Summer in Bandera 2019

Poolside in Bandera

Heading to the Texas Hill Country this summer? Here are a few favorite events happening in July and August:

Or perhaps you’d enjoy tubing and kayaking on the Medina River, a visit to the San Antonio Zoo or the always popular Cowboys on Main in Bandera. How do you like to spend summer in the Hill Country?

Pearl in San Antonio

Located north of downtown San Antonio, the Pearl district was an active brewery from 1883 until 2001. At that time, the historic 22-acre area was transformed into restaurants, shops and so much more, including the third campus of The Culinary Institute of America.

Some of our favorite highlights include the bar at Hotel Emma, a year-round farmers market (every Saturday and Sunday) and the First Thursday Night Market, offered each month, featuring live music, dining and shopping specials from local vendors and artisans.

Find information about various events, parking and more here.

Farm to Table in the Texas Hill Country

A favorite spot in Bandera

If you enjoy “farm to table” dining, you can find plenty of it in the Texas Hill Country! Here are a few popular spots:

Boerne, Texas: Valeria Ristorante Italiano creates gourmet dishes using fresh ingredients from their farm, located only 3 miles away. They also have a bakery and wine club! The Cypress Grille also has its own herb garden, and uses locally sourced meat and sushi-grade fish. Or try 259 Brantley’s Bistro, a family-owned establishment in the heart of Olde Town. With an emphasis on everything Texan, they also use fresh and local ingredients.

Hunt, Texas (near Kerrville): Bridget’s Basket, LLC is more than a restaurant. Here you’ll also find a market, gardens, live events, a wellness studio (opening this month!) and the work of local artists.

Fredericksburg, Texas: The Farm Haus Bistro at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm is another destination offering multiple options, including a bistro, spa and gift shop (which has many garden and gift items that are created on-site).

These restaurant are a wonderful way to experience the local, fresh and creative cuisine available around the Bandera area. Have you discovered any favorites of your own? Please share in the comments below!

State Parks Near Bandera

View of the Medina River, from our Bandera resort

If you love beautiful scenery, it’s hard to beat the state parks located near our Bandera resort. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Lost Maples State Natural Area: It’s known for its fall color, but Lost Maples is spectacular year-round. With abundant wildflowers, the scenic Sabinal River and dramatic canyons, there’s lots to do for the entire family.
  • Garner State Park: Another beautiful area offering hiking, boating, fishing and much more! The park has also hosted summer dancing since the 1940s.
  • Guadalupe River State Park: Featuring the dramatic Guadalupe River, this park offers a beautiful place to swim, fish and canoe, as well as activities further from the river.
  • Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: The massive pink granite dome rising above central Texas gives this park its magical mystique. This is a wonderful area to hike and rock climb.

Of course, the scenery right at the resort is spectacular, too!