Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (20 km north-east) — the site where Texas declared independence from Mexico in 1836. The replicated Independence Hall, the Star of the Republic Museum and the restored Barrington Plantation are all on the same large park along the Brazos River. The most important historic site in this part of the state.
Round Top (25 km south-west) — a village of fewer than ninety residents that doubles in size during the twice-yearly Round Top Antiques Fair (spring and autumn), one of the largest antique markets in the United States. Out of season it is a quiet place known for live music at Royer's Cafe.
Chappell Hill (15 km east) — a tiny historic settlement on the original Brenham–Houston road, with a museum, a couple of bed-and-breakfasts in 1850s houses, and a well-known Bluebonnet Festival in early April.
Old Baylor Park, Independence (15 km north) — the ruins of the original Baylor University, founded here in 1845 before relocating to Waco. The brick columns of the women's college are still standing in an oak-shaded park.
Houston (115 km south-east) and Austin (140 km west) are both within reasonable driving range, making Brenham a sensible base for exploring east-central Texas without staying in either city.