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The Perfect Pair: Antique Rose Emporium and Blue Bell Creameries

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:54:26 GMT

The Antique Rose Emporium is both a working nursery and a garden destination where visitors can shop for plants, explore landscaped grounds, and learn about historic roses.

Visit the Nursery

The Antique Rose Emporium was founded in 1983 to help preserve Old Garden Roses, including varieties that were in danger of disappearing from cultivation. Today, the nursery carries antique and modern roses along with perennials, annuals, native plants, herbs, and other selections for Texas gardens.

For visitors who want to take home something from their experience, the nursery and gift shop offer plants, seeds, gardening books, accessories, houseplants, and gifts.

Visit the Gardens

The eight-acre display gardens are designed to show visitors how roses and other plants can work together in a larger landscape. Paths lead through beautifully designed outdoor areas, giving gardeners plenty of ideas to take home.

One of the property's most distinctive areas surrounds Champneys' Green, a 1904 Victorian home that now provides a historic backdrop for private events. Its outdoor pavilion, gazebo, and tiered trellis paths are incorporated into gardens filled with cascading roses and other plants.

Tours and Tips

The display gardens can be explored through a free, self-guided tour.
Visitors who want more background can book a paid guided tour with co-owner Jim Keeter, who discusses the property's roses, history, and approach to sustainable, Texas-friendly landscaping.
The on-site gift shop sells plants, seeds, books, gardening supplies, apparel, and gifts, while snacks and refreshments are available for visitors who want something to enjoy while walking through the gardens.

The Antique Rose Emporium in Brenham offers an inviting combination of horticulture, Texas history, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It is a particularly enjoyable stop for travelers who love the beauty of gardens or who want to catch a glimpse of rare and historic rose varieties.

Blue Bell Creameries is another Brenham destination with deep local roots and a distinctly Texas tradition. The hometown creamery invites visitors to learn about the company's history, watch ice cream production, and enjoy a scoop of their favorite flavor.

Together, these attractions make two of the best things to do while visiting Brenham, TX.

Antique Rose Emporium

Blue Bell Creameries - Brenham

After spending a morning enjoying the roses, head over to this famous ice cream destination. Blue Bell's Brenham facility gives visitors the opportunity to learn how the company grew from a small local creamery into a nationally recognized ice cream maker.

Blue Bell Creameries History

Blue Bell's story began in Brenham in 1907, when a group of local businessmen established the Brenham Creamery Company to make butter from excess cream supplied by area farmers. The company began producing ice cream several years later. In 1930 it adopted the Blue Bell name, inspired by the Texas bluebell wildflower.

By 1958, the company had stopped making butter and devoted its production entirely to ice cream, helping establish the Brenham creamery as the center of the Blue Bell story.

Visit Blue Bell Creameries - Brenham

A visit to Blue Bell begins at the Visitor Center, where guests can take a self-guided journey through more than a century of Blue Bell history. From there, the Observation Deck provides a behind-the-scenes look at current production, where visitors can watch parts of the ice cream-making process.

After the tour, visitors can head to the Ice Cream Parlor, where everyone can choose from a selection of hand-dipped flavors, including some that are available only at the parlor. The Country Store is another stop worth making, particularly for guests looking for Blue Bell-themed shirts, mugs, magnets, gifts, and other souvenirs.

Tours and Tips

Visitors follow a self-guided experience through the Visitor Center, with the public areas providing different views into the company's history and operations.
The Ice Cream Parlor offers scoops, frozen snacks, and bottled water.
The creamery is wheelchair accessible, making the Visitor Center, parlor, store, and other public areas easier for guests with mobility needs to enjoy.

Stay at Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate

After a day of exploring two of Brenham’s most delightful things to do, return to our Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate for a comfortable place to relax. Every accommodation includes a private bath, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV.

Our guests can also enjoy the large swimming pool, hot tub, covered patio, and comfortable outdoor spaces throughout the estate. A full breakfast is included every morning and is served in our Main House dining room, on the front porch, or poolside.

Book your stay today and come see more of what Brenham has to offer!

Visit the State Parks Near Brenham, TX

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 19:49:22 GMT

Drive Time: ~30 minutes

Lake Somerville State Park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing,and boating on the beautiful Lake Somerville. The park is divided into multiple units and features wooded trails, open grasslands, and easy access to the lake throughout the year.

Hiking

Nails Creek Trail – A scenic multi-use trail stretching between park units with wooded sections and lake views.
Birch Creek Trail – Shorter hiking paths near campsites and picnic areas with relatively easy terrain.
Trailway System – A longer trail network popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through rolling countryside.

Swimming

Swimming is available in designated swim areas along Lake Somerville, particularly near the Birch Creek Unit. Visitors can enjoy sandy shoreline access and shallow water areas during warmer months. There are no lifeguards on duty, and swimming is only permitted in designated areas away from boat ramps and marinas.

Fishing

Lake Somerville is known for largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish fishing. Anglers can fish from the shoreline, piers, or boats throughout the lake. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers ages 17 and older, though fishing from shore inside Texas state parks may not require a license in some designated areas.

Additional Activities

Boating and kayaking on Lake Somerville
Horseback riding on designated equestrian trails
Birdwatching throughout grassland and wetland habitats
Mountain biking on multi-use trails

Visitors to Lake Somerville State Park should plan for a full day of outdoor recreation, especially during spring and summer when the lake is busiest.

Bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water is recommended, particularly for those hiking or spending extended time on the lake.

Brenham, Texas sits within driving distance of several scenic parks and historic sites that showcase the natural beauty and history of Central Texas. This makes our Brenham bed and breakfast perfect for your home base as you prepare to explore this remarkable region.

Below, you’ll find more information on our nearby parks and what we love most about them.

Lake Somerville State Park

Stephen F. Austin State Park

Drive Time: ~50 minutes

Located along the Brazos River west of Brenham, Stephen F. Austin State Park preserves a scenic section of forested riverfront once traveled by early Texas settlers. Large pecan and oak trees provide shade throughout much of the park, creating a peaceful setting for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Hiking

Sycamore Trail – A short wooded trail featuring native plants and river scenery.
Elm Trail – An easy hiking path winding through shaded forest areas near the campground.
Nature Trail Loop – A relaxing route popular for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Swimming

While the Brazos River borders the park, swimming conditions can vary significantly due to currents and water levels. Swimming is sometimes permitted in calmer designated areas near the riverbank, but visitors should always check current conditions and avoid entering the water after heavy rainfall or flooding.

Fishing

Fishing along the Brazos River can produce catfish, bass, gar, and sunfish. Shore fishing is the most common option within the park, though some visitors also launch small boats or kayaks nearby. A Texas fishing license is generally required for fishing in the river.

Additional Activities

Wildlife and birdwatching throughout the forested park
Canoeing and paddling on calmer sections of the Brazos River
Picnic areas beneath large shade trees
Photography during spring wildflower season
Ranger-led educational programs during select seasons

Stephen F. Austin State Park offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to some larger Texas parks, making it ideal for peaceful hikes and riverside picnics.

The park’s shaded trails and wooded scenery are especially enjoyable during cooler months and spring wildflower season.

Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site

Drive Time: ~25 minutes

Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site marks the location where Texas declared independence from Mexico in 1836, earning it the nickname “Birthplace of Texas.” Today, the site combines historic buildings, museum exhibits, and living history experiences that give visitors a closer look at life during the Republic of Texas era.

These points of interest include:

Star of the Republic Museum – Features exhibits covering early Texas history, artifacts, and Texas Revolution displays.
Independence Hall – A reconstructed version of the building where delegates signed the Texas Declaration of Independence.
Barrington Living History Farm – A working 19th-century farm with costumed interpreters, livestock, and historic demonstrations.

Visitors can spend several hours exploring the grounds, museum exhibits, walking trails, and picnic areas throughout the historic site. Seasonal events and living history programs are especially popular during spring and fall, while guided tours provide additional insight into Texas history and the daily lives of early settlers.

Make Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate Your Home Base

After a long day of exploring state parks and historic sites, playing in the water, and hiking popular trails, come back to our B&B for a quiet night in the hot tub.

Our property offers 9 unique rooms and suites, each with their own style and decor. Comfortable beds, thoughtful amenities, and lots of ambiance make our bed and breakfast perfect for your next getaway.

Book your stay today!

Take A Day Trip to Space Center Houston

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 19:49:21 GMT

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that Space Center Houston (SCH) and NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) are not the same facility. Space Center Houston serves as the official visitor center for Johnson Space Center, providing the public with opportunities to learn about NASA's past achievements and current missions through exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours.

The two facilities are located adjacent to one another, allowing visitors to explore Space Center Houston while also gaining access to select areas of the NASA campus.

Johnson Space Center

NASA established the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston in 1961, later renaming it Johnson Space Center in honor of President Lyndon B. Johnson. The facility became the headquarters for America's human spaceflight program and played a critical role in the Gemini, Apollo, Space Shuttle, and International Space Station programs.

Today, it remains one of NASA's primary centers for astronaut training, mission planning, and spacecraft operations.

Why Space Center Houston Was Created

Since Johnson Space Center conducts active NASA operations, most of its facilities are not open to the public. To provide visitors with a way to learn about space exploration and NASA's work, Space Center Houston opened in 1992 as the agency's official visitor center.

Since then, it has welcomed millions of guests from around the world and has become one of Texas' most popular educational attractions.

Located about 75 miles southeast of Brenham, TX, Space Center Houston is typically a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from town, making it an easy day trip for visitors looking to experience one of Texas' most unique attractions.

The Connection Between Space Center Houston and NASA’s Johnson Space Center

What You Can Expect To Find at Space Center Houston

While many parts of Johnson Space Center remain restricted because they support active government operations, Space Center Houston provides a look at some of JSC’s past, present, and future projects.

Displays and Exhibits

Space Center Houston features hundreds of spaceflight artifacts that showcase the history of NASA's human spaceflight program. Visitors can see spacecraft, spacesuits, mission equipment, Moon rocks, and exhibits that highlight both historic and current missions.

Notable exhibit areas include:

Starship Gallery
Independence Plaza
Astronaut Gallery
Mission Mars
Apollo and Artemis exhibits
Historic spacecraft and flight hardware

Interactive Experiences

Many exhibits allow visitors to engage directly with space science concepts through hands-on activities and simulations. Interactive experiences are designed for both children and adults, making the center appealing to families as well as serious space enthusiasts.

Visitors can:

Touch a real Moon rock
Explore spacecraft simulators
Participate in STEM activities
Learn about future Mars missions
Experience interactive mission planning challenges

Movies and Educational Presentations

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy educational films and presentations focused on space exploration, astronaut training, scientific discoveries, and NASA missions.

These programs provide additional context that enhances the overall experience and helps visitors better understand the challenges of human spaceflight.

Tours

One of the most popular attractions is the NASA Tram Tour , which takes visitors onto portions of the JSC campus. Depending on availability, tours may include stops at Rocket Park, astronaut training facilities, and historic Mission Control areas.

Many visitors consider the tram tours to be the highlight of their trip because they provide access to working NASA facilities that cannot be seen elsewhere.

Visitor Tips

Hours are typically 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. on weekends; check the official website before visiting for current schedules.
General admission tickets are usually purchased online in advance and may vary by date and season.
Some specialty tours require an additional fee and advance reservation.
The facility is ADA accessible with accessible parking, entrances, restrooms, and exhibit spaces.
Plan to spend at least 4–6 hours exploring the center, especially if you want to participate in tours.
Summer is one of the busiest times of year, while spring and fall often offer more comfortable weather and smaller crowds.
Arriving early helps maximize your time and improves your chances of securing tour reservations.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the size of the campus.
Photography is permitted in most public areas.

Stay at Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate

After spending the day exploring one of Texas' most fascinating attractions, return to the peaceful surroundings of Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate in Brenham. Our convenient location makes us an excellent home base for day trips to Houston while allowing guests to enjoy the quieter pace and charm of Washington County.

Guests can relax in thoughtfully appointed accommodations featuring comfortable furnishings, private bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The property also offers inviting common areas, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a relaxing atmosphere that makes us one of the best hotels in Brenham, TX.

Book your reservation today!

The Best Museums and Historic Sites in Brenham, Texas

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 19:49:20 GMT

Known as the "Birthplace of Texas," Washington-on-the-Brazos is one of the state's most important historic attractions. This expansive site allows visitors to explore museums, historic buildings, and to take part in living history experiences.

History of the Site

On March 2, 1836, delegates gathered at Washington-on-the-Brazos to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence, officially declaring Texas independent from Mexico. Today, the historic site preserves this important moment through restored buildings and engaging exhibits that tell the story of the Republic of Texas.

About the Site

The site includes Independence Hall, the Washington Townsite, Barrington Living History Farm, and the Visitor Center with interactive exhibits and a museum store. Guided and self-guided experiences allow guests to explore the grounds while learning about Texas independence and pioneer life.

Visitor Information

Hours: Visitor Center open daily; museums and historic experiences generally operate Wednesday through Sunday.
Admission: Paid admission is required Wednesday through Sunday.
Parking: Free parking is available throughout the site.
Accessibility: Accessible parking, restrooms, and many exhibits.
Amenities: Visitor Center, gift shop, picnic areas, playground, and restrooms.

Rich in Texas history and small-town charm, Brenham is one of the state's most rewarding destinations for history lovers. Founded in the mid-1800s, the area played a significant role in the birth of the Republic of Texas.

Today, visitors can explore everything from beautifully restored homes to interactive museums that bring the stories of early Texas to life.

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Texas Cotton Gin Museum

Located inside the historic Burton Farmers Gin in nearby Burton, the Texas Cotton Gin Museum celebrates the industry that helped shape communities throughout Texas. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to see one of the oldest operating cotton gins in the country.

History of the Museum

The Burton Farmers Gin operated for decades as an important part of Washington County’s agricultural heritage. Today, the museum preserves the machinery, stories, and traditions of Texas cotton farming while honoring the people who worked in the industry.

About the Museum

Visitors can view original cotton gin equipment, historic farming tools, photographs, and exhibits explaining how cotton was processed from field to fabric. Seasonal demonstrations of the working gin provide an unforgettable glimpse into early agricultural life.

Visitor Information

Season: Open seasonally; check current operating dates before visiting.
Admission: Admission fees vary by age.
Parking: Free on-site parking.
Accessibility: Portions of the museum are accessible.
Amenities: Gift shop and interpretive exhibits.

Brenham Heritage Museum

Housed in Brenham's historic post office building, the Brenham Heritage Museum shares the stories, culture, and history of Brenham and Washington County.

History of the Museum

The museum was established to preserve the region's rich history while encouraging visitors to appreciate the people and events that shaped Washington County. Its home in the historic post office building adds another layer of significance, reflecting Brenham's architectural heritage as well as its community history.

About the Museum

Permanent and rotating exhibits feature local history, artwork, photographs, artifacts, and cultural displays. Each one highlights the area's development from the Republic of Texas to the present day.

Visitor Information

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Admission: Admission fees apply.
Parking: Public parking is available nearby.
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Amenities: Museum shop, rotating exhibits, and educational programs.

Giddings Stone Mansion

The Giddings Stone Mansion is one of Brenham's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture. It offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of one of Washington County's prominent early families. Its beautifully preserved rooms showcase the elegance of 19th-century Texas.

History of the Site

Construction of the mansion began in 1869 and was completed in 1870 for J.D. Giddings and his family. The home remained in the family for generations and is recognized as a Texas Historic Landmark. It was also one of the first homes west of the Mississippi River to feature electricity and central heat, making it remarkably advanced for its time.

About the Site

Guided tours take visitors through the mansion's eleven rooms, grand staircase, expansive verandas, and original architectural details. The property also includes the historic kitchen, laundry, and servants' quarters, providing insight into everyday life during the late 1800s.

Visitor Information

Hours: Tours are available by appointment with advance notice.
Admission: Guided tours are offered for a per-person fee.
Parking: Free parking is available on-site.
Accessibility: Accessibility is limited due to the home's historic design.
Amenities: Guided tours led by knowledgeable docents.

Stay at Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate

After exploring Brenham's fascinating museums and historic sites, unwind at Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate. Located in the scenic Texas countryside, our Brenham bed and breakfast offers comfortable accommodations, peaceful surroundings, and convenient access to the area’s top attractions.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Far View Bed & Breakfast Estate is the perfect home base for discovering the history, culture, and hospitality of Washington County.

Book your stay today!

A New Post Lorem Ipsum

wb6@resnexus.com (ResNexus Websites) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:37:40 GMT

Speak to your audience

You know your audience better than anyone else, so keep them in mind as you write your blog posts. Write about things they care about. If you have a company Facebook page, look here to find topics to write about

Take a few moments to plan your post

Once you have a great idea for a post, write the first draft. Some people like to start with the title and then work on the paragraphs. Other people like to start with subtitles and go from there. Choose the method that works for you.

Don’t forget to add images

Be sure to include a few high-quality images in your blog. Images break up the text and make it more readable. They can also convey emotions or ideas that are hard to put into words.

Edit carefully before posting

Once you’re happy with the text, put it aside for a day or two, and then re-read it. You’ll probably find a few things you want to add, and a couple more that you want to remove. Have a friend or colleague look it over to make sure there are no mistakes. When your post is error-free, set it up in your blog and publish.

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Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

wb6@resnexus.com (ResNexus Websites) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:46:34 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list

Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly

Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself

When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively

Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

Keep in touch with site visitors and boost loyalty

wb6@resnexus.com (ResNexus Websites) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:46:34 GMT

There are so many good reasons to communicate with site visitors. Tell them about sales and new products or update them with tips and information.

Here are some reasons to make blogging part of your regular routine.

Blogging is an easy way to engage with site visitors

Writing a blog post is easy once you get the hang of it. Posts don’t need to be long or complicated. Just write about what you know, and do your best to write well.

Show customers your personality

When you write a blog post, you can really let your personality shine through. This can be a great tool for showing your distinct personality.

Blogging is a terrific form of communication

Blogs are a great communication tool. They tend to be longer than social media posts, which gives you plenty of space for sharing insights, handy tips and more.

It’s a great way to support and boost SEO

Search engines like sites that regularly post fresh content, and a blog is a great way of doing this. With relevant metadata for every post so search engines can find your content.

Drive traffic to your site

Every time you add a new post, people who have subscribed to it will have a reason to come back to your site. If the post is a good read, they’ll share it with others, bringing even more traffic!

Blogging is free

Maintaining a blog on your site is absolutely free. You can hire bloggers if you like or assign regularly blogging tasks to everyone in your company.

A natural way to build your brand

A blog is a wonderful way to build your brand’s distinct voice. Write about issues that are related to your industry and your customers.

Tips for writing great posts that increase your site traffic

wb6@resnexus.com (ResNexus Websites) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:46:34 GMT

Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.

Speak to your audience

Take a few moments to plan your post

Don’t forget to add images

Be sure to include a few high-quality images in your blog. Images break up the text and make it more readable. They can also convey emotions or ideas that are hard to put into words.

Edit carefully before posting