The beauty of the wildflowers in Washington County is worth the trip! Here are some tips to keep visitors safe and minimize the impact of so many travelers on the colorful fields:
–Respect private property. There are plenty of public places to take pictures.
–Do not cross fences (see above). Take the photo from the road side of the fence.
–Follow existing trails. Stick to paths already created by previous visitors to minimize damage.
–Be mindful when sitting. If you’d like to take photos among the flowers, choose areas that have already been used as seating spots. -Step carefully. If no clear path exists, try to walk between the bluebonnets rather than on them.
–Don’t pick the bluebonnets. We need them to go to seed for future wildflower seasons!
–Stay alert. Fire ants, snakes, and poison ivy often thrive in the same areas as bluebonnets.
–Be cautious on roadsides. Only pull over where it is safe and where there is an adequate shoulder.
–Keep it clean. Take your trash with you; if you find any, pay it forward by taking it with you when you leave.
By following these simple guidelines, we can all help protect Washington County’s wildflowers for generations to come. Thank you for visiting Brenham/Washington County—we’re excited to share our bluebonnets with you!
Old Baylor Park in Independence is a public place to take bluebonnet photos. Photo by Natalie Lacy LangeOld Baylor Park in Independence is a public place to enjoy the wildflowers. Photo by Natalie Lacy Lange
For many surrounding schools, Spring Break runs fromMarch 10-14, and it is the perfect time to explore Brenham and Washington County! Whether you’re visiting for a family-friendly getaway or looking for unique local experiences, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the top must-visit spots for your Spring Break adventure:
1. Antique Carousel Ride & Local Parks
Antique Carousel, Fireman’s Park, Brenham
Take a spin on the historic Antique Carousel for just $1 in Fireman’s Park! This beautifully restored carousel is a local favorite and a must-do for families with young kids. Afterward, enjoy one of Brenham’s beautiful parks like Henderson Park or Hohlt Park, where you can have a picnic, let the kids enjoy the playground, or take a scenic walk along the trails.
Stroll through stunning gardens filled with fragrant heirloom roses. This picturesque spot is great for photos, relaxing walks, and plant shopping. Plus, admission is free!
March 8-9: Spring Celebration Weekend! Enjoy an artisan vendor market, hands-on gardening inspiration, and seasonal refreshments.
Open Daily: Monday-Saturday 9AM-5:30PM and Sunday 11AM-5:30PM
No trip to Brenham is complete without a stop at Blue Bell Creameries! Grab a $1 scoop of your favorite flavor and check out the observation deck to see how the famous ice cream is made.
Spring Break Hours: Open 8 AM – 5 PM Monday-Friday, with the Observation Deck closing at 2 PM but the Ice Cream Parlor, Visitor Center, and Country Store open until 5 PM!
Relax and enjoy a cold craft beer while the kids play outside at Brazos Valley Brewing Company. With a laid-back atmosphere, outdoor seating, and food trucks, it’s a great place to unwind.
Open Wednesday-Sunday: Wednesday-Thursday 3PM-9PM, Friday-Saturday 12PM-10PM, and Sunday 12PM-7PM
Take in the beautiful scenery and breathe in the fresh lavender at this charming farm. While lavender may not be in full bloom just yet, the gift shop offers plenty of lavender-themed goodies, and you can visit and feed the friendly goats!
Special Spring Break Hours: March 10-16, 10 AM – 2 PM
Step back in time where Texas became Texas! Explore the Washington-on-the-Brazos for a hands-on history lesson.
Special Spring Break Hours:
Barrington Plantation & Independence Hall will be open Monday & Tuesday with guided tours at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM.
Living History Interpreters will be on-site in period clothing, re-creating life in the 1840s at the real home of Dr. Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas.
Watch craftsmen building a replica of the Ark of the Covenant from original boards of Independence Hall!
Open daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Special Spring Break Events
Check out these exciting events happening during Spring Break! Click on each for more details:
Spring Celebration at Antique Rose Emporium – March 8-9, 2025
Unity Theatre Presents: The Originalists – March 8-9, 2025
Kids Camp Workshop at Board & Brush Brenham – March 10-13, 2025
Texas Ranger Day at the Burton Railroad Depot – March 15, 2025
Riders in the Sky at The Barnhill Center – March 15, 2025
Historic Homes Tours in Independence – March 15 & 22, 2025
Bonus: Will We See Bluebonnets?
Springtime in Texas means bluebonnet season! If the flowers are in full bloom, be sure to take a scenic drive along Highway 290 and visit our Wildflower Driving Map for breathtaking photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for updates on the best spots to see these iconic Texas wildflowers on our Wildflower Watch Page!
No matter what your Spring Break plans look like, Brenham and Washington County offer the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and small-town charm. We can’t wait to welcome you!
For more Spring Break happenings, check out out Spring Break “What’s Happening” flyer!
Spring in Washington County is a magical time! It’s not too hot, not too cold, and the colorful show that the Texas wildflowers faithfully display each year is worthy of the hype. But bluebonnets aren’t all that’s happening around Brenham in the spring! Here are NINE annual events in Washington County that you can use to plan your next visit-plus a few of the most popular things you can do every week in the spring. Make it a long weekend and enjoy all the live music, dining and shopping that the area has to offer.
Texas Independence Day celebrations will look a little different this year due to ongoing renovations at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Join us for A Toast to Texas Family Festival on Saturday, March 1, from 10am. to 4pm as we celebrate the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836.
ANTIQUE ROSE EMPORIUM SPRING CELEBRATION WEEKEND
The Antique Rose Emporium is a must-visit year-round, but spring is something truly special! The Spring Celebration Weekend from March 7-9, 2025 includes an Artisan & Vintage Market, food trucks, and more blooming roses than you can imagine.
TEXAS RANGER DAY
The 14th annual Texas Ranger Day at the historic Burton Railroad Depot is a fun-filled event for the whole family. On Saturday, March 15, from 12 to 5pm, enjoy Old West Ranger demonstrations, blacksmithing, chuckwagon cooking, kids’ activities, depot and cotton gin tours, and live music!
TEXAS HISTORIC HOMES TOURS IN INDEPENDENCE
Step back in time with a tour of the Texas Historic Homes in Independence. Adjacent to Old Baylor Park, these historic homes and schoolhouses offer a glimpse into Texas pioneer life—perfect for history lovers! Tours are available on Saturdays, March 15 and 22, from 10am to 4pm.
Antique Festivals
The Round Top Antique shows are just down the road, and some are even in Washington County! The La Bahia Antique Show is March 21-29. Burton is also home to other antique events like Antiques at The Pavilions.
The Chappell Hill Historical Society will once again be hosting the Official State of Texas Bluebonnet Festival, April 12-13, 2025, in downtown historic Chappell Hill, Texas. Initially a small town antique festival has blossomed over the years and celebrates the official state flower, the bluebonnet. The Festival boasts more than 250 juried exhibitors (home décor, gardening, artists, craftsmen, jewelry, clothing, etc.), delicious country-style food, live entertainment and music, and tours of the historic community!
Head to Burton Saturday, April 26, home of the 1914 Burton Farmers Gin, and celebrate the 36th Annual Burton Cotton Gin Festival! This is a FREE, family friendly event featuring a day full of fun and history. The day begins with a parade through Burton, and continues at the grounds of the Texas Cotton Gin Museum. Shop and eat in the Arts & Crafts Vendor Area, & Food Court. Watch Folklife skills demonstrations, such as Blacksmithing and butter churning, and spoon carving!
Brenham’s German heritage takes center stage at Maifest on May 2-3. Enjoy a festive weekend featuring a parade, Junior & Senior Coronations, authentic German food, music, drinks, and carnival rides at Fireman’s Park. Festivities begin on Friday, May 2, at 5pm and continue until 11:30pm, then resume on Saturday, May 3, from 11:30am to 11:30pm!
Meet and watch artists working and creating their masterpieces in Chappell Hill on Main Street, at the Historical Society Museum, and other select Washington County locations. Presented by Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce, Chappell Hill, Texas. Vote for your favorite and you have the opportunity to purchase works from our artists too!
Weekly Happenings
Some of our favorite spring events happen every week!
Blue Bell Ice Cream – Enjoy $1 scoops at the Blue Bell Parlor & Country Store!
There’s always something happening in Brenham! Explore daily events like live music, theater performances, and retail specials by checking our full calendar of events. Spring is our busiest season, so be sure to book your lodging early and make the most of your trip!
