We hope you’ve packed your appetite. If you've ever felt that you needed a weekend foodie vacay but Austin's Michelin Star scene may be too far or out of budget, try considering a different destination — the Texas Hill Country.

From taking a tour of Cave Without A Name, or putting your drink-making skills to the test at an Assemble Cocktail Workshop, to trying the delicious sweets at Blithe Creamery, this driving-distance destination is every foodie’s dream.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~40 minutes from downtown

Estimated population: 21,774

Average high in the winter: 63°

Things to do

Cave Without A Name
Designated a National Natural Landmark in the Texas Hill Country, this living cave offers tours of its six major rooms featuring spectacular formations. You can also check out its event calendar for live musical performances.

Arrows Active Play Park
Bring the entire family to enjoy 8,600 sqft of play space, gourmet sandwiches + specialty coffee.

Assemble Cocktail Workshop
Shake things up for date night with a cocktail-making experience.

Walk along outdoor trails and see free public art via Art Al Fresco Boerne. | Photo by Snap Chic Photography

Art Al Fresco
For our art lovers, this one's for you. Take a walkable adventure through the historic Hill Country Mile, Boerne's Public Library grounds, and trails to find local art and sculptures that are totally Instagrammable.

Farmers Market at Herff Farm
Enjoy the great outdoors and explore an open-aired market featuring local vendors, makers, and fresh produce every Saturday.

Diamond C Stables
Saddle up and learn how to ride a horse on this ranch or spend an hour taking a steed out on a trail with an instructor.

Cauble Rose Painting Company
Keep an eye on its Facebook page for upcoming announcments, like a holiday-themed Paint and Sip.

Memorable eats

The Dienger Trading Co.
Start your morning at this part bistro, part boutique in a beautiful historic building just off Main Plaza. The Dienger is a great place for a latte or full breakfast.

Cibolo Creek Brewing Co.
For lunch, head on over to this farm-to-table concept restaurant where the menu specializes in fresh, clean ingredients + imaginative dishes. It often offers weekend specials in addition to the regular menu.

Dine on delicious American staples like a burger and fries at Hamby's in Boerne. | Photo by Hamby's

Cypress Grille
In the heart of downtown, Cypress Grille is a great dinner option with its extensive wine list. Everything is cooked in a wood fire oven/stove in the kitchen + the sushi-grade fish is caught within the last 24 hours off the coast of Hawaii.

28 Songs Brewhouse and Kitchen
Come out for a beer, and stay for a Bavarian Pretzel + old fashioned burgers.

Hamby's
If you're looking for classic eats, then you've come to the right place. Nestled along the Hill Country Mile, dig into SMASH burgers, hand-dipped corndogs, shakes, and craft beers.

Accommodations

The Kendall Hill Country Inn
Experience a stay on the property’s historic chapel or carriage house. Bonus: make sure to grab a bite to eat at Peggy’s on the Green. This eatery serves up South-Inspired American Cuisine.

The William
As the only hotel located on Main Street in the heart of the Hill Country Mile, take advantage of the shopping and restaurants right outside of your doorstep.

Cabin Overlooking Spring Creek
This one-bedroom and one-bathroom is along a flowing creek and is great for a weekend getaway.

Cruise

No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.

With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.

Hungry for more? Catch up on our other Hit the Road features: A 90-minute getaway to Austin and an outdoor adventure to Wimberley.