Looking for cowboy charm, rugged beauty, and real Texas adventure? Head to Bandera, Texas! Known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," Bandera is a Hill Country gem where western heritage runs deep. Whether you're horseback riding, two-stepping at a honky-tonk, or hiking through scenic hills, Bandera offers a truly authentic Lone Star experience.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Bandera is from March to May and September to November. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for outdoor fun, horseback riding, and exploring the Hill Country. Summer is warm and lively, especially during rodeo season, while winters are mild and quiet.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Bandera is located about 1 hour northwest of San Antonio via TX-16 and 2.5 hours southwest of Austin.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is San Antonio International Airport (SAT), approximately 55 miles away.
- By Bus: Limited regional service is available; driving or renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Bandera.
Where I like to stay
- Dixie Dude Ranch – Classic Texas dude ranch experience with horseback rides, cookouts, and cowboy hospitality.
- Bandera River Ranch Resort – Rustic cabins and lodges near the Medina River, perfect for nature lovers and families.
- Flying L Ranch Resort – Family-friendly property with golf, horseback riding, and a seasonal water park.
Top Attractions
1. Relax surrounded by nature at the Hill Country State Natural Area
The Hill Country State Natural Area ten miles southwest of Bandera, Texas has preserved over 5,000 acres of Hill Country terrain since the mid 1980’s. The site boats the limestone mesas and hills that the Hill Country is known for, populated with beautiful Texas Live Oak and pecan trees, grasses and sotol. The site differs from a state park in that it is purposefully kept wild, and as such, offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Common fauna includes white tailed and axis deer, rock squirrels, rabbits, wild turkeys and armadillos. Over 160 species of birds live in the area or migrate through, including the endangered black capped vireo and golden-cheeked warbler.
Address: 10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, Phone: 830-796-4413
2. Kayak on Medina River
Texas’ Medina River spans 120 miles through the Texas Hill Country from its source in Bandera County at the Edwards Plateau. The spring fed river is made possible through the Balcones Fault, and the river has become a dividing line of sorts between the two distinct ecosystems along its east and west banks. One of the most calm rivers in Texas, it’s a perfect location for kayaking or canoeing, or a lazy float in an inner tube. The cool water temperatures feel best when its warmest outside, from late spring to early fall. In the heat of the summer, it’s possible for the water levels to dip too low, so check the rainfall before your on-the-water recreational trip. One of the best swimmable public access points is inside the Hill Country State Natural Area.
If you are traveling with kids:
3. Stop by the historic Frontier Times Museum
The Bandera County Frontier Times Museum preserves the cultural heritage of Bandera County, and its history as a Texas frontier. Collections, exhibits and educational programming tells the history of the area from the 19th century onward. The museum was built by an eccentric local newspaper publisher in 1933, with an expansion in 1935. The eclectic stone building was pieced together from the rocks of abandoned local ranches, wells and walls dating back to the 1870’s. Exhibits include curiosities ranging from a 2,000 year old corn cob, to a two headed goat and the first piano to arrive in Bandera County. Galleries honor local rodeo stars, and include a Bandera Hall of Fame. A Western Art collection is among the more traditional exhibits, as well as a display on the history of Medina Lake.
Address: 510 13th Street, Bandera, Texas 78003, Phone: 830-796-3864
4. Take the kids to dig for fossils at the Bandera Natural History Museum
The Bandera Natural History Museum occupies a 14,000 square foot building on 8-acres of Hill Country land. The museum originally opened in 2011 as the Bandera Exotic Wildlife Museum, but with expansion in 2016, changed its name to better reflect the current mission of exposing visitors to the natural beauty of the world through exhibits, education and events. Exhibits at the museum include the museum’s icon, a 17-foot tall giraffe. Also on display is a 2,000 pound jade tiger, and mounted tigers, leopards, grizzly bear and kangaroo. Outside the museum are several sculptures of life-sized dinosaurs, surrounded by four different play stations where children can dig for fossils. The museum’s “Sensory Safari” is a special exhibit for sight-challenged guests that allows for the experience of the animals through touch and sound. A gift shop, café and patio with snack machines are all available on site.
Address: 267 Old San Antonio Hwy, Bandera, TX 78003, Phone: 830-328-5090
5. Book a stay at the Dixie Dude Ranch
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a cowboy? Find out for yourself at the Dixie Dude Ranch, a good old western destination hidden within the Cowboy Capital of the World – Texas Hill Country. Dixie Dude Ranch is an old-time working stock ranch that was established in 1902 by its founder, William Wallace Whitley. Today, the 725-acre ranch offers weekend stays to visitors from all parts of the globe, enticing travelers with the opportunity to fully unwind with western hospitality. Guests will stay in beautiful cabins at the ranch headquarters and enjoy numerous activities like horseback riding, cowboy cookout-style meals and hayrides.
Address: 833 Dixie Dude Ranch Road, Bandera, Texas 78003, Phone: 830-796-7771
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
6. Shop at the Western Trail Antiques Marketplace
Bandera’s Western Trail Antiques Marketplace brings together over 70 vendors in 22,000 square feet of space offering everything from vintage cowboy boots and western wear, to furniture and architectural salvage items, western paintings and artwork to jewelry and fine antiques. The marketplace is located in the historic Wool and Mohair Warehouse Building, a two-story stone building dating back to the 1860’s. The building is home of one of Texas’ oldest elevators, installed sometime in the late 1800’s. Wandering through it all is Tex, the famous marketplace cat, who has grown up on site since he was a kitten and can frequently be seen napping in the display cases.
Address: 200 Main Street, Bandera, TX 78003, Phone: 830-796-3838
7. Go dancing at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar
Bandera’s 11th Street Cowboy Bar is located just off Main Street. Known as the “biggest little bar in Texas” the location is a destination for Country Swing and Country Western Dancing. The old wood-framed building, surrounded by a front porch opens up into a spacious backyard with jet-cooled dance floor. Both the locals, and the tourists go to the 11th Street Cowboy Bar to enjoy live music and beer or join in on a jam session on any given night. The bar has been featured on several national television programs, and is in part famous for its interior décor, as hundreds of bras hang from the ceiling.
Address: 307 11th Street, Bandera, TX 78003, Phone: 830-796-4849
Where I Like to Eat
- OST Restaurant (Old Spanish Trail) – Iconic diner with hearty Tex-Mex and American fare, cowboy decor, and friendly service.
- Brick's River Café – Riverside dining offering burgers, steaks, and Southern classics in a laid-back setting.
- Busbee's Bar-B-Que – No-frills Texas BBQ spot known for brisket, sausage, and savory sides.
My favorite local events:
- Bandera Pro Rodeo (May & September) – Exciting rodeo weekends with bull riding, barrel racing, and cowboy contests.
- National Day of the American Cowboy (July) – Celebrate cowboy culture with parades, gunfighter shows, music, and more.
- Bandera Cowboy Mardi Gras (February) – A Texas-style twist on Mardi Gras with horses, beads, and live Cajun music.
My favorite day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Bandera, Texas:
- Medina, TX (20 min) – Visit the Apple Store, hike the Lost Maples area, or sample cider in this small Hill Country town.
- Boerne, TX (40 min) – Enjoy shopping, dining, and the Cibolo Nature Center in this upscale Hill Country community.
- Fredericksburg, TX (1 hour) – Explore wineries, German food, and the National Museum of the Pacific War.
- Kerrville, TX (45 min) – Art galleries, riverfront parks, and charming shops await in this laid-back town.
- San Antonio, TX (1 hour) – Visit the Alamo, stroll the River Walk, and explore museums and markets in the big city nearby.
Plan Your Trip