Ryan: It all started from I think it was season 2. Eddie and Buck were walking down and we kept on bumping each other's shoulders. So somebody picked up on that and that's where it just kept on growing and growing and growing and growing.
Zach Sang: Like intentional in that moment?
Ryan: No, it's just because Oliver doesn't know how to walk straight. (x)
By: Rhoda and Anna of Loot Rentals and Loot Finer Goods Austin, TX
Round Top, TX, population 91. It is surprising to many that this modest little town in the middle of central Texas half way between Austin and Houston is home to one of the finest antique markets in the world. This mecca of vintage and antiques from all over carries with it the most fascinating people, beautiful rolling hills, and a local culture and flavor all its own. We want to take you along Hwy 237 through the 20 miles worth of vendors to share tips on how to tackle Round Top, and why we love it so much.
Round Top is the town that started the festival with the Original Round Top Antiques Fair , but now, after 50 years, the show extends through more towns along the stretch including Carmine, Warrenton, Fayetteville and La Grange.
This year the official dates of the show are extended for a full three weeks instead of just two. September 15 through October 8. We're in the habit of catching the early part of the show to hopefully get the good picking, but mid and late are great too for a couple of reasons. Not all the vendors/shows have officially opened and the earlier you are there, the less bargaining power you have. Be sure to check out Antique Weekend for a full list of all the shows and the dates they are open. All the vendors open up when they are ready and close when they are ready. To be safe, 10 AM - 5 PM is the best time for picking.
Lodging
We don't recommend just one day of shopping, so it is a good idea to make it an overnight trip. There are plenty of places to stay, but most are small boutique lodgings. Book early for the best selection! We've had the pleasure of staying in some pretty lovely places. Here are a few of our favorites:
Elisa's Sunday Haus: awesome dogtrot construction with the sweetest people as hosts
Hillcrest Inn: right smack in the middle of Warrenton and easy to walk to a lot of the tented vendors
Round Top Inn: walking distance to restaurants and serving up the best complimentary breakfast around
The Vintage Round Top: eye candy full of architecture and stellar interiors
Also in the area, The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell: the one and only person credited for starting the Shabby Chic movement.
Photo Credit: TheVintageRoundTop.com
How to Dress:
While out in the fields be sure to take layers because of the varying Texas temps, a good hat, sunscreen, and maybe even a handkerchief to shield from the dust.
Where to Shop:
We love to spend time in Northgate field for a little more global style, Ex-Cess and Ex-Cess II for European finds and eclectic, creative uses of vintage, The Compound for easy parking and serious eye candy, Bar W for lots of choices with a little bit of everything, and one of the newer venues, Market Hill, which has awesome vendors, air conditioning and nice restrooms. Other great shows include La Bahia and Blue Hills. We'd be remiss not to mention some great solo vendors along the trail like Box Road, Bill Moore's Antiques and Junk Gypsy World Headquarters (for a lot of Round Top fashion!). Every trip we make to Round Top allows us to visit a new vendor or field and we are NEVER disappointed with the result. A new discovery every time.
Featured: Blue Hills
Featured: Eneby Home at The Compound |
Photo Credit: The Distillery Market
Where to Eat:
In addition to layered clothing, you're going to need a great pair of walking shoes because you will be on your feet all. day. long. But don't worry, there are food and drink trucks everywhere you look, as well as super charming restaurants to sit and rest for a spell. We ALWAYS make it a point to stop at the Texas Rose Antique Show not only for some sweet vendor tents, but for the delicious food trailer on site. If you love a perfect rosemary chicken salad or pimiento cheese, this stop is calling your name. The portions are quite big, so share with a friend! It would also be a travesty if you didn't stop in at Henkel Square for the famous Royers Cafe. Lunch on lovely sandwiches and salads, but be sure to save room for their world famous pie. To finish out the evening and talk about your favorite finds of the day, enjoy the porch of Los Patrones for margaritas and Mexican food. We never miss this stop during our stay in Round Top.
Night Life:
There are always festivities happening around these parts in the evenings. Vendors and locals are celebrating another successful day while visiting with friends they haven't seen since the last show. One of the more famous events is the Junk-O-Rama Prom. Don your favorite vintage prom dress or cowboy duds and head over to Zapp Hall for a great time under the Texas stars. Don't forget your boots!
Insider Tips:
Some final tips to consider before hitting the fields. Cash speaks volumes, cell service is spotty, and taking a wheeled cart or large car to haul items is recommended. If it all seems a little overwhelming, which is completely understandable, you might look into a guided Round Top day trip with our friend, Catelyn Silapachai of The Distillery Market. After submitting a survey answering what you are in search for, Catelyn will dedicate her day to pampering you with the best shopping experience based on what you are seeking. She's a pro in the fields and will not disappoint with her savvy knowledge of all things Round Top. Tour includes guided shopping, negotiation + shipping assistance, morning coffee, lunch, and transportation. A great option for a first time Round Topper.
We are looking forward to hitting the fields starting this weekend and will be posting on EBTH's Instagram feed with our finds and adventures along the way. We hope you come along for the journey!
