The video above takes you on a driving tour of Mineral Wells TX, covering the town's unique history as a wellness destination, its most recognizable landmarks — including the Baker Hotel and the Haunted Hill House — and the live music spots scattered around the downtown area. David Bridwell made the trip from Fort Worth to play music at Bankhead Texas Wine Bar and took the opportunity to walk around and document what's going on in this small but interesting Texas town.
The History and Revival of Mineral Wells
Unlike most historic Texas towns built on cattle, oil, or railroads, Mineral Wells made its name on water. At its peak in the early 1900s, the town had up to 100 mineral water wells and was known as the South's greatest health resort. That legacy lives on through the famous Crazy Water brand, which claims the highest mineral content of any well water in the world, and the annual Crazy Water Festival. The Crazy Water Hotel, originally built in 1919 and restored in 2018, is now considered the heartbeat of Mineral Wells, housing boutiques, food spots, a brewery, and a salon inside its pavilion. Nearby, the Bath House and Spa offers mineral baths by appointment. The Haunted Hill House, built during the Civil War, is another curiosity — it's open for tours and overnight stays by appointment and is surrounded by no-trespassing signs that add to the atmosphere. And then there's the Baker Hotel, the 14-story landmark visible from just about everywhere in town. It opened in 1929, closed in 1972, and is currently undergoing a major restoration with a projected reopening in 2026 featuring 165 rooms and a mineral spa.
What Live Music Venues Are in Mineral Wells TX?
There are several spots in the downtown Mineral Wells area that host live music, though it's a small-town scene and not every place is active every night. Here's what you'll find:
- Bankhead Texas Wine Bar — A relaxed wine bar where David Bridwell performed; a solid spot for an evening of acoustic music and good company
- Coffee and Cocktails — Located across the street from Bankhead, this spot had Ken Brown performing live during the visit
- Rick House Brewing — A brewery inside the Crazy Water Hotel that features live music
- Crazy Water Hotel Rooftop — Hosts rooftop concerts billed as "Crazy Concerts," a unique setting for live music above downtown
- The Ritz Theater — A classic theater venue meant for performances, though it wasn't hosting a show on this particular visit
- 490 Dance Hall — Supposedly open for events, but it didn't look particularly active when walking by
- Refs Sports Bar and Grill — A sports bar within walking distance of Oak Avenue that advertises live music
- Crazy8 Sports Bar and Grill — Another nearby sports bar listing live music on its schedule
- Legends Pool Hall — A pool hall in the same area that also says it features live music
Worth the Drive from Fort Worth
Mineral Wells is an easy drive west from Fort Worth, and there's a real tension between the revitalization efforts and the existing character of the town — new shops and restored buildings sit alongside vacant storefronts. It's honest and unfinished, which makes it more interesting than a place that's been polished into something generic. If you're into Texas history, mineral water culture, slightly spooky landmarks, and a handful of low-key live music spots, it's worth spending a day or an evening here.