126 State Highway 16 South
Bandera, TX 78003
830-796-3045
www.banderacowboycapital.com

Things to Do in Bandera

Experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and immerse yourself in the Western spirit of the “Cowboy Capital of the World”. Ride horseback along scenic trails, stay at a classic dude ranch, and soak in the rich cowboy culture that defines Bandera.

Nestled along the pristine Medina River, Bandera is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural areas in Texas. With sweeping landscapes, a proud Western heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure, this charming Hill Country town offers something for everyone.

Discover all that Bandera has to offer below.

Stay at a Dude Ranch

For most people, grabbing a cowboy hat and saddling up for a ride through the beautiful Texas Hill Country on horseback would be an unusual way to start the day. But stay at a dude ranch in Bandera, and it becomes part of the daily routine. Bandera is home to a variety of dude ranches, each nestled in scenic landscapes and offering outdoor activities like hiking and swimming in the Medina River. Guests can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals served daily, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner all prepared fresh on-site — all without ever having to leave the ranch.

Go Horseback Riding

While horseback riding is a staple of any stay at a dude ranch, you don’t have to spend the night at one to enjoy the experience. Rancho Cortez offers half or full day visits, allowing you to take part in a variety of on-site activities, including horseback riding, roping lessons, wagon rides to feed their longhorns, and nightly campfires. You can also embark on horseback rides through town or venture into the scenic Hill Country State Natural Area with Bandera Historical Rides or Outlaw Outfitters. Regardless of where you ride, you’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind adventure through miles of breathtaking terrain that you won’t find anywhere else but Bandera.

Immerse Yourself in Cowboy Culture

Riding horseback through Bandera's rugged countryside isn't the only way to experience life as a cowboy. There are many more ways to take in Western culture in Bandera, like watching an exciting rodeo! Catch the best bull riders, barrel racers, and mutton busters in the Lone Star State as they perform at one of the many rodeos in Bandera the Cowboy Capital of the World. Most of these rodeos are hosted by the Bandera Pro Rodeo Association and Riding on Faith Rodeo. Throughout the year, Bandera celebrates several themed rodeos, including Cowboy Mardi Gras, Memorial Day, National Day of the American Cowboy, Labor Day, Jingle Bulls and the popular Summer Series Rodeo, held every Friday night during June and July.

What’s more “cowboy” than a rodeo? How about a shootout straight out of a classic Western flick? To catch one of these thrilling gunfights, head to the Bandera County Visitors Center at 11 AM or 1 PM to see the Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters in an 1800s reenactment show. Or visit the Western Trail Heritage Park at 10 AM or 12 PM, where the Western Trail Gunfighters put on an exciting performance — both shows happen every Saturday (weather permitting). Along with the action-packed gun slinging, you’ll find a chuck wagon live longhorns on Main Street, perfect for snapping photos and stepping back in time to when Bandera was a key stop along the Western Trail.

If you’re a museum-goer, browse a 40,000-item collection of Western art and memorabilia at the Frontier Times Museum. The museum’s exhibits which include historical artifacts, photographs, and artwork offer a fascinating glimpse into Bandera County's Frontier and Settlement days. Additionally, don't miss the Bandera Natural History and Art Museum, where you can delve into interactive exhibits featuring wildlife and prehistoric life, as well as admire a stunning New Spain art collection with over 150 pieces.

Enjoy the Beauty of the Hill Country

Bandera is surrounded by breathtaking beauty of the Hill Country, making it a fantastic destination to visit even if cowboy culture isn't your thing. You don’t have to go far to savor the region’s splendor, just a few blocks south from the courthouse square, you’ll find Bandera City Park, an urban greenspace along the picturesque Medina River. If you’re visiting during hot summer months (typically May-August), dive into the cool, refreshing river or rent an inner tube and float with the current.

If you're looking to get out and explore, you’re in luck. Two of the most stunning natural areas in Texas are just a short drive away from Bandera. Surround yourself with limestone bluffs and hills seasonally covered in blooming wildflowers at the Hill Country State Natural Area. Meanwhile, Lost Maples State Natural Area is a top spot to view flora and fauna, as well as one of the best places to stargaze in the state. The 2,100-acre park features stark limestone canyons, grasslands and wooded hills, and clear-water streams. Additionally, the park’s abundance of bigtooth maple trees offers vibrant fall foliage that’s a must-see.

With its proximity to these spectacular natural areas and a beautiful city park of its own makes Bandera the perfect place to visit if you want to enjoy the great outdoors and dark skies.

Hang Out in the Cowboy Capital of the World

Beyond the cowboy gunslingers and Old West charm, Bandera has plenty more to offer. For starters, this small Hill Country town has a thriving music scene, with live performances happening almost every day of the week. One of the most popular venues is the 11th Street Cowboy Bar, a go-to spot for live music and cold drinks. Other local favorites include Monte Alteza Tapas & Wine Garden in Pipe Creek, Bandera Brewery, and First National Ice Haus and Arkey Silver Dollar Saloon on Main Street. With these options and more, there's always a lively place to enjoy great music and a fun atmosphere.

Finally, no visit to Bandera is complete without a stop by the Bandera General Store. Step inside to pick up a stylish pair of cowboy boots, a Lone Star State-themed souvenir, and a chilly scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Be sure to check out the old-fashioned soda fountain, one of the few still in operation in of Texas.