Holiday Happenings

The Holidays are officially here! This magical time of year is the perfect time to visit Washington County. Here are a few of the things to do throughout the holiday season in Brenham and Washington County.

Hermann Furniture presents Christmas Magic – Nov. 7-9

The inside of a furniture store. The center table is covered in colorful Christmas decorations.
Hermann Furniture, Downtown Brenham

The store will be fully decorated with seasonal décor from wall to wall. Guests can enjoy door prizes, pop-up shops, wine, and hors d’oeuvres. Designers will also be available to assist with floral arrangements and any interior décor needs.

Holiday Market at Junk in Yer Trunk – Nov. 15

Kick off the season at The Barn Holiday Market on Saturday, November 15th! Browse festive vendor booths outside and discover beautiful holiday gifts inside the barn.

12th Annual Sugar Plum Market – Nov. 22

Holiday Shopping all in a beautiful Indoor Holiday atmosphere with an array of quality items to shop, great food, holiday music and more. Shop this quaint market for yourself and for those on your holiday list! Located at Brenham Fireman’s Training Center from 9am-4pm. Free Admission and Parking.

Downtown Brenham’s Cocoa Crawl – Nov. 29

The historic Moody-Wheeler Building in downtown Brenham, a two-story cream-colored structure with arched windows and detailed cornices, built in 1885. A large holiday wreath with a red bow hangs from a streetlamp in front of the building, and three women walk along the sidewalk below. The mural on the lower wall depicts vintage storefront scenes, and an American flag waves from the roof against a partly cloudy sky.
Moody-Wheeler Building, Downtown Brenham

Shop small in beautiful Downtown Brenham on Friday, Nov. 29. Taste variations of hot cocoa concoctions while you shop at your favorite boutiques!

The Downtown Brenham Christmas Stroll & Lighted Parade – Dec. 5-6

A nighttime Christmas parade in downtown Brenham, with streets lined by crowds watching illuminated floats and vehicles decorated with holiday lights. A group at the front carries a banner reading “Ocean Treasures,” followed by a truck pulling a festive float with a lit Christmas tree. Historic buildings trimmed with glowing lights frame the scene, and the festive atmosphere fills the street with color and excitement.
Christmas Stroll & Lighted Parade, Downtown Brenham

Downtown Brenham looks like a holiday movie set with the holiday magic of the annual Christmas Stroll. The lighted parade on Saturday, Dec. 7 is the highlight of the festivities, but the weekend also includes the First Friday Farmer & Artisan Market, Cold Nights, Holiday Tunes (free concert!),  Breakfast with Santa at The Barnhill Center, Jingle Bell Market at Ant Street Inn, and more. For a complete schedule of the weekend festivities, click here.

A festive indoor holiday scene where two young children sit on Santa’s lap for a photo. They are dressed in matching Christmas pajamas, smiling under bright lights. Behind them, a black curtain is decorated with white paper snowflakes and red-and-green garlands. A white Christmas tree with presents underneath stands beside them, while a couple stands nearby taking photos on a smartphone. The room glows warmly with chandeliers and holiday cheer.
The Barnhill Center, Downtown Brenham

The Christmas Experience at Milk & Honey Ranch – Dec. 5-7

A festive event flyer for the Milk and Honey Ranch Christmas Experience, taking place December 5–7, 2025, from 5 PM to 9 PM at 8202 Brandt Road in Burton, Texas. The design features colorful holiday graphics like ornaments, gifts, candy canes, and a nutcracker. Event highlights include festive drinks and treats, family photos, a petting zoo, Christmas concert, live nativity, holiday light wonderland, and mini cow cuddles. Text at the bottom notes $50 entry including parking and directs visitors to milkandhoneyranch.com for more information.
Milk and Honey Ranch, Burton

Join the fun December 5-7, 5-9pm at Milk & Honey Ranch with a Christmas market, Christmas concert, petting zoo, live nativity scene, bounce house, caroling and more fun for the entire family. Purchase tickets here.

Annual Teddy Bear Parade – Dec. 13

Families and children participate in the Teddy Bear Parade in downtown Chappell Hill, walking down the street near Bevers Ice House. Mrs. Claus leads the way, smiling beside kids carrying large teddy bears and stuffed animals. Spectators line the sidewalks, some taking photos, while storefronts decorated with wreaths and garlands create a cheerful small-town holiday scene.
Teddy Bear Parade, Downtown Chappell Hill

Bring your kiddos to downtown Chappell Hill for the annual Teddy Bear Parade. Lots of fun activities for the children. Sit and talk to Santa, and bring your Teddy Bear for the parade!

 
Chappell Hill Garden Club Christmas Home Tour, Chappell Hill

Saturday, December 13, is the perfect day to visit Chappell Hill. Festivities begin with the Christmas Home Tour by the Chappell Hill Garden Club from 10am-5pm!

 

Christmas Event at The Barnhill Center – Dec. 20

Catch Top of the World, A Carpenters Christmas on Saturday, December 20. Purchase tickets and find details here.

Christmas Events at Antique Rose Emporium

The Antique Rose Emporium in Independence is hosting Christmas events throughout December.
 

Photos with Santa

Santa Claus stands smiling in a festive outdoor walkway in downtown Brenham, dressed in his traditional red velvet suit with white fur trim and a gold belt buckle. String lights hang overhead, greenery wraps around a nearby lamp post, and trimmed hedges and brick buildings create a charming small-town holiday backdrop.
Alamo Alley, Downtown Brenham

Several retailers offer portrait sessions with Santa. Appointments with Brenham Portrait Gallery are offered on several days each week at Hermann Furniture throughout November and December. Other businesses including Blue Bell, Puppy Dawgs and Cat Tails, Silver Wings Ballroom, Antique Rose Emporium and South Texas Tack also offer Santa photo ops on select dates.

 

Live Nativities

Celebrate the reason for the season with one of the area’s live nativities. Bethlehem in Independence live nativity is December 13-14, 6-8pm, at the Independence School House. The Greatest Gift Live Nativity by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is December 5-6, 6:00-9:00 pm, at 1400 Niebuhr Street, Brenham. There will also be a live nativity scene at The Christmas Experience at Milk & Honey Ranch, December 5-7, 5-9.

 

Be sure to check our event calendar for a complete list of everything happening in Washington County!

 

Patio Dining Around Brenham

Pioneer Smokehouse, Downtown Brenham

Brenham is known for being family friendly and pet friendly, so it’s no surprise that there are many outdoor dining & drinking options throughout Washington County! When the weather is just too inviting to stay indoors, try one of these restaurants for patio dining and drinking.

30 NORTH GASTROPUB

30 North Gastropub, Downtown Brenham

30 North Gastropub in Downtown Brenham boasts hand-tossed gourmet pizzas, paninis, wings, spiral fries and a full bar. TVs in the bar and on the patio make it a great meeting place to watch the big game.

36 NORTH VINEYARD

36 North Vineyard, Brenham

36 North Vineyard right outside of Downtown Brenham has a tasting room, bakery and coffee shop, large rear deck under a pecan tree and plenty of ground to picnic and explore. 36 North offers a variety of Texas wines ranging sweet to dry and Craft beer from local breweries. Enjoy a glass around the fire pit, play some games or relax under the 130 year old Live Oak.

Brazos Valley Brewing Company

Brazos Valley Brewing Company, Downtown Brenham

If you love good beer, good music, and the people that they bring together, Brazos Valley Brewing Company is for you. This independent craft brewery and taproom is located a block from historic Downtown Brenham.  In addition to their prize winning beer, they offer wine, cider, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options. They have ample patio seating, outdoor games, and even a park sized playground for kids to enjoy.

BROSSA’S CIBO E VINO

Brossas Cibo e Vino, Brenham

If you love fresh, authentic Italian flavors, handcrafted pastas, and a cozy neighborhood vibe, Brossa’s Cibo e Vino is for you. This local gem serves rustic classics, paired perfectly with a diverse wine selection. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, offering a delicious taste of Italy right here at home.

CHAPELTON VINEYARDS

Chapelton Vineyards, Washington

Located in the scenic rolling hills between Washington and Chappell Hill, Chapelton Vineyards  offers captivating countryside views while you enjoy the wine and fresh air.

FLOYD’S LOUNGE

Floyd’s Lounge, Downtown Brenham

Located in historic Downtown Brenham, Floyd’s Lounge offers great wines, beer & craft cocktails.  With a seasonal list of offerings, you can always find something new to try.  Floyd’s has one of the largest patios in Washington County, and they partner with local food trucks for dining options. 

GRAPEVINE ON MAIN

Grapevine on Main, Downtown Chappell Hill

Grapevine on Main in charming Chappell Hill is a wine bistro and a perfect gathering place for friends.  Grapevine on Main provides old town charm and a quaint atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Catch steak night on Thursdays and live music on weekends.

LAJEFA Homestyle Birria + Salud

LaJefa Homestyle Birria + Salud, Downtown Brenham

LaJefa Homestyle Birria is a family run specialty food truck dedicated  to serving homestyle Birria, located in Downtown Brenham.  Inspired by authentic Mexican cuisine and Jalisco roots, LaJefa specializes in beef birria and weekly specials based on popular homestyle dishes. Sharing the patio is Salud, a craft cocktail bar and perfect compliment to LaJefa’s cuisine.

LOS PATRONES MEXICAN GRILL

Los Patrones Mexican Grill, Burton

Nestled in beautiful Burton, you’ll find Los Patrones Mexican Grill, offering delicious Mexican Food, steaks, seafood, and a full bar.

MAIN STREET UNCORKED

Main Street Uncorked, Downtown Brenham

Main Street Uncorked is an upscale martini, wine, jazz bar and eatery in Downtown Brenham where guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, great drinks, and delicious bites.

MESCALITO COFFEE

Mescalito Coffee, Downtown Brenham

Located inside The Grand Leader building in Downtown Brenham, Mescalito Coffee shares the space with sister companies To Pieces Bakeshop and Ballad of the Bird Dog. With a patio in the front facing the town square, additional outdoor seating on the back balcony overlooking the arts district, and a parklet next door, there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the view. Be sure to check out the fabulous murals on the side of the building when you visit!

MUST BE HEAVEN

Must Be Heaven, Downtown Brenham

Must Be Heaven has been serving sandwiches, quiche, salads, and homemade pies to groups of all sizes in this charming historic downtown building since 1982. After you try one of their delicious sandwiches, save room for the famous house made pies or a treat from the antique ice cream parlor serving hand dipped Blue Bell ice cream. Sidewalk seating offers a perfect place to people watch and enjoy your lunch.

NINETY-SIX WEST

Ninety-Six West, Downtown Brenham

Ninety-Six West is an eclectic tapas fusion restaurant on the square in Downtown Brenham, featuring weekly farm to table locally sourced specials, an abundant rotating craft beer list and an extensive domestic and foreign wine list and cellar on premise. Think casual upscale chic in a contemporary space with abundant outdoor seating, local art and a creative chef.

Pioneer Smokehouse

Pioneer Smokehouse, Downtown Brenham

At a historic train depot in Downtown Brenham, Pioneer Smokehouse serves Texas pit-smoked barbecue, ice cold beer, and fun for the entire family. Pioneer offers plentiful seating outside.  Country atmosphere right in the heart of Downtown Brenham.

TEXAS STAR WINERY

large group of people sitting at tables on a large covered porch.
Texas Star Winery, Chappell Hill

Texas Star Winery is nestled in beautiful Chappell Hill. Enjoy award winning wines in a charming tasting room or out under the trees!

THE TILTED WINDMILL

The Tilted Windmill, Downtown Brenham

The Tilted Windmill in Downtown Brenham is an eclectic cafe with an extensive coffee & tea collection and in-house Bakery. They serve breakfast and lunch, and they offer indoor seating and outdoor patio dining.

Truth Bbq

Truth BBQ, Brenham

Named in the Top 3 BBQ places in Texas Monthly’s latest Top 50 BBQ List, Truth BBQ is known across the state and nationally as one of the best Texas BBQ joints. Truth is located on the outskirts of Brenham and offers outdoor seating to accommodate the crowds. Grab a cold beer while you wait, and be sure to add one of their incredible desserts to your order!

10 Fall Happenings Around Brenham

The days are getting shorter and the promise of lower temperatures means that it’s time for fall! The Fall happenings in Brenham and around Washington County make it a favorite time of year to visit.

Mark your calendar and reserve your rooms for these TEN fabulous fall happenings around Brenham in 2025!

1 . Pirate Fest at Home Sweet Farm Biergarten

Outdoor concert at Home Sweet Farm Biergarten in Brenham, Texas, with a live band performing under string lights, a crowd of people seated at picnic tables, and a large mural of two women’s faces on the brick wall behind the stage.
HSF Biergarten, Downtown Brenham

Oct 4  It’s time for Pirate Fest at HSF Biergarten in Downtown Brenham. Pirate Fest 2025 is Saturday, October 4th, Noon til Midnight! They will have a Pirate Market, a treasure Scavenger Hunt, two amazing bands, food vendors, a fire dancer performance and more!

2 . Scarecrow Festival in Chappell Hill

Scenes from the Chappell Hill Scarecrow Festival in Washington County, Texas. The collage shows visitors shopping at downtown storefronts decorated with fall and Halloween displays, strolling along vendor-lined streets under Texas flags, and enjoying the festival atmosphere with food booths, crafts, and family-friendly activities.
Scarecrow Festival, Downtown Chappell Hill

OCT 10-12  Visit one of the most charming communities in Texas for the Scarecrow Festival.  The festival boasts more than 250 exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious country-style food, live music, and tours of the National Register Chappell Hill community. A special Children’s Activity Corner provides pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, barrel train, and more.

3. Antique Shows

Scenes from La Bahia Antique Show near Burton, Texas. On the left, vendors set up booths under large white tents shaded by oak trees, displaying antiques and vintage goods. On the right, a white barn serves as part of the show venue, with shoppers browsing outside under the afternoon sunlight.
La Bahia, Burton

OCT 4-18   Round Top is just down the road, and there are several fabulous fall antique shows and year-round venues in Washington County. La Bahia Antique Show (Oct. 10-18) between Burton and Round Top is celebrating over 30 years of incredible treasures. Antiques at the Pavilions will offer a variety of dealers at the pavilions of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, Oct. 11-19. Look for all the antique dealers in Burton, as well as the world renowned Leftovers Antiques, open year-round between Brenham and Burton on HWY 290 W.

4. Wine & Wander in Burton

OCT 17  Come shop with some great dealers and vendors, enjoy heavy appetizers, and sip local wines from Busted Oak Cellars. The theme this year is all about Dolly Parton, including a Dolly Parton cover band, so sport your favorite Dolly-inspired attire and join the fun.  Stops on the trail include Burton Short Stop Icehouse, Bluebonnet Leather Shop,  Junk in Yer Trunk, and more!

5. Texas Arts & Music Festival

Scenes from the Texas Arts & Music Festival in downtown Brenham, Texas. The collage shows artists painting a large mural on a building wall, festival-goers exploring vendor booths and food stands on downtown streets, and a live band performing on an outdoor stage at night in front of a mural backdrop.
Texas Arts & Music Festival, Downtown Brenham

OCT 17-19  The Texas Arts & Music Festival is the source of Downtown Brenham’s beautiful murals! This free, family-friendly event takes place in Downtown Brenham October 17-19, and includes live music, live mural installation, an art village, pop-up galleries, and much more. Music headliner for Saturday night will be The Shiny Ribs. For more info, check out our post here.

6. Trick-Or-Treat Events

Families and children in costumes line up outside shops in downtown Brenham, Texas, during a trick-or-treat event. The storefronts are decorated for fall, and people carry candy bags while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Downtown Brenham

OCT 25   Join us for spooktacular free family-friendly events in Historic Downtown Brenham, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2:00-5:00; in Burton, Saturday, Oct. 25, 5:30-7:30; in Chappell Hill, Sunday, Oct. 26, 1:00-3:00. Grab the kids and costumes and head to Washington County for Trick-or-Treating in your favorite communities. There will be plenty of family fun to sink your fangs into!

7. Fall Festival of Roses at Antique Rose Emporium

Scenes from the Antique Rose Emporium’s Fall Festival of Roses in Independence, Texas. The collage shows visitors walking through blooming gardens, an audience attending an indoor gardening seminar, and rows of rose plants on display in the outdoor nursery surrounded by landscaped grounds.
Antique Rose Emporium, Independence

OCT 31 – NOV 2    The experts at Antique Rose Emporium host the Fall Festival of Roses during the first weekend of November. Explore the inspiring display gardens and attend seminars to grow your gardening knowledge. In addition to the seminars and endless fall garden inspiration, enjoy food trucks and shopping in the heart of Independence, Texas.

8. Christmas Magic at Hermann Furniture & The Giddings Stone Mansion

Holiday scenes in Washington County, Texas. On the left, a shop owner stands behind a festive Christmas display filled with holiday décor, table settings, and greenery. On the right, a historic two-story mansion is decorated for Christmas with red bows, garlands, and wreaths along the balconies and columns.
Christmas Magic, Brenham

NOV 7-9   The oldest furniture store in Texas will be decked wall to wall with all the seasonal decor. There will be door prizes, pop-up shops, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Designers will be on hand to help with floral or any interior decor needs. The festivities this year will include a luncheon at the Giddings Stone Mansion on Saturday, November 8, from 11:30 – 12:30. Tickets are $35 per person, and reservations are required. Tickets sell quickly, so call early for a reservation: 979-836-7237.

9. Grand Reopening of Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Promotional poster for the Washington-on-the-Brazos Grand Re-Opening Celebration on November 8. The design features historic imagery of early Texans, including men in period clothing with a cannon, horse, and wooden building, with logos for the Texas Historical Commission and Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site.
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, Washington

NOV 8  The Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site has undergone a $51 million renovation over the last two years. When re-opened on November 8, 2025, visitors will experience state-of-the-art exhibits at the Star of the Republic Museum and enhanced historical storytelling in the Visitor’s Center to introduce real people that lived and led the Republic of Texas. The Washington Townsite Experience will allow visitors to walk the streets of Washington, experiencing reproductions of pivotal landmarks in Texas history.

10 . Weekly Fall Happenings

Children ride brightly painted wooden horses on the antique carousel at Fireman’s Park in Brenham, Texas, while parents stand nearby. The indoor carousel is decorated with string lights and a red canopy overhead.
Antique Carousel, Brenham

WEEKLY EVENTS    Some of our favorite fall happenings are so good, we have to share them every week! Antique carousel rides ($1 each), free entry to the Brenham Fire Museum (Saturdays in October & November), and the live demonstrations every weekend at Barrington Living History Farm, which is located within Washington-on-the-Brazos historical site are a few.

In addition to these fall happenings around Brenham, we have many daily events that include live music, theatre, and retail specials. See our full calendar of events here. Fall is prime time to visit the area, so make reservations with your favorite lodging partner soon!

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 24, 2025; Come to Chappell Hill to shop and meet the artists in the variety of stores while they create original artwork throughout the day.

Tres Chic Boutique, Downtown Brenham

Summer Sip & Art Walk - June 7, 2025; 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 14, 2025; Annual Car & Truck Show held in the shadow of the oldest operating cotton gin in America, located in Burton, TX. This event is weather dependent.

Juneteenth Parade, Downtown Brenham

WCJA Juneteenth Ceremony & ParadeJune 14, 2025; Annual Juneteenth Parade in Downtown Brenham held by Washington County Juneteenth Association.

Annual Judge Eddie E. Harrison Juneteenth Heritage Celebration - June 21, 2025; 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, the event will focus on celebrating African American Churches in the Brazos Valley. There will be musical performances from local church choirs, food, vendors, informational and cultural heritage booths, and lots of fun!!

Summer Showcase, Downtown Brenham

Summer Showcase - July 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2025; 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 5, 12, 19, & 26; Bring your lawn chair and gather around the historic downtown square 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, 2025; It's the best small town parade you'll experience! Come on out to celebrate Independence Day in Chappell Hill.

Annual Independence Celebration - July 4, 2025; Fireworks will be visible for miles, so there's plenty of room for everyone to come out and celebrate our freedom and independence in Independence, TX.

Chappell Hill Wine & Cheese Swirl - August 9, 2025; 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 - May 26, July 3, & August 1, 2025; Bring the kids and watch movies including Mufasa, Finding Nemo and Moana 2 at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, Fireman's Park 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! It is usually only open on the weekdays, but during the summer months of June-August, the Ice Cream Parlor and Country Store will be open on Saturdays from 10am-4pm as well. 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, picking lavender at the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, and horseback riding at Rockin' Star Ranch. There's fun for everyone in Brenham & Washington County!

Burton Cotton Gin Festival

Did you know that the oldest operating cotton gin in the United States is located in Burton, Texas?

The outside of the Burton Cotton Gin. In front of it are old cars lined up.
Texas Cotton Gin, Burton

Every year, this historical treasure is celebrated at the Burton Cotton Gin Festival. A day filled with FREE fun for the whole family kicks off with a parade followed by a classic car & tractor pulling contest, demonstrations, live music, shopping, family activities & contests, and all the food and refreshments you would expect from a small town of German heritage!

Experience the sights and sounds of the old cotton gin in action as festival goers witness the baling process. And don’t miss out on a tour of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, where you can learn about the foundation of the gin and the story of how it was saved from becoming the site of a convenience store.

Downtown Burton
Saturday, April 26, 2025 |  10:00am – 6:00pm

Free Admission

10:00am  Cotton Gin Festival Parade Begins

11:00am Antique Engine/Tractor Show

11:00am-12:00pm  Lady B Birthday Party with Special Guests

11:00am-2:00pm Gin Tours

12:00pm Tractor Pull Begins

12:15 – 2:00pm Pie Eating Contest, Seed Pulling Contest & Chorus Contest

2:30pm – 4:00pm Music by The Czechaholics

3:00pm Ginning of Historic Cotton Bales at the 111 Year Old Burton Farmers Gin

4:00pm – 6:00pm Music by Slim Bawb & The Stumpgrinders

Visit the Texas Cotton Gin Museum for more information.

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?