3 Scenic Drives Through Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country is known for its winding roads, breathtaking landscapes, and charming small towns. If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip, these three scenic drives from Interstate 10 in the San Antonio area are the perfect way to experience the beauty of the region. With plenty of must-see stops along the way, including historic dance halls, wineries, and iconic Texas landmarks, these routes will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the Hill Country.

1. Kerrville Loop

The longest drive on our list, the Kerrville Loop, takes you through the picturesque towns of Medina, Vanderpool, and Ingram. This route passes right by Lost Maples State Natural Area, known for its stunning fall foliage. Make sure to check the Fall Foliage Report before your trip at tpwd.texas.gov to catch the vibrant autumn colors at their peak.

Don’t Miss:

• Lost Maples Country Store – A great stop to grab snacks, gas, and some local jerky. (33533 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX | 830-966-3568 | lostmaplesrvandcamping.com)
• Lone Star Motorcycle Museum – Check out over 60 vintage motorcycles, some dating back 100 years. (36517 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX | 830-966-6103 | lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com)
• Stonehenge II – A quirky replica of the original Stonehenge located in Ingram. (120 Point Theatre Rd S, Ingram, TX | 830-367-5121 | hcaf.com/stonehenge-ii)

Where to Eat:

• Hill Country Café – A cozy café serving up homemade comfort food in downtown Kerrville. (806 Main St, Kerrville, TX | 830-257-6665 | Facebook: Hill Country Café)

2. Willow City Loop

If you’ve ever driven to Enchanted Rock, you’ve likely traveled along RR 965. But for an even more scenic experience, take the Willow City Loop, a narrow, winding road offering panoramic views, deep canyons, and lush meadows that burst into color during wildflower season.

Don’t Miss:

• Blue Skies Retro Resort – Spend the night in a vintage Shasta travel trailer, each with private yards, outdoor showers, and access to a shared pool. (13372 TX-16, Willow City, TX | 830-515-4787 | blueskiesretroresort.com)
• Pecan Grove Store – A classic Texas pit stop with live music and a must-try Dino Burger. (5244 TX-16, Fredericksburg, TX | 830-990-4433 | pecangrovestore.com)
• Kuckuck’s Nest – A Bavarian-inspired boutique full of unique gifts and, yes, imported lederhosen. (3150 TX-16, Fredericksburg, TX | 830-997-9707 | kuckucks-nest.co)

Where to Eat:

• Emma + Ollie – A beloved breakfast and lunch café by Chef Rebecca Rather. (607 S. Washington St, Fredericksburg, TX | 830-383-1013 | emmaolliefbg.com)

3. Dance Halls and Wineries Loop

For a drive that combines Texas wine country with historic dance halls, take this scenic route between Interstate 10 and U.S. 290. You’ll see rolling vineyards, live music venues, and even a cave full of bats.

Don’t Miss:

• Saint Tryphon Farm & Vineyards – Known for their mourvèdre, trebbiano, and pétillant naturel wines. (24 Wasp Creek Rd, Boerne, TX | 830-777-6704 | sainttryphon.com)
• Luckenbach Texas General Store & Dancehall – The legendary honky-tonk town made famous by Waylon Jennings. (412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, TX | 830-997-3224 | luckenbachtexas.com)
• Old Tunnel State Park – Watch 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from an abandoned railroad tunnel. (10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX | 866-978-2287 | tpwd.texas.gov)

Where to Eat:

• Black Board Bar B Q – Ranked the #2 best BBQ spot in the area, serving Wagyu brisket and wild boar sausage. (1123 Sisterdale Rd, Boerne, TX | 830-324-6858 | blackboardbarbq.com)

Final Thoughts

Each of these drives offers a one-of-a-kind Texas experience, whether you’re chasing fall foliage, looking for a hidden gem restaurant, or soaking in the Hill Country’s rich history. Just remember—many local businesses have limited hours, so call ahead before making the trip.

Kristen Smith, Realtor Best San Antonio Realtor