, the Baker Hotel kept coming up in conversation. This towering relic—with its glamorous, ghost-whispered past—literally looms over Mineral Wells. Naturally, we expected it to be the centerpiece of the town’s story.
But the locals surprised us.
There was a time when people were waiting on the Baker to be restored, hoping it would bring life and attention back to the community. But after years of delays and unknowns, the question shifted: Why wait? If the Baker reopens… then what? Why would people stay? Why would they come back?
So the people of Mineral Wells stopped waiting.
With or without the Baker, they decided to build a town worth visiting—and worth living in.
That’s when things really started moving. Artists, entrepreneurs, shop owners, chefs, musicians—they began opening doors, starting markets, dreaming boldly. The heart of the town started beating louder than ever before. And that heartbeat? It’s stronger than any hotel.
Mineral Wells isn’t hoping for revival.
It’s living it. Right now.
And sure, the Baker is under renovation—finally. Judy Garland stayed there. The Three Stooges walked its halls. And rumor has it, so did a ghost or two. These days, locals joke it’ll reopen “when pigs fly.” So someone built a literal flying pig statue, and now it stands proudly downtown—like a wink from the town itself.
“Told you we’d do it.”
And we’re witnesses to that truth.
The Beauty Beyond Downtown
We wandered Clark Gardens, a once-private passion project turned public oasis. Winding paths, koi ponds, shady nooks, and wild peacocks that strut like they own the place. It’s peaceful, lush, and full of stories. We could’ve spent all day there.
(You should.)
Add it to your itinerary—seriously. But don’t stop at just Clark Gardens.
We soaked in a healing mineral bath at the Crazy Water Bath House—a beautifully restored space that felt both modern and timeless. One of those slow-down, deep-breath moments we didn’t know we needed.
Then we hiked up to Penitentiary Hollow at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, one of the few natural rock-climbing spots in Texas. The views were stunning. The lake shimmered in the late sun. Adventure and stillness met us in the same breath. We also paddled the lake—calm, quiet, and full of life.
A Town for Foodies and Shoppers Alike
If you travel to shop, you’re in for a treat. Boutiques curated with care. Vintage treasures. Handmade goods. And not just for the ladies—Rory especially loved Uptown Man, tucked inside the newly revived Crazy Water Hotel.
As for food? Let’s just say we were surprised in the best way.
We loved the seasonal menu at City Meats & Market, and the locally sourced, comfort-forward magic at Second Bar + Kitchen by renowned chef David Bull. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy—fresh, full of heart, and absolutely delicious. And you MUST try their fire cider.
Now, if you’ve been tracking the ongoing Cajun vs. Vegan debate between Rory and Alexa… Rory’s calling this one a win. After all, Mineral Wells is the Wellness Capital of Texas—also known as the land of brisket and barbecue.
But Alexa held her own, thanks to plenty of fresh, plant-powered options—especially at Second Bar + Kitchen, where the vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes are as delicious as they are thoughtful.
We’ll let you decide who really won this round.
What We’ll Remember Most
We did a lot. We ate well. We explored. We laughed. We rested. But what we’ll remember most? The people.
Strong people. Visionary people.
People who love their town fiercely and are building something beautiful—not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it.
That’s what Mineral Wells gave us.
So yes—visit for the crazy water. The wellness. The trails. The food. The gardens. The history. The charm. The creativity. But more than anything?
Come for the people.
You’ll leave more inspired than when you came.
Just like we did.
Listen to the episode of the 4-part series here: Crazy Water: Mineral Wells’ Healing Secret Episode 240
