Located just 10 minutes from the Texas Renaissance Festival!
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Located just 10 minutes from the Texas Renaissance Festival!
Known as the birthplace of Texas, this historic site includes Independence Hall, the Star of the Republic Museum, and Barrington Living History Farm. Visitors can explore the reconstructed Independence Hall where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed in 1836. The museum offers extensive exhibits on Texas history and the Republic era. Barrington Farm provides a living history experience, showcasing 19th-century farming techniques and lifestyles.
Birthplace of Texas: Washington-on-the-Brazos is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Texas” because it was here that Texas declared its independence from Mexico in 1836. The site hosts an annual celebration on Texas Independence Day, featuring reenactments, historical demonstrations, and family activities.
Located in Anderson, this historic inn from the 19th century offers guided tours showcasing early Texas hospitality and stagecoach travel. The inn, originally a private home, became a stagecoach stop in 1858, serving travelers along the La Bahia Trail. Today, visitors can see period furnishings and learn about the daily life of travelers and innkeepers. Special events and reenactments are held throughout the year to bring history to life.
Fanthorp Inn was an essential stop for stagecoach travelers in the 19th century, providing meals, lodging, and a place to rest. The inn has been carefully restored to its mid-19th-century appearance, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Texas’ past.
Located in Navasota, this Victorian home features rotating art exhibits and historical displays about the local area. The gallery showcases works from local and regional artists, highlighting the vibrant arts community in Navasota. The history museum provides insights into Navasota’s past, including its role in the cotton industry and railroad development. The beautifully restored Victorian architecture of the Horlock House adds to the charm of this cultural attraction.
The Horlock House is not only an art gallery but also serves as a residence for artists-in-residence, who live and work in the house while creating new works. This unique program supports the arts and fosters creative development in Navasota.
Stretching over 128 miles, this trail offers extensive opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Sam Houston National Forest. The trail is the longest continuous hiking trail in Texas, winding through diverse landscapes including dense forests, open meadows, and serene waterways. Hikers can encounter a variety of wildlife, from deer and wild turkeys to numerous bird species. Camping is available along the trail, making it a great destination for multi-day adventures.
The Lone Star Hiking Trail is divided into several sections, each offering a unique experience. The Winters Bayou section is particularly popular for its scenic views and abundant wildlife, including the occasional sighting of a bald eagle.
A short drive from Navasota, Lake Conroe offers boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities in a picturesque setting. The lake spans 21,000 acres and is surrounded by parks, marinas, and resorts. Anglers can catch a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The area also features hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering year-round recreational opportunities. It hosts several annual fishing tournaments, attracting anglers from across the region.
Ideal for canoeing and kayaking, the Navasota River provides a peaceful environment for paddling and wildlife watching. The river meanders through scenic countryside, offering tranquil views and a chance to see local wildlife. Paddlers can enjoy the gentle current and explore various sections of the river, each with its own unique scenery. The river is also a popular spot for fishing, with abundant populations of bass and catfish.
The Navasota River is part of the Brazos River basin, one of the largest river systems in Texas. Its calm waters make it an excellent choice for beginners and families looking to enjoy a day on the water.
Held on select weekends, this market features fresh produce, homemade goods, and crafts from local farmers and artisans. Shoppers can find a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and jellies, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market also hosts live music and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s a great place to support local businesses and enjoy the community spirit of Navasota.
The Navasota Farmers Market often features special events, such as cooking demonstrations and gardening workshops, providing valuable tips and entertainment for visitors.
In addition to tours and beekeeping classes, BeeWeaver offers a shop where you can purchase local honey, beeswax products, and other gifts. The farm has been producing honey for over 130 years and is known for its sustainable beekeeping practices. Visitors can learn about the life of bees, the process of honey production, and the importance of bees in agriculture. The on-site shop offers a range of honey varieties, beeswax candles, skincare products, and more.
BeeWeaver Honey Farm is home to thousands of bees that produce different types of honey depending on the season and available floral sources. They also offer hive rentals for those interested in backyard beekeeping.
In nearby Plantersville, this winery hosts a seasonal farmers market with local vendors, live music, and wine tastings. Visitors can browse stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts while enjoying the scenic vineyard setting. The winery also offers tastings of its award-winning wines, often paired with live music events on the lawn. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon with family and friends.
Bernhardt Winery’s farmers market is a family-friendly event that often includes activities for children, such as face painting and craft workshops, making it a fun outing for all ages.
A great spot for birdwatching and fishing, this reservoir is home to various species of fish, waterfowl, and other wildlife. The reservoir covers over 2,000 acres and is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a habitat for many birds and animals. Anglers can fish for bass, catfish, and crappie, while birdwatchers can spot a variety of waterfowl and migratory birds. The area also offers picnic spots and nature trails, perfect for a day out in nature.
Gibbons Creek Reservoir is part of the Gibbons Creek Nature Preserve, which includes protected wetlands and wildlife habitats. The preserve is an important site for environmental education and conservation efforts.
Located in nearby College Station, this park offers hiking and equestrian trails, along with ample opportunities to observe native plants and animals. The park spans over 500 acres and features a variety of ecosystems, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as birdwatching and nature photography. Educational programs and guided tours are also available to enhance the visitor experience.
Lick Creek Park is a designated bird sanctuary, making it a prime spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. It is home to over 200 species of birds, including rare and migratory species, providing a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of avian life.
Located a bit further out, this ranch offers guided horseback rides through scenic trails, giving visitors a chance to experience the Texan countryside. The ranch spans over 500 acres and features beautiful landscapes, including lakes, meadows, and forests. In addition to horseback riding, guests can enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The ranch also offers charming accommodations, making it a perfect getaway destination.
Blisswood Bed and Breakfast Ranch is home to a variety of animals, including horses, cattle, and peacocks. The ranch’s diverse wildlife and serene environment provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Located in nearby Magnolia, Lone Pint Brewery is a craft brewery known for its exceptional ales and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can tour the brewery, learn about the brewing process, and enjoy a variety of craft beers in the taproom. The brewery often hosts live music, food trucks, and community events, making it a popular local hangout.
Lone Pint Brewery is renowned for its flagship beer, Yellow Rose, a single malt, and single hop IPA that has garnered a loyal following and numerous awards.
Rail & Rye is a unique dining and entertainment venue located in downtown Navasota. This multi-level establishment features a restaurant, bar, and rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city. The menu offers a mix of Southern and Tex-Mex cuisine, and the bar boasts an extensive selection of craft cocktails and local beers. Live music and events add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Rail & Rye’s rooftop lounge is one of the best spots in Navasota to catch a beautiful sunset while enjoying a refreshing drink and live music.
An annual event near Plantersville featuring themed weekends, live entertainment, artisan shops, and diverse food and drink options. The festival is one of the largest of its kind in the United States, drawing visitors from all over the country. Each themed weekend offers different entertainment and activities, from jousting tournaments to costume contests. The festival grounds are designed to resemble a 16th-century English village, adding to the immersive experience.
The Texas Renaissance Festival spans over 55 acres and includes more than 400 shops and vendors. It runs for several weeks each fall, offering a variety of experiences and attractions for all ages.
Held annually in nearby Chappell Hill, this festival celebrates the blooming of bluebonnets with arts, crafts, live music, and food vendors. The festival takes place in April, when the bluebonnets are in full bloom, creating a stunning backdrop for the event. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including a classic car show, a petting zoo, and a pie-eating contest. The festival also features local artisans and vendors, offering unique handmade goods.
The Bluebonnet Festival in Chappell Hill is one of the oldest and largest festivals in Texas dedicated to the state flower. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, making it a major event in the region.
A scenic 18-hole golf course in Navasota, perfect for golf enthusiasts looking for a relaxing day on the greens. The course is designed to challenge players of all skill levels, with well-maintained fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. The club also offers a driving range, a pro shop, and a clubhouse with dining facilities. Special events and tournaments are held throughout the year, providing opportunities for competitive play.
Pecan Lakes Golf Club is known for its beautiful landscape, featuring large pecan trees and natural water features. The course has received high ratings for its design and maintenance, making it a favorite among local golfers.
Explore charming shops, antique stores, and local eateries in the heart of Navasota. The downtown area is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and vibrant community events. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Main Street, browsing unique boutiques and art galleries. The area often hosts festivals, live music, and farmers markets, creating a lively atmosphere.
Historic Downtown Navasota has been designated a Texas Main Street City, recognizing its efforts to preserve and revitalize its historic downtown area. The community’s commitment to maintaining its historic charm is evident in its beautifully restored buildings and vibrant local culture.
An annual event held in Navasota, the Grimes County Fair is a week-long celebration featuring livestock shows, rodeo events, carnival rides, and local vendors. It’s a great way to experience the agricultural heritage and community spirit of the area. The fair also includes live entertainment, delicious fair food, and various competitions.
The Grimes County Fair has been a local tradition for over 50 years, bringing together residents and visitors for a week of fun and festivities.