Brenham is a unique, sought-after community with abundant modern amenities and a small-town vibe. It exudes an old-fashioned American feel that takes you back to a simpler time when communities got together for festivals, parades, and other gatherings. Brenham also plays host to a contingent of weekend residents who come out to enjoy their private ranch estates with family and friends. As a Brenham resident, you will have equal opportunities to relax and socialize with your neighbors.
Brenham dates back as far as 1844 and is ripe with historical sites and architecture. The town is the county seat of Washington County, and the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed here. Today, the enchanting old streets, vintage shops, eclectic dining, and entertainment complement this idyllic town.
Its remarkably convenient location is central to Houston, Austin, and College Station, making traveling for big city attractions a breeze. However, entertainment in the town never seems to run out with local festivals, boutique stores, and upscale dining options. Brenham marries the modern world with a reminiscent sense of community.
What to Love
- Historic small town feel with an abundance of activities
- The bustling downtown area with charming shops and dining
- Centrally located between three major cities
Local Lifestyle
Brenham provides its residents with options for every mood. As the town blossoms with new developments, its streets and parks are increasingly lively, perfect places to take your family and meet new friends. The vibrant downtown area is a favorite place to socialize with neighbors and attend community-wide events. Brenham offers its residents privacy and remoteness from city life. Meanwhile, Brenham is just over an hour from both Austin and Houston, the perfect distance for day trips.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Dining options in Brenham provide locals with a wide assortment of favorites. To kick off a luxurious evening, residents reserve a spot at Ninety Six West to indulge in world-class farm-to-table dining. The hip and eclectic atmosphere and stunning patio option make it a treasured spot in the community, much like the tried and true Floyd’s Wine Lounge. This five-star reviewed wine bar is known for its rotating selection of beverages and carefully crafted charcuterie boards.
Nostalgia is what comes to mind when talking about Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten. The revival of the downtown area was forged by this unique market and beer garden commixture when it was established in 2013. Directly down the street, you’ll find Ballad of the Bird Dog, where locals can shop for one-of-a-kind high-end clothing and accessories. While in town, check out the clothes, shoes, boots, jewelry, and purses at Tre’s Chic Boutique. A fixture on the corner of S. Austin and W. Alamo, Hermann Furniture is the oldest furniture store in Texas.
Things to Do
Touted as the oldest festival in Texas, Brenham Maifest has been celebrating its German roots since 1881. The cherished tradition features a parade followed by a celebration with many activities, contests, and even a coronation of the Royal Court. As the name suggests, Maifest occurs once a year in May, while the fall will bring the famed Texas Arts and Music Festival. Tons of local vendors, an arts village, and an incredible music lineup make this event a town favorite.
For year-round community fun, First Fridays is an organized farmer and artisan market on the first Friday of every month. Uptown Swirl is a seasonal wine-tasting afternoon happening all over Brenham’s historic downtown at participating shops and restaurants. Antique Rose Emporium is the place to go to fill your garden with beautiful lush flowers and plants.
