Boerne (pronounced “Bernie”) was founded in 1847 by German immigrants, members of the same group who settled nearby New Braunfels. They named the town for author Ludwig Borne, whose writings inspired many men to leave Germany for the New World. During the 1880s, Boerne became known as a health spot, and vacationers came by railroad to soak in mineral water spas and enjoy the clean country air. Although no mineral spas remain today, Boerne is a popular weekend getaway for its Hill County atmosphere and numerous antiques shops.
Because of its proximity to San Antonio, quiet Boerne has boomed in recent years. The town (pronounced burr-knee) still recalls its German heritage around every street corner, including the bilingual German-style streets signs along the Hauptstrasse (Main Street).
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Run, Spot, Run!
All parks and trails in Boerne welcome dogs on leash (there is a city leash law).
Guadalupe River State Park. Located 13 miles east of Boerne off TX 46, this park’s big draw, especially for dog lovers, is the river. The park boasts four miles of frontage along the cold, clear river; although dogs aren’t allowed in the designated swimming beach area (or adjacent areas), they can enjoy the rest of the river. Info: 3350 Park Rd. 31 in Spring Branch; (830) 438–2656; tpwd.texas.gov. Fee.
Old No. 9 Trail. Part of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, this pathway was first used by Native Americans to cross the Hill Country before eventually becoming part of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway Company and finally TX 9. When the highway was rerouted, this trail once again became a foot trail and now offers a 1.4-mile stroll for you and Rover on a crushed stone surface. Water fountains (and a mister near the trailhead) make this wheelchair-accessible route cooler for two- and four-legged visitors during the hot summer months. Info: 358 Esser Rd.; www.railstotrails.org. Free.
Sister Creek Vineyards. Located north of Boerne between the East and West Sister Creeks in “downtown” Sisterdale, this winery welcomes dogs on the grounds. Dogs 25 pounds and under who are on leash are allowed the small tasting room (which is housed in a restored cotton gin). If your dog is in a stroller, carrier, or can be carried, he can also tour the winery with you! Open daily. Info: 1142 Sisterdale Rd. (830) 324-6704; www.sistercreekvineyards.com. Free grounds.
Dog-Friendly Restaurant Patios
- Soda Pops Patio Bar & Grill
- Cibolo Creek Brewing Co.
- Dienger Trading Co
- Bear Moon Bakery
- Brantley’s 259 Bistro Patio
- Drink Texas Biergarten
- Epicure
- Dodging Duck
- Kelani Yogurt
- Little Gretel
- The Roundup
- Dog and Pony Grill
- Boerne Grill & Daily Grind
Dog-Friendly Hotel Policies
- Best Western: $15 per pet/night, limit 2 pets
- Days Inn: $20 per pet/entire stay, limit 2 pets
- Comfort Inn: $25 per pet/every 3 days, limit 2 pets per room, 30 lbs and under
- Fairfield Inn: $50 one time cleaning fee, 2-pet limit
- Motel 6: No fee, 2 dog limit, under 20 lbs, only
Sniff Out More Information
Greater Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau; (888) 842–8080 or (830) 249–7277; www.visitboerne.org.
For more on traveling in Texas with your dog, see our DogTipper’s Texas with Dogs guidebook!
