5 Ways to Soak in the Summer in Kerrville, TX

Kick-off your summer vacay by cooling off in the Guadalupe River. Kerrville is home to the headwaters of the Guadalupe and there are a variety of ways that you can enjoy its waters during your stay. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe from a local retailer and paddle along cypress trees with the Texas sun shining overhead. When you need a refreshing dip, head over to Louise Hays Park for a swim. If you are traveling with a large crew of family and friends, consider renting the Hill Country River Rat, a unique 12-passenger pedal boat featuring a bluetooth stereo, cup holders at every pedal station, and LED lighting for a night ride.

Spend the whole day or a few hours walking and shopping your way through Kerrville’s historic downtown. A variety of unique and eclectic shops line downtown and are filled with everything from upscale home decor, antiques, to plants and specialty curated gifts for family and friends.

One must stop shop is Schreiner Goods, a boutique selling women’s clothing, furniture, jewelry, and more. The boutique is a modern version of the historic Kerrville mercantile store, Schreiner Goods, opened by one of Kerrville’s early settlers, Charles Schreiner, Sr. Learn more about Charles and his contributions to Kerrville by exploring Schreiner Mansion located right next to the store.

After you have picked out a souvenir from the downtown shops, lace up your walking shoes and hit the Kerrville River Trail. The trail spans six miles through the heart of downtown and is perfect for hiking, biking, and walking amidst Kerrville’s rolling hills with views of the Guadalupe River. The variety of trailheads act as a jumping off point to explore Kerrville’s city parks and attractions, like the Riverside Nature Center. Adults and children alike will enjoy learning about the creatures that call Kerrville home with the exhibits and displays in the center, and exploring native plants, trees, wildflowers, etc in the outdoor garden. Hop back on the trail and continue to explore popular Kerrville parks like Kerrville-Schreiner Park. This 517-acre park features hike and bike trails, a butterfly garden, river access, and more.

From museums and murals to theaters and festivals, there is no shortage of art and culture in Kerrville. Feel creative as you experience 28 area art installations along Kerrville’s Public Art Trail, and then see the artistic creations at the Kerr Arts and Culture Center, and the Rivers Edge Gallery. Make sure to visit the Museum of Western Art where you will find art inspired by the American West, western literature, and authentic artifacts. There is even a Journey West Children’s Gallery that includes hands-on exhibits for kiddos to enjoy. Festivals and events in Kerrville celebrate art and diversity. If you are traveling during May and June, consider attending the Kerrville Folk Festival, the longest continuously running music festival in North America and a mecca in the songwriting community. For those visiting in October, the Kerrville Chalk Festival is a family oriented festival showcasing the art of street painting in the heart of downtown.

After your time on the river, shopping, and exploring a variety of art, you are likely to have worked up an appetite, and Kerrville’s culinary scene will surely impress. Restaurants with a focus on fresh ingredients and craft cuisine elevate the dining experience in Kerrville beyond visitor expectations for a smaller town. Grape Juice, Rails Cafe, Francisco's and 1011 Bistro are all visitor favorites! Whether you are enjoying your meal with riverside views or dining in cozy, historical landmark buildings, your taste buds will be satisfied. Pair your meal with some live music from local Kerrville musicians at spots like Trailhead Beer Garden. If you caught the music bug and are eager to enjoy even more live performances, head downtown and catch a show at Kerrville’s Arcadia Live Theatre and Kathleen C. Callioux Performing Arts Center.

Just as the Guadalupe River crafts its own path through town, we invite you to craft your own adventure this summer in Kerrville.