When you want to experience inspiring local art, the sparkling waters of the Guadalupe River, and top tier Texas shopping and dining this summer, head to Kerrville, Texas for a getaway! Located an hour west of San Antonio, Kerrville is a beautiful Hill Country escape that offers visitors a true reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life. Craft your dream summer getaway with these top five activities.
Adventure on the Guadalupe River
The rising temperatures and long nights mean summer has arrived! Kerrville is home to the headwaters of the Guadalupe River, and its waters are the perfect place to enjoy the weather while beating the heat. Take in the scenery of beautiful cypress trees as you paddle or kayak your way through the water. Fishing enthusiasts will want to bring their fishing pole along their journey and cast their lines. Guadalupe Bass and trout are just a few fish you can expect to catch! Turn up the adventure on the river when you hop aboard the Hill Country River Rat, a 12-passenger pedal boat featuring a bluetooth stereo, cup holders at every pedal station, and LED lighting for a night ride.
Feel Inspired as You Explore Kerrville’s Rich Art Scene
Generations of Kerrville artisans and craftsmen have drawn inspiration from the land and its heritage for their work. Visitors can see their creations by exploring the many murals, sculptures, and galleries & museums in Kerrville. Step back into the times of the American West as you take in the sights of western art and authentic artifacts at the Museum of Western Art. View more fine art at the Kerr Arts and Culture Center, and when you are looking for art to decorate your home, the Rivers Edge Gallery is the spot to browse. Jewelry lovers will be excited to know that James Avery Artisan Jewelry was founded in Kerrville. Visitors can stop by the headquarters and store to learn how the company began, view displays of original pieces, and see how the jewelry is made. Grab a coffee and continue your artistic adventures by exploring 28 area art installations along Kerrville’s Public Art Trail.
Indulge in Hand-Crafted Cuisine
When you have worked up an appetite, you are in for a treat with Kerrville’s dining scene. With locally crafted, healthy fare, establishments in Kerrville continue to push the culinary boundaries of what visitors are likely to expect in a small Texas town. Grab a seat at an aesthetic spot, or a table with riverside views and feast on everything from authentic Thai food to award-winning dishes like venison chili that features wild game from a local ranch. If you are traveling with your furry friend, many of Kerrville’s restaurants are dog friendly, so your pup can enjoy the views and maybe even a bite or two of the food with you. Make sure to stop in Kerrville’s many wineries and breweries for a glass of your favorite wine or brew. You are in the Hill Country after all.
Experience Historic Downtown Kerrville
Kerrville’s historic downtown is lined with cozy restaurants and wine bars, eclectic shops, and heritage museums and mansions to discover. Learn a little bit about one of Kerrville’s early settlers, Charles Schreiner, Sr. when you tour the historic Schreiner Mansion. Looking for a souvenir to commemorate your vacation? Pop into Schreiner Goods, an upscale boutique offering women’s clothing and home decor. Antique shoppers will enjoy spending an hour or two sorting through all of the treasures at Kerrville’s Sunrise Antique Mall. Kerrville also has a thriving live music scene, so consider catching a show at the Arcadia Theater or the Kathleen C. Callioux Performing Arts Center downtown.
Splash and Play at Kerrville’s Parks
When you need a fun reprieve from the Texas heat, Kerrville’s many water activities at local parks will suffice. Kiddos will love splashing around the splash pads and spray grounds found at Louise Hays Park and Carver Park. Adults can slip on their swimsuits and take a refreshing dip in the river at Kerrville-Schreiner Park. This 517-acre park is the largest park in Kerrville and boasts 10+ miles of hike and bike trails, a butterfly garden, sand volleyball courts, and more. Those eager to get a good workout in on their vacation will want to add hiking or biking on the six mile long Kerrville River Trail to their itinerary.
Just as the Guadalupe River crafts its own path through town, we invite you to craft your own summer vacation in Kerrville.
