Hotels in Bandera

Embrace the Enchantment of Bandera: Where Nature Meets Timeless Architecture

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Bandera is a charming escape known as the Cowboy Capital of the World. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of rustic charm and rich culture, with historic buildings lining Main Street and lively cowboy culture permeating the air. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning landscapes along the banks of the Medina River, perfect for fishing, tubing, and hiking. Bandera also hosts rodeos and country music events, immersing visitors in its spirited heritage. Just a short drive from San Antonio, Bandera is a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination for adventure and relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Bandera and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Bandera

Some of the best places to stay in Bandera are Far West Side, Fair Oaks Ranch and Cross Mountain. Bandera, Texas, offers diverse experiences for travelers. The Far West Side is known for its rustic charm and proximity to nature, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Fair Oaks Ranch boasts upscale accommodations and scenic landscapes, making it perfect for relaxation. Cross Mountain features beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere, great for exploring local culture. First-time visitors may find Fair Oaks Ranch the most appealing. Generally, accommodations range from boutique motels to rustic lodgings, catering to various budgets and preferences. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Bandera:

1. Far West SideOpens in a new window: Far West Side is perfect for families and entertainment enthusiasts, offering proximity to attractions like San Antonio SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. The area is vibrant with outdoor activities and romantic spots such as the River Walk. For accommodations, consider Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk, by HyattOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to business and family needs, featuring a full-service spa and romance packages. Another excellent option is Mokara Hotel & Spa San AntonioOpens in a new window, a well-located 4.5-star hotel offering conference facilities ideal for business travelers while being family-friendly. The St. Anthony, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San AntonioOpens in a new window is also a great choice, providing a blend of luxury and essential amenities for families and business guests alike.
2. Fair Oaks RanchOpens in a new window: Fair Oaks Ranch is an outdoor paradise, ideal for thrill-seekers and shoppers alike, with attractions like The Shops of La Cantera and The Rim Shopping Center nearby. For those looking for a comfortable stay, The Bevy Hotel Boerne, a DoubleTree by HiltonOpens in a new window is a charming 4.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers a variety of family amenities. Joshua Creek RanchOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star ranch-style hotel, provides numerous outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing, perfect for adventure lovers. Another option, JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, is a 4.5-star hotel that caters to families and adventure enthusiasts, offering a water park and various recreational activities.
3. Cross MountainOpens in a new window: Cross Mountain is an excellent destination for families and outdoor lovers, featuring nearby shopping at The Shops of La Cantera and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. For lodging, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio LandmarkOpens in a new window presents a cozy 3.5-star option that accommodates pets and provides essential business amenities. La Cantera Resort & SpaOpens in a new window is a fantastic 4.0-star hotel with golf facilities and a variety of family-friendly services. Additionally, DoubleTree by Hilton San Antonio NorthwestOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star choice that combines pet-friendly policies with a business-friendly atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Things to do in Bandera for first time

Three days in Bandera is ideal for immersing yourself in stunning natural landscapes, from serene rivers to rolling hills. Enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, boating, and biking, while vibrant local festivals and lively dance performances offer a taste of the area’s rich culture. It’s an unforgettable escape into nature. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bandera:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Bandera by visiting the serene Medina River, where you can enjoy kayaking or a leisurely walk along the banks. Afterward, head to the Medina Community Library, a charming spot that frequently hosts local events and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reading or relaxing. Conclude your day at Hadfield Lake, perfect for a picnic or a beautiful sunset view over the tranquil waters.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at the Hill Country State Natural Area, where hiking trails abound, offering breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. Next, take a short drive to Medina Lake, ideal for fishing, boating, or just soaking in the sun. Wrap up your day at Love Creek Orchards Cider Mill and Country Store, where you can sample delicious ciders and shop for unique local products.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Walton Lake, a scenic location perfect for fishing or a peaceful stroll. Then, explore Joshua Springs Park and Preserve, where you can hike the trails and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Finish your trip at Studio Comfort Texas, a delightful art studio featuring local artisans, where you can browse handmade crafts and perhaps take home a unique souvenir from your Bandera experience.

5 tips to find a great Bandera hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bandera is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it’s advisable to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best prices. To truly experience the area's highlights, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Bandera offers great value for money with its stunning natural landscapes and charming river views, making it a wonderful destination for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Bandera, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find great rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging the latest prices, be sure to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don’t miss any opportunities to save on your Bandera getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel costs in Bandera.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location carefully. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther out, allowing you to balance cost with easy access to the places you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Bandera and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Bandera

Bandera experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 51.8°F (11.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 85.1°F (29.5°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Bandera are March, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, August, and September are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.