7 easy weekend getaways from San Antonio

From waterfall hikes to visiting the famous “Boot Whisperer” to eating world-famous pickles, keep reading for seven San Antonio getaways within a 75-mile radius of the city.

Boerne, Texas

Boerne (pronounced Bernie) is just 30 miles northwest of San Antonio along Cibolo Creek and features a stunning nature preserve with three miles of trails. Culinary highlights include the Salisbury steak and homemade biscuits at Peggy’s on the Green and the world-famous homemade pickles from Carousel Antiques and Fickle Pickles. For shopping, check out Dienger Trading Company. Built in 1884, the building was originally a grocery store and now houses a boutique, bookstore and bakery/bistro. For a unique experience, rent a room in a former schoolhouse or church at The Kendall.

7 easy weekend getaways from San Antonio — A room at The Kendall Inn.

The Kendall via Yelp

Wimberley, Texas

Wimberley is the perfect San Antonio weekend getaway or day trip. Stop for a dip in the Blue Hole, a shaded swimming area with rope swings, or the natural spring at Jacob’s Well. Grab lunch at the Leaning Pear before going to visit The Wild West Store to see Ulli Johnston, the local “Boot Whisperer.” Johnston is famous for fitting most people with a pair of boots in three tries just by looking at their feet. Afterwards, stop by Papa Hoo’s Hill Country Popcorn and catch a live glass blowing demonstration at Wimberly Glass Works. The perfect place to wrap up the day is at The Corrall Theatre, an outdoor movie theater open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The Wild West Store

Courtesy of Andrew Y. via Yelp

Guadalupe River State Park

There’s no better place to spend time on the water than this state park that boasts four miles of river frontage. Visitors can swim, fish, tube, kayak and canoe. Don’t miss the new five-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail that begins in the park. Those that want to stick to land can hike or bike 13 miles of trails, geocache and enjoy bird watching. Some trails are also open to horseback riders. Over 90 campsites are available for visitors to spend the night. Sign up for one of the guided tours of the Honey Creek Natural Area, which is adjacent to the park. The one-and-a-half-mile spring-fed creek and natural area is filled with Spanish moss-draped live oaks and Ashe junipers and is only accessible by tour.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Founded in 1846, this German town is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Main Street is lined with a variety of shops, art galleries and restaurants. History lovers shouldn’t miss the Pioneer Museum, which tells the story of the town’s German heritage, and the National Museum of the Pacific War, an in-depth look at World War II in the Pacific. The museum was founded by Fredericksburg native Chester W. Nimitz, who served as the Commander-in-Chief of Allied Forces, Pacific Ocean Area during World War II, and later became Fleet Admiral. There are over a 100 wineries and vineyards in Texas Hill Country, and the epicenter is Fredericksburg with over 20 wine tour companies.

A family enjoying the views of Fredericksburg.

Courtesy of Visit Fredericksburg

Comfort, Texas

The small town of Comfort is the perfect romantic getaway near San Antonio. The historic town, founded by German immigrants, is designated as a National Historic District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Browse the antique shops, sip a glass of wine at one of the three local wineries and visit the local distillery. One of the best places to stay is Camp Comfort, a vintage 1860s bowling alley that was converted into a boutique bed and breakfast. It is located 48 miles northwest of San Antonio on Cypress Creek. The original bowling alley was turned into four suites that have desks made from the original flooring. The property also includes five cabins, one airstream trailer and a private swimming hole.

Camp Comfort provides a rustic and chic experience mixed with a clean, modern vibe.

Camp Comfort via Yelp

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located 75 miles north of the city, this 5,212-acre state park is a tranquil San Antonio getaway. The park is located along the banks of Pedernales River, which cascades across steps of layered limestone to create Pedernales Falls. The land was acquired from private owners in 1970 by the State of Texas. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, geocache, bird watch and ride horses. Trails range from the half-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail to the challenging six-mile Wolf Mountain Trail. Swimming, tubing and fishing are allowed on the river. However, the swimming area is only accessible by a strenuous ¼ mile hike with steep rock stairs and no handrail. There’s a wide variety of camping options ranging from primitive sites to ones with water and electricity.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Operated by the National Park Service, this historic site tells the story of the life of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. The park contains several notable sites including the LBJ Ranch where he was born, lived, died and was buried. Visitors can take a self-guided driving tour and stop at his birthplace, the family cemetery and the ranch house, known as the Texas White House. Be sure to download the free National Park Service app for an audio tour of the drive. Other highlights include the Johnson Settlement where his grandfather and great-uncle established cattle operation in the 1860s and his boyhood home. And if that’s not enough, there are also two visitor’s centers with exhibits including one in his former airplane hangar.