Things to Do

Known as one of the most scenic highways in the state of Texas, HWY 16 brings joy riders, motorcycle enthusiasts, and car clubs alike to ride the hills and hairpin turns of Texas Hill Country. This legendary route features breathtaking Hill Country views and 169 curves that aren’t for the faint of heart. The challenge of steep elevation changes, numerous switchbacks, and rolling turns pays off when you take in the views.

Calling all horse lovers! Nearly a dozen dude ranches, horseback riding ranches, outfitters, and Hill Country equestrian facilities are enjoyed by visitors from around the world. As we mentioned before, Bandera is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” and its equestrian experiences do not disappoint. Visit a top-rated dude ranch like Rancho Cortez for a day to enjoy a home-cooked meal, horseback riding, hayrides, and more. Bandera Historical Rides is another popular spot that offers 1-hour rides at the City Park by Medina River, as well as 2-hour rides that continue into town for a historical tour. Hoping for an evening ride? Try a sunset horseback ride with Outlaw Outfitters! You can’t go wrong with a horseback riding adventure in Bandera.

While hunting on our property is not permitted, there are places nearby where you can practice your hunting skills! World-class hunting ranches surround Bandera and offer the opportunity to hunt white-tailed deer, dove, turkey, and exotic wildlife alike. Flying a Ranch is a 9,000-acre ranch located just south of Bandera that has a variety of Hill Country white-tailed deer and exotics, including axis, fallow, sika, and red deer. You and your family are guaranteed a safe and memorable hunt!

Interested in a more educational, yet enjoyable, activity in the area? You’ll find several museums in Bandera and nearby! Visit the Frontier Times Museum to step back in time and immerse yourself in the frontier days. It features a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia that paint a picture of life on the frontier. Head to the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum to see bikes from all over the world, from 1910 to the present day. Or, explore the Bandera Natural History and Art Museum to experience unique attractions, like walking amongst life-sized dinosaurs and ice-age animals, digging for fossils, and discovering treasures from New Spain’s colonial era.

Along the beautiful Sabinal River, with 2,100 acres and 10.5 miles of trails, the Lost Maples State Natural Area offers hiking, camping, picnicking, bird watching, and sightseeing. The best foliage appears after the first frost, typically at the end of October or early November, and you can watch nature’s grand finale!

Just a short drive from our resort, you’ll find Hill Country State Natural Area, where you’ll be able to enjoy 5,400 acres of rugged canyons, scenic plateaus, and tranquil creek bottoms. Visitors love the multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as the opportunity for nature-watching. The West Peak Overlook is one of the most popular trails, offering a steep climb that leads to stunning views of the western Hill Country.

Adjoining Riverwalk is the Medina River, which flows to downtown Bandera’s city park. It’s the perfect place to float, tube, or kayak. River float trips are some of the most popular activities. The Medina River Company provides both tube and kayak rentals, as well as shuttle services along the river. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon!

Bandera has a tradition of raising rodeo champions and hosting great rodeos. The Bandera Pro Rodeo is one of the finest in Texas and is only two minutes from the entrance of Riverwalk. During Memorial Day Weekend, visitors can attend the Bandera Memorial Weekend Stampede Rodeo, a 3-night rodeo in their historic outdoor arena. It’s an event you don’t want to miss!

In the mood for a fresh, cold drink? Visit one of the breweries or wineries in town! Bandera Brewery is an artisanal craft brewery that features a one-acre beer garden where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. It’s also pet-friendly! As far as wineries go, Paniolo Winery is a guest-favorite. It offers premium Texas wines paired with artisan small plates.

Over 45 local eateries are available in Bandera, TX, offering local favorites, custom cuisines, and nationwide chains. If you’re in the mood for classic, down-home cooking, Old Spanish Trail (OST) Restaurant is a can’t-miss spot. It’s the oldest continuously running restaurant in Bandera and offers everything from country-fried steak to Mexican dishes. TJ’s at the Old Forge is another great place to dine, located in a beautiful two-story building in downtown Bandera. Guests will find fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables, along with a salad bar and delectable desserts. There’s a place for every appetite!