An Interior Designer’s Guide to Round Top, Texas

Round Top, Texas is a charming little town just outside of Austin, and it’s an experience everyone should have at least once.

With a population of just 90, this tiny Texas town has become a hub for vintage and antique lovers, over a hundred thousand shoppers from all over the country and world visit Round Top, Texas. The Original Round Top Antiques Fair, the largest antiques fair in the county, is held three times a year with antique shows in the Spring, Fall, and Winter.

The antique fair stretches over 11 miles of fields, packed with vendor tents, the iconic big red barn, specialized antique and vintage shops and a food court.

Tips on Navigating Round Top, TX

To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:

Stay in a Hotel Near Round Top: Although it’s not too far of a drive from Austin, hundreds and thousands of people come to visit this small town during the antique show, which makes driving in and out of Round Top a bit hectic. There is so much to see during the show that I recommend staying close by so you can hit the ground running each day. Some of my favorite Round Top Hotels are Hotel Lulu, Round Top Inn The Frenchie, and Lone Star Glamp Inn.
Have a Game Plan For Antique Shopping: There are so many different antique vendors within the three venues, it’s nearly impossible to see it all. You’ll want to prioritize which venues you visit, especially if you’re on the hunt for that specific piece, whether that’s a vintage desk, or perhaps you have an interest in antique mirrors or antique home decor in general. My personal favorite spots to visit during each show are The Horseshoe, Blue Hills, Excess I, Excess II, Market Hill, and The Compound.
If You Love it, Act Fast!: Pieces go quickly during the show, and most vintage inventory is impossible to replicate. If you fall in love with a vintage treasure and choose to walk away from it, keep in mind that it may not be available later.
Know When to Negotiate: Most antique vendors are open to negotiating, but some are firm on prices. This also depends on the venue and timing during the show. If it’s opening day, expect most vendors to be firm on prices. I’ve found you can get the best deals towards the end of the show, but this is also when inventory is at its lowest. Regardless of timing, remember to always be kind and fair with any offer you make.
Plan Ahead for Large Purchases: While there are several businesses that offer shipping or delivery for antiques, it can get expensive quickly. I recommend splitting the cost of a van or truck with a friend ahead of time and having vendors help you load your items into your own rental vehicle as you make purchases. Having the extra space is so helpful!

Above all else, have FUN! It’s truly the best little place on earth and I’m so fortunate to have Round Top and wonderful antiques close to Austin.

Keep on reading for a show guide to all my favorite vendors along with the best places to eat, drink, and stay in Round Top.

Must-Shop Antique Vendors at Round Top

Round Top is so large that it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Below are my tried and true favorite Round Top antique vendors that I never miss stopping by at any show: