I’ve lived in Texas for eight 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 latest 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.
Leave it to Texas, the weather rarely cooperates, and of course it rained, but we both felt super comfortable with how the Equinox handled the wet and curvy roads, plus handled the conditions nicely.
Another aspect both Rick and I loved in our Chevrolet Equinox: syncing up the Apple Play and listening to our favorite jams, including Dave Matthews and Mumford and Sons, while taking in the gorgeous spring Texas wildflowers, including Bluebonnets and Indian Paint Brushes, and enjoying the sights and must-stops in Round Top, Texas.
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.
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, during the antique show, 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.
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.
Los Patrones // A Mexican food spot that always had a line outside whenever we drove by. Sounds to be working out the kinks, as they were recently purchased by the owner of one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Houston, Armandos. 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!
Tin Lizzie’s // Not in Round Top proper, but a must-stop if you’re heading up to Round Top or back to the Houston-area. This mother-daughter owned cafe is in the small town of New Ulm, and you will not be disappointed. Homemade breads and pastries, plus tasty desserts. Rick and I tried the gumbo and red beans and rice (A+) and shared a chicken salad sandwich, all so delicious. We will most definitely be back!
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.
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. 2019 dates are as follows: April 2-6, 2019; October 1-5, 2019. 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.
Round Top Antique Show // Check out the dates, as the show runs for a week in both the spring and fall. This year’s dates are April 1-6, 2019 and September 30th through October 5th. Premier antique vendors from all around the country. 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, 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!
This post is brought to you in partnership with Chevrolet. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that help make Adored by Alex possible.
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