Bryan College Station CVB — 2011 Visitor Planning Guide
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Attractions
Arts Council of the Brazos Valley
Arts Council of Brazos Valley serves the arts, cultural and heritage needs of residents, artists, businesses, and visitors of the Brazos Valley. Their extensive programs include more than 14 rotating exhibits at the Texas Gallery and arts and cultural outreach, classes, and professionl development among many other services.
Benjamin Knox Gallery – College Station Depot
Experience the home gallery, fine artwork, and custom framing of nationally renowned artist Benjamin Knox. The gallery is located in a replica of the College Station Train Depot from the 1900’s. This facility is also available for special event rental.
Brazos Valley African American Museum
The African American Museum chronicles the tragedies and triumphs of African American life from ancient civilizations to the present day, while also focusing on local histories of churches, families, and schools. The museum strives to explore, develop, preserve and present the cultural heritage of African Americans.
Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History
The Museum’s principal function is to increase public awareness of animals, plants, minerals and human activity in the Brazos Valley today and in ages past. The museum includes a gallery with exhibits of fossils, sculptures, antique farming and survey equipment, and many other artifacts. The museum also holds a discovery room with more than fifteen varieties of live animals, an active glass-front beehive, dozens of taxidermy mounts, educational resources and several interactive exhibits.
The Carnegie Center of the Brazos Valley
Built in 1903 with funds from the Carnegie Foundation, this library is the oldest existing Carnegie Library in Texas. The library features a state of- the-art history lab, historical documents and periodicals, rare books, portraits, photographs and memorabilia relating to the ballet career of Ana Ludmila Gee. The second floor of the center houses an extensive genealogical collection.
The Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley
The mission of the Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley is to provide a child-centered, hands-on, interactive environment for learning and discovery for children. Some exhibits include: The Dramatic Play area for exploration of the world of theater, the HEB Grocery for exploraion of the world of commerce, The Health and Fitness exhibit for focus on medicine and nutrition, the Sounds Around Town exhibit for the musician in all of us, and the Village Arts where children may paint the Volkswagen Beetle, as well as create crafts that coordinate to the monthly theme!
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
This museum reveals the unique influences and challenges which shaped George Herbert Walker Bush’s life and presidency through artifacts, films, photographs, documents, music and interactive video that creates a museum experience that is both educational and entertaining.
Historic Downtown Bryan
The city of Bryan is in the process of revitalizing its Historic Downtown. This revitalization is allowing people to experience the shops, restaurants and businesses that are working together to restore Downtown Bryan to the thriving hub it once was. Downtown Bryan is a great place for browsing antique shops and boutiques, touring historic homes and buildings, and dining. Head to Downtown the First Friday of each month for special activities, specials, and live entertainment.
Lake Bryan
Cool off at Lake Bryan! This is a fun destination for boats, water skiing, wake boarding, biking, relaxing and more. Waterfront picnicing, camping, and RV sites are available. End your evening by stopping in to the Lake Bryan Ice House where you are sure to get a good meal and live entertainment.
Messina Hof Winery and Resort
The most awarded premium winery in Texas. They produce 24 varietal wines at their state-of-the-art winemaking facility. Messina Hof Winery & Resort offers daily winery tours and wine tasting, vineyard cuisine at the award-winning Vintage House Restaurant and luxurious overnight accommodations at The Villa, voted one of the most romantic B&Bs in the U. S. Special events include the Wine & Roses Festival, Harvest Weekends and Murder Mystery Dinners. Special event facilities are also available for private dinners, weddings and receptions.
MSC Forsyth Center Galleries
(Temporarily located in Downtown Bryan) As the home of the Bill (‘35) & Irma Runyon Art Collections, the galleries house one of the world’s most extraordinary collections of English Cameo Glass, as well as 1,100 American and English glass objects, and 66 American paintings including important works by Mary Cassatt, Frederick Remington and Charles M. Russell. The glass collections include the mastery of Louis Comfort Tiffany, Steuben Glass Works, Mount Washington Glass Company, New England Glass Company and long term loans of Galle and rich cut glass.
Museum of the American GI
The Museum of the American GI is a living history museum preserving the equipment, uniforms and memories of the American Serviceman.
Northgate Entertainment District
What started as a small commercial area to service the local college is now a popular eclectic entertainment and specialty district. Located on University Drive adjacent to the Texas A&M campus, you will find more than just the Dixie Chicken. Northgate offers night life from trendy to country and cuisine for any palate - nouveau, Chinese, fresh Mex, steaks, sushi and burgers. Enjoy live entertainment, events, good prices, and convenient parking.
Royal Oaks Alpacas
Royal Oaks Alpacas offers tours of the farm where you can learn about the alpacas, touch their luxurious fiber, and perhaps even receive a special alpaca kiss! Also enjoy simple fiber art projects and the farm store.
Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial
This is a memorial dedicated to America’s military veterans. A bronze sculpture and the Wall of Honor which features the names of over 4,000 veterans, serves as the centerpiece of the memorial. Here, make your way along a path that chronicles various American wars as well as view the new “War on Terror” memorial.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University is a land-grant, sea-grant and space-grant institution located in College Station, Texas. The University’s enrollment is more than 49,000 students studying for degrees in 10 academic colleges. Tours of the campus are offered through the Appelt Aggieland Visitor Center Tours.
Appelt Aggieland Visitors Center
The Visitor Center is located on the 1st floor of Rudder tower on campus and offers visitors a 90-minute walking or driving tour of the campus highlighting the history and traditions that make Texas A&M such an unique experience.
Bonfire Memorial
The Memorial is dedicated to the 12 Aggies who lost their lives in the tragic collapse of the 1999 Bonfire. It celebrates the tradition and history of Texas A&M and is comprised of the Tradition Plaza, Spirit Wall, and History Walk.
Cushing Memorial Library and Archives
In addition to housing Texas A&M University’s rare books, special collections and archives, Cushing Memorial Library and Archives presents 4-6 exhibits for visitors each year. Paintings and other works from Cushing’s extensive art collections in addition to rare books and other historic materials are always on display.
J. Wayne Stark University Center Galleries
(Temporarily located in the Sterling C. Evans Library Annex of TAMU Campus) Hosts about 14 traveling exhibitions each year. Visitors will see exhibits ranging from the traditional fine arts and crafts to anthropology, archaeology, history and science. One can also explore some of the highlights of Texas A&M University’s permanent collection, which includes works by Texas artists such as E.M. “Buck” Schiwetz, John Biggers, H.O. Kelly, Julian Onderdonk and Dawson Dawson-Watson.
Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadet Center
This center depicts the Corps of Cadets from its beginning in 1876 to today and describes the traditions and history of Texas A&M University. The exhibits include Silver Taps, the Aggie Band, Parsons Mounted Cavalry, the 12th Man, the Ross Volunteers, Aggie Muster, Bonfi re, Reveille, Cadet life and an Aggie Ring case. Also housed in the Corps Center is the Sanders/ Metzger Antique Firearm Collection and more are all must-sees to truly understand Aggieland.
Texas A&M Athletic Sports Museum
Located in the Zone of Kyle Field, this museum serves as a repository for treasured sports relics of the past. Visitors will experience several different exhibits in the museum including the Time Wall, Legends Gallery, sport-by-sport perimeter displays and interactive computers. The Texas A&M Sports Museum has the distinction of being the nation’s only all-sports museum funded primarily by former athletes.
SURROUNDING ATTRACTIONS
BRENHAM
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau
(979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com Located 41.6 miles south of B/CS Washington County has been recognized as a National Main Street City for two consecutive years. Events include: The Bluebonnet Festival in April and Maifest in May. Other points of interest include: the Antique Carousel, the Brenham Heritage Museum, Glasco’s Gardens & gifts, the Main Street District, the Unity Theatre and the Windy Hill Winery.
Antique Rose Emporium
(979) 836-9051 (800) 441-0002 www.antiqueroseemporium.com The multi-acred gardens feature hundreds of roses, perennials, herbs and native flora in a historical setting. This is a great garden center and wedding destination.
Blue Bell Creameries
(800) 327-8135 www.bluebell.com Founded in 1907, Bluebell Creameries is home to what many believe to be the “best ice cream in the country.” This “little creamery in Brenham” is a popular stop.
Ellison’s Greenhouses
979) 836- 6011 (800) 776-2287 www.ellisonsgreenhouses.com This is the only commercial wholesale greenhouse operation in the state that allows the public to tour its working operations and fi ve acres of greenhouses. Visit the weekend before Thanksgiving to enjoy the Poinsettia Celebration.
Monastery of St. Clare Miniature Horse Farm
(979) 836-9625 Www.monasteryminiaturehorses.com Visit this farm that is home to the Franciscan Poor Clare Nuns who support themselves by raising miniature horses and selling handmade ceramics and other crafts in the Art Barn gift shop. Visitors are welcome to pet the horses, browse in the gift shop and spend a few quiet moments in the chapel.
Pleasant Hill Winery
(979) 830-VINE www.pleasanthillwinery.com This hillside vineyard offers tours and a tasting as well as a gift shop. View their corkscrew collection, vintage television sets and radios or stop by “Crush For Fun” an event they host each summer.
BURTON
Burton Cotton Gin & Museum (979) 289-3378 www.cottonginmuseum.org Built in 1914, this gin has been restored with the guidance of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This is a working reminder of when cotton reigned supreme. Visitor center open Friday and Saturday.
CALDWELL
Burleson County Chamber of Commerce (979) 567-3218 www.burlesoncountytx.com Caldwell is 28 miles west of B/CS and has been named “Kolache Capital of Texas” by the state legislature. Each September they host the Kolache Festival. While you are in town, be sure to visit the Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum and the Burleson County Historical Museum.
Royalty Pecan Farms
(979) 272 3904 (800) 694-8362 www.royaltypecans.com Visit Royalty Pecan Farms for your source of Texas Fancy Halves, homemade pecan pie, gourmet breads, fl avored pecans, and more!
CALVERT
Calvert Chamber of Commerce (979) 364-2559 www.calverttx.com Calvert is located 34.2 miles northwest of B/CS. Much of the city is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. While visiting, be sure to take a historic homes tour or visit Annie’s Doll House Museum.
Cocoamoda
(979) 364-2190 www.cocoamoda.com Tickle your taste buds at this Texasbased gourmet chocolate boutique. Here, they strive to produce the highest quality truffl es and confections utilizing the fi nest grade of chocolate and freshest ingredients.
CHAPPELL HILL
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau (979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com Located 55.4 miles south of B/CS Chappell Hill is a great to place to visit. Enjoy their annual “Bluebonnet Festival of Texas” held each spring and their annual “Scarecrow Festival” in October. Other points of interest include the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm and the Chappell Hill Historical Museum.
HEARNE
Hearne Chamber of Commerce (979) 279-2351 www.hearnetexas.info During your travels take a trip to Hearne, which is only 25.7 miles northwest of B/CS. While in the area be sure to view the Camp Hearne display in their Chamber of Commerce building, the Historic Hearne Railroad Depot, a Historic Homes Tour, or their annual “Crossroads Music Festival” held in September.
NAVASOTA
Grimes County Chamber of Commerce (936) 825-6600 (800) 252-6642 www.navasotagrimeschamber.com Known as the “Blues Capital of Texas,” Grimes County is only 23.5 miles southeast of B/CS. It hosts the Navasota Blues Festival in August. Be sure to see the La Salle Monument and the Horlock History Center. Grimes County is also host to The Texas Renaissance Festival, which is the largest of its kind.
Martha’s Bloomers
(936) 825-7400 www.marthasbloomers.com Discover Texas’ Most Beautiful Home and Garden Store, featuring quality plants, trees, organic products, pottery, simply beautiful home décor, gifts, antiques, water features and a tropical greenhouse. Plus, Café M Bloomers is the perfect place for a great lunch or afternoon tea.
SOMERVILLE
Burleson County Chamber of Commerce (979) 596-2383 www.burlesoncountytx.com Located only 26.2 miles southwest of B/ CS, Somerville is home to the Somerville Historical Museum. They also host the annual “Somerfest” at Lake Somerville in July and “The Great Sausage Festival” in May.
Lake Somerville
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/lakesome Lake Somerville Includes four U.S. Army Corps of Engineer parks, one city park and two state parks around the huge lake. They offer camping, boating, fi shing, swimming and hiking/ biking trails. Lake Somerville features 11,400 acres with 85 miles of shoreline.
WASHINGTON
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau (979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Washington County, located 33 miles southeast of B/S, was the site of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence and the drafting of The Constitution of the newly born Republic of Texas. From 1842 to 1846, Washington-on-the-Brazos served as the capital of the Republic.
Star of the Republic Museum
(936) 878-2461 www.starmuseum.org Located in Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park, the museum is dedicated to the history of the Texas Republic through state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, publications and media presentations.
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
(936) 878-2213 www.birthplaceoftexas.com This 293-acre park includes the site where Texas declared independence from Mexico on March 2nd, 1836. It also includes Independence Hall, a visitor’s center and Barrington Living History Farm, a working farm of the 1850s centered around the home of Anson Jones who was the last President of the Republic of Texas.
Arts Council of Brazos Valley serves the arts, cultural and heritage needs of residents, artists, businesses, and visitors of the Brazos Valley. Their extensive programs include more than 14 rotating exhibits at the Texas Gallery and arts and cultural outreach, classes, and professionl development among many other services.
Benjamin Knox Gallery – College Station Depot
Experience the home gallery, fine artwork, and custom framing of nationally renowned artist Benjamin Knox. The gallery is located in a replica of the College Station Train Depot from the 1900’s. This facility is also available for special event rental.
Brazos Valley African American Museum
The African American Museum chronicles the tragedies and triumphs of African American life from ancient civilizations to the present day, while also focusing on local histories of churches, families, and schools. The museum strives to explore, develop, preserve and present the cultural heritage of African Americans.
Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History
The Museum’s principal function is to increase public awareness of animals, plants, minerals and human activity in the Brazos Valley today and in ages past. The museum includes a gallery with exhibits of fossils, sculptures, antique farming and survey equipment, and many other artifacts. The museum also holds a discovery room with more than fifteen varieties of live animals, an active glass-front beehive, dozens of taxidermy mounts, educational resources and several interactive exhibits.
The Carnegie Center of the Brazos Valley
Built in 1903 with funds from the Carnegie Foundation, this library is the oldest existing Carnegie Library in Texas. The library features a state of- the-art history lab, historical documents and periodicals, rare books, portraits, photographs and memorabilia relating to the ballet career of Ana Ludmila Gee. The second floor of the center houses an extensive genealogical collection.
The Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley
The mission of the Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley is to provide a child-centered, hands-on, interactive environment for learning and discovery for children. Some exhibits include: The Dramatic Play area for exploration of the world of theater, the HEB Grocery for exploraion of the world of commerce, The Health and Fitness exhibit for focus on medicine and nutrition, the Sounds Around Town exhibit for the musician in all of us, and the Village Arts where children may paint the Volkswagen Beetle, as well as create crafts that coordinate to the monthly theme!
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
This museum reveals the unique influences and challenges which shaped George Herbert Walker Bush’s life and presidency through artifacts, films, photographs, documents, music and interactive video that creates a museum experience that is both educational and entertaining.
Historic Downtown Bryan
The city of Bryan is in the process of revitalizing its Historic Downtown. This revitalization is allowing people to experience the shops, restaurants and businesses that are working together to restore Downtown Bryan to the thriving hub it once was. Downtown Bryan is a great place for browsing antique shops and boutiques, touring historic homes and buildings, and dining. Head to Downtown the First Friday of each month for special activities, specials, and live entertainment.
Lake Bryan
Cool off at Lake Bryan! This is a fun destination for boats, water skiing, wake boarding, biking, relaxing and more. Waterfront picnicing, camping, and RV sites are available. End your evening by stopping in to the Lake Bryan Ice House where you are sure to get a good meal and live entertainment.
Messina Hof Winery and Resort
The most awarded premium winery in Texas. They produce 24 varietal wines at their state-of-the-art winemaking facility. Messina Hof Winery & Resort offers daily winery tours and wine tasting, vineyard cuisine at the award-winning Vintage House Restaurant and luxurious overnight accommodations at The Villa, voted one of the most romantic B&Bs in the U. S. Special events include the Wine & Roses Festival, Harvest Weekends and Murder Mystery Dinners. Special event facilities are also available for private dinners, weddings and receptions.
MSC Forsyth Center Galleries
(Temporarily located in Downtown Bryan) As the home of the Bill (‘35) & Irma Runyon Art Collections, the galleries house one of the world’s most extraordinary collections of English Cameo Glass, as well as 1,100 American and English glass objects, and 66 American paintings including important works by Mary Cassatt, Frederick Remington and Charles M. Russell. The glass collections include the mastery of Louis Comfort Tiffany, Steuben Glass Works, Mount Washington Glass Company, New England Glass Company and long term loans of Galle and rich cut glass.
Museum of the American GI
The Museum of the American GI is a living history museum preserving the equipment, uniforms and memories of the American Serviceman.
Northgate Entertainment District
What started as a small commercial area to service the local college is now a popular eclectic entertainment and specialty district. Located on University Drive adjacent to the Texas A&M campus, you will find more than just the Dixie Chicken. Northgate offers night life from trendy to country and cuisine for any palate - nouveau, Chinese, fresh Mex, steaks, sushi and burgers. Enjoy live entertainment, events, good prices, and convenient parking.
Royal Oaks Alpacas
Royal Oaks Alpacas offers tours of the farm where you can learn about the alpacas, touch their luxurious fiber, and perhaps even receive a special alpaca kiss! Also enjoy simple fiber art projects and the farm store.
Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial
This is a memorial dedicated to America’s military veterans. A bronze sculpture and the Wall of Honor which features the names of over 4,000 veterans, serves as the centerpiece of the memorial. Here, make your way along a path that chronicles various American wars as well as view the new “War on Terror” memorial.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University is a land-grant, sea-grant and space-grant institution located in College Station, Texas. The University’s enrollment is more than 49,000 students studying for degrees in 10 academic colleges. Tours of the campus are offered through the Appelt Aggieland Visitor Center Tours.
Appelt Aggieland Visitors Center
The Visitor Center is located on the 1st floor of Rudder tower on campus and offers visitors a 90-minute walking or driving tour of the campus highlighting the history and traditions that make Texas A&M such an unique experience.
Bonfire Memorial
The Memorial is dedicated to the 12 Aggies who lost their lives in the tragic collapse of the 1999 Bonfire. It celebrates the tradition and history of Texas A&M and is comprised of the Tradition Plaza, Spirit Wall, and History Walk.
Cushing Memorial Library and Archives
In addition to housing Texas A&M University’s rare books, special collections and archives, Cushing Memorial Library and Archives presents 4-6 exhibits for visitors each year. Paintings and other works from Cushing’s extensive art collections in addition to rare books and other historic materials are always on display.
J. Wayne Stark University Center Galleries
(Temporarily located in the Sterling C. Evans Library Annex of TAMU Campus) Hosts about 14 traveling exhibitions each year. Visitors will see exhibits ranging from the traditional fine arts and crafts to anthropology, archaeology, history and science. One can also explore some of the highlights of Texas A&M University’s permanent collection, which includes works by Texas artists such as E.M. “Buck” Schiwetz, John Biggers, H.O. Kelly, Julian Onderdonk and Dawson Dawson-Watson.
Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadet Center
This center depicts the Corps of Cadets from its beginning in 1876 to today and describes the traditions and history of Texas A&M University. The exhibits include Silver Taps, the Aggie Band, Parsons Mounted Cavalry, the 12th Man, the Ross Volunteers, Aggie Muster, Bonfi re, Reveille, Cadet life and an Aggie Ring case. Also housed in the Corps Center is the Sanders/ Metzger Antique Firearm Collection and more are all must-sees to truly understand Aggieland.
Texas A&M Athletic Sports Museum
Located in the Zone of Kyle Field, this museum serves as a repository for treasured sports relics of the past. Visitors will experience several different exhibits in the museum including the Time Wall, Legends Gallery, sport-by-sport perimeter displays and interactive computers. The Texas A&M Sports Museum has the distinction of being the nation’s only all-sports museum funded primarily by former athletes.
SURROUNDING ATTRACTIONS
BRENHAM
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau
(979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com Located 41.6 miles south of B/CS Washington County has been recognized as a National Main Street City for two consecutive years. Events include: The Bluebonnet Festival in April and Maifest in May. Other points of interest include: the Antique Carousel, the Brenham Heritage Museum, Glasco’s Gardens & gifts, the Main Street District, the Unity Theatre and the Windy Hill Winery.
Antique Rose Emporium
(979) 836-9051 (800) 441-0002 www.antiqueroseemporium.com The multi-acred gardens feature hundreds of roses, perennials, herbs and native flora in a historical setting. This is a great garden center and wedding destination.
Blue Bell Creameries
(800) 327-8135 www.bluebell.com Founded in 1907, Bluebell Creameries is home to what many believe to be the “best ice cream in the country.” This “little creamery in Brenham” is a popular stop.
Ellison’s Greenhouses
979) 836- 6011 (800) 776-2287 www.ellisonsgreenhouses.com This is the only commercial wholesale greenhouse operation in the state that allows the public to tour its working operations and fi ve acres of greenhouses. Visit the weekend before Thanksgiving to enjoy the Poinsettia Celebration.
Monastery of St. Clare Miniature Horse Farm
(979) 836-9625 Www.monasteryminiaturehorses.com Visit this farm that is home to the Franciscan Poor Clare Nuns who support themselves by raising miniature horses and selling handmade ceramics and other crafts in the Art Barn gift shop. Visitors are welcome to pet the horses, browse in the gift shop and spend a few quiet moments in the chapel.
Pleasant Hill Winery
(979) 830-VINE www.pleasanthillwinery.com This hillside vineyard offers tours and a tasting as well as a gift shop. View their corkscrew collection, vintage television sets and radios or stop by “Crush For Fun” an event they host each summer.
BURTON
Burton Cotton Gin & Museum (979) 289-3378 www.cottonginmuseum.org Built in 1914, this gin has been restored with the guidance of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This is a working reminder of when cotton reigned supreme. Visitor center open Friday and Saturday.
CALDWELL
Burleson County Chamber of Commerce (979) 567-3218 www.burlesoncountytx.com Caldwell is 28 miles west of B/CS and has been named “Kolache Capital of Texas” by the state legislature. Each September they host the Kolache Festival. While you are in town, be sure to visit the Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum and the Burleson County Historical Museum.
Royalty Pecan Farms
(979) 272 3904 (800) 694-8362 www.royaltypecans.com Visit Royalty Pecan Farms for your source of Texas Fancy Halves, homemade pecan pie, gourmet breads, fl avored pecans, and more!
CALVERT
Calvert Chamber of Commerce (979) 364-2559 www.calverttx.com Calvert is located 34.2 miles northwest of B/CS. Much of the city is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. While visiting, be sure to take a historic homes tour or visit Annie’s Doll House Museum.
Cocoamoda
(979) 364-2190 www.cocoamoda.com Tickle your taste buds at this Texasbased gourmet chocolate boutique. Here, they strive to produce the highest quality truffl es and confections utilizing the fi nest grade of chocolate and freshest ingredients.
CHAPPELL HILL
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau (979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com Located 55.4 miles south of B/CS Chappell Hill is a great to place to visit. Enjoy their annual “Bluebonnet Festival of Texas” held each spring and their annual “Scarecrow Festival” in October. Other points of interest include the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm and the Chappell Hill Historical Museum.
HEARNE
Hearne Chamber of Commerce (979) 279-2351 www.hearnetexas.info During your travels take a trip to Hearne, which is only 25.7 miles northwest of B/CS. While in the area be sure to view the Camp Hearne display in their Chamber of Commerce building, the Historic Hearne Railroad Depot, a Historic Homes Tour, or their annual “Crossroads Music Festival” held in September.
NAVASOTA
Grimes County Chamber of Commerce (936) 825-6600 (800) 252-6642 www.navasotagrimeschamber.com Known as the “Blues Capital of Texas,” Grimes County is only 23.5 miles southeast of B/CS. It hosts the Navasota Blues Festival in August. Be sure to see the La Salle Monument and the Horlock History Center. Grimes County is also host to The Texas Renaissance Festival, which is the largest of its kind.
Martha’s Bloomers
(936) 825-7400 www.marthasbloomers.com Discover Texas’ Most Beautiful Home and Garden Store, featuring quality plants, trees, organic products, pottery, simply beautiful home décor, gifts, antiques, water features and a tropical greenhouse. Plus, Café M Bloomers is the perfect place for a great lunch or afternoon tea.
SOMERVILLE
Burleson County Chamber of Commerce (979) 596-2383 www.burlesoncountytx.com Located only 26.2 miles southwest of B/ CS, Somerville is home to the Somerville Historical Museum. They also host the annual “Somerfest” at Lake Somerville in July and “The Great Sausage Festival” in May.
Lake Somerville
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/lakesome Lake Somerville Includes four U.S. Army Corps of Engineer parks, one city park and two state parks around the huge lake. They offer camping, boating, fi shing, swimming and hiking/ biking trails. Lake Somerville features 11,400 acres with 85 miles of shoreline.
WASHINGTON
Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau (979) 836-3695 (888) BRENHAM www.brenhamtexas.com During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Washington County, located 33 miles southeast of B/S, was the site of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence and the drafting of The Constitution of the newly born Republic of Texas. From 1842 to 1846, Washington-on-the-Brazos served as the capital of the Republic.
Star of the Republic Museum
(936) 878-2461 www.starmuseum.org Located in Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park, the museum is dedicated to the history of the Texas Republic through state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, publications and media presentations.
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
(936) 878-2213 www.birthplaceoftexas.com This 293-acre park includes the site where Texas declared independence from Mexico on March 2nd, 1836. It also includes Independence Hall, a visitor’s center and Barrington Living History Farm, a working farm of the 1850s centered around the home of Anson Jones who was the last President of the Republic of Texas.
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