Local's Guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Texas Hill Country (Other Than Drink Wine & Eat)

Are you are thinking about the perfect weekend getaway? I think about it all the time. If your life is anything like mine, it's been a hectic few months. Why is that time just before summer, so crazy busy? All of a sudden, the hustle and bustle of city (and even small-town life) gets to you. Suddenly, you realize that getting away for the weekend will make you better at everything you do.

I've been hearing a lot about Texas Hill Country and was sure I wanted to check it out. How could you go wrong in a place with great wine, great food, great people, great weather and in a perfect location? You just can’t...go wrong that is in Texas Hill Country.

Texas Hill Country is easy to access. Nestled in between San Antonio and Austin, you can get to Texas Hill Country with ease. Whether you are flying in or driving, you won't have far to go once in the area. We flew into Austin and drove our rental out to Fredericksburg. The drive was only about 90 minutes and it was gorgeous the whole way! The vineyards, rolling hills and fluffy clouds lull you to your happy place. As soon as you arrive, you will feel the stress of whatever you left behind melt like butter.

 Don’t get me wrong, I love to eat and drink wine. Doesn’t everyone? However, I knew if I was going to relax and recharge, I needed to visit a place that had more to offer than great restaurants and delicious wine. After a little bit of research, I discovered that Texas Hill Country has an endless amount of activities, sure to keep you as busy as you want to be.

Here are 10 things you can do while you are there that are sure to lower your blood pressure and put a huge, infectious smile on your face. Be forewarned, you will probably need to make more than one trip to Texas Hill Country to be satisfied. I'm planning to go back soon to camp and lay around in my hammock!

#10 – Let the stress of the world fade away forever at the Tapatio Springs Hill Resort. Here, you can relax in an authentic Salt Cave. Try the halo therapy salt cave inhalation sessions. It’s rumored that the treatments balance your body’s negative and positive ions, improving the body and the mind.  

#9 – Geek out at Hill Country Science Mill in Johnson City. There are many programs here for all ages to enjoy. Especially cool, if your children are in tow.  

#8 – Get your art fix at the National Museum of the Pacific War. Located in Fredricksburg, you can stay indoors (where it’s air conditioned) and view some extraordinary exhibits from World War II. This is where my husband would be all day and every day, if he could. 

#7 – Watch a Rodeo in Bandera. Just an hour south of San Antonio, you might want to drive to the cowboy capital of the world for some Texas cowboy fun. 

#6 – Be thrilled at Schlitterbahn Bavarian-themed Water Park. Home of the Master Blaster Uphill Water Coaster that is over six stories tall and over 1000 feet long! It's been voted as the best water ride in the United States multiple times. How cool is that? Any age will delight in the cooling off that happens at Schilitterbahn (I love saying that word). All ages welcome.

#5 – Travel back in time and get a slice of pie at the Bluebonnet Café. The pie here is like nothing else in this world. Oh wait, this list isn’t supposed to include eating. I got hungry talking about all the activities in Texas Hill Country. Sorry. I will try to stay focused. 

#4 – Dive into a swimming hole at Blue Hole Regional Park. After hiking the 3 miles of trails, you can plunge into the cold spring fed waters of swimming holes in the park. Bring a picnic lunch and some  wine from Texas Hill Country to enjoy while you dry off and bask in the sun. 

#3 – Get your groove on at Gruene Hall. Located in New Braunfels, this historic treasure has been loved by some of the best performers of all time. Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett and George Strait have all played there. Guuene Hall is a beacon of activity, so be sure to check out their schedule for show times and offerings. By the way, a ton of their shows are free. 

#2 – Visit Guadalupe River State Park. Exploring Guadalupe River State Park has many rewards. Bring a picnic and choose your fun. Activities include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, canoeing, camping

and tubing. 

#1 – Walk up to Enchanted Rock at Sunset. By the way, this was my favorite! Enchanted Rock is a site to be seen at least once in your lifetime. Located in Llano, Texas it’s a magical (and easy) jaunt up the path. Upon arrival, you will be awestruck by the massive, pink granite rock and panoramic views. Bring a bottle of white wine on ice and enjoy the sweeping vistas.