If you’re from Texas, then chances are pretty high that you’ve heard of Round Top. But if you’re not, it’s a hidden gem of a small town near Austin that hosts one of the biggest antique show in the country twice a year. The town goes from a population of 90 (you read that right: 90!) to over a hundred thousand in a matter of days — with tents and tables, barns, and booths set up for miles. But more than that, Round Top is about as charming as it gets for a girls trip, sorority reunion, small conference, or even just a quiet family weekend! I recently spent a few days there for a conference with the Southern Coterie and I want to share with you all of my Round Top recommendations. From restaurants to hotels to a bit of shopping and more!
Where to Stay in Round Top
My sister and I stayed at the Vintage Round Top, which is a boutique vacation home that sits on a picturesque country pasture. The owners have thought through each and every design detail, mixing old and new. And it could not have been more lovely! We stayed in the Boho Cottage, which would be perfect for a small group of girlfriends (sleeps at least 6-8!) or even a mother-daughter trip.
Round Top boasts several boutique hotels that we were able to visit during the conference: Hotel Lulu and The Frenchie Boutique Hotel. You can’t go wrong with either! You can both walk to the (very small) town center from these hotels. These would be a fabulous option if you’re planning a family reunion or a weekend getaway with a large group of college friends. Round Top Inn was another cute one! There are many VRBO’s as well. If you are going for the antique show, check out Festival Hill Boarding House for rooms. If you are going for market you want to book way in advance! You can also book in nearby small towns (or Austin!) and drive for a day of shopping.
Where to Eat in Round Top
It wouldn’t be a proper Texas destination without great food! And despite its small-town status, Round Top restaurants were big on atmosphere and fun. My favorites of the trip were Lulu’s — which you likely saw on my Instagram stories! — and Prost, which is the cutest wine bar housed in a stone cottage. You can order pizza from the wood-fired oven and sit outside. Great for big groups. And you can’t miss Royer’s Pie Haven in downtown Round Top when you’re out shopping. Be sure to swing by and grab a coffee and a slice of pie – both sweet and savory!
You can antique shop and eat at The Market at Round Hill and The Garden Co. Feed and Firewater is another Round Top mainstay that serves some of the freshest farm-to-table food, and would be a great spot for a delicious dinner in a beautiful atmosphere. Think big family or group dinners, or even a date night. And don’t miss the baked brie: it’s a must!
Where to Shop in Round Top
Whether you’re headed to Round Top for the antique fair or any other time during the year, you have to stop at Bader Ranch for the very best in antique shopping, mid-century modern finds, custom apparel and accessories, and much more. During the fall and spring shows, they even host a 5-course dinner each night — and I can’t imagine a more beautiful setting! My sister is going to be showing her jewelry at the tent outside Bader Ranch in a few weeks (Neely Phelan!), so be sure to stop by and browse all of her beautiful jewelry. She is also going to have the cutest personalized bandanas at her booth. My friend Kate Swail and her gorgeous turquoise jewelry that Texas ladies LOVE will also be showing at Bader Ranch. If you are going to the Antiques Market be sure to read D Magazine’s Guide to the Round Top Antiques Show here.
Here are a few other great spots for (mostly) year round shopping in Round Top that were recommended by The Southern Coterie: Bader Ranch, Market Hill, Round Top Design Center, Antiques + Vintage, Roland Square (Mad About Marsha, Stash, Townsend Provisions), Jardin de France, and Jimmy Herron. You can read about more great shops in Round Top here.
What to Wear in Round Top
I shared a lot of my outfit details on Instagram and in my recent Lee’s Latest Post, but have gotten so many compliments that I just had to share again! When I was planning what to pack, I knew I wanted to dress the part — which meant cowboy boots (Lucchese boots are my favorite!) and hats! I bought a Sissy Light hat while I was in Round Top (and they’re in Bader Ranch year-round), and I can’t recommend it enough. They would also make a cute gift for friends!
You can shop some of my Round Top favorites below, and be sure to follow us on the LTK app, too! Everything is in one easy-to-shop place for your upcoming Round Top weekend (because I’m sure after reading this, you’ll book a trip stat!).
Have you had a Round Top girls trip before? Be sure to share your favorites below!
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