For those of us who love natural beauty, room to breathe, and a simpler way of life, The Texas Hill Country is nothing short of heavenly.
And while the Hill Country is indeed peaceful, it’s still full of lively ways to celebrate life, love, and all its vibrancy! Are you and your loved one looking for new and interesting date night ideas? Here are a list of fun and romantic things to do for a special date night in the Texas Hill Country.
1. Sway to Live Music
Image courtesy of 11th Street Cowboy Bar
If there’s one thing Texas is known for, it’s wonderful music. From oldies to newcomers, country to indie, locals to international stars, the Texas music scene has the power to create an atmosphere as deep as a Hill Country cavern. One of our favorite venues is the 11th Street Cowboy Bar in Bandera. As the self-proclaimed “Biggest Little Bar in Texas,” Street Cowboy Bar has been featured in many national publications for its atmosphere, where you’ll often find cowboys and bikers amongst the locals. Another favorite, Luckenbach Dance Hall is also a nationally renowned venue, boasting artists like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. In fact, many internationally acclaimed artists got their start right here in Texas...and without the support of Hill Country folks like you, they might never have reached the success they enjoy today. Support your local music scene and head to a show!
2. Savor Texas Wine Culture
Image courtesy of texaswineandtrail.com
Grab your significant other and embark on a romantic tour of the Hill Country’s incredible wine culture! Hill Country Wine Tours will pick you up in one of their luxury limousines and whisk you away to four incredible local wineries. Before the tour, HCWT will inquire about your tastes and preferences to ensure visits to the ideal wineries for you and your loved one - every tour is custom fit for the client! Preferred stops include Messina Hof, Sister Creek Vineyards, Perissos, and Inwood Estates. This is also a great option for someone looking to plan a bachelorette party or entertain the wine aficionados in your life. Reserve your spot now! (Note: Tours usually begin in the Kerrville/Fredericksburg area.)
3. Take a Ride on a Zipline
Image courtesy of curlingbelgium.tk
Looking for something exhilarating, fun, and outside-the-box? Wimberley Zipline Adventures will take your breath taken away in more ways than one! Glide up to 30 MPH on lines that range from 150 ft to 900 ft across the Hill Country’s stunningly beautiful landscape. For those of you who have already experienced the thrill, we recommend returning for a night tour, which includes glow sticks, beer and champagne on the top of the hill, and views of the starry night sky.
4. Camp Out at Enchanted Rock
If y'all are outdoorsy types, Enchanted Rock is one of the most beautiful spots in Texas for camping, hiking, and enjoying nature! The Enchanted Rock area covers approximately 640 acres, and the famous “peak” itself is a mere 425 feet above the surrounding terrain, providing an easy climb for beginners as well as a gorgeous view of the sunrise and sunset.
Full campsites include grills, water, picnic tables, and pads for your tent, allowing for easy setup. More adventurous types may opt for a more secluded campsite, featuring a hike between 1-3 miles on rugged terrain. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the world and spend a night under the stars sharing stories and laughs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and enough food!
5. Go Out for Dinner
How can we make a list of great date nights in the Texas Hill Country and not mention some of the best restaurants in the area? The first restaurant we want to feature is The Nest in Fredericksburg. Located in a charming cottage off of Highway 87, the atmosphere in this place feels like eating homemade food in someone’s dining room (complete with fresh flowers). We suggest the New Zealand rack of lamb with pecan pesto and a caramel flan for dessert. The Leaning Pear in Wimberley is also well-known in the area. The restaurant features “tree house outdoor seating” and an amazing Hill-Country-inspired menu. Finally, Gennaro’s Trattoria in Canyon Lake is perfect for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine. Be sure to try the lobster ravioli or one of their pizzas.
6. Get to the Gun Range
Most true-blue Texans have been to the gun range at least once...but if you’re new to the area and want to experience the fullness of Texas culture, we suggest heading to the range! Caliber Canyon Gun Range in Boerne services the Hill Country area, teaching people how to safely and properly handle, clean, and shoot a gun. Learn the basics, then try a little target practice using your newly acquired skills! This might seem like a weird alternative to a date night, but the exhilaration of handling a firearm (in the protection of the trained staff, of course) is a fun way to bond!
7. Head for the Dance Floor
There aren’t many things more romantic than dancing. Thankfully, you are lucky enough to live in one of the most dance-friendly areas in the state, with several high-quality dance halls to choose from! Anhalt Dance Hall in Spring Branch is one of the oldest dance halls in the region. If you’re near the San Antonio area, John T. Floore’s Country Store in Helotes is one of the best places to catch a country band kick the dust up from the hardwood floor. And of course, Luckenbach offers some of the best opportunities to two-step around.
8. See a Concert in a Cave
Image courtesy of cavewithoutaname.com
Have an unforgettable and unique date listening to live music at the Cave Without a Name in Boerne. Events, tickets, and more information are available here.
There are so many terrific date options in the Hill Country area, and we only listed just a few. Get creative this year and use the resources in our area to make it a night you’ll remember forever.
Falling in love with the Texas Hill Country? We don’t blame you, and we would love to help you find a home in a neighborhood you’ll adore. Let us set you up with one of our agents, connect you with a lender, and offer you a buying guide to the area!