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Tips for Shopping the Round Top Antiques Show

The Round Top Antiques Show is far more than your average flea market or antiques roadshow, it’s one of the biggest events of the year in our area. It’s easy for a newcomer to be overwhelmed by the event, so we’ve put together this list of tips to help you during your visit to the antique show.

What is the Round Top Antiques Show?

Running for over 50 years, the Round Top Antiques Show has garnered national and world recognition for the opportunities found here. It’s a two week period that happens during the spring and fall, with a shorter third instance happening during the winter. 


Our small town with a population of roughly 90 sees hundreds of thousands of visitors each show, turning the entire area into a festival of treasure hunting and fun. The Round Top Antiques Show typically has over 65 venues in a 20 mile radius around Round Top, Texas.


Over the years, we’ve learned several tips and strategies that will help both newcomers and experienced shoppers navigate the show successfully.

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Plan Ahead

This sounds obvious, but we can’t stress this enough. Trying to navigate the show without a plan is asking for trouble as well as a less than exciting experience. Here are some of the things you should plan ahead for.

Research the Vendors

Reserve a Room

Know What to Bring

Each venue is different from each other. Some are curated which means higher prices, others are known as “picking fields” which means more sifting through items for the ones you want. Each venue also sets their own hours, and most aren’t open for the entirety of the two week period.


Be sure to book your lodgings early! Available rooms in the area fill up fast. Keep in mind that many lodgings have special requirements during this time, including minimum length of stays, higher season rates, strict cancellation policies, etc.

Here is a list of items you should consider bringing with you during your visit:

  • Weather appropriate clothing (Texas weather can be unpredictable
  • Sunscreen
  • Plenty of water
  • Large tote bag
  • Notepad and pencil 
  • Measuring tape
  • Business cards

Navigating the Round Top Antique Show

Needless to say, the massive influx of tourists and shoppers during the antique show makes for some logistical issues. However, here are some things to keep in mind that will help you navigate the show better.


It’s best to start your day as early as possible. Since most of the vendors are located along the same 15- miles stretch of road, traffic tends to be an issue. Many times, it’s best to start by driving to the farthest location you are interested in, then work your way back.


While there are many parking areas, some of which charge fees, be prepared for a lot of walking. Some of the venues can be quite large, and you may have to park further away than you would like.


You don’t have to take every find with you at the time of purchase. There are plenty of shipping options available, either provided through the vendor or through local shipping companies. However, having a large tote can make smaller finds easy to carry.


Don’t be afraid to negotiate! While some vendors are firm on the price, most vendors expect you to ask. Just remember to be fair in your pricing, running a venue during the Round Top Antiques Show can be a tough gig.

The White House on the Hill

After a hectic day hunting for the perfect antique, be sure to give yourself the opportunity to relax. The White House on the Hill is the perfect place to recuperate, as we are close to many of the places where vendors set up, but are secluded enough to grant you the peace and quiet you deserve. 

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