Things to Do in Round Top Texas
Round Top, Texas, is a small town located in the heart of the Lone Star State. It’s a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. With its quaint downtown area, rolling hills, and friendly locals, Round Top is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation. There are plenty of things to do in Round Top, from free activities to entertainment and more.
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Where is Round Top Located?
This vibrant and fun town of Round Top, Texas, is located between Houston and Austin. Its unique location also makes it a central point to visit some great towns and attractions. One of the best is Washington on the Brazos, better known as the birthplace of Texas. In addition, there are numerous lakes and state parks nearby, lovely historic towns, and some of the best food in Texas.
What is Round Top Known For?
Round Top is also home to some of the best antique shopping in the state. The Round Top Antique Show is one of the most popular events in the area, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Visitors can find a variety of antiques, vintage items, and unique finds from all over the world. The show is held twice a year, in the spring and fall, and is a great way to explore the town and find some unique treasures.
Best Things to Do in Round Top Texas
Round Top Antique Show
Round Top Antique Show is one of the most popular things to do in Round Top, Texas. Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Round Top is a small town with a big personality. Every year, the town hosts the Round Top Antique Show, three events that draw thousands of visitors from all over the world. They take place in October, January, and March. The show features hundreds of vendors selling antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of furniture or a one-of-a-kind gift, you’re sure to find something special at the Round Top Antique Show.
Stroll the Henkel Square
The town has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when it was founded by German immigrants. The best way to experience the history of Round Top is to stroll Henkel Square Market. The buildings that surround Henkel Square are actual buildings that people of Round Top’s history lived and worked in. One of the loveliest is Haw Creek Church. This beautifully preserved building served as both a school and a church for the people of Round Top. In addition to the historic buildings, the square is virtually park-like and is a wonderful place to stop and relax. There are picnic tables, a soothing fountain, and more to enjoy here.
Explore the Shops
Spend the day shopping in the boutiques and antique shops located in the squares and along Highway 237. There are numerous shops filled with custom jewelry, gifts, and more. Additionally, many of these items are created by local artists. You can find a list of all the shopping in the area here. A few to mention include:
- Roundtop Antiques and Design Center – Over 6,000 sq ft of incredible antique, vintage, and artisan creations from around the world to decorate your home, office, or any space.
- Wimberly Inc. – This unique shop features jewelry, Round Top hats, and awesome Cowboy boots!
- The 303 Round Top – a wonderfully creative and vintage complex where you can Shop, Gather and Stay!
Visit the Art Galleries
If you like art galleries, then Round Top is the place for you. There are many to choose from, however, my personal favorite was the Humble Donkey Studio. Not only do they have fun artwork, but they also offer unique antiques. Not to mention, they will offer you a glass of wine or a Lone Star Beer just for visiting.
Hang out at the Ellis Hotel
After spending some time at the Humble Donkey Studio, why not head over to the Ellis Hotel? Not to spend the night, because it’s not an actual hotel, but to explore some cool furniture and maybe relax with a cocktail after.
Eat Some Fantastic Food
Indeed you will want to try some fun food fare while in Round Top. Of course, there are many to choose from. For a unique experience, try the Round Top Cafe, which serves up classic American fare with a twist. Royer’s Round Top Cafe is a must, and it was our favorite. If you visit on Sunday, you should try one of Royer’s specialties, their famous Fried Chicken, which is served on Sunday only until it’s all gone. It’s important to know they are only open from 11-2 on Sundays, but if you call ahead and let them know what time you’ll be there, you may not have to wait very long.
Of course, there are other fine options like the Stone Cellar, Teague’s Tavern, and Mandito’s. From classic Texas BBQ to Mexican cuisine, you’ll find plenty of delicious options.
Enjoy Some Wine
Grab a glass of wine at Prost. Located in one of Round Top’s most historic buildings, its outdoor patio is an idyllic location to take a break from shopping or savor an after-dinner wine. Additionally Round Top is also home to several wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Visitors can take a tour of the facilities and sample some of the local wines, beers, and spirits.
Indulge in Some OMP! (Oh My Pie!) at Royer’s Pie Haven
Before you leave, you must savor a sweet treat. Royer’s Pie Haven features heavenly pies by the slice, cookies, and more. I promise you that enjoying a slice of Royer’s Pie is one the best things to do in Round Top, Texas. I highly recommend the “Not My Mom’s Apple Pie” or the “Junkberry Pie”. Want to make it even more decadent? Add a scope of Texas’s best Blue Bell Ice Cream!
Visit the Haw Creek Church
The lovely Haw Creek church sits towards the back of Henkel Square, and it’s a lovely backdrop for family or Instagram photos. The church was moved from Haw Creek, Texas, a German immigrant community located about 5 miles from Round Top. The church serves as a wedding venue today, and it is a beautiful piece of history to visit.
Head Over to Junk Gypsy
But wait, don’t forget to visit Junk Gypsy! Junk Gypsy is just fun, funky, and fabulous, and you should check it out. Amie and Jolie Sikes have changed how the world sees junk and are true rebels in the design and fashion world. Their shop is lively and fun and worth a visit. In addition, they have the Wander Inn, where you can stay the night or weekend and experience their design creative genus.
Go Dancing at The Stone Cellar & Round Top Dance Hall!
Looking for some nighttime fun, and you’re in Round Top for the Weekend? Then head over to the Stone Cellar & Round Top Dance Hall. First, you can enjoy a fabulous dinner at either the Stone Cellar or the Jon Perez Lounge. Then you can dance the night away on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night!
Where to Stay in Round Top
There are many quaint and beautiful places to stay in and around Round Top. Not only can you find an array of B&Bs, but there are an assortment of historic hotels, Container Hotel, farm cabins, and even indoor glamping! For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are plenty of camping sites and RV parks in the area. You can find all the information you need right here at exploreroundtop.com. Or, if you would like more options, check out these deals here on Booking.com.
Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Round Top, Texas
- Do keep in mind that many of the Round Top businesses are not open on Monday and Tuesday.
- While Round Top, Texas, is not a very big place, you will still find that you will do a lot of walking there. I do recommend wearing or at least bringing comfortable shoes for exploring the area.
- Many of the things to do in Round Top Texas are located near Henkel and Rummel Square, you will need to drive to others. The first time I visited I thought Junk Gypsy was right around the corner from Henkel Square, but it is 2 miles away.
- During Antique Week, Round Top’s population goes from approximately 90 to 100,000 plus.
- This high volume of visitors makes the one-way road in (SH 237) and through Round Top incredibly busy, and traffic can move at a crawl during that time.
- Since it is so busy when there are antique Shows, booking a hotel last minute can be a problem. Hotels, such as Wander Inn, Flophouse Shipping Container, and Round Top In, are normally booked a year in advance, so remember this when planning your trip. If you visit during non-peak times of the year, you’re more likely to have Round Top all to yourself, or at least it won’t be busy.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Round Top Texas
In conclusion, Round Top, Texas, serves as a hidden treasure for those who appreciate the charm of small towns, the allure of antique shows, and the convenience of quick trips from Texas’ major cities like Houston or Austin. The diverse range of activities in Round Top guarantees an enjoyable experience for everyone. From the historic downtown filled with unique shops and eateries, to the renowned Round Top Antique Show offering an unparalleled shopping experience, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re an antique aficionado or just looking for a quick getaway, Round Top will leave a lasting impression.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Texas, then check out our Family Friendly Things to Do on Galveston Island. Of course, if you like the Round Top area, then you might like our post Road Trip in Search of Bluebonnets.
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