Winedale Historical Complex


In the countryside 4 miles northeast of Round Top look for the Winedale historic village, part of the University of Texas at Austin. Tours are by appointment only; the best way to see the historic homes and storefronts is when they are open for festivals throughout the year. The structures all date from the 19th century and have furnishings accurate for the era.

In summer get thee to a barn – the Shakespeare at Winedale barn, that is, where loyal fans drive for miles each summer to see University of Texas students perform Shakespeare plays in a rustic setting redolent of the Bard’s more ribald comedies. Buy tickets in advance online. Besides the main season, there are limited performances other times.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Burton Cotton Gin & Museum

6.31 MILES

Learn everything and more you ever wanted to know about growing cotton locally at this well-organized museum. Twice-daily 90-minute tours really get at…

2. Saddlehorn Winery

8.85 MILES

Two miles northeast of town, taste the Barn Red, a rich berry blend, from these ranch vineyards.

3. Rohan Meadery

12.53 MILES

The tastings of the sweet and spicy honey wines at Rohan Meadery may be for adults, but there is a picnic area outside for families to enjoy. You can also…

4. Pleasant Hill Winery

13.91 MILES

This lovely little vineyard in the country has several well-regarded wines, including a much-lauded Blanc du Bois. Three to four tours are offered on…

5. Toubin Park

15.41 MILES

Duck into Belle's Alley, between Alamo and Commerce Sts, on your downtown wanderings. There tiny Toubin Park has illustrated signs that show the story of…

6. Brenham Heritage Museum

15.54 MILES

The local history museum is housed in a landmark 1915 building. Exhibits are well funded and include the life of a local man serving as a confederate…

7. Blue Bell Creameries

16.49 MILES

Explore the museum-like visitors center before heading to the gift shop and ice-cream parlor (scoop $1). Oddly there are no weekend hours. Production…

8. Jersey Barnyard

16.5 MILES

Less than 2 miles north of town you and the little ones can take a hay ride, milk a cow and otherwise learn all about family farming. A shop sells fresh…