Want to get away for a day? Texas is full of great spots for day trips, and Cypress Green is close to many of them. Take Brenham, for example. It’s just 90 minutes away and full of fun things to do. It’s also the home of Blue Bell ice cream. Need we say more? Here’s a list of things not to miss.
The state flower is everywhere to be seen beginning around mid to late March. You can see them along the road in their natural glory or downtown planted in front of houses and businesses and painted on walls.
Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas
Plan to be in Brenham Saturday, April 15, for the town’s annual bluebonnet festival. The festival boasts more than 250 juried exhibitors, delicious country-style food, live entertainment and tours of the historic community.
Established in 1907, Blue Bell is the most popular ice cream in Texas. The creamery is open to visitors two days per week for tours and ice cream tasting.
Brenham Downtown Historic District
Downtown Brenham is absolutely charming. Spend a few hours admiring the historic buildings and street art, then stop off at one of the many cafes for coffee and a sweet treat. If you’re there in the evening, hit Floyd’s Lounge for wine or Main Street Uncorked for a martini.
Ice cream isn’t the only thing Brenham is famous for. Their barbecue joints are out of this world. Nathan’s BBQ is the oldest in Brenham, and Truth BBQ and LJ’s BBQ have devoted followings.
Home Sweet Farm Market and Biergarten
Brenham’s premier live music venue also serves up craft beer, ciders and wines. It’s family-friendly during the day with lots of picnic tables and games for the kids.
Who knew cisterns could be so interesting? Toubin Park is the starting point for a self-guided tour of one of the largest cistern systems in the Old West.
The only theatre in Washington County occupies a renovated warehouse downtown. The setting is intimate, and the shows are outstanding. Go during the summer so you can see Godspell and Jack and the Beanstalk.
Washington-on-Brazos State Historic Site
The birthplace of Texas is located just outside of Brenham. The Declaration of Texas’ Independence was signed here. The Star of the Republic Museum is a great stop for history buffs. Nature lovers may just enjoy wandering the trails.
This may be the most calming place in Texas. Acres of lavender plants greet you if you arrive in the spring or summer. Cut a bouquet to take home or just sit back and enjoy some lavender lemonade. On weekends the farm hosts crafting and gardening workshops.