Things To Do
in Kerrville
Kerrville is a relaxed small city in the Texas Hill Country centered on the scenic Guadalupe River, known for its parks, arts scene, and annual music gatherings. The town blends outdoor recreation — river tubing, hiking, and birding — with a compact downtown of galleries, cafes, and local shops. Kerrville attracts families, retirees and festival-goers with a friendly, small-town atmosphere and easy access to nearby Hill Country attractions.
It’s a practical base for exploring state parks, wineries and fall foliage within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the famous Riverside Nature Center, where you can enjoy a hearty meal surrounded by beautiful gardens. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Kerrville Historic District, admiring the charming architecture and local boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by the Kerr County Courthouse to capture some memorable photos of this historic landmark.
For lunch, head over to a local café for some Texas-style barbecue, savoring the rich flavors of the region. Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum of Western Art, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culture of the American West. Take a moment to enjoy the art exhibits and perhaps even participate in a guided tour.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot along the Guadalupe River for a relaxing picnic dinner, soaking in the beautiful natural surroundings. Later, enjoy live music at one of Kerrville's local venues, showcasing talented musicians from the area. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the riverwalk, illuminated by soft lights reflecting on the water.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of adventure ahead. Afterward, make your way to the Guadalupe River State Park, where you can rent a kayak or canoe to explore the beautiful waters. The morning sun glistens off the river, making it the perfect time to enjoy the serenity of nature.
After a thrilling morning on the water, have a picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic spots, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails, taking in the stunning views of the Texas Hill Country and spotting local wildlife along the way. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
As the day winds down, head back to Kerrville and treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can enjoy some of the best cuts of meat in the region. After dinner, unwind at a local brewery, sampling craft beers and mingling with locals. If you're lucky, you might catch a special event or live music happening at the brewery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Regular coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.00-4.50 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly, single person) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Hill Country outdoor activities and scenic drives
- Friendly small-town atmosphere with local arts and music events
- Lower cost and less crowded than major Texas cities
- Good base for day trips to state natural areas and wineries
- Limited public transportation — a car is useful
- Fewer dining and nightlife options compared with big cities
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor activities
- Some scenic destinations require a drive of 45–90 minutes
Places to Visit in Kerrville
Visit one of these nice places.
River scenes at sunrise or sunset offer reflections, kayaks, and tree-lined banks ideal for landscape and candid photos.
Large live oaks, shaded trails and scenic picnic areas provide classic Hill Country compositions and family-friendly portrait backdrops.
Historic storefronts, murals, and storefront signage create colorful street photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Native plant gardens and small wildlife make this a good spot for macro and nature photography close to town.
Short drives from town lead to rolling hill vistas and wildflower-filled fields (spring) that reward landscape photographers.
During the festival, stages, crowds and tents present dynamic festival photography opportunities and candid portraits.
Architectural lines and sculpture display Western themes suited to cultural and travel photography.
Food in Kerrville
Kerrville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked brisket, ribs and sausage are local favorites — look for counter-style BBQ joints and smokehouse platters served with traditional sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
Must-Try!
Enchiladas, tacos and fajitas are ubiquitous and tasty; expect simple, flavorful preparations at family-owned Mexican restaurants.
Pecan pie and pecan pralines highlight local nuts; Central Texas bakeries and cafés often serve kolaches and other regional pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekend farmers market typically sells seasonal produce, baked goods and local honey — a good place to sample local flavors and meet producers.
During festivals and summer weekends, expect food trucks and pop-up stalls offering barbecue, tacos and sweet treats along Main Street or near event venues.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be polite and conversational—greetings, holding doors and friendly small talk are common and appreciated.
Much of the surrounding land is private ranchland—do not trespass and follow signage for public-access trails and parks.
At music events and community gatherings be mindful of noise rules, recycling and designated camping areas; support local vendors and follow event guidelines.
Casual attire is normal; avoid loud or confrontational behavior and be respectful of local faith communities and family-oriented spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Kerrville
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants tip around 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for full service; bartenders usually get $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab; taxis and rideshares typically receive 10–15%.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; many small businesses also accept cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common, but keep cash for farmers markets, small vendors and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid with temperatures frequently in the 90s°F (30s°C); river activities like tubing and kayaking are popular — bring sunscreen, hydration and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Milder days and pleasant evenings make fall an excellent time to visit; color changes in nearby areas (notably Lost Maples) attract leaf-peepers and hikers.
Winters are mild compared with northern climates but can have cool nights and occasional freezes; most outdoor amenities remain open and off-season lodging can be cheaper.
Wildflowers and bluebonnets bloom across the Hill Country, temperatures are comfortable, and spring festivals increase activity — book ahead for popular weekends.
Kerrville at Night
Hiking in Kerrville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate trails along the Guadalupe River with picnic areas, playgrounds and scenic loop options right near town.
Short interpretive trails focusing on native plants and wildlife — suitable for families and casual nature walks.
About a 1–1.5 hour drive away, famous for fall foliage, rugged limestone canyons and several well-maintained hiking trails of varying difficulty — a top day-trip destination for hikers and photographers.
Numerous gravel lanes and ranch roads offer scenic walks and drives; obtain permission before entering private property and respect posted access rules.
Airports
How to reach Kerrville by plane.
Small local airport primarily serving private and general aviation — convenient for pilots and chartered flights, limited commercial service.
Major commercial airport about 65–85 miles (roughly 1–1.5 hours by car), offering national and international flights and rental car options.
Another major airport serving Austin, about 2–2.5 hours’ drive depending on traffic — a practical option for flights with different carriers or schedules.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Multi-generation families and local business owners who form the backbone of community life.
Kerrville attracts retirees drawn to the mild climate, slower pace of life and access to outdoor recreation.
A significant and longstanding portion of the population contributing culturally and economically to the region.
Art and music festivals bring a rotating crowd of visitors, musicians and campers, especially in spring and summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Like much of Texas, local high school football is a community focal point in fall with strong local support and spirited Friday night games.
Recreational paddling, tubing and fishing on the Guadalupe River are popular outdoor pastimes.
There are nearby golf courses and country clubs used by residents and visitors for leisurely play in scenic settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kerrville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist but are more limited than in larger cities; many restaurants will accommodate with salads, grilled vegetable plates, or cheese enchiladas—call ahead to confirm vegan or gluten-free substitutes.
Some bakeries and restaurants can provide gluten-free options, but cross-contamination is possible; carry snacks if you need reliable GF choices.
Communicate allergies clearly when ordering; smaller family restaurants are often accommodating but may have limited ingredient lists.