As a Texas native who has visited Boerne many times, I’m excited to share the best things to do in this hidden gem. Texas is filled with treasures off the beaten path, and Boerne is one of them. Just a short drive from popular towns like San Antonio and New Braunfels, Boerne features beautiful limestone landscapes and shady live oaks.
With its historic architecture, serene natural spots, rich German heritage, and world-class cuisine, Boerne offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Join me as we explore the top things to do in Boerne, Texas, and discover why this quaint town is a true Texas treasure!
Explore The Hill Country Mile
The Hill Country Mile is a historic German settlement from the 1800s, perfect for wandering along the scenic paths by Cibolo Creek. Explore over 80 shops, restaurants, and art galleries in this vibrant destination, recognized by Country Living Magazine as one of the ‘Top 25 Small Town Main Streets in America.’
The Hill Country Mile has received multiple Texas Travel Awards, including recent recognition for Cibolo Creek Brewing Company and The Kendall. It also boasts the title of ‘Great Street in Texas‘ from the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association. Historical buildings like The Dienger Trading Co. and The Kendall are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Craft Your Own Masterpiece at The Downtown DIY
Housed in a historic drug store, The Downtown DIY is the perfect place to unleash your creativity through workshops and classes. Check out their daily specials, including a cozy candle bar and seasonal activities like pumpkin decorating contests and fall-themed events. Many visitors love the calligraphy classes.
Owners Karen and her daughter Macey generously provided all the materials for crafting. They helped us create fun ice cream art using wooden boards, paint, glitter, clay, and more. Known for their mixed media art, scrapbooks, and journals, they can assist with any crafty project. They also offer painting and sip sessions—just check their calendar for upcoming events. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to sample wine from nearby Lost Oak Cellars!
Find Literary Treasures at The Boerne Bookshop
The Boerne Bookshop is one of the latest establishments of the Hill Country Mile. This independent bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated collection of books spanning genres such as fiction, history, travel, local interest, and children’s literature. Owned by the passionate community advocate Dale Adams, the bookstore is dedicated to embracing local talent and promoting a love for reading and personal development.
Young readers can immerse themselves in the BRIO play area while parents can get their hands on our Texas Travel Guide in addition to many other literary treasures.
Discover Local Art at Handmade On Main
Located on the Main Street along the Hill Country Mile, Handmade on Main is an eclectic co-op boutique featuring over 20 local Texas makers offering 100% handmade products, hands-on DIY workshops, beauty products, unique gifts of all sorts, home decor, Doubleside Toffee Co.’s candy and so much more! Choose a unique container and showcase your favorite plant at the Crazy Plant Lovee’s plant bar onsite.
Wear The Most Fancy Hat at Pixie
Pixie is an adorable family-owned store located in historic Downtown Boerne. The lovely owner, Brandi, is passionate about bringing you stylish and affordable fashion for every budget. Back in 2003, Brandi opened her first store, La Te Da, where she offered a variety of reasonably priced items for girls of all ages. Customers could find chic hats, home decor, unique gifts, and trendy women’s clothing and accessories.
In 2016, when the neighboring space became available, Brandi expanded her venture with Pixie, offering a wide range of sizes from newborns to Women’s Plus Sizes, all while staying true to her commitment to providing fun and fashionable items at unbeatable prices!
Sip and Savor at Roc-N-Ritas
Roc-N-Ritas is a popular spot for refreshing margaritas and frozen specialty drinks while you explore the Hill Country Mile. You can use their convenient drive-thru, order in person, or skip the wait with curbside pickup.
With seasonal options for fall and the holidays, Roc-N-Ritas offers signature blends made with premium alcohol and real fruit purees for the perfect frozen cocktail. If you’re visiting in winter, try their fun fall-themed drinks like the Spooky Drink and Witch’s Brew. Families will find kid-friendly slushies for the little ones, and adventurous visitors can create their own custom drinks from unique flavors!
Enjoy the Serenity at Rivulet Kitchen & Bar
Rivulet Kitchen & Bar is a scratch-made restaurant on River Road in Boerne, TX. It offers both indoor and outdoor patio seating with picturesque views of River Road Park and Cibolo Creek. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Rivulet serves mouthwatering comfort food classics and globally inspired dishes crafted with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. We kicked off our meal with the mouthwatering Ahi Tuna Salad, featuring seared ahi tuna, edamame, avocado, pickled ginger, and cucumber on a bed of mixed greens.
Another appetizer we ordered was the Deviled Eggs, topped with glazed pork belly, jalapeno, and pickled red onion. For main course, I couldn’t resist trying The Wanderin’ Cowboy Burger, made with Texas Wagyu, bourbon & fig glaze, and the option of blue cheese or goat cheese, all tucked in a pretzel bun. My husband opted for Garlic Ginger Crisped Salmon, a 4oz wild-caught filet quick-fried and tossed in their Ginger Garlic Hoisin Sauce, served with pickled jalapenos and pickled red onions.
Related Posts: Charming Date Ideas for Couples in Boerne
Dine in Style at Peggy’s on the Green
Peggy’s on the Green is a beautifully restored 19th-century dining room with a charming wraparound porch. The menu features modern takes on Southern heritage and classic American dishes, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms. Established in 2016 by Chef Mark Bohanan, known for his acclaimed restaurant in San Antonio, Peggy’s is named in honor of his late mother.
This Southern-inspired, all-American restaurant offers signature dishes like fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, Bone-In Ribeye, and Lobster Macaroni & Cheese. It also includes a private room for group events and has been featured in NBIZ Magazine. Guests can enjoy a curated beverage list with cocktails, draft beer, and a variety of spirits.
Savor After Dinner Drinks at Salvador Dobbs
Salvador Dobbs is a popular hangout spot for after-dinner drinks or to end a day of exploring. This place has it all – a full bar, live music, a fantastic patio, craft beer, and delicious cocktails, all right on the beautiful Cibolo Creek. You’ll love the unique atmosphere – it used to be a toy store, so you’ll find quirky touches like a giant castle that’s now a fireplace. If you’re in the mood for something more intimate, they’ve got a speakeasy-style champagne room for a private escape.
With night karaoke on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Daily Bar Specials and Happy Hours from 3 PM to 7 PM, Truly Tequila Tuesdays, Girls’ Night Out on Thursdays, and fantastic weekend specials, there’s never a dull moment at this place. And if you’re looking for entertainment, they’ve got games like pool, darts, shuffleboard, and cornhole.
Sign Up. Be Inspired. Travel.
Experience travel like never before with our exclusive tips, tricks, and recommendations. Join our newsletter for the best advice on making the most of your Texas adventures!
Taste the Best Flavors of Boerne
Get Your Morning Caffeine at Bear Moon Bakery
Lovingly owned and operated by Paula Hayward, Bear Moon Bakery offers small-batch pastries and caffeinated brews, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Paula’s 20-year baking and culinary experience speaks for itself in all the menu delights, including breakfast sandwiches, fresh pastries, cinnamon rolls, apple strudel, kolaches, delicious packaged coffees, cupcakes, cookies, and daily special soups.
It’s a perfect place to get your sweet and caffeine cravings fixed.
Grab a Taco at Boerne Taco House
Boerne Taco House is a locally owned and operated Mexican Bistro on Main Street along the Hill Country Mile. With its cozy indoor and breezy outdoor seating, this locally owned gem is the perfect spot to savor authentic Mexican cuisine. The trendy minimalist decor gives off a cool ’90s coffee shop vibe, and the well-lit space is incredibly inviting. The menu features a variety of classic Mexican dishes, including breakfast tacos, street tacos, and a selection of cold beers on tap.
Notable menu items include the Beef Fajita Plate and the Street Tacos Al Pastor, which are both customer favorites. Additionally, patrons are treated to complimentary chips and salsa as an appetizer. For those with dietary restrictions, the restaurant offers plenty of gluten-free choices, all clearly marked on the menu.
