Things to do while you wait for the weekend to start
Plan to arrive at or after 4 PM
Check-in at Camp Allen will open at 4:00 PM on Friday, 1/23/26, so rooms won’t be available before then. This gives our team the time to pray, prepare, and set the weekend up just right. We appreciate your understanding!
Arriving early? Don’t worry—you can make the most of your time in the area. Below are some nearby ideas to enjoy before the weekend officially begins (or to linger after the retreat ends).
Suggested Places Nearby
Dining
Enjoy a variety of local spots for coffee, breakfast, lunch, or a snack. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café, a quick bite, or a casual restaurant, there are plenty of nearby options to fuel up before or after the weekend. We’ve included a few ideas below.
Louisa’s Cache
Louisa’s Cache, located inside the P.A. Smith Hotel in downtown Navasota, is a cozy spot for coffee, tea, or a light snack. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, it’s perfect for a relaxing pause before check‑in.
Rail & Rye
Rail & Rye in downtown Navasota is just off Main Street and perfect for a relaxed lunch. Their menu features tasty sandwiches, wraps, and fresh salads—all served in a beautifully styled, welcoming space.
Cafe M. Bloomers
Bloomers (Café M Bloomers) at Martha’s Bloomers offers a lovely lunch experience set among beautiful gardens and home‑and‑garden shopping. Enjoy fresh soups, sandwiches, salads, and desserts in a relaxed indoor or outdoor setting — a great stop to slow down and savor a bite before or after the retreat.
Shopping
Explore unique local shops, boutiques, and markets in the area. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift, a keepsake, or just a fun browse, there are plenty of options to enjoy before or after the weekend. We’ve included a few ideas below.
Cotton + Oak
Cotton + Oak is a stylish boutique in Navasota filled with curated home goods, gifts, and unique finds that feel both timeless and fresh. It’s a lovely stop if you’re looking for something special to browse or bring home, all in a relaxed, inviting setting.
Muddy Water Bookstore
Muddy Water Bookstore is a cozy, locally‑owned bookshop in Navasota with a thoughtfully curated selection of books, gifts, and paper goods. It’s a great place to browse for a meaningful read or a unique treasure while you take your time before or after the retreat.
Blackberry & Honeysuckle
Blackberry & Honeysuckle is a charming gift shop in Navasota with home décor, candles, devotionals, and specialty finds—perfect for a quick browse or a unique treasure to take home.
Specialty Stops
These unique spots offer something a little different—from local makers to historical markers. They’re perfect for a relaxed stop if you have extra time and want to explore something special nearby. We’ve included a few ideas below.
Bee Weaver Honey Farm
Bee Weaver Honey Farm is a lovely bee farm and mercantile where you can browse local honey, beeswax products, and artisan goods — a sweet stop to explore while you wait or after the retreat. Their Bee Goods line of honey is a Texas favorite.
Washington on the Brazos
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located less than 30 minutes from Camp Allen and offers a peaceful place to walk, explore, and reflect. With historic buildings, museum exhibits, and scenic grounds along the Brazos River, it’s a meaningful stop for those who’d rather stretch their legs and take in some Texas history than shop or dine.
Junebug Nursery
Junebug Nursery is a charming local plant nursery offering a relaxed place to wander among greenery and seasonal plants. It’s a lovely stop if you enjoy browsing plants, getting a little fresh air, or simply slowing down for a bit before or after the retreat.