Just a 30-minute drive from San Antonio sits a quiet but growing city with cool retro finds, tons of tasty food, and historic charm that makes you feel like you've traveled back to a simpler time — not just because of the old-world storefronts. I'm talking about Boerne, which was officially named the most "underrated" town in the Hill Country earlier this year. The Hill Country boomtown makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway for anyone looking for some exciting, even surprising fun.
How to get to Boerne, Texas
For San Antonians, this road trip starts with a simple drive up Interstate 10.
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Boerne's location along the highway helped it become the growing Hill Country town it is today, with a steadily rising population that has attracted new businesses (like Buc-ee's), high-end developments and even attention from major TV networks in recent years.
Despite the growth, many Boerne-ites hold on to the city's character as a small town, with a strong connection to the German culture and traditions of many of its early settlers.
Where to eat in Boerne
In my opinion, Boerne's food scene doesn't get enough attention. The small town is packed with standouts worth mentioning. Mary's Tacos is the spot locals love for breakfast tacos. Then, of course, there's the viral 2-pound cinnamon roll from Richter Bakhaus, and Compadre's Hill Country Cocina for Tex-Mex and barbecue. Don't sleep on the George Strait tacos, inspired by the country music star's recent visits.
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Like any good trip spent in one of Texas' cool little towns, the day should start with good coffee and a sweet treat. On my most recent weekend trip into town, I started the day in search of coffee. My personal favorite is the hot mocha latte from the historic Dienger Trading Co., arguably Boerne's most iconic stop on Main Street.
According to local history, the building began as a dry goods store in 1884, eventually serving as the city's main library before the popular bistro boutique set up shop. I sipped my coffee while browsing inside the charming building's boutique, imagining what history belongs inside.
From there, I walked over to Bear Moon Bakery, which has another unique history — one local leader or another has operated a baked goods shop at this location for the last 75 years. I can't get enough of the blueberry danishes and pigs in a blanket. They smell and taste divine.
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The city's food scene is attracting more national chains, but it's the small-town spots I enjoy the most. Brunch at Sunny's All-Day, a late lunch at the Taco 'Bout Us food truck, and dinner and drinks at The Oak.
Also, burgers, pizza, and barbecue.
What to do in Boerne
This is where Boerne earns the "most underrated" badge. My weekend trips here sometimes begin inside one of its local breweries, which the German town is famous for. But I also love the city's unique antique and retro shops.
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One of my favorites is Flashback Funtiques, which is full of restored collectibles, rare 1950s and 60s items, and other nostalgic finds. I once found a really cool old-fashioned cash register inside. If you like basking in the neon glow of vintage Americana, this place is for you.
Beyond downtown, a trip to Boerne isn't complete without a little outdoor fun. I spent some time hiking the trails at the Cibolo Nature Center and Farm. The weather was perfect, and it was peacefully quiet. Tall blades of grass blew gently in the wind. The trails are popular but not too crowded. I even spotted the center's replica of the original dinosaur tracks, first discovered at the Boerne Lake spillway after a flood in 1997.
But for me, the real prehistoric fun in Boerne lies underground, at its not one, but two millennia-old showcaves. Cave Without A Name and Cascade Caverns offer some of the most exciting spelunking in the San Antonio area. Both have a fascinating history, and the latter was once feared as an entrance to the underworld.
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Where to Stay:
The historic Kendall Inn and The Bevy Hotel are the two local spots to make reservations.
Check out more pictures from around town in Boerne below: