History, culture, and Texas’ oldest county fair!
There are plenty of interesting things to do in Brenham, Texas.
Let’s take a look at what makes this east-central Texas city worth a visit!
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How to get around Brenham
Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Brenham is to explore on your own by car!
If you’re visiting and need to rent a car to get to your Brenham activities, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).
Click here to check out Discover Cars.
Where to stay in Brenham
From renovated VRBOS to boutique hotels, here are the best places to stay in Brenham.
- (Hotel) Coach Light Inn – this cute and comfy hotel is a family-owned motel in Brenham that offers incredibly large rooms, clean everything, great prices and some cute furniture in the sitting area. Black-out blinds will make sure you get a great night’s sleep, and the friendly staff can help you with any plans. Click here to check prices and read reviews.
- (AirBnb/VrBO) Historic Brenham Apartment – stay downtown in this gorgeous historic apartment that is walking distance to shops, restaurants, and lots of local fun. It’s immaculately equipped and has 2 bedrooms, but can fit up to 9 people including pull-out couches. Click here to check prices and read reviews.
1. Take a tour of the historical Giddings Stone Mansion
Step into history at the stunning Giddings Stone Mansion, a historical landmark featuring gorgeous 19th century Greek Revival style architecture.
Inside, you’ll learn about the Giddings and Stone families, giving you a glimpse of what life was like in Texas in the mid-1800s and onward.
Even if a full tour isn’t your thing, the house’s grand exterior is definitely one of the coolest things to see in Brenham, and worth stopping by just to marvel at the grand columns and wrap-around porch and balcony.
Remember to call ahead to schedule your tour!
2. Have a blast at Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park
Looking for fun things to do in Brenham for the whole family?
Horseshoe Junction’s got you covered, with tons of fun for all ages!
With Go Karts, laser tag, mini golf, a rock wall, an arcade, a children’s play zone, and more, the kids are sure to have a blast when you take them to spend a day at Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park!
Don’t miss the unique mini golf course – themed after 1880’s Texas!
3. Spend a day at Fireman’s Park
Easily one of the best things to do in Brenham, Fireman’s Park is well worth a visit!
Take a ride on the oldest wooden carousel in Texas, or let the kids run free on the playground.
Just across the street is a Splash Pad – the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer’s day!
Enjoy a picnic in the shade, or get out and play ball at the park’s baseball field!
Are you a skater? Don’t forget to bring your gear; Fireman’s Park is home to a small but fun skatepark!
4. Head downtown for some boutique shopping
Looking to do a bit of shopping on your trip to Brenham?
Downtown is the place to be!
With several streets full of boutique clothing and gift shops, you’ll have no problem spending an afternoon in downtown Brenham!
Make a day of it with brunch at one of the many local eateries downtown, then pop into a gallery or gift shop before doing some good ol’ fashioned clothes shopping.
By the time you’re done, you’ll be ready to grab dinner at another downtown restaurant!
5. Learn about firefighting at the Brenham Fire Museum
The Brenham Fire Museum will teach you about the history of firefighting in the area, with knowledgeable tour guides and informational plaques.
Firefighting artifacts will fascinate visitors of all ages, and you’ll get an up-close look at a classic fire truck from 1923!
Be sure to call the Fire Department in Brenham to schedule a tour of this small but interesting museum!
6. Explore the historic cisterns at Toubin Park
Lined with red brick from the walls to the ground, Toubin Park is a charming little urban park in the heart of downtown Brenham.
More of an educational alley than a park, you’ll learn about the old cisterns in Brenham that date all the way back to the 1800s.
The park’s informational plaques and flowing water will fascinate learners of all ages.
It’s a smaller attraction in Brenham, but definitely worth stopping by!
7. Enjoy a historic stay at the Ant Street Inn
There are plenty of interesting things to do in Brenham, but where should you stay?
Housed inside of a gorgeous brick building from the 1890s, the Ant Street Inn is the perfect place to stay during your trip!
Full of history and located conveniently in the city’s historic downtown district, each room of this boutique hotel has a unique charm to it.
Enjoy a full breakfast at the Brenham Grill before you head off to explore the town, then come back in the evening for a relaxing bath, or browse the inn’s Grand Hall for puzzles, games, books, and DVDs!
8. Have a delicious meal at Ninety Six West
For an upscale dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere, head over to Ninety Six West.
This highly rated restaurant will “wow” you with their international fusion tapas and entrees, along with refreshing cocktails, wine, and beer.
Try their Wagyu Steak Flatbread, and take advantage of nice weather by sitting on the patio, where the gorgeous brick exterior of the building adds even more charm to your visit.
9. Grab a beer at the rustic Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten
The classic red brick building that houses Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten is just one thing that makes it one of Brenham’s hottest venues!
Kick back with a refreshing craft beer or a glass of wine while live music fills the air in this casual and fun environment.
In the evenings, you’ll find some delicious, unique eats from the Home Sweet Farm Kitchen food truck!
Stop by on the second Thursday of the month for Open Mic Night, the third Thursday of the month for Bingo Night, or the first Saturday of the month for a craft market!
10. Take the kids toy shopping at The Barnhill House
Even if you don’t have kids, you’ll love a trip down memory lane at this old fashioned toy store!
The Barnhill House is full of nostalgia and plenty of classic books and toys that you can’t find anywhere else.
No matter the age, all kids will find something they love at this friendly little store.
From stuffed animals, to dolls, to toy cars and trains, to puzzles and games, and tons of books from decades past, this is the perfect place to do some gift shopping for the young (or youthful) ones in your life!
11. Go on a café crawl
Forget bar crawls – when in Brenham, you’ll want to go on a café crawl!
With so many charming local cafés, Brenham is the perfect place to go for coffee enthusiasts.
The Tilted Windmill provides a cozy atmosphere, with dark woods and an ornate bar where you’ll find some of the best beverages and baked goods in town.
You’ll enjoy the bright and welcoming environment at Mescalito Coffee, which is also home to a cute little gift shop.
Thirsty for more coffee and gifts?
Head over to Wired and Inspired Coffee Bar, located inside The Pomegranate gift shop, and sip on one of their unique coffee beverages while you browse!
12. Take a trip back in time at Must Be Heaven sandwich shoppe
As soon as you set foot on the black and white checkered tile, you’ll understand why it’s called Must Be Heaven!
The old-time ice cream parlor in this sandwich shoppe gives it a dreamy atmosphere – you’ve just gotta stop in for lunch while you’re in town!
There’s a classic jukebox against the wall that really drives the old-fashioned theme home, and the painted angel wings mural makes for a great photo op!
Kids will love sitting at the bar in the ice cream parlor, where they’ll enjoy a refreshing soda or a scoop of Blue Bell ice cream.
Grab some soup, salad, and a sandwich at this locally loved spot, and don’t forget to try some of their delicious homemade pie for dessert!
13. See a car show and listen to some live music
Every Saturday night in July, historic downtown Brenham lights up with classic cars, live music, and plenty of food and drinks.
“Hot Nights, Cool Tunes” is a Brenham tradition, and is free to attend!
Though primarily a concert series, the Stray Katz Car Club adds some extra flair to this family-friendly summer event with their Classic Car Cruise-in.
If you’re traveling to Brenham in the summer, you’ve gotta bring your friends and family out for a night of sweet jams and classic rides with “Hot Nights, Cool Tunes”!
14. Grab some Texan BBQ
If you’re looking for a good barbeque joint in Brenham, you’ve got plenty to choose from!
Try the brisket at LJ’s BBQ, a locally loved restaurant with a casual setting.
The red brick interior and casual outdoor seating at Pioneer Smokehouse makes for a unique atmosphere, and their Hobo Nachos are to die for!
Truth BBQ is housed in a quirky shack and is full of some of the best BBQ you’ll find in Texas, and Nathan’s BBQ is the perfect stop right off the highway, with a rustic atmosphere and classic Texas BBQ.
Why not make a few days of it and try all the BBQ places in Brenham, then decide what you like best?
15. Spend some time in nature at Hohlt Park
Looking for places to go in Brenham on a nice summer’s day?
Hohlt Park has nearly 80 acres of green grass, trees, and sports facilities to suit your activity level!
Have a relaxing picnic, take a scenic walk, or let the kids play on the playground.
Or, gather the group to play some baseball, softball, volleyball, soccer, or disc golf!
Be sure to check out the Dr. Bobbie M. Dietrich Memorial Amphitheatre. It’s worth walking by even if there aren’t any shows on, with its impressive Ancient Greek theme!
16. Enjoy an afternoon of quiet wine tasting at Saddlehorn Winery
One of the best things to do near Brenham, the Saddlehorn Winery offers wine tasting and tours in Burton, TX.
Just 10 miles west of Brenham, this winery is the most highly rated in the area – and it’s easy to see why!
With a clean, comfortable tasting room seated proudly on the winery’s green pastures, you’ll enjoy some exquisite wines and gorgeous scenery during your visit.
Try their popular Black Spanish Dessert Wine, perfect on its own or to accompany the delicious pizza they’ve been known to serve on weekends!
17. Pick your own lavender and have a scenic picnic at the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm
Want to know what to do in Brenham on a nice day?
Go to Chappell Hill Lavender Farm and pick some fresh lavender!
This is one of the best Brenham attractions for families, couples, or for a nice reflective time in nature on your own!
Entry to the farm is free, so if you’re not in a gardening mood, you can still walk through the fields and enjoy the scent of one of nature’s most calming herbs.
Or, pack a picnic and enjoy a nice lunch in the farm’s charming gazebo!
Don’t forget to stop by the shop!
You’ll find plenty of lavender products – from soaps and candles, to teas and jams, and even some refreshing lavender lemonade and ice cream!
The farm is only open from March through November, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly!
18. Go to the fair!
Traveling to Brenham in September?
You don’t want to miss the oldest county fair in Texas!
Head over to the Washington County Fair Grounds, where you’ll find all your favorite fair attractions.
Travelers of all ages will find something fun to do at the fair!
There, you’ll find carnival rides, arts and crafts, live music, livestock shows and a rodeo, plus special exhibits that’ll give you a taste of East-Central Texas.
And, of course, all that delicious fair food!
You’ll have no problem spending a full day (or two or three) at the Washington County Fair!
19. See a show in The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre
Built in 1925, the Historic Simon Theatre has provided entertainment to the city of Brenham for nearly a century.
Though it has changed its name over the years, now known as The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre, the gorgeous red carpeting and upholstered seats give this venue a uniquely classic look.
See a concert or show brought to life on the small but ornate stage, which is bordered with intricate designs that will really make you feel like you’ve stepped into history.
With the best blend of historical charm and modern events in this beautiful brick building, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most quintessential Brenham things to do.
Check out the website to see what’s on when you’re in town!