Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
People revere Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site as the site of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836. Thereafter, despite great personal risk, the delegates continued meeting until they had drafted a constitution and established the new nation’s first lasting government.
Picturesque Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located on the Brazos River. Expansive park grounds provide a beautiful setting for picnicking, sightseeing and bird-watching. The Star of the Republic Museum, Independence Hall and Barrington Plantation offer the visitor a unique insight into the lives and times of the men who fought and won Texas’ independence from Mexico.
Conference center provides a beautiful view of the park. Glass doors, windows and patio overlook the historic grounds and provide a perfect location for receptions, rehearsal dinners and weddings. Maximum capacity 400.
Old Baylor Park at Windmill Hill
Old Baylor Park at Windmill Hill is located on the east side of FM 50 (next to the Antique Rose Emporium), interpretive signage and a reconstructed bell tower mark the archeological ruins of the Baylor campus for males. A well-marked walking and/or driving trail with 19 interpretive signs relates the history of the village of Independence.
On the west side of FM 50, ruins mark the site of the original Baylor University and its female department, Old Baylor Park at Academy Hill, which is one of the best places in the state to enjoy springtime bluebonnets and wildflowers.
Brenham Fire Museum
See rare antique fire engines. Learn why Brenham was burned. Hear the stories behind Maifest and Washington County Fair.
The Brenham Fire Museum was formed in 1867, to protect lives and property in the face of adversity. Shortly after, an extensive system of public cisterns was built under the streets to provide water for fighting fires. Hence, Brenham became the first Texas city to provide public services. Brenham’s historic public cisterns are a Texas Antiquities Landmark.
See Brenham’s rare Silsby Fire Engine that operated with cisterns as its water source. You’ll also see Samanthe, purchased in 1923, one of only three in the world today. Invader, purchased in 1950 is also on display.
The Brenham Fire Museum is open on Saturdays from 11am – 2pm, and is free entry.
If you would like to schedule a private tour of the Museum on a day we are not open to the public, those can be arranged by calling 979-337-7580. Private tours must be scheduled at least a week in advance, and a cost will be associated with this. $5/person (free for children 6 years and under). Minimum of 5 people.
For continuous hours and updates, please check the Brenham Fire Museum Facebook Page! https://www.facebook.com/brenhamfiremuseum
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.
Texas Star Winery
Texas Star Winery is nestled in beautiful Chappell Hill. Come enjoy our award-winning wines in a charming tasting room or out under the trees.
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
Tailored Travel Tours, LLC
Tailored Travel Tours provides customized guided experiences that bring history to life in Brenham and Washington County. Explore historic sites, charming downtown areas, and hidden gems with a guide who tailors each tour to your interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to see the area, Tailored Travel Tours offers an unforgettable way to discover the region’s rich heritage!
Brenham Heritage Museum
Accessible Pet Friendly Parking Available Wifi Available
The Brenham Heritage Museum is a local history museum located in Downtown Brenham. Exhibits and collections reflect a focus on the history and culture of Washington County. Originally serving as the United States Post Office, this magnificent building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was eventually transformed into the museum you see today.
Hours are Wed through Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Antique Rose Emporium
Pet Friendly Family Friendly Parking Available
This 8-acre retail garden features antique roses, native plants, perennials, herbs and wildflowers. Beautiful gardens to stroll and a nice little gift shop to accessorize your garden. Groups are welcome for tours. The Antique Rose Emporium is also a prime location to hold a wedding and/or reception. Facilities include gardens with tents, gazebo, chapel, outdoor covered pavilion and Victorian house – perfect for weddings with up to 225 seated guests.
Giddings Stone Mansion
The Heritage Society of Washington County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings and artifacts, and to promoting education and interest in Washington County,Texas. Established in 1970, the Society owns and operates two historic properties: The 1843 Giddings Wilkin House Museum and the 1870 Giddings Stone Mansion. Ideal for weddings, receptions, business luncheons and dinners, the Giddings Stone Mansion features four spacious rooms on the first floor and four on the second, with a wrap-around porch on both floors and beautifully landscaped grounds.