Tag: brewery

Summer Fun in Brenham

The days are getting longer and the sun is shining, which means that it is time to plan your summer trip to Brenham, Texas! Come spend a few nights at one of our wonderful lodging properties because there is no shortage of fun during the summer months. Make your summer to-do list for Brenham & Washington County today!

Summer Events

Chappell Hill Art Walk, Downtown Chappell Hill

Main Street Chappell Hill Artwalk – May 23, 2026; Come to Chappell Hill to shop and meet the artists in a variety of stores while they create original artwork throughout the day.

Tres Chic Boutique, Downtown Brenham

Summer Sip & Art Walk – June 6, 2026; stroll through unique shops in historic Downtown Brenham while tasting signature drinks and enjoying a variety of featured art.

Cotton Gin Classic Car & Truck Show, Burton

Cotton Gin Classic Car & Truck Show – June 13, 2026; Annual Car & Truck Show held in the shadow of the oldest operating cotton gin in America, located in Burton, TX. In case of inclement weather, the date will be June 20, 2026.

Juneteenth Parade, Downtown Brenham

WCJA Juneteenth Ceremony & Parade – June 20, 2026; Annual Juneteenth Parade in Downtown Brenham held by Washington County Juneteenth Association.

Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration – June 27, 2026; Washington-on-the-Brazos is proud to celebrate Juneteenth as a part of Washington County’s long history of marking the end of slavery in Texas. This year’s focus will be Charting New Ground: African American Trailblazers. There will be musical performances from local church choirs, food, vendors, informational and cultural heritage booths, and lots of fun! The event is free and open to the public.

Summer Showcase, Downtown Brenham

Summer Showcase – July 11, 18, & 25, 2026; Head to Alamo Alley in Downtown Brenham for Summer Showcase, where local musicians take the stage from 5–6:30 PM before Hot Nights, Cool Tunes for a free live music pre-show presented by Visit Brenham and the Texas Music Friendly Committee.

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, Downtown Brenham

Hot Nights, Cool Tunes  – Saturday evenings July 11, 18, & 25; Bring your lawn chair and gather in the Commerce Street parking lot in historic Downtown Brenham to listen to the sounds of live music and walk through the classic car show. Admission and parking is FREE!

Chappell Hill Independence Day Parade

Chappell Hill Independence Day Parade & Festivities – July 4, 2026; It’s the best small town parade you’ll experience! Come on out to celebrate Independence Day in Chappell Hill.

Stars Over Washington County – July 4, 2026; In celebration of America’s 250th, the gates at Washington County Expo open at 6 p.m. Free admission to the July 4 celebration. Vendors, patriotic music, and presentations. Concert begins at 8 p.m. with Escape: A Tribute to Journey. Fireworks begin at 9:20 p.m.

Chappell Hill Wine & Cheese Swirl – August 8, 2026; Stroll the shops along Chappell Hill’s charming Main Street and taste a variety of wines and chocolate pairings.

Chappell Hill Wine & Cheese Crawl

Movies in the Park Summer Series – June 1, July 12, & July 31, 2026; Bring the kids and watch movies including Zootopia, Shrek, and Madagascar at Fireman’s Park, the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, and Henderson Park. All movies will start approximately 10 minutes after sunset.

Summer Activities for Kids

Blue Bell Creameries is a must-visit when you are in Brenham! Usually the Ice Cream Parlor and Country Store are only open on weekdays, but during the summer months of June-August,  they are also open on Saturdays from 10am-4pm. To experience everything Blue Bell has to offer, including the parlor, visitor center, country store and observation deck, please come on weekdays from 8am-5pm.

Other fun activities include swimming at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, roller skating at Silver Wings Ballroom, exploring Where Texas Became Texas at  Washington-on-the-Brazos, and horseback riding at Rockin’ Star Ranch. Located next to Brenham Heritage Museum, The Brenham Fire Museum will be open on Fridays, 12:00-4:00; Saturdays, 11:00-2:00.

Burgers in Brenham

When Brenham comes to mind, you may think of Blue Bell and rich Texas history. While that is all true, one thing you might not expect when you are here, is that you are in the middle of a foodie’s paradise. From authentic Italian food to award winning BBQ, Brenham/Washington County has it all! One staple that can be interpreted a million different ways is a big juicy hamburger with all the toppings and your favorite sides.

We’re celebrating National Cheeseburger Day by providing a bucket list of places to get an amazing burger in Washington County! Our inspiration came from local resident Michael Mullins on his quest to try all the hamburgers in the county. He has been documenting his journey on Facebook. Visitors and locals alike can appreciate this quest, as you might get the chance to have your favorite burger raved about, or even find a new hidden gem! Watch for Michael’s comments in quotes.

1.  Bevers Kitchen

Bevers Kitchen, Downtown Chappell Hill

Bevers is famous for their homemade pies, but don’t miss out on their burger. “Bevers Kitchen sells pies and is not known for their burger, but they should be,” said Michael. “This is a solid old-fashioned hamburger just like you would have in your mom’s kitchen on a Sunday afternoon.”

2.  Brossa’s Cibo e Vino

Burgers aren’t typically what you would expect at this authentic Italian restaurant, but like the rest of the food on the menu, this burger is made from only the best ingredients… Wagyu. Served during lunch, covered in caramelized onions, their parmesan Reggiano cheese sauce, and sandwiched between a brioche bun, you will be licking your fingers non-stop!

3. Burton Short Stop

Convenience store, restaurant, and gas station all in one in Burton! You won’t want to miss their daily specials, especially their hamburgers. Make sure to grab either a piece of pie or one of their homemade cookies on your way out.

4. Dairy Bar

If you want an iconic establishment in Brenham, then try Dairy Bar. Established in 1985, it still makes one of the best burgers in the county. You will most likely always find a long drive through line and the inside packed with locals. “This is as local as it gets.” Be sure to add curly fries and a chocolate shake to your order!

5. Danny’s

Danny’s, Downtown Brenham

These burgers are unlike anything you have ever tried before. “This burger doesn’t come with the lettuce, tomatoes, and onion salad that some great burgers have–and it doesn’t need to. It stands alone in taste and looks.” Filled with homemade pickles, cheese and sauce, the burger is perfect alone or paired with one of their incredible sides. Trust us. You will not be disappointed with this burger or anything on the menu.

6. Independence Store

Independence Store, Independence

When you arrive, you might be confused by the look of a gas station, but not to worry – you are in the right spot. “The burger came wrapped in silver foil and it was hot, the fries looked like they were made for a TV commercial.” This is the best hole in the wall you can find. “Remember when you come here to eat, don’t be in a hurry, slow down and relax. Take in the history and the wonderful folks who run it.”

7. LJs BBQ

LJ’s BBQ, Brenham

LJ’s is known for its award-winning BBQ, but have you ever tried their burgers? “Let me start by saying this is no normal hamburger. It’s cooked to perfection. The secret for this bad boy? Smoked then grilled.” This is the type of burger you skip breakfast for and then are still too full for dinner later. They serve until they sell out, so make sure you get there early!

8. Nathan’s BBQ

Nathan’s BBQ, Brenham

Recently written up in Texas Monthly magazine for its traditional style of BBQ-ing, this family-friendly restaurant is where you will find locals on a Sunday afternoon for lunch. “I enjoyed the atmosphere and decor and, rest assured, that delicious, juicy hamburger.” Nathan’s is another staple in Brenham and a place you do not want to miss.

9. Pioneer Smokehouse

Pioneer Smokehouse, Downtown Brenham

Didn’t we say Brenham has great BBQ? Well, great BBQ means great burgers. Pioneer will give you an amazing atmosphere with an even better burger. You choose your toppings to your liking and then be prepared to have to use two hands to tackle this thing. Right in the heart of downtown, Pioneer has the atmosphere, the drinks, and the burger!

10. Smitty’s Cafe & Bakery

For a place known for their chicken fried steak, they sure can do a burger right in an old gas station turned into an amazing restaurant. “Their list of burgers is long, but they do not disappoint. They make their own buns and that is what made this burger stand out.” Make sure to have a slice of pie before you leave!

11. Wild Bill’s

Wild Bill’s, Burton

When you are heading out to Lake Sommerville, you will not want to miss Wild Bill’s, adjacent to the entrance to Rocky Creek Park. You’ll walk into a nice wooden bar where you will be welcomed and order a burger where they don’t skimp on the meat. With three choices of fries for your side, you will not be disappointed with the atmosphere and the burger.

So tell us! Where is your favorite burger in Brenham/ Washington County?