Brenham, a beautiful town halfway between Austin and Houston, is a place filled with Texas history and bluebonnets (the state flower of Texas). Below is our list of the top ten things tourists cannot miss when visiting Brenham.
1. Blue Bell Creameries
“Blue Bell Creameries” possesses a rich history, having been founded in 1907. Once a US-Wide staple, Blue Bell’s headquarters remain in The Little Creamery in Brenham where visitors can tour its hallowed halls and enjoy the ice cream (a Texas institution) for $1 a scoop.
2. Flying Horses Antique Carousel
As one of the best antique carousels in the world, “Flying Horses” is housed in a classic 16-sided building created in 1935. It is only $1 per carousel ride and located conveniently close to “Blue Bell Creameries,” making for a perfect afternoon.
3. The Mural Outside of Corner Liquor Store
Those visiting “Corner Liquor Store” in Downtown Brenham will be in awe of Michael C. Rodriguez’s artwork: a mural of a ferocious red bear and a beautiful woman.
4. The “Main Street” District
Brenham’s downtown “Main Street” District is recognized nationally, boasting eye-catching buildings that are a shining tribute to the town’s vast history and beautiful charm. Of the 40 shops and restaurants inhabiting the street, one of the main attractions is the “Must Be Heaven” Sandwich Shop, famous for its delicious old-fashioned pies, ice cream, and deli-style fare.
5. Antique Rose Emporium
This beautiful nursery is the perfect hub for gardeners, history buffs, and architectural enthusiasts with a passion for small buildings. The Antique Rose Emporium has a vast selection of gorgeous roses and potted herbs for sale. For visitors looking to spend a long day at the nursery, there is a pub on the premises to sit back and truly take in the relaxed atmosphere.
6. Brenham Miniature Horses
“Brenham Miniature Horses” is the pride of the Pax Christi Sisters. And on top of offering rides on its tiny steeds, this fun-filled retreat center is home to a paint-your-own-ceramic shop and a family-friendly picnic area.
7. Texas Cotton Gin Museum
Here lies the oldest operating cotton gin in America. The “Texas Cotton Gin Museum” plays host to the Burton Farmers Gin, which is a designated National Historic Engineering Landmark and still located in the same place as it was built a century ago!
8. Chappell Hill Lavender Farm
Located 8 miles (13 kilometers) north of the historic town of Chappell Hill, just off the Texas Independence Trail, lies this aromatic lavender farm with quaint surroundings and a scenic hillside view. Chappell Hill Lavender Farm is perfect for a day-long excursion.
9. Peeka Ranch Alpacas
“Peeka Ranch” is a magnificent 60-acre ranch where visitors will be entranced by adorable alpacas, picturesque hay meadows, and incredible oak trees. Visitors will also enjoy alpaca feedings and a gift shop with a wealth of products, such as alpaca and aromatic candles.
10. Delicious Restaurants
“R Place” at Washington-on-the-Brazos offers its patrons both variety and quality, with delicious BBQ, sandwiches, beer, wine, and hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream. When looking for heaping servings of mouth-watering comfort food, “Truth BBQ” is the place to go – but be warned that there will be a lineup (it is THAT good). “Home Sweet Farm” Market & Biergarten” is the perfect place for those seeking the authentic small-town experience, live music, craft beer, and fresh, locally sourced food.