Running from Kerr County, Texas, to San Antonio Bay on the Gulf of Mexico, the Guadalupe River is a popular destination for travelers looking for a bit of adventure, or just a fun way to cool off from the Texas heat. One of the most beautiful natural features in the state, the 230-mile river runs along banks lined with limestone and pecan and bald cypress trees, and straight through charming towns such as Kerrville, New Braunfels, and Gruene. People come for the scenic hiking and fishing, but by far the most popular way to enjoy the region is tubing on the Guadalupe River.

For a more adventurous way to spend a day, you can hire a canoe or try your hand at rafting. When the sun goes down, there are many places to head out for a taste of Tex-Mex or some of the state’s famous barbecue and catch some live music. The area is also home to plenty of cabins on the river to keep you close to the action.

Located just 30 miles from San Antonio, the river is best accessed by air travelers flying into San Antonio International Airport (SAT). From the airport, renting a car is your best option, as public transportation along the river can be complicated, and availability can be patchy in more rural spots. If you want to make the most of the area’s restaurants, bars, and lively nightlife, booking a rideshare or cab is a sensible option, while hiring a rental car gives you maximum flexibility, especially if you decide to explore further afield or head into San Antonio for a visit to the Alamo.

The Guadalupe River is a popular destination from spring through fall. Between March and September, expect the Texas heat to be at its fiercest. This can also make summer the ideal time to take advantage of river activities such as tubing and canoeing. The fall generally brings temperate weather, and the striking ochre and orange foliage in Guadalupe River State Park is an impressive sight. One thing to note is that the Texas weather can change dramatically. Thunderstorms or a particularly dry spell could limit the activities that are available at Guadalupe River, so paying attention to any weather advisories is a must. FolkFest in New Braunfels takes place in late April every year to celebrate the city’s German heritage with live music, traditional dishes, and historical reenactments.

Tubing the river

Southern Texas is famous for its extreme summer heat, and one way to beat it is to spend a lazy day tubing the Guadalupe River. There are plenty of launch points and rental companies along the river that offer shuttle services back to where you started. Float times vary depending on river levels, and children under five will not be permitted to ride in most conditions. Most tubing rental companies operate between March and September.

Fly fishing

The Guadalupe River is one of the nation’s hotspots for fly fishing all year round. Every winter, thousands of rainbow trout are released into the river, attracting fishermen from all over the country. Get the lowdown on the best spots from a local outfitter, who can also hook you up with all the right equipment.

Gruene Hall

Located in New Braunfels, Gruene Hall is the oldest continually operating dancehall in Texas. Since 1975, it has hosted countless celebrities and up-and-coming musicians who come here to cut their teeth or try out new material. Take a break from the Texas Two-Step to check out the photos on the walls celebrating some of the venue’s most famous guests, which include many of the biggest names in country music.