The Ultimate Round Top Antique Show Guide: Uncover Hidden Treasures and Embrace Vintage Splendor
Welcome to the Round Top Antique Show, an event that every antique and decor enthusiast should mark on their calendar. Located in the heart of Texas, this hidden gem is a haven for those in search of unique and collectible treasures.
Discover a diverse range of antique and decor items, from furniture and art to clothing and jewelry. With over 600 vendors spread across 25 miles, this iconic show offers an overwhelming selection of one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you're an experienced collector or a first-time visitor, there's something here for everyone.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the various venues, including the original Round Top Antiques Fair and the surrounding fields filled with tents and pavilions. Each vendor brings their own flair and expertise, ensuring a captivating experience that will leave you wanting to return.
My family and I have been attending the Round Top Antiques Show for years, and every year we find the most incredible antique and decor pieces! Don't miss out on the opportunity to uncover hidden treasures while enjoying the beauty of the Texas countryside. Join fellow antique enthusiasts at the Round Top Antique Show and embark on a captivating journey through time. See you there!
Henkel Square, Round Top
The History & Significance of Round Top
The Round Top Antique Show has a rich history that dates back over 50 years. It all started in 1968 when Emma Lee Turney, a local antique dealer, organized a small gathering of antique sellers in Round Top, Texas. What began as a modest event has now grown into one of the largest antique shows in the country. The show now stretches for miles along Highway 237 and consists of many different venues.
The show's significance goes beyond its size. It has become an integral part of the Round Top community and a major driver of tourism in the area. Each year, thousands of visitors flock to the show, injecting life and economic vitality into the small town.
Why Attend the Round Top Antiques Show?
The Round Top Antique Show offers a unique experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere. For antique enthusiasts, it's a chance to immerse themselves in a world of history and craftsmanship. Every item at the show has a story to tell, and being able to touch and feel these pieces adds a level of intimacy and connection that online shopping simply cannot provide.
Even for those who may not consider themselves avid collectors, the Round Top Antique Show offers an opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of vintage items. Whether you're looking for a statement piece to add character to your home or a unique gift for a loved one, the show's diverse selection ensures that there's something for everyone.
Attending the Round Top Antique Show is also a chance to support small businesses and independent vendors. Many of the exhibitors are passionate collectors themselves, and their knowledge and expertise can enhance your shopping experience. By purchasing from these vendors, you're not only acquiring a special piece but also contributing to the preservation of antique culture.
Planning Your Visit to the Round Top Antique Show
To make the most of your visit to the Round Top Antique Show, it's essential to plan ahead. The show spans several weeks, so it's a good idea to check the official website for the dates and venues. Each venue has its own unique offerings and opening dates, so you may want to allocate different days for exploring different locations.
The Round Top Antiques Show lasts for approximately two weeks at the end of March and two weeks at the end of October. There is also a winter show for a quick weekend in January.
It's also important to note that the Round Top Antique Show attracts a large number of visitors, especially during peak weekends. To avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the weekdays or early mornings. Additionally, parking can be limited, so arrive early or consider carpooling with friends to ensure a hassle-free experience.
As you plan your visit, it's helpful to have an idea of the types of items you're interested in. While it's fun to browse and discover unexpected treasures, having a general focus can help you navigate the show more efficiently. Create a list of specific pieces or styles you're looking for, but also remain open to serendipitous finds.
Navigating the Round Top Antiques Show: Tips & Tricks
With hundreds of vendors and stalls, navigating the Round Top Antique Show can be overwhelming. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time:
1. Map out your must-see vendors: Before you arrive, research the vendors and booths that align with your interests. Highlight the must-see ones on a map or create a digital list to guide your path. This way, you won't miss out on the items that matter most to you.
2. Dress accordingly: The show covers a vast area, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. Opt for comfortable footwear to ensure you can explore the stalls without any discomfort. Be sure to check the weather as well. I prefer to dress in layers when I go to Round Top, since the day could start out cold and rainy and then become warm sunny by the afternoon.
3. Bring cash: While some vendors do accept credit cards, many prefer cash for smaller purchases. There are also a couple of parking areas around the venues in the city of Warrenton that require payment for parking, so it's a good idea to have a mix of cash and cards to ensure smooth transactions.
4. Take breaks and stay hydrated: With so much to see, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. Remember to take breaks, hydrate, and fuel yourself with snacks to maintain your energy levels throughout the day.
5. Consider Traffic: On the weekends of the antique show, especially the spring show, Highway 237 can become extremely congested and it can take significantly longer to travel a very short distance. I tend to check traffic throughout the day to help me manage my time between venues and determine if I need to take a different route home on a day trip.
Where to Shop
The easiest way to shop in Round Top is to start from one end of Highway 237 and make your way to the other. end You could do this in one day or make it a weekend trip as there are so many different places to visit.
When I travel to the show for a day from Houston, I typically take Highway 290 to Highway 237 and work my way south towards Warrenton. Traffic tends get heavy on the weekends so traveling north to south is more convenient for me.
The venues below are listed in the order that I typically visit, starting from the north of Highway 237 and traveling south.
Blue Hills
Blue Hills is usually the first stop I make, and it is located on the left side of Highway 237 going south. It consists of many different buildings and vendors. One of the most popular vendors here sells incredible french pieces that are often hard to find. Since it’s so popular though, items often go very quickly.
At Blue Hills you can also find the Methodist Men Bar-B-Q restaurant with outdoor seating and there are also usually quite a few food trucks and drink stands in the area. There are also nice bathrooms at this venue.
Pieces found at Blue Hills
Market Hill
After leaving Blue Hills, Market Hill is located a short distance away on the right side of the road. At this venue the shops and the restaurant are all indoors. These shops are also more high end but it’s fun to look around even if you’re trying to bargain shop.
Dining Table found at Paul Michael store at Market Hill
Market Hill is one of the few venues that is open year round on the weekends. Inside you can also find the restaurant Duo Modern: The Restaurant at Market Hill. This restaurant is incredibly adorable and filled with different light fixtures and furniture from the partnering Paul Michael store.
Across the street from Market Hill is the venue, The Arbors. This venue consists of different vendors set up in tents selling anything from rugs to clothing and artwork. We usually like to visit here as well if we have time.
Vendor at Market Hill
Henkel Square
A little further down the road you will drive through the town of Round Top. This quaint little town consists of a small square called Henkel’s Square that is home to several brick and mortar shops as well as many different tents and vendors. You can find everything from decor, jewelry, clothing, and even pie!
Henkel Square fountain
Near Henkel Square you can find many popular restaurants like Royers Cafe, Royers Pie Haven, and Lulu’s. Across Highway 237 there are several other restaurants, a brewery, and coffee shop.
Marburger Farms
Marburger Farms is probably one of the most popular venues in the antique show and is often visited by designers from all around the country. It consists of around 300 individual exhibitors selling incredible pieces from a variety of styles.
This show is only one week long, so check the dates if you want to be sure and visit this incredible venue. There is also a fee to enter this venue which is why it’s one of the few places I haven’t yet visited. However, I have heard many good things and can’t wait to go myself!
The Compound
South of Marburger is The Compound. This venue is located on the right side of Highway 237 and consists of several different buildings as well as an outdoor eating area for food trucks and live music. Here I enjoy walking through the various buildings and seeing many different styles of decor, furniture, and artwork.
The Carriage House at The Compound
The Compound is also one of the last locations with an indoor bathroom before heading south towards Warrenton. You can find it in the white farmhouse style building.
Warrenton
Last but not least on our stop is Warrenton! Warrenton is definitely the largest vendor area along Highway 237. Along the left and right sides of the road are rows and rows of tents where you can find vintage antiques, clothing, and even popular decor pieces for a great price! I often times I’ll see a cutting board or tray I like at a previous venue and then wait to see if I can find it again at Warrenton for a bargain (which I usually do!)
On the right side of the road traveling south is an area that I especially like called Excess II. There are several different metal buildings close together where you can shop. If you’re looking for an antique cutting board or old wooden decor pieces, this is a great place to stop.
Pieces found at Excess II
On the left side of the road are hundreds of tents with everything you can think of and honestly you could spend hours checking out every single vendor. I have seen antique signs, vintage hardware pieces, old window frames, and unique decor pieces. This is definitely the area is more suited to antique bargain shopping than modern high end shopping.
Where to Eat
The Restaurant at Market Hill
The Duo Modern restaurant is located in the middle of the Market Hill Venue. The menu varies each day and is curated by the chefs based on seasonal inspiration. I haven’t eaten at this location, but every time I walk by the food looks delicious!
Royers Round Top Cafe
Royers Round Top Cafe has grown in popularity over the last 30 years and is located near Henkel Square in the town of Round Top. It is a small restaurant with a diner like atmosphere the often has a long wait time. Royers serves gourmet comfort food with dishes like beef tenderloin, rack of lamb, and snapper.
Royers Pie Haven
A short walk from Royers Round Top Cafe is Royers Pie Haven. Every time I come to Round Top I try to stop by and grab a piece of pie, some ice cream, and even a coffee. It’s always fun to sit outside in Henkel Square on a nice day and enjoy some pie.
Lulu’s
This Italian inspired restaurant is owned by the creators of the restaurant Armandos in Houston. Armando’s is an upscale restaurant with delicious food and a beautiful rustic atmosphere.
Due to the influx of customers during the antique show, opening hours and times do vary, so be sure to check the time before planning a visit.
Zapp Hall
Zapp Hall is the perfect place to end a long day of shopping in Warrenton. Here you can find outdoor tables, food, drinks, and live music.
Royers Round Top Cafe has a food stand near Zapp Hall where you can grab a bite to eat and take it over to your table to enjoy some music.
Planning Tips
Check the weather! It seems like every time I go to Round Top, the weather is either freezing cold or scorching hot so be sure to dress accordingly. I have found that dressing in layers is the best way to go.
Come prepared! Round Top is a full day of walking so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. We typically bring a small ice chest with cold waters and snacks. This also saves money since many of the drink stands and food trucks are a little pricier.
Consider traffic. On the weekends of the antique show, especially the spring show, Highway 237 can become extremely congested and it can take significantly longer to travel a very short distance. I tend to check traffic throughout the day to help me manage my time between venues and determine if I need to take a different route home on a day trip.
Bring cash. You do not have to pay to attend the Round Top Antiques Show. However, some small vendors and food stands are cash only. If you park in Warrenton it is also possible you will have to pay to park.
