Looking for Hill Country charm, swimming holes, and artsy vibes? Head to Wimberley, Texas! Tucked between Austin and San Antonio, this laid-back town is full of scenic beauty, local shops, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're tubing the river, exploring art galleries, or catching a sunset over the hills, Wimberley is a true Texas gem.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Wimberley is during spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Enjoy wildflowers, warm weather, and fewer crowds. Summer is popular for swimming and river fun, but can be hot. Winter offers a quieter, festive atmosphere.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Located off Ranch Road 12, Wimberley is about 45 minutes from Austin and 1 hour from San Antonio.
  • By Air: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and San Antonio International Airport (SAT) both offer convenient access by car.
  • By Bus: While there’s no direct bus to Wimberley, regional shuttles and car rentals from Austin or San Marcos are good options.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Flora & Fauna – Boutique suites with mid-century flair, just a short walk to downtown shops and eateries.
  • Wimberley Inn – Casual and cozy inn with a pool, nestled in the trees near the heart of town.
  • Rustic Cabins & Hill Country Rentals – Find peaceful vacation homes with river access and hilltop views via Airbnb or Vrbo.

Top Attractions

⮕ Dive Into the Magic of the Springs at Jacob's Well Natural Area

Crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by cypress trees, with trails and picnic areas.

Dive Into the Magic of the Springs at Jacob's Well Natural Area

© Jacobs Well Hays County Info

  • What is Jacob's Well Natural Area?
  • How large is Jacob's Well Natural Area?
    • The natural area spans approximately 81 acres.
  • What is the main feature of Jacob’s Well?
    • The area is anchored around the Jacob’s Well artesian spring cave, which is Texas' second-largest fully-submerged cave and is sourced from the Trinity Aquifer.
  • Why is it called Jacob’s Well?
    • The cave was named in honor of its discoverer, William C. Winters, who remarked that the cave resembled a well from Biblical times.
  • When can visitors swim at Jacob’s Well?
    • Swimming is allowed at the spring between May and October.
  • Are guided tours available?
    • Yes! Visitors can embark on guided cave tours led by master naturalists every Saturday morning.
  • What is the contact information for Jacob’s Well Natural Area?
    • 1699 Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676

⮕ Celebrate Art and Imagination Beneath the Oaks at The EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens

Celebrate Art and Imagination Beneath the Oaks at The EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens

© andrys lukowski/stock.adobe.com

  • What is The EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens?
  • Who was Emily Ann Rolling?
    • The facility is named in honor of Emily Ann Rolling, a late actress and costume designer who was a frequent participant in Wimberley's Shakespeare Under the Stars theatrical troupe.
  • What is the purpose of The EmilyAnn Theatre?
    • Today, the facility serves as the permanent home for the theater company’s productions, including summer musical theater performances and children's theater productions of classic fairytales.
  • Can visitors explore the gardens?
    • Yes! Visitors are welcome to stroll through the gardens daily between dawn and dusk.
  • What notable areas are in the gardens?
    • Visitors can explore beautiful areas such as the interactive musical garden and the Veterans Memorial Plaza.
  • What annual events are hosted at The EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens?
  • What is the contact information for The EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens?
    • 1101 Ranch Rd 2325, Wimberley, TX 78676, Phone: 512-847-6969

⮕ Explore Local Color and Creative Soul at Wildflower Art Gallery

Explore Local Color and Creative Soul at Wildflower Art Gallery

© Wildflower Art Gallery

  • What is the Wildflower Art Gallery?
    • Wildflower Art Gallery is the premiere showcase of the works of artist Linda Calvert Jacobson, a native of Floresville, Texas.
  • When was the Wildflower Art Gallery established?
    • The gallery was opened in 2015 by Linda Calvert Jacobson and her husband, David Jacobson.
  • Where is the gallery located?
    • The gallery is housed in a lovely storefront within Wimberley's Olde Towne Plaza.
  • What kind of artwork is displayed at the gallery?
    • The gallery showcases beautiful abstract paintings, with a primary focus on Jacobson's acclaimed wildflower landscape paintings.
  • Has Jacobson’s artwork been exhibited internationally?
    • Yes! Many of Jacobson’s paintings have been displayed in national and international art gallery exhibits, including locations in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia.
  • Who manages the gallery?
    • The gallery is managed by David Jacobson, who assists visitors with purchases and shipping needs.
  • What is the contact information for Wildflower Art Gallery?
    • 13801 Ranch Rd 12, Wimberley, TX 78676, Phone: 830-730-7880

Where to Eat

⮕ If You Crave Seasonal Flavor in a Stunning Setting, Dine at The Leaning Pear

If You Crave Seasonal Flavor in a Stunning Setting, Dine at The Leaning Pear

© The Leaning Pear

  • What is The Leaning Pear?
    • The Leaning Pear is a delicious comfort fare restaurant in Wimberley that is owned and operated by married duo Matthew and Rachel Buchanan, housed within one of the Wimberley Valley's oldest restored buildings.
  • Where is the restaurant located?
    • The restaurant is situated in Wimberley, overlooking a gorgeous natural bluff near Cypress Creek.
  • What type of cuisine does The Leaning Pear offer?
    • The Leaning Pear showcases delicious artisanal fare crafted by chef Matthew, including gourmet 11-inch wood-fired pizzas topped with excellent ingredients such as housemade Italian sausage, local mushrooms, and fontina cheese.
  • What are some of the signature dishes?
    • Hearty entrees served at lunch or dinner include creative international fare like market vegetable curry, pecan-crusted black drum, costillas al pastor, and chicken with green chile and bacon grits.
  • What is the contact information?
    • 111 River Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676, Phone: 512-847-7327

More Local Attractions

  • Blue Hole Regional Park – Crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by cypress trees, with trails and picnic areas.
  • Wimberley Market Days – One of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in Texas, held the first Saturday March–December.
  • Downtown Wimberley – Explore art galleries, boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and local cafes.
  • Old Baldy – Climb 218 stone steps to catch panoramic views of the Hill Country sunset.

More Places to Eat

  • Community Pizza & Beer Garden – Wood-fired pies, local brews, and a lively outdoor setting.
  • Linda’s Fine Food – Cozy spot offering home-cooked comfort dishes and baked goods.

Local Events

  • Wimberley Market Days (Monthly) – Over 400 booths of crafts, antiques, and food, every first Saturday March through December.
  • Wimberley Arts Fest (April) – A riverside celebration of fine art, live music, and Texas culture.
  • Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn Theatre (December) – A beloved holiday tradition with festive displays, music, and family activities.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Wimberley, Texas

  • Blanco (25–30 min) – Visit Blanco State Park, sip wine at local vineyards, or stroll the historic town square.
  • Dripping Springs (20–25 min) – Tour Hill Country distilleries, explore Hamilton Pool, or shop artisan markets downtown.
  • San Marcos (North Side) (25–30 min) – Tube the San Marcos River, shop the outlet malls, or explore local art and music scenes.
  • Fischer (10–15 min) – Catch a concert at Fischer Hall, enjoy rural backroads, or explore nearby canyons and creeks.
  • Woodcreek (5–10 min) – Golf among cypress trees, hike quiet trails, or unwind in this peaceful residential enclave.
  • Driftwood (20–25 min) – Sample Texas BBQ at Salt Lick, visit boutique wineries, or relax under oak-shaded patios.
  • Mountain City (25–30 min) – Enjoy scenic Hill Country views, spot deer at dusk, or take a peaceful drive through quiet neighborhoods.
  • Kyle (West Side) (25–30 min) – Walk Plum Creek trails, visit local breweries, or explore charming parks and cafés.
  • Jacob's Well Area (10–15 min) – Swim in a natural spring, hike limestone bluffs, or learn about the aquifer’s unique geology.

FAQ

  • What is Wimberley?
    • Wimberley is a charming city in Hays County, originally established as a trading post settlement in 1848.
  • Where is Wimberley located?
    • The city is located just an hour outside of Austin's downtown district.
  • Why is Wimberley known as an artistic haven?
    • Wimberley is a popular destination for artistic types, featuring many art galleries, performing arts venues, and live music halls.
  • What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy?
  • What annual events take place in Wimberley?
    • The city hosts several special events, including the Butterfly Festival, the Christmas Trail of Lights, and Market Days, a monthly downtown market event.

Plan Your Trip