Originally written and posted on MySA.com
As winter loosens its grip and Spring’s intoxicating energy fills the air, the warm sun, lush hills, and pristine waters of Texas Hill Country offer a sublime setting for a spring vacation. In most years, this country paradise is bursting with the radiant bloom of wildflowers. In the heart of this Eden is Kerrville, an eclectic and cordial town bustling with boundless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, unwind, and let your cares float away in its gentle breezes.
With its temperate climate, Spring is one of the best seasons to enjoy this jewel of Texas Hill County. The seasonally warm days and cool, tranquil current of the Guadalupe River is an idyllic and relaxing atmosphere. The six-mile-long Kerrville River Trail is the perfect pathway to enjoy a walk or bike ride among the towering verdant trees and vibrant wildflowers along the river. Kayaking these serene waters is the best way to take in this dreamy landscape.
To fully immerse yourself in this spring wonderland, the Riverside Nature Center is a wildlife sanctuary offering a diverse library of native plant species. There are also several trailheads along this path for avid hikers to explore. Louise Hays Park and Kerrville Schreiner Park also offer excellent hiking, biking, kayaking access, and other outdoor activities. When you’re done enjoying a day at the parks, head over to the Trailhead Beer Garden located near Schreiner University. With its diverse selection of draft beer, live music, and yard games, this beer garden is the perfect end to an active or relaxing spring day.
The Hill Country is renowned for the explosion of color each Spring as the region’s wildflowers bloom to life. To preserve the state’s wildflower species, many of the highways in this area were sprinkled with wildflower seeds over the decades. As a result, you can feast your eyes on the fiery reds of Indian Paint Brush, soothing pinks of Evening Primrose, and the captivating blues of the famed Texas Bluebonnets by taking a scenic drive on these sunny country highways.
One of the best drives to absorb these spectacular displays of color is along Highways 27 and 39 from Kerrville through the towns of Ingram and Hunt. This 25-minute drive snakes around the Guadalupe River and past the iconic Stonehenge II with plenty of picnic spots along the way. For picnic supplies, you’ll want to make a pit stop at The Hunt Store off of Highway 39. “The Store," as the locals endearingly call it, has served the community since 1946 with its charm, outstanding grocery selection, and friendly employees. For a great country dining experience, Bridget’s Basket is another recommended stop on this drive. Not only does it promise wholesome food, but they also pride themselves in cultivating an inclusive environment and giving back to their community. For those looking for another epic driving experience, the Bandera Pass south of Kerrville is also one of the most scenic drives in the state. The pass is beautiful year-round but dramatically comes alive in the Spring with blooming wildflowers, trees, and cacti.
Spring is also when the hills ring with the jubilant sounds of folk music. The Kerrville Folk Festival, the longest continuously running music festival in North America, is an 18-day festival of concerts and activities for all ages. This spring mark’s the festival’s 50th year, organized by a community that considers itself family and always welcomes new folks to the celebration. Whether you venture out for a day, a weekend, or the entire festival, everyone is invited to indulge in what promises to be a magical and transformational music experience. Other notable spring cultural events in the area include the annual Southwest Gourd Fine Art Show and the Texas Fine Arts and Craft show.
If you love live music but desire a more intimate setting, Kerrville has an outstanding selection of live music and entertainment options. The Southern Sky Music Cafe offers a tantalizing menu for both the tastebuds and the ears. Nestled on the banks of the Guadalupe River, the
cafe hosts a nightly gathering of singers and songwriters of all genres of music with a side of mouthwatering entrees.
Another local staple for great food and music is Cafe at the Ridge. The cafe is only a 10-minute drive out of town with an incredibly welcoming atmosphere and flavorful county cooking. The cafe also includes “The Garden”. This garden has friendly green thumbs and an extensive selection of native plants to help you bring home the brilliant colors of Hill Country. The historic Arcadia Theater also offers diverse, spirited entertainment in the heart of downtown Kerrville. The Kathleen C. Callioux Performing Arts Center, also downtown, has a proud history of delivering great community entertainment to Hill County for over twenty years.
Whether it's an outdoor adventure, unforgettable music or dining experiences, or enjoying a tranquil spot to absorb life’s simple pleasures, Kerrville is the ideal destination for an extended spring stay. Pack your bags and discover why so many are enamored with this hidden gem in Texas’ beloved Hill Country.