"COWBOY CAPITOL OF THE WORLD"
In Texas Hill Country, about an hour northwest of San Antonio, lies Bandera, where Western history, stunning outdoor spaces, and adventure meet. Bandera is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” earning its moniker from when it was a staging area for the last cattle drives of the 1800s. The destination got its actual name, however, from the numerous battles between the Comanche and Apache nations and the Spanish conquistadors that took place here in Bandera Pass. As the story goes, for years after these battles, a red bandera (flag in Spanish) was flown at the site to mark the boundary between Spanish and Indian hunting grounds.
Today, Bandera is a must-visit when traveling through South Texas, thanks to its outdoor recreation, delicious bites, and dude ranches.
Best Things to Do in Bandera
If you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, Bandera has plenty of ways to explore. There’s Hill Country State Natural Area, where more than 5,000 acres of canyons and rolling hills provide hiking, camping, backpacking, and horseback riding opportunities. The Medina River also winds through town, allowing those who want a quiet oasis to float or kayak underneath the towering bald cypress trees lining the water. Outfitters such as The Medina River Company can set you up with kayaks, tubes, and shuttle service. Back in town, Bandera City Park offers swimming, fishing, picnic areas, and barbecue pits — an ideal place to let the kids roam.
For even more fun, hop in the saddle and head out for a horseback ride. Bandera is full of riding facilities where you can explore a variety of trails and learn about how to connect with your horse. If you’ve never seen a rodeo, Bandera hosts them periodically throughout the year. You can also learn more about Bandera’s pioneer history at the Frontier Times Museum, where weekly activities include Pioneer Day, rodeo demonstrations, and more.
Families with kids will especially enjoy the Bandera Natural History Museum, home to life-size replica dinosaurs and Ice Age animals along the walking trails, bone-digging play stations, more than 100 full-body animal mounts, a pollinator garden, Latin American ceremonial masks, a 20,000-year-old mammoth femur bone, and the New Spain Art Collection, which showcases works from Juan Correa, Cristóbal de Villalpando, José de Ibarra, and more.
