With so much to see and do, it may be tough to figure out where to get started. We’ve got you covered. Read on to discover some of the best things to do in Brenham.
This one is kind of a no brainer. Brenham has been the home of the Blue Bell Creameries for more than 100 years, making it something of an institution here. Every year, thousands of people head to the creamery to try the delicious ice cream right from the source. The creamery has an ice cream parlor where you can enjoy a scoop (or two) of this sugary sweet confection, a visitor center where videos and exhibits present the company’s history, and a country store if you’re in a souvenir buying mood.
Pet a goat. Hug an alpaca. Harvest some vegetables. Make soap. If you’ve ever wanted to do any (or all) of these things, you’re in luck. A few locations near Brenham are more than happy to have you lend a helping hand. Barrington Plantation State Historic Site encourages its visitors to participate in the daily chores. So if you decide to plant or harvest some crops, or any of the other chores around the farm, you’re getting a history lesson along with a taste of the farm life.
Don’t think we forgot about those alpacas. Travel 15 miles west of Brenham and you’ll find Peeka Ranch Alpacas, a 60-acre farm home to 100 alpacas. Not only will you get to pet and feed these adorably furry creatures, but you’ll also get to savor scenic views of the ranch’s hay meadows and oak-tree-covered hills. A small gift shop stocked with alpaca wool products is on hand as well, just in case you want to take a souvenir home with you.
Many of the most important moments of the early history of Texas played out near where Brenham is today. The Texas Declaration of Independence and the Republic's first constitution were created at present-day Washington-on-the-Brazos in March of 1836. Much of this history is remembered at the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, which occupies nearly 300 acres about 20 miles northeast of Brenham. The Site features quite a few things to see and do. Start at Independence Hall, the building where the original 59 delegates fashioned the Declaration of Independence and the state’s first constitution. From there, you’ll be primed to visit the Star of the Republic Museum, a modern two-story facility that highlights Texas’ remarkable past with interactive exhibits and artifact displays.
This may already sound like a lot to see, but don’t worry. There’s more where that came from. The Barrington Plantation State Historic Site, the former home of the last president of the Republic of Texas, Dr. Anson Jones, resides within the Site as well. These days, the farm is occupied by costumed interpreters using 1850’s era methods and tools to tend to the farm, providing a unique look at what life was like in Texas at that time. Spending some time on a ranch while learning about the history of the Lone Star State near where the republic was born? It doesn’t get any more Texan than that.
As the sun descends, its rays paint the grassy field with a warm orange glow, highlighting the meticulously aligned rows of grape vines. Far in the distance, hills are adorned with vibrant yellow and purple wildflowers. A serene tranquility envelopes the surroundings, interrupted only by the gentle whisper of leaves rustling in the breeze. You may think this is from a vineyard in Napa Valley or the Texas Hill Country, but you’d be mistaken. Instead, you’re at one of the several wineries near Brenham, each of which offers their own range of specialty wines that you can try in their tasting rooms.
Sample an award-winning wine at Chapelton Vineyards, or try wines made from prickly pears or cranberries at the Texas Star Winery. The other two wineries, Windy Winery and Saddlehorn Winery, are easily reached as well. Since all four wineries are close to town, you can make any trip to Brenham a wine sampling adventure. If you do, we suggest you bring along a designated driver so you can fully enjoy all the great flavors of Brenham’s wineries.
If a great brew is your thing to taste, visit Brazos Valley Brewery near Downtown Brenham. There you'll find a family-friendly atmosphere and a tempting variety of brew flavors to choose from.
Want to attend a play or a symphony? No problem! Brenham is home to the only professional theatre in Washington County, and there are state-of-the-art performance halls that routinely host concerts nearby. Unity Theatre, located in a renovated warehouse in Downtown Brenham, brings in professional actors, directors, and technicians from around the country to produce dramas, romantic comedies, musicals, and other types of shows. Meanwhile, the 500-seat Dr. W.W. O'Donnell Performing Arts Center provides a compelling space for theatrical, musical, and choral performances by Blinn College students and guest performers. In addition, The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre offers entertainment in a restored 1925 vaudeville stage setting. These venues offer visitors and locals alike the opportunity to enjoy a top-class show without having to be in a big-city venue.
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