An Insider’s Guide to the Round Roof Antiques Fair
This article first appeared on austinhomemag.com.
Fall has officially arrived, which means it’s time for the Round Top Antiques Show, which will take place this year from October 25-30. Held in the spring and fall, the Antique Show attracts people from all over the country and has something to offer for everyone’s home, regardless of style or budget. With 64 different locations and over 42 kilometers of treasures, there are plenty of places to visit, but where do you start? Living with Leah Ashley, an Austin-based interior designer and vintage decor expert, gives us the scoop on her must-see destinations at Round Top.
Where to shop
Premium: Marburger Farm and The Big Red Barn
“You’ll have to pay an entrance fee, but it’s worth it. I find a lot of inspiration in these places even though most of the products are overpriced. You might not find any deals here, but you will find inspiration there for days to come. Pro tip: Pay the entrance fees to these places and you will have access to the nicest bathrooms and the best food all day long.
Organized: The Compound, Market Hill and Blue Hills
“The next stop I like to make is at a few places that are still expensive but well organized. These places are home to a ton of individual vendors from all over the world. From rugs to furniture, decorative pieces and even architectural artifacts, these places offer something for everyone, no matter what you’re looking for.
For hunting: Excess I & Excess II
“My favorite place to shop in Round Top is Excess I & Excess II. The converted barn stalls are filled with vendors who have a bit of everything. They are reasonably priced and you can find some great deals. The sellers are ready to haggle. I always ask for a better price. The worst they can say is no. “
Don’t overlook: the scrap yards in Warrenton
“Walking through the scrap yards of Warrenton is like exploring the world’s largest garage sale. It’s tent after tent for miles of fun, crazy, cool and totally weird stuff. Pro tip: Many high-end places buy the scrapyards first and then mark their finds in their own stalls. Friends don’t let their friends pay inflated prices.
Where to eat
Breakfast: Round top coffee
“Round roof cafe is the quintessential place in the small town. Stop for coffee, breakfast tacos, and homemade salsas. Don’t forget to say hello to the local men’s group that meets there every morning.
Breakfast: Local roots
“Local roots is the perfect lunch spot right in the middle of Round Top Town Square. Enter this magical world of whimsical decor for the best soups, salads and sandwiches. Be sure to try their “World Famous Ding Dongs”.
Having dinner: Lulu’s
“Lulu is an upscale Italian restaurant located in a historic building. The food is great, the wine is fantastic, and if you’re in town for Antique Week you might see a celebrity or two.
Where to stay
The Wandering Inn
“My favorite place to stay is the Wander Inn. This is a whimsical B&B; owned – but more importantly, decorated – by Amie & Jolie of the Junk Gypsies. Savor the best hot cookies and jams every morning while relaxing on your back porch overlooking a perfect pasture. Be sure to ask to feed the longhorn with “Papa” for a true Texan experience you will never forget. “
Vintage round top
“Another of my favorite places to throw my boots is The Vintage Round Top. The Vintage Round Top is a collection of neatly organized cottages in the middle of all the Round Top action. It’s meticulously decorated and you can’t help but be inspired by owners Paige & Smoot’s modern take on vintage style.
Leah Ashley Round Top Packing List
- Comfortable shoes: Note that the event takes place in cow pasture, so be sure to wear your most comfortable pair that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty.
- Shoulder bag: Allows hands-free antique hunting.
- Water and sunscreen: Keep in mind that fall in Texas doesn’t always mean cooler weather, so be sure to bring water and high SPF sunscreen.
- Tape measure and measures: If you are looking for something specific, make sure you have your tape measure handy.
- Disinfectant wipes: Prepare wipes, as items tend to be dusty (with more recent COVID reasons).
- Species: While most sellers accept credit cards, cash makes it easier to haggle over prices.