Local Wimberley Activities

Explore some of the most popular Wimberley Activities and nearby Texas Hill Country destinations. From live music and wineries to wildlife parks and historic attractions, these are some of our favorite places to visit.
 

• Gruene Hall (Gruene, TX) – Known as the oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall features live country music most weekends and selected weeknights, just about 20 minutes from Shade Ranch. Even if country music isn't your favorite, it's worth visiting for the unique atmosphere. You can enjoy lunch next door at the Grist Mill, which overlooks the Guadalupe River, or stop by the nearby beer garden. The charming town of Gruene is also a great place to explore.

• Driftwood Estate Winery – Set atop rolling hills overlooking beautiful vineyards, Driftwood Estate Winery offers great wine, delicious food, and breathtaking views, making it a relaxing stop in the Texas Hill Country.

• Real Ale Brewing Company (http://realalebrewing.com/) – Located in Blanco, TX, approximately 25 minutes west of Wimberley. The brewery is open on Friday afternoons, with the tasting room operating from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and guided tours generally offered at 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Guests can enjoy complimentary samples while learning about the brewing process and the quality behind their many beer styles. Children are welcome to participate in the tour as well.

• Natural Bridge Caverns (210.651.6144; www.naturalbridgecaverns.com) – About 35–40 miles from Wimberley, these impressive caverns are recognized as the largest and most spectacular underground cave system in Texas.

• Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (830.438.7400; www.wildliferanchtexas.com) – Also located about 35–40 miles from Wimberley next to the caverns, this drive-through wildlife park allows visitors to get remarkably close to exotic animals. Feed many of the animals directly from your vehicle while enjoying a beautiful Hill Country setting. The ranch is especially popular with animal lovers and also features a restaurant and additional attractions showcasing exotic birds, monkeys, and more.

• Enchanted Springs Ranch (800.640.5917; www.enchantedspringsranch.com) – Located approximately three miles west of Boerne on Highway 46, Enchanted Springs Ranch is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Originally created in 2003 as a movie production location for Western-themed films, the ranch includes authentic Old West storefronts, wooden sidewalks, a saloon, adobe church, and other carefully constructed buildings. Today it hosts movie and commercial productions, with approximately 30% of its revenue coming from filming. Visitors can experience an Old West atmosphere featuring actors performing live reenactments, gunfights, hold-ups, trick roping, six-gun spinning, quick draws, chuckwagon cooking, arrowhead knapping, and many other demonstrations. The ranch is also home to a variety of native and exotic wildlife that can be seen throughout the 86-acre property. Guests can enjoy chuckwagon dinner performances as well as private events.

• Pioneer Town – Step back in time with a recreation of an 1800s Texas town, located just across the river and up the hill. It's a fun stop for visitors interested in local history and one of the unique Wimberley Activities to experience during your stay.

• Wimberley Glass Works – Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces from the observation room. The handcrafted artwork is impressive, although it can be on the expensive side.

• Market Days & Shopping – For shopping enthusiasts, Wimberley Market Days takes place on the first Saturday of each month from March through December. Around Wimberley Square you'll also find a wide variety of shops offering artwork, handcrafted items, jewelry, furniture, toys, and much more. If you're looking for additional shopping, the San Marcos outlet stores are only about 20 minutes away.

• Mt. Baldy – Climb this well-known Wimberley landmark and enjoy outstanding panoramic views from the top.

• Bella Vista Ranch – An olive farm offering informative daily tours. Visitors can learn about the history of the ranch, the olive-growing process, and the production of olive oil.

• Austin – Spend the day exploring Austin, located about 45 minutes to an hour away. Visit the Texas State Capitol Building, discover the city's museums, or enjoy live music at the famous Continental Club on South Congress. Nearby, Guero's is a great stop for Tex-Mex cuisine, while The Broken Spoke remains one of the area's most iconic country music venues. Stubb's on Red River is another favorite for BBQ and live entertainment. If you're interested in nightlife, head to the historic district around 6th Street and 4th Street, where you'll find numerous restaurants, bars, clubs, and live music venues.