Road Trippin': Boerne

Photo by Boerne Soup Kitchen

Road Trippin': Boerne

ALYSSA DE LOS SANTOS & MELINDA MATTSON

The area now known as Boerne, Texas was first settled in 1848 and called Tusculum. This land, just thirty minutes northwest of San Antonio, was originally named after Cicero’s home in ancient Rome. In 1852, German colonists renamed it in honor of German author Karl Ludwig Börne. The Anglicized spelling of Boerne was adopted, and then Texans did what Texans do and said it in their own cowboy way. Today, this beautiful Hill Country town is pronounced, Bur-nee, but don’t let the folksy name fool you, this town is a prize worth exploring.

Boerne’s rolling hills and wide-open space lend easily to a feeling of getting away. Nestled amidst the knolls is the charming downtown’s Main Street, referred to as the Hill Country Mile, lined with art galleries, trendy boutiques, antique stores, and quaint restaurants. The Old World charm is present even in new buildings, but the past shines through the architecture of over 140 historic structures throughout the area.

Top photo by Ye Kendall InnBottom photo by Snap Chic Photography

A Place to Stay

Ye Kendall Inn, just off the town square, is one of the city’s historic treasures. Just one glimpse of this 1859 beauty’s limestone walls and wraparound balcony show you the accommodations are anything but crusty. Recent renovations have raised this stately hotel to Pinterest-worthy proportions. Boutique style luxury runs deep in their guest rooms, suites, and cottages, offering an experience not found in a typical chain hotel. Sliding barn doors, gleaming wood floors, vintage credenzas, and glistening fixtures give you an idea of their attention to modern rustic design. But the heart of the place is a dreamy Antebellum Courtyard, which sits in the center of the property. Lights in the trees and an outdoor fireplace offer the ideal spot for conversation.

Something to Do

You won’t have to go far to find an adventure, as the Boerne trail system begins on the Inn’s grounds on the banks of Cibolo Creek. At just under two miles, The Cibolo Trail follows the town’s Main Street and includes a 150-foot pedestrian bridge cozied amongst trees, offering a beautiful view of a waterfall and stream. Don't forget to watch out for ducks! Locals tell us duck crossing is a legitimate traffic issue in the tiny town. As you take in the charm of historic Boerne, you can enjoy a walkable art exhibit through Art Al Fresco. This outdoor display features large scale sculptures along the trail and across the city’s historic district.

A Place to Eat

Top photo by Alyssa De Los SantosBottom photo by Boerne Soup Kitchen

When you’re hungry, head on over to Boerne Soup Kitchen (BSK). Located just off the north end of Main Street, this hidden gem offers more than a cup of soup. Created to offer nutritious, vegetableforward food, nurture community, and foster engagement, BSK is equal parts unique and satisfying. They boast a gluten-free kitchen, a menu with options to satisfy the carnivore and vegetarian alike, and a shaded, pet-friendly patio.

Owner Kathleen Wright’s vision is for BSK to be a gathering spot for family and friends. Board games are available, and patrons are encouraged to linger after their meal. Her hospitable heart reaches beyond the customer and into the community. Kathleen implemented a program called “Community Soup.” Guests can make a $2 donation that pays for a bowl of soup for someone in need and pin an accompanying note of encouragement to a board near the register. These handwritten notes are then exchanged as payment for anyone in need — no questions asked.

ALYSSA DE LOS SANTOS Alyssa De Los Santos is a hope hunter, speaker, and English teacher. She resides in Boerne, Texas with her husband, three children, and dog. Alyssa is the creator of the #sowkind movement and believes everyone is capable of making an impact one word at a time. You can find her at AlyssaDeLosSantos.com.

MELINDA MATTSON Melinda Mattson is a speaker and writer who seeks what's lovely and savors the present. She lives in San Antonio, Texas with her husband, where she raises girls, hopes, and hands. You can find Melinda at MelindaMattson.com.