Often referred to as the “Capital of Texas Hill Country”, Kerrville lies along the banks of the Guadalupe River north-west of San Antonio. The area was originally settled by shingle makers, including Joshua Brown. He named the town after his friend and former congressman, James Kerr, who played an important role in the Texas Revolution.
Things to do in Kerrville
If you’re interested in the artistic traditions of the American West, pay a visit to the Museum of Western Art, which occupies a building designed by the renowned Texan architect, O'Neil Ford. Many of its paintings and sculptures were inspired by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, who were active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Cowboys, early settlers and Native Americans are frequently depicted in the collection.
Want to stretch your legs? Enjoy a walk or run on the Kerrville River Trail, which extends for 10 kilometres along the Guadalupe River and can be accessed from several trailheads. Enjoy a stroll along the section that connects the Riverside Nature Center to Tranquility or head to Louise Hays Park where bicycles are available for rent.
Also overlooking the Guadalupe River is Kerrville-Schreiner Park, which was originally developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It’s home to a children’s playground, a butterfly garden and recreational facilities such as basketball and volleyball courts. A variety of wildlife also calls the park “home”, including white-tailed deer, foxes and blackbucks.
Getting around Kerrville
Kerrville is around an hour’s drive from San Antonio and San Antonio International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Long-distance buses connect to Kerrville while the downtown area is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.