We’ve compiled our best tips from the experience we've had as shoppers and vendors. We hope this guide will help you navigate through the interesting world that is Round Top Antiques Week.

preparing for the show

Dates & Times

Show Schedule: Check either RoundTop.com or ExploreRoundTop for exact show schedules and more information.

The main shows are held twice a year in the spring (middle of March to the beginning of April) and the fall (middle of October to the end of October) with a smaller winter show held mid-January.

The main shows span over an 18-day period with approx. 80 venues (also known as “shows”) and over 4000 dealers on an 15-mile stretch of Hwy 237 in Round Top, with smaller shows in neighboring towns. The venues/shows have staggered openings, some are open the entire eighteen days, with only two that are only open the last week including Big Red Barn (aka The Original Round Top Antique Show) and Marburger Farm.

There can be confusion with dates as The Original Round Top Antique Show (aka Big Red Barn), which started the whole show over 50 years ago, is just one venue. A common mistake when searching about the Round Top Antique Show, is that their dates (the final week) represent the entire show.

Every venue offers a different vibe and selection. Some are highly curated which normally means higher prices, some are “picking fields” which means lots of digging for the treasures, and a lot are in between. Most open by 9:00am (however some open even earlier) and close around 5:00pm (or stay open until the last shopper leaves).

All of the venues are free to enter except for Big Red Barn and Marburger Farm (the two higher end, curated, and exclusive venues) which charge a fee. Most shows offer free parking but there a few that do charge to park.

Refer to these links for dates:

http://www.antiqueweekend.com

https://roundtop.com/round-top-antique-show-info/round-top-antiques-show-schedule/

BEST TIME TO COME?

That all depends on what your goals are at Round Top Antiques Week.

The show officially starts each season on a Thursday with a variety of venues opening along with the year-round vendors, however most of the larger venues (Ex-cess, Blue Hills, The Compound, Arbors, Bader Ranch, etc.) open on that Saturday. Coming that first weekend will give you the advantage of first picks from a large amount of vendors. The other opportunity for first picks is the last week when Big Red Barn and Marburger Farm opens (two of the largest and most well known designer shows). However, keep in mind - all the other shows that have been open for several weeks will still have merchandise but may be somewhat picked over by then but may also be more willing to deal price-wise since it’s their last week.

Looking for the Best Deals:

Come towards the end of the third week of the show. There will be less selection, however vendors will be more inclined to strike a deal or negotiate with you to get rid of their inventory. (Note that this is not always the case. Many dealers pack up from one show to go to the next, so are not in a position to give major discounts.)

Looking for Smaller, Less Chaotic Crowds:

Visit the shows Monday-Thursday and come when the first venues open. During the week and at the beginning of the show, parking is much easier and the crowd is smaller, making it easier to get from one venue to another.

Looking for the Best Selection:

Plan to be there the very first week when the main large venues open. It will not only be less crowded, but you will have the widest selection to choose from before it gets picked through in the following, most popular week(s). Downside: the prices will be less negotiable and not all vendors are open (Big Red Barn and Marburger Farm).

Want to be here when all of the venues are open?

Marburger Farm (opens the Tuesday of the last week) and Big Red Barn (opens the Monday of the last week) are the only two venues that have an entry fee, although the fee covers parking and the entire length of the show. Both have a variety of dealers, however most of them are higher-end and many offer European imports. The booths are curated, styled and easy to navigate. We were a Marburger Farm vendor; you can see our past show pics here!

WHERE TO STAY

Book lodging early! Many B&Bs and home rentals require at least a 3 night minimum stay, charge high-season rates and have strict cancellation policies.

Whether you plan to come once or twice a year, lock the reservation in with your favorite B&B or home rental as soon as possible. The Vintage Round Top is, of course, our first pick. If our cottages are already booked, visit the Round Top Chamber of Commerce, Airbnb, or VRBO Vacation Rental to find available lodging.

*The Vintage Round Top still has remaining availability for the Spring 2024 show. Click here to view remaining availability and to book your stay.

WHAT TO WEAR

Dress comfortably stylish! Texas weather can be extreme, unpredictable and change overnight, but many days are picture perfect. Shoe choice and sun coverage are the most important decisions when it comes to staying comfortable while navigating the show. Wear layers and a light jacket or top to cover your shoulders to avoid sunburn, even if it seems overcast. Wear comfortable shoes or, if the forecast calls for rain, wear rain boots and bring an umbrella. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses—just in case.

Comfortable shoes, boots, rain boots

Flowy dresses + tops

Linen, denim, cotton shirts + pants + jackets

Hats, sunglasses, bandana, sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer

Big boho bag, small cross body bag, zipper bag for phone and easy access to cash/credit cards

Style necessities – comfortable shoes/boots, hat, sunglasses, a large bag, layers to go from cool weather to hot, sunscreen, lip gloss.

WHAT TO BRING

Carry a large tote bag to carry water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Use your tote to carry a notebook and pen (or use your cell phone) for writing down your purchases, including the location, name, and number of the vendor you need to pick up your items from.

Bring a camera or use your cellphone to take pictures of the items you bought and left behind to pick up later. (Always ask permission before you take photos of a booth and get the name and contact info to tag the vendor in social media outlets if you end up sharing.)

You can also carry smaller items you have purchased in your tote bag or use a rolling cart, however these can be tricky when trying to maneuver in smaller booths.

Bring a measuring tape and a list of items or spaces with measurements that you’re trying to find to help in decision making. Bringing swatches of paint or material or photographs to help in color pairing or matching.

Bring your business cards! This is a very large show and you will come in contact with shoppers and vendors alike that may turn out to be an opportunity to talk “business”.

Bring cash! Although many dealers accept credit cards and checks, cash is always welcomed. There are banks located in Round Top and the surrounding areas of Carmine, La Grange, and Brenham, and some show sites have ATMS.

DURING THE SHOW

Parking

Many parking areas are located between and behind the shows along SH 237. Most parking is free, but there are places that offer paid parking for a small fee—typically $5.

Navigating the Show

If you come for a day trip, get started as early as possible. Since the shows span over an 15-mile stretch, traffic can slow down the process of getting from one spot to another. Drive to the furthest show and work your way backwards so you are only dealing with traffic on the way back. However, if you have favorite venues, start there first to get the best selection.

Negotiating with Vendors

Most vendors will negotiate, but some are firm on prices. You won’t know until you ask, and most dealers expect to be asked. You will have better luck negotiating if you are looking to purchase a big-ticket item or a large amount of small items. Remember that these vendors have a tough job, so be fair in what you offer.

Finding Your Hidden Treasure

As the saying goes, “One’s man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” We love the hunt, but one issue you have to face when looking for your perfect piece is the decision of when to buy. If you decide to wait and go back later to purchase a piece, it may be gone. The other aspect is that you may buy something in the beginning and then find something even better later so, there is no easy answer. Bottom line: If you LOVE it, BUY it!

Transporting Your Purchases

There are several businesses that offer shipping of large purchases, but in our experience the two most reputable are Roll’en Hills and Distinguished Transport. If you aren’t buying large items, simply transport your purchases in the back of your vehicle, in your trunk, or consider pulling a small trailer. If you choose to take your items home with you, bring plastic or paint tarps to cover the interior of your car in case of rain or if items are dirty.

ROLL'EN HILLS CONTACT INFO

Cindy's Cell : 281 726 2631
Kevin's Cell: 281 204 7434

2121 South State Hwy 237
Round Top, TX 78954

DISTINGUISHED TRANSPORT CONTACT INFO

Phone: 979 249 3473

or 678 910 1668

2377 South State Hwy 237
Round Top, TX 78954

AFTER HOURS

Boon & Co. , located in the heart of Round Top, offers locals and visitors a one stop shop for everyday food and specialty items. Think delicious eats, craft cocktails, gifts, home goods and more!

Blue Mule Winery, a new favorite among Round Top locals, is located about 20 minutes away in Fayetteville. They offer wine tastings - check their website for schedule. The winery is built on the family's homestead, making it a family affair!

Il Cuculo Here’s a slice of the big city in a charming small town. Choose chic indoor seating or outdoor tables by the pool for craft cocktails and bar nibbles.

Kooper Family Whiskey has made a big splash and is located in Ledbetter, Texas. They too are a family affair and offer tastings and bottle purchase.

Prost Wine Bar offers live music and a world class selection of wines by the glass or the bottle. 112 Bauer Rummel Road
Round Top, TX 78954

Round Top Brewery is a nano-brewery and taproom serving house made beers and guest beers along with a surprisingly sophisticated yet accessible menu, counter service style in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere with indoor, outdoor, and patio seating available.

Rohan Meadery, located on Blissful Folly Farm, offers a wide variety of meads, wine, and ciders made with sustainably sourced local ingredients. Their tasting room hours are Thursday to Sunday from noon to 6 pm. Stop by for a glass after a day of shopping Round Top!

Saddlehorn Winery is just down the road in Burton, and it’s a great spot to sip delicious wine and take in the beautiful views of their 390-acre ranch. The Black Spanish wine is a must-try! You can add this spot to your list any day of the week, since they are open daily from 11am-6 pm.

The Ellis Motel, located in Henkel Square, this hip hang out is where it’s at for signature cocktails and…you can buy the furniture you are sitting on and other cool items on display.

The Jon Perez Lounge is an upscale lounge situated within the beloved Stone Cellar. Serving elevated dishes and craft cocktails in an impeccably designed space.

The Stone Cellar is known for great music, dancing, and pizza. 204 East Mill St Round Top, TX 78954

WHERE TO EAT

Restaurants get VERY busy during the show and some require reservations weeks or months in advance. If you know when you are going to be coming, we highly recommend calling the restaurant to find out when they begin taking reservations so you are ahead of the game.

Most venues have “pop up” restaurants to choose from as well.

Click the link for a list of restaurants in and near Round Top: https://www.thevintageroundtop.com/around-town