Adventure290
As you drive along Highway 290 between Austin and Houston, take a few time outs to enjoy the scenery! Each of the eight stops along the highway will reveal to you something special about that community. Record the answer in your Passport to win a prize. Of course, you’re always welcome to return to enjoy the area more – there are numerous things to do in each charming place.
Blue Bell Creameries & Ice Cream Parlor
Come visit the “little creamery” in Brenham and learn all about how Texas’ favorite sweet treat is made! Visitors have the opportunity to browse the Visitor Center which is filled with pictures, videos and history of the “best ice cream in the country.” No visit to Blue Bell is complete without a generous scoop of ice cream from the Parlor and a trip to the Country Store for a unique gift or souvenir.
Burton Heritage Society & Railroad Depot
History lives, thanks to the Burton Heritage Society! Since 1973 devoted members have maintained and preserved the Burton Railroad Depot and Mt. Zion Cemetery. Both sites are vital to area history. The depot transports visitors to 1870 when Burton was a terminal on the Houston and Texas Central Railroad while the cemetery honors some of the earliest and more notable inhabitants. Open first Saturday of the month and by appointment.
Texas Cotton Gin Museum
The Official Cotton Gin Museum of Texas keeps the legacy of cotton alive for all generations; open Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Home of the 1914 Burton Farmers Gin – the oldest operating cotton gin in America; tours daily at 10am and 2pm. *Leashed pets allowed
Main Street Brenham
Come stroll through past and present, visit more than 25 shops and spend some time relaxing in this National Register district. Brenham’s downtown buildings reflect the town’s early history and charm.