Top 18 Things To Do In Bandera, Texas

1. Go hunting at Flying A Ranch

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Flying A Ranch is a 9000-acre (3642-hectare) ranch that offers a variety of animals for bowhunters and regular hunters like whitetail deer and red deer. Although you’re not guaranteed a successful hunt, the ranch offers all hunters multiple opportunities to bag their chosen prey throughout their stay.

The Lodge on San Julian Creek is also located in the ranch if you need a place to stay. The lodgings consist of limestone rock cottages that overlook the San Julian Creek and the surrounding woodland. These cottages are great places to relax after a long hunt.

Flying A Ranch

Address: 1919 TX-173, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Flying A Ranch

2. Go on a shopping spree at Cedar Street Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re in the mood to go on a shopping spree then why not stop by Cedar Street Market? Offering a wide variety of custom leather, designer clothing, antiques, jewelry, jackets, metal arts, furniture, candles, and so much more, this market is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some souvenirs to take home or give as a gift.

With so many items for sale, you’re sure to find something that fits your fancy, not to mention the fun of simply browsing from store to store.

Cedar Street Market

Address: Box 2976, 1110 Cedar St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Cedar Street Market

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed on Sat)

3. Browse for some textiles at Gone Quiltin' LLC

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Looking for some multi-layered textiles to bring home? Boasting itself as Bandera’s best quilt shop, Gone Quiltin’ LLC offers a wide variety of fabrics, quilts, and so much more. Customers praise the wonderful designs of these fabrics with some praising the fabric’s high quality and reasonable prices. Some customers also note that you can rent the sewing machine as well as ask advice from the staff. Past visitors have even noted how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are at sewing.

Gone Quiltin' LLC

Address: 1115 Cedar St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Gone Quiltin’ LLC

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

4. Experience the life of a cowboy at Dixie Dude Ranch

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

As the” Cowboy Capital of the World”, there is no way you can visit this city and fail to at least experience the life of a cowboy. One of the best places to have this experience is at Dixie Dude Ranch. Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, this ranch is famous for being an outstanding western getaway that is ideal for those who want to relax and unwind while getting a peek into the traditional cowboy lifestyle. Each meal is homecooked, and you get to ride horses, try catch-and-release fishing, go on hayrides, and tour the barn, among other activities.

Dixie Dude Ranch

Address: 833 Dixie Dude Ranch Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Dixie Dude Ranch

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8:30am - 4:30pm; Sun: 8:30am - 1:30pm

5. Go horseback riding at Juniper Hill Stables

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Rare and thrilling, there is nothing that can be compared to horseback riding. Juniper Hill Stables offers a safe and private space to enjoy this fun activity. Explore the limestone bluffs as you ride on grassy hills and soak up the breathtaking and picturesque view of the rustic Texas Hill Country. With over 80.5 kilometers (50 miles) of trails to explore, you will wish that you lived in a place as beautiful as this.

Juniper Hill Stables

Address: 9061 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Juniper Hill Stables

Opening hours: 9am - 3pm (daily)

6. Learn more about the city's history at Frontier Times Museum

If you are looking to learn more about this amazing city in Texas and want to get to know its history, then Frontier Times Museum is exactly where you need to be. Every 4th weekend of July, this place hosts an induction ceremony with the purpose of recognizing the contributions of individuals to the state of Texas. You will find interesting exhibits like a display on Bandera’s rodeo stars and a collection of donated items, among others.

Frontier Times Museum

Address: 510 13th St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Frontier Times Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)

7. Have a picnic at Bandera City Park

Nestled in the heart of Bandera, Bandera City Park is best known for its tranquil atmosphere, private picnic spaces, pavilions, and barbeque pits. You will get a chance to experience fishing and go swimming here as well. This park is popular for its lush green surroundings and serenity, making it a perfect place to unwind and relax in Bandera. There is also a policy against unleashed pets and playing loud music.

Bandera City Park

Address: River Front Motel, 1102 Maple St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)

8. Marvel at the beauty of Hill Country State Natural Area

Opened to the public in 1984, Hill Country State Natural Area is an amazing and relatively pristine preserve. Nestled on over 5,000 acres (2,023 hectares) of land, get a chance to admire scenic views, beautiful creek bottoms, and rugged canyons. Immerse yourself into the tranquility of the surroundings. Enjoy the multi-use trails and nature watching opportunities and views that will surely blow your mind. Hill Country Natural Area offers the best location for campers, hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers who want to enjoy the beautiful outbacks of Bandera.

Hill Country State Natural Area

Address: 10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 6 USD

9. Dance to live country music at 11th Street Cowboy Bar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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Come and dance with the cowboys at 11th Street Cowboy Bar, the best place to be on any day of the week. This rustic cowboy bar is a famous destination for both tourists and locals. Located behind Main Street, it offers a traditional and authentic Texas bar with a cozy front porch. Have a pint of your favorite beer or try something new. On steak night you will get to sink your teeth into the juiciest steak in the city.

11th Street Cowboy Bar

Address: 3217 307 11th street Bandera, TX 78003

Website: 11th Street Cowboy Bar

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 2am; Sun - Mon: 12pm - 2am

10. Check out the exhibit at American Legion Post 157 Military Museum

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Come and comb through some of the state’s history as you marvel over the well-preserved exhibits at American Legion Post 157 Military Museum. You will learn a lot when you explore the 170 models of helicopters, tanks, and some World War I uniforms on display. Make sure to call ahead for an appointment before visiting.

American Legion Post 157 Military Museum

Address: 205 12th Street Bandera, TX 7800

11. Buy all things cowboy at Bandera General Store

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you are looking to get a souvenir or a gift, then make your way to Bandera General Store. Get yourself a one-of-a-kind cowboy or cowgirl hat. For your kids, there are amazing key chains, Bandera t-shirts, stuffed animals, and classic cowboy boots that are sure to delight. Visit this store and be sure to buy goods you will only find in Bandera. You can also enjoy hand-scooped ice cream.

Bandera General Store

Address: 306 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Bandera General Store

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 6pm

12. Experience the Wild West at Bandera Cattle Company

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Bandera Cattle Company offers more than just entertainment, it is also a place to enjoy Texas traditions. As you walk through the gates of this amazing place, you leave behind the present world and travel back in time. Watch re-enactments of life back in the Wild West. Relive each moment while you watch actors put on an incredible performance.

Bandera Cattle Company

Address: 126 State Highway 16 S, Bandera, TX 78003

Website: Bandera Cattle Company

13. Let the kids enjoy dinosaur replicas at Bandera Natural History Museum

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Your kids will definitely burst with excitement when they see Jurassic come to life at Bandera Natural History Museum. Your children can engage with the life-size dinosaur replicas and other animals while enjoying educational and interactive play stations. This place will surely keep each child engaged and entertained. Join the fun as you let your little ones explore and learn in a safe and educative space.

Bandera Natural History Museum

Address: 267 Old San Antonio Rd, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Bandera Natural History Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

14. Order a satisfying lunch at Old Spanish Trail Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you are feeling hungry while touring Bandera, why not head to Old Spanish Trail Restaurant, or O S T Restaurant, and order one of the amazing dishes on their menu? This rather unorthodox establishment offers a unique Texas dining experience. It features a simple yet cozy dining space with a touch of rustic charm. Step in and prepare to feast on hearty specials like meatloaf and mashed potatoes, fried chicken, pork chops with potatoes and cornbread, and fried catfish with curly fries.

Old Spanish Trail Restaurant

Address: 311 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003

Website: Old Spanish Trail Restaurant

Opening hours: Sun: 7am - 8pm; Mon - Tue, Thu: 6am - 8pm; Wed: 6am - 2pm; Fri - Sat: 6am - 9pm

15. Rent a kayak from Bandera Beach Club

Come and enjoy fun on the river as you experience kayaking in Texas with Bandera Beach Club. This company offers the perfect spot to enjoy kayaking. As you paddle down the Medina River, you will marvel at the one-of-a-kind views all around you. Medina River is considered to be among the calmest rivers in Texas, so this is the perfect way to have a relaxing day out. Come and enjoy a 116-mile (186.7-kilometer) adventure when visiting the Cowboy Capital of the World.

Bandera Beach Club

Address: 1106 Cherry St., Bandera, TX, USA

16. Enjoy a delicious meal at Brick's River Cafe

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Make a point of visiting Brick’s River Cafe and experience the best breakfast buffet the charming city of Bandera has to offer. This family-owned restaurant takes pride in preparing the best American dishes with a special Texas touch. With a menu filled with tasty meals such as deep-fried pork chops with queso, boneless chicken wings with buffalo hot sauce, a cheeseburger with crispy shoestring fries, and dessert items like chocolate icebox pie, cheesecake, and bread pudding, it’s always a delight to dine at Brick’s River Café.

Brick's River Cafe

Address: 1205 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Brick’s River Cafe

Opening hours: Sun - Thur: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm

17. Let loose and have fun at Silver Dollar night club

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you are ready to let loose and have a good time, you must head to Silver Dollar. This isn’t just any regular bar, it is a place where locals and tourists come together to party hard. This fun night club in Bandera offers an array of drinks and house specialties guaranteed to make your evening even more exciting. Leave your cozy accommodation for a night, get dressed, and come join the folks at Silver Dollar.

Silver Dollar

Address: 308 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

18. Bring home you favorite sweet treat from Country Sweets Bakery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

For pastry-loving tourists who happen to be in Bandera, you have to make a stop at Country Sweets Bakery. The first thing to welcome you to the store is the sweet and delicious aroma of freshly baked goods. This is a one-stop-shop for the best confections in the city. The bakery offers a variety of scrumptious cookies, pies, and cakes. The menu also offers some mouthwatering lunch options for those who want to indulge in a mid-day meal.

Country Sweets Bakery

Address: 1210 Hackberry St, Bandera, TX 78003, United States

Website: Country Sweets Bakery

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 3pm; Sat: 8am - 1pm (closed on Sun)

Check out the best of Bandera

Anytime you travel or tour a new place, it is always wise to plan a to-do list and keep it safe in your pocket. This list offers some of the best activities, restaurants, and attractions you can do alone or with loved ones when visiting the great city of Bandera, Texas.