Family Activities & Dining in Round Top, Burton, and Brenham, Texas

This expanded guide highlights top-rated family activities near Round Top, Burton, & Brenham, curated with our Element Ranch guests in mind. From outdoor adventures to local eats, these family-friendly recommendations make it easy to plan meaningful moments while exploring the region.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, you’ll find no shortage of family activities near Round Top, Burton & Brenham that are ideal for all ages.

Where to Go

Select a category below to explore recommendations curated for Element Ranch guests.

Family-Friendly Activities

  • Henkel Square Market (Round Top)
    Open-air shopping, casual dining, green spaces and boce ball. Highlights include ice cream, boutique shops, and live music.
  • Winedale Historical Complex (Round Top)
    Historic buildings, guided tours, and outdoor photo opportunities.
  • Junk Gypsy World HQ (Round Top)
    Funky shopping experience with girly vintage finds and quirky photo spots.
  • Festival Institute at Round Top
    Architectural gem with gardens and family-friendly concerts.
  • Round Top Antique Shows (Spring/Fall)
    Treasure hunts for all ages during spring and fall events.
  • Jersey Barnyard (La Grange)
    Interactive farm with baby animal feeding, farm tours, and a hayride. Enjoy a scoop of Bluebell afterwards in their charming gift shop. Fantastic place for kids to enjoy milking cows, feeding chickens, rabbits and goats. Great photo op. We suggest the late morning tour to beat the heat followed by lunch at Reba’s in La Grange.
  • Cow Cuddling (Burton)
    Check out Milk and Honey’s events. Twice a month they have “cow cuddles” which are ticketed opportunities to interact, cuddle and take photos with their mini highland cows. Tickets sell out quickly so book early if this is of interest.
  • Lake Fayette
    Outdoor recreation including fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
  • Lake Somerville
    Become a junior ranger, enjoy fishing, birdwatching or hiking. Check out their website for current kids’ activities and ranger programs.
  • Round Top Family Library
    Historic library featuring story hours, playground, and children’s books.
  • Texas Cotton Gin Museum (Burton)
    Kid-friendly historical experience showcasing the history of cotton and machinery demos.
  • Burton Railroad Depot
    Small but interesting rail history stop. Great for short visits with young children.
  • Blue Bell Creameries (Brenham)
    Factory tour, Blue Bell museum, and an ice cream parlor with generous scoops.
  • Fireman’s Park & Antique Carousel (Brenham)
    Historic hand-carved carousel and large park with playground and walking trails.
  • Downtown Brenham
    Shops, murals, live music, and family-oriented seasonal festivals. Favorite shops include Ballad of the Bird Dog for tees, ice cream and espresso as well as The Book Nook across the street.

Looking for a place to stay?

Element Ranch is Round Top’s only luxury estate—with room for up to 34 and the kind of quiet you didn’t know you needed. Thoughtfully designed for families, friends, and deep connection.

Want to ride?

  • Want to ride?
    Rockin’ Star Ranch (Brenham)
  • Guided horseback rides through scenic trails, great for beginners and families.
    StarHill Farms (New Ulm)
  • On-property horseback riding and trails available. Contact Lisee at 979-877-4881 to inquire and reserve in advance.
    Family-Friendly Dining Options

Family-Friendly Dining Options

  • Royers Pie Haven (Round Top)
    Charming pie shop with shaded outdoor seating.
  • Royers Round Top Café (Round Top)
    Gourmet comfort food and pies. Kid-friendly atmosphere with coloring sheets.
  • Lulu’s Restaurant (Round Top)
    Elevated Italian in a welcoming environment. Best for earlier seatings with kids.
  • Mandito’s Tex-Mex (Round Top)
    Tacos, enchiladas, and a colorful, casual vibe with a kids’ menu.
  • The Garden Co. – Feed & Firewater (Schulenburg)
    Elevated dining with a garden patio perfect for families. Children’s menu and friendly service. Yummy cocktails for the parents!
  • Los Patrones Mexican Grill (Burton)
    Delicious, authentic and flavorful Mexican dishes in a friendly and casual setting. Beware of the delicious fishbowl sized margatitas. They don’t mess around here. One of our favorites with the kids.
  • Brazos Belle Restaurant (Burton)
    Country French cuisine in a quaint setting. Relaxed enough for well-behaved kids.
  • Must Be Heaven (Brenham)
    Soups, sandwiches, delicious salads and pies, in a nostalgic soda fountain. A must for our kids each time we visit Brenham. A perfect stop for food on the way to the ranch. Kids meals come in a cute vintage car shaped carrier.
  • 99 Corners (Brenham)
    Spacious setting and classic American fare. Kid-friendly atmosphere often featuring live music.
  • Volare Italian Restaurant (Brenham)
    Traditional Italian menu with booths and plenty of kid-friendly options.
  • Las Fuentes (Brenham)
    Reliable Tex-Mex with a fun, casual atmosphere and large portions.
  • Truth BBQ (Brenham)
    One of Texas’s top BBQ joints. Arrive early—worth the wait! Casual outdoor seating works well for families.
  • Mill Street Café (Brenham)
    Casual breakfast and lunch spot known for pastries, sandwiches, and a welcoming vibe. Great for families.
  • Round Top Coffee Shop
    Laid-back coffee shop with pastries, light bites, and plenty of room for kids to relax.

A Family Retreat, Thoughtfully Designed

Five king suites, a chef’s kitchen, and wide-open gathering spaces make The Villa ideal for families who want room to spread out—without sacrificing style.

 

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Your Own Space, Together

With three separate cottages and a shared pool, The Retreats are perfect for extended families or friends traveling together. Each home offers privacy and comfort.

 

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