| Beyond the natural beauty of the rolling countryside, the area is rich in
Texas history and has a wealth of cultural activities to offer. Early German
settlers first came to the area in the 1840's, which is reflected in the names,
the architecture, and the foods. In recent years many have been inspired by
that history to preserve and restore some of the older structures in and around
Round Top. Excellent examples of these restorations are the Henkel Square Museum,
the International Festival-Institute, both in Round Top, and the University
of Texas' Winedale Historical Center, just 4 miles from Round Top.
Round Top also has a number of activities throughout the year that add to
the quality of life:
- Classical music concerts at Festival-Institute, which draws performers
and students of international caliber
- Shakespearean plays at Winedale, staged and performed by students from
the University of Texas
- The Round Top Children's Library,
which is a full-service lending library for both adults and children with
books, videos, audio books, computers and
many programs for both children and adults -- all housed in a beautifully
restored church moved from its current site from Buckholtz, Texas
- Various antique shows with vendors from across the nation and visitors
from around the world
- Historical sites from the colonization of Texas and the struggle for independence
- A variety of restaurants with menus offering everything from traditional
country fare to gourmet meals
- The longest continuously held Fourth of July Parade west of the Mississippi
- Outdoor activities, including fishing (Fayette Lake) and water sports (Lake
Somerville), golf and tennis
All without the noise and anxiety of city life and traffic.
Of course, there is always the lure of a big porch and a great rocking chair
to add to one's enjoyment.
Pretty amazing for the smallest incorporated city in the State of Texas.
Round Top is centrally located between
Austin (State Capital, the University of Texas, and many high-tech businesses),
Houston (home to many international
businesses, the Port of Houston, and NASA in nearby Clear Lake), and the Bryan/College
Station area (Texas A&M University).
|
