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.
Best Time 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.
How to Get 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 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
First: Relax surrounded by nature at the Hill Country State Natural Area
Second: Kayak on Medina River
Third: Stop by the historic Frontier Times Museum
Fourth: Take the kids to dig for fossils at the Bandera Natural History Museum
Fifth: Book a stay at the Dixie Dude Ranch
Sixth: Shop at the Western Trail Antiques Marketplace
Seventh: Go dancing at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar
Where 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.
If you are interested in 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.
If you are looking for unique 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.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Bandera located?
- Bandera is located just one hour northwest of San Antonio (53.9 miles via I-10 W).
- What is Bandera known for?
- Bandera is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” a picturesque Hill Country town that was once the staging area for historical cattle drives of the 1800s.
- What is the origin of the name "Bandera"?
- The name "Bandera" comes from the Spanish word for flag, a reference to the red banner that once flew in the area to delineate the boundary between Spanish and Native American hunting grounds.
Map:
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