Brenham/Washington County Visitor Center
When restoration/renovation of the historic 1925 Simon Theatre in Downtown Brenham began, one of the street-side spaces was set aside to house a new Visitor Center. This space is next door to the original, restored theatre entrance marked by the original lighted marquee.
Today’s Visitor Center, which opened in 2010, includes two offices, a workroom, storage room and ample room for display kiosks. Massive support columns anchor a long counter where visitors are welcomed and information dispensed. Covering the large wall behind the counter is an image of Independence Hall at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site complete with costumed reenactors. The marquee above proclaims “Birthplace of Texas” and provides a terrific photo opportunity.
The center’s deep blue terrazzo floor contains a not-to-scale driving map of the county, complete with major attractions highlighted. This striking floor is one of the first things visitors notice and comment about.
Large windows face Main Street and are anchored with bench-seat storage. More massive photo walls feature iconic images of the Washington County area. Four free standing and two wall mounted kiosks make room to display travel brochures and rack cards for visitors to access. Restrooms are available in the adjacent theatre lobby.
The Washington County Visitor Center is one of the most unique centers of its kind in the state, receiving accolades for both its beauty and the outstanding customer service its enthusiastic staff provides.
