Cowboy Capital of the World

"Cowboy Capital of the World" is the handle given to Bandera, Texas many years ago. The rugged landscape, rustic architecture, huge ranches, and friendly atmosphere ensures the town lives up to that reputation. Bandera, Texas is a small town located in what's called the Hill Country, about 45 minutes northwest of San Antonio.

11th Street Cowboy Saloon

Old buildings turned into boutiques

Gunslingers sells western wears, clothing, blankets, boots, etc

In 1874 Bandera became the staging point for large cattle drives travelling to Dodge City. It has been said that six million cattle have moved through Bandera back in the day.

It might be metal but it's the first longhorn we've seen

Well known people such as Paris Hilton and Nicole Ritchie worked at the Bandera County Courthouse and Jail while filming The Simple Life 2. Personally can't say as I've ever watched an episode nor wanted to.

Bandera County Court built in 1890

Beautiful mural painted on visitors center

In 1855 Polish families arrived in Bandera. They were given large parcels of land and put to work in the local sawmill. The St. Stanislaus Catholic Church which is still present today was built by these first Polish families. It is the second oldest Polish Parrish in the United States built in 1876

St Stanislaus Catholic Church

As we walked around the Catholic Parrish premises we came across this headstone that took Susan and myself both by surprise. I'm going to post it but not comment on it.

Reads "Dedicated to the innocent victims of abortion"  Knights of Columbus Council



The town of Bandera sits on the beautiful Medina River also known as the Catfish River. The river was named after the Spanish explorer Pedro Medina in 1689. The Bandera Community Park sits on the bank of this beautiful river and hosts many town events.

Medina River

Clear but very cold, no polar plunge here

Bandera is a popular destination on Sunday mornings by motorcyclists from San Antonio. It's known as the Bandera Breakfast Run. My friends George and Patti would love that. It's a little far from SW Florida but the food it worth it. We decided to eat at OST which stands for Old Spanish Trail. The diner has been serving food since 1921 so I figured they must have gotten something right.

Great atmosphere

Mosey on up and straddle a saddle

Interesting décor

Susan wanted Tex-Mex food she said it was good

I had a Swiss mushroom burger, it was the best

We truly did enjoy our day in Bandera. The people were fantastic, the scenery amazing, and the food well what can I say there was nothing left on my plate. That says everything if you know me. As we were leaving town I couldn't help but stop to take one last picture. I couldn't get it all in the picture but a little boy was outside playing by this house. He had a cowboy hat and boots on. How fitting for the "Cowboy Capital of the World".