I’ve lived in Texas for ten years, and visited plenty of times before that, but never had I made it to the famous Round Top Antique Show in Round Top, Texas. I’d heard about it plenty of times, and I know my grandparents found some great pieces for their homes in years past, but it just hadn’t been at the top of my Texas travel to-do list. I figured I needed to share a beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas based off my own experiences during our first time visiting!
Well, that all changed when Chevrolet reached out for a partnership to visit Round Top in their Chevy Equinox, where Rick and I spent the weekend exploring the antique mecca. Because we experienced it for the first time, I figured there might be others who would want to hear a how-to or read all about beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas.
We made the 1.5 hour drive from Houston to Round Top in comfort and ease, thanks to our friends at Chevrolet. The highways and narrow country roads were easy to navigate in our new Chevrolet Equinox SUV. One of my favorite parts included the built-in wifi feature; we were connected in our vehicle without using up our own precious phone data. So for someone like me, who needs to be connected more often than not, this feature was right up my alley.
Since it was Rick and I’s first time visiting Round Top, we figured we ought to compile a beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas, seeing as we’ve chatted with many people who have also never been before, or went once and found it extremely intimidating or overwhelming. If you stick to this handy beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas, you’ll definitely be in the know and feel satisfied, like we did, that we did Round Top right. Here’s the Adored by Alex beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas.
Beginner’s Guide to Round Top, Texas
Places to Stay
Rancho Pillow // We called this whimsical retreat home during our Round Top stay. It was definitely quite a sight and extremely unique! We stayed in a loft room in the main house, but there’s also an airstream and a teepee if you’re looking to rough it a little more. Just a few miles from the antique tents in Warranton, it’s a great spot for large groups and events. They actually host a bi-annual event, coinciding with the Round Top Antiques Show, called Feasts in the Field where folks gather for a tasty meal of locally sourced produce and meats, with guest chefs and fun camaraderie.
Round Top Inn // According to Trip Advisor reviews, this Inn is one of the top places to stay in Round Top. Centrally located, well-appointed rooms and delicious breakfast. Worth checking out!
Rent an Airbnb // There are plenty of Airbnb properties available, but they fill up quickly! You can also look outside of Round Top, but within driving distances in the following towns: Warrenton, Brenham, and New Ulm.
The Frenchie guest house // Just walking distance from a number of antique tents and shops, this converted 1890s farmhouse and guest cottage are the perfect historic yet modern retreat for Round, Top visitors. Book ahead, space is limited and it fills up super quickly for antique week and other fun weekends in the area.
Where to Eat
Feed & Firewater // We didn’t get the chance to eat here, but we drove by and it’s just darling! Be sure to check their website for hours, and call ahead during peak times for a reservation. Open on specific days for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
Manditos // A cozy little Mexican food spot that has tasty margaritas and delicious eats. We split the beef fajitas and they were delicious. Owned by the owner of one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Houston, Armandos. Just make sure to not come hungry during peak hours, as there is almost always a wait! Within walking distance of Round Top town square.
Lulus // Hands down one of the most delicious restaurants I’ve eaten at in a long time! This darling little spot sits nestled in the Round Top square in an older house and is absolutely delicious. We ate with the group in their event space, lit by candlelight (!!!) and noshed on the most delicious charcuterie boards, pasta and more. If you find yourself in the area, you have to eat here! Open for dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday only. Definitely at the top of my beginner’s guide to Round Top, Texas visitor list!
Prost // Round Top’s wine bar that offers cozy outdoor seating where you can catch up with friends over a glass of wine and enjoy yummy charcuterie boards.
Royers Round Top Cafe // A country-type cafe, serving up homestyle cooking and homemade pies. This spot was closed when we visited, but I’ve been told it’s the place to stop at during the Antiques Show.
Royers Pie Haven // Delicious made from scratch pies that sell out super quickly. Not much seating, but wait in line for a slice of pie and a coffee (roasted right next-door!) and enjoy the deliciousness on one of the benches in the square. The pecan pie is to die for!
Teague’s Tavern // Serving up American comfort food like Fried Pickles or Chicken Fried Steak. Usually have live music, check their schedule.
What to Do
Arbor Antiques // Situated on 13 acres, just one mile north of Round Top square, this antiques show has become one of the premier antique shows and destinations in the South.
Bader Ranch // One of the newer spots just outside the Round Top town square, this permanent structure houses a variety of vendors, and also has a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner during show season, along with an airstream outside, called Lady Elaine, that serves up frozen margaritas and other tasty beverages.
Blue Hills // On our most recent trip, this was my absolute favorite of all the spots setup for the antique show. Tons of tents and a permanent barn, comprise a variety of vendors at different price points. Wear your walking shoes to this one, as it’s pretty spread out and everything is open air, permanent bathrooms as well.
Marburger Farm Antique Show // We didn’t get to hit this show as it had already closed for the season, but I’ve been told it’s a must-stop. This fall the show runs October 27-31,2020, and next year the spring dates are March 30-April 3, 2021. 43-acres make it a must stop!
Market Hill // Filling a 119,00 square building, just 19 vendors make the cut at this locale. Definitely easier to explore and not as overwhelming, but perhaps a bit more expensive. This venue has free wi-fi, dedicated parking and air-conditioned restrooms!
The Compound // 57-acres and located just 2-miles south of Round Top square, Rick and I were able to stop into this permanent structure of buildings (with nice bathrooms and air conditioning!!!) during our trip to Round Top and we were seriously impressed. A bevy of dealers, from all lengths and types of items, including antiques, rugs and estate jewelry, etc. This spot also hosts weddings and other events during off times.
Recycling the Past // One of the few architectural salvage spots remaining in Texas, Recycling the Past has pretty much everything you could ever imagine. Whether it’s a beautiful door from the 1900s or vintage drawer pulls, you can definitely spend hours at this spot searching for wonderful finds.
The Big Red Barn // Check out the dates, as the show runs for a week in both the spring and fall. This year’s dates are October 25-30, 2020. Premier antique vendors come from all around the country and sell their goods throughout the week. Rick and I walked through the permanent, air-conditioned space. Pay for tickets at entry and walk through the abundance of dealers. Permanent bathrooms, air-conditioned, as well!
Before you go…
- Make sure you have plenty of cash, as most vendors only accept it.
- Bring a measuring tape (this is my favorite compact measuring tape that I carry in my bag or pocket), plenty of water and snacks (in case lines are too long for the above recommended restaurants)
- Have a plan before you go! Trust me, you’ll get overwhelmed. We were overwhelmed and we weren’t looking to purchase anything in particular. Know before you go, what you’re looking for specifically, and map out where you want to shop!
- 2020 specifically: COVID precautions are in place, especially at the larger shows. Blue Hills and The Compound are requiring masks to be worn at all times on their grounds.
Interested in more Adored by Alex travel guides? Check them all out here.
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