Round Top is a magical little town located just outside of Austin, and it’s a place that everyone should experience first-hand.
This tiny town with a population of only 90 people has become the go-to mecca for sourcing vintage and antiques. The Original Round Top Antiques Fair is hosted three times a year with a Winter Show (Jan 19th-22nd), Spring Show (March 18th-April 1st), and Fall Show (Oct 14th-28th). Do note that these dates are specific to the 2023 calendar year - it changes every year.
The festival is the largest antiques fair in the country stretching over 11 miles of fields filled with vendor tents, barns, and shops.
Below are my tips on navigating the show:
1. Stay in or 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 show, which makes getting 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! My favorite place to stay is The Glamp Inn - an adorable indoor glamping spot close to all the action.
2. Have a Game Plan Each Day: There are so many different venues within the show, and 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 a specific piece. My personal favorite spots to visit during each show are Blue Hills, Excess I, Excess II, Market Hill, and The Compound.
3. 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 something and choose to walk away from it, keep in mind that it may not be available later.
4. Know When to Negotiate: Most 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.
5. Plan Ahead for Large Purchases: While there are several businesses that offer shipping for your purchases, 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, even if you don’t end up needing all of it.
Above all else, have FUN! It’s truly the best little place on earth.
Round Top Royalty
It's not just interior designers, influencers and home builders who love to peruse this quaint and quirky town in Texas. Celebrity fans of this antiques paradise include Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton (who wandered the markets then went to the delicious Lulu's for dinner); favourite of this magazine and dedicated environmentalist Adrian Grenier, plus just about every HGTV star you can imagine!
For more information on Audrey Scheck Design, go to audreyscheckdesign.com
"If you fall in love with something and choose to walk away from it, keep in mind that it may not be available later."
