Looking for a quick getaway from Houston or Austin? Brenham, TX, is the perfect spot! This charming town, just an hour from Houston and about an hour and a half from Austin, is a hidden gem bursting with history, culture, and some seriously yummy food. Whether you’re looking to dive into local history, enjoy some fresh air, or simply savor some ice cream, Brenham’s got something for everyone. Here’s a list of our personal favorites—places that have become a hit with our family. This isn’t an exhaustive list of everything Brenham has to offer, but we’ll keep updating it as we discover more. And hey, if you find a spot you think we’ll love, let me know in the comments!
Note: Some attractions are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and many spots (especially those with live music and certain restaurants) are only open from Friday to Sunday. So plan ahead!
Blue Bell Creameries
Location: Brenham If you’re in Brenham, a stop at Blue Bell Creameries is a must. Not only do you get to see how their delicious ice cream is made, but you can also treat yourself to a $1 scoop at the Ice Cream Parlor.
Street Art
Location: Downtown Brenham Downtown Brenham is sprinkled with some beautiful street art. The murals are great for a quick photo op, especially along Commerce Street. We love walking around and spotting new art each time we visit.
Toubin Park
Location: Downtown Brenham Toubin Park is a small but interesting spot where you can learn about the historic cisterns of Brenham. The kids love running around and playing, while we enjoy a bit of local history. It’s a great place for a little break during your downtown exploration.
Shops unique Treasures
Location: Downtown Brenham If you love hunting for unique treasures, Brenham’s shops won’t let you down. Downtown is dotted with eclectic stores where you can find everything from antique furniture to quirky books and one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see anywhere else, these shops are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Springtime: Wild Flowers
Location: Chappell Hill If you’re visiting Brenham in the spring, you’re in for a treat. On your way from Houston you will be able to spot lots wildflowers along Highway 290, specially Bluebonnets, they are simply stunning. Our favorite spot to stop and snap some photos is by the First Baptist Church in Chappell Hill. There’s a safe place to park, and the field has an adorable red barn in the background—perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.
Things we want to try or visit soon:
-Flying Horse Carousel
-Brenham Fire museum
-Truth BBQ
– Splash Pad in Henderson Park (to cool down in summer)
-Mescalito coffee
-Las americas Latin Cuisine
That’s our little guide to Brenham! We’ll keep adding to this list as we find new favorites, and we’d love to hear your recommendations. Brenham is full of charm, and I hope your family enjoys it as much as we do!