5 of the Coolest Ways to Beat the Heat in Kerrville

Beat the Heat at a Swimming Hole

When that Texas heat really starts to set in, there’s no better place to be than one of Kerrville’s swimming holes. Bring a picnic blanket and find a shady spot just steps away from the Guadalupe River at Kerrville Schreiner Park. Hop into the river to cool off, or rent a canoe, kayak, or inner tube and float along at your own pace. These rentals are available Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, and you can make your reservation by contacting Kerrville Kayak and Canoe.

If you want to get away from it all, head west to Hunt. Along the way, you’ll find two scenic swimming holes where the water is invigorating, and the shade is abundant. Settle in under the towering cypress trees of Schumachers Crossing, located on Highway 39 one mile east of Hunt. Listen to the small waterfalls and you’ll feel like you’re far away from just about everything. The waters at Hunt Crossing are a bit deeper, making it the perfect spot to play on the rope swing and savor a relaxing swim.

No matter which swimming hole you visit, you’ll find an easygoing escape from the summer swelter.

Paddle Down On The River Rat

Ahoy Mate! Grab the gang and paddle down the Guadalupe River on the Hill Country River Rat. A 25-foot-long river boat designed for self-powered pedaling – you won’t break a sweat, but you will break a smile.

This smooth 2-hour cruise is made for “rolling down the river” with full Bluetooth stereo for sweet sounds and BYOB with cup holders at every station for a thirst-quenching good time. Halfway through the boat ride, you and the crew can climb off for a refreshing dip, take photos, and dance like there’s no tomorrow! For evening-goers, enjoy fun night cruising with relaxing LED lights for a truly cool summer experience.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

For a decadent treat, head over to Turtle Creek Olives and Vines to satisfy your sweet tooth. In addition to their lush vineyards and upscale wine tasting room, you can always stop in for a smooth and creamy cup of frozen gelato. Their luxury gelato comes from Oro Bianco, a water buffalo farm in Blanco, Texas. Local artisans raise water buffalo and create a medley of fine cheeses and mouth-watering gelato sent directly to the vineyard.

On any average day, Turtle Creek Olives and Vines holds up to 4 different flavors, but they always have their Italian imported Umbria extra virgin olive oil infused gelato on hand. Each cup is dressed with a sprig of fresh thyme, a dash of sea salt, and topped with juicy blackberries. Located only 8 minutes from their vineyard, this healthy frozen dessert comes from the milk of water buffalos with reduced butter fat content and enzymes to ease those who are lactose intolerant.

Tip Back a Pint of Ice-Cold Beer

As inviting as the Guadalupe River is, it’s not the only place you can go to beat the heat. Treat yourself to a refreshing pint of cold craft beer at one of Kerrville’s two breweries. Pint & Plow Brewing Co. brews up sessional brews like light and crisp San Y’bon Lager and the big and hoppy Tchoupitoulas IPA. The brewery even has its own restaurant that serves salads, sandwiches and pizzas, as well as a coffee shop if caffeine is what you crave.

For those of you that are into beers that are a little out there, swing by Basement Brewers of Texas. Purveyors of frequently rotating small-batch brews light and dark, you can always find something new here. While the house-made beers are delectable, Basement Brewers of Texas has a multitude of other craft beers from Texas and beyond. Needless to say, you could hang out here for a while. With all the brews to try, why wouldn’t you?

Admire the Art of the American West

Sometimes, all you need is a bit of sweet, sweet air conditioning. When you’re ready for a break from the sun, find your way to The Museum of Western Art. The museum celebrates the iconic imagery of the American cowboy with its collection of artifacts, 150 sculptures, and 250 paintings created by some of the most celebrated artists in this genre. Along with its permanent collection, the museum has a special exhibit (The Children’s Gallery: Journey West) with interactive elements that share the story of a family traveling west. Temporary exhibits showcase the events and people that helped shape the region, meaning there’s always something new to see at The Museum of Western Art.

Whether you’re swimming in the pristine Guadalupe River, cooling off with a pint of locally made craft beer or enjoying a spectacular show, there are many ways to chill out here in Kerrville. Find out more here.