Pioneer River Resort

Make like a cowboy and saddle up for a ride out in the private ranches and state parks around Bandera: there are several riding stables in town and a short drive away, catering for all levels from beginner to experienced riders. If you’d rather see the professionals in action, a rodeo that takes place a couple of times a week in summer. Another good way to see the country is by river – take the five-minute drive to the other side of town to hire kayaks and spend the day paddling on the Medina. Meanwhile, hikers and cyclists will find plenty of trails to explore over at Hill Country State Natural Area, 20 minutes’ drive away. Several museums nearby are worth a look: start at the Frontier Times Museum a 10-minute walk away to see an eccentric collection open to the public for more than 80 years, telling the history of ranching and cowboys in the area. A 10-minute drive out of town is the Town Mountain Miniatures Museum, where vintage toys sit alongside tiny scenes of cowboy life. Family-friendly attractions are in San Antonio a 45-minute drive away, including the Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park and Sea World.