Round Top - Artful Escape

On any given weekend, a visit to this quaint central Texas town will treat visitors with a surprising amount of activity. The town (population 90) is reputed to be among the smallest incorporated towns in Texas. It’s located on State Highway 237, half way between Brenham and La Grange. This historical treasure is at once charming in its authenticity and an exciting place to experience fully. What could be a sleepy, don’t blink or you’ll miss it point in the road has become a destination and center for arts and diverse fun. So, slow down at the flashing yellow light that marks arrival at the Town Square and make a left turn.

Round Top offers virtually something for everyone from beer and wine festivals to Shakespeare, and music - classical, hoe-down, polkas and old time rock. Well-known for its twice annual (Fall & Spring) antiques fairs that span miles and attract thousands, there’s lots more to enjoy in the interim periods.  In town there are three world-class galleries including one that has featured works by internationally known watercolorists,  underscoring the fact that Round Top has truly become an artful destination.

For a one-square mile town, there is also a wide variety of shops tucked on and around the square in the historic Bybee Square and Henkel Square Market. One can locate everything from antiques, quality gifts, fashionable clothing, lovely jewelry, and home decor, both sophisticated and ranch-like; and there’s not a kitchy tee shirt in sight. How refreshing.

Arrive hungry. Because, within two blocks in any direction you’ll find great food and variety. Sample any place and it won’t disappoint from Italian style, thin crust pizza, to top notch steaks, pastas and seafood, to Mexican fare and down home country comfort food. Fried green tomatoes, anyone?

Travelers here will no doubt be tired after the Round Top experience. So, why go home? Go to www.roundtop.org instead to choose from any number of charming accommodations, B&B or guest house style, in Round Top’s proper, or the surrounding area. No hotel chains here, just abundant hospitality, and the perfect flavor of evening respite after a long day (and perhaps, night) of enjoying Round Top’s offerings. So, treat yourself to the experience that will come with an evening sky where you can virtually pick the stars out of the night.