Welcome to Boerne

Nestled against a lush, scenic backdrop of the Texas Hill Country, Boerne (the seat of Kendall County) is a Germanheritage town that has retained much of its Old-World charm, despite its proximity to San Antonio which is just 30 minutes away. Boerne’s rich and storied past and its resident’s commitment to keeping the heritage alive for future generations have made it not only a popular place to visit, but a wonderful community to live and raise a family, retire, or open a business.

HISTORY The area—originally called Tusculum- German immigrants who brought their language, customs, and music with them. Though that initial settlement attempt was short-lived, the area would be successfully settled three years later by Gustav Theissen and John James who surveyed and laid out the town’s site and renamed it Boerne. The name was a nod to Karl Ludwig Börne, the nom de plume of a German journalist and political activist who inspired many young Germans to leave their homeland and travel to the new world.

Today, the customs and music can still be found in the music and German-heritage events that take place. A beloved, historic gem can be found right inside the front entrance of the Patrick Heath Public Library. Boerne is home to a rare, Luther’s High German translation. The big mystery is how the centuries-old Bible made its way to Boerne. Displayed and preserved under glass, it can be viewed during regular library hours.

ARCHITECTURE Boerne’s European beginnings are evident in the old stone buildings with narrow windows, steep gables, outside stairways and gardens. Today, many of the historic structures still remain along the Hill Country to their architectural pasts with beloved heritage buildings now taking on new lives as art galleries, boutiques, breweries, bistros, bakeries, and specialty stores.

SHOPPING districts are lined with an abundant array of independent shops whose offerings include antiques, home décor and furnishings, clothing and accessories, jewelry, gourmet treats, Christmas ornaments, Cibolo Creek. Throughout the year, there are several popular shopping events including the popular Diva Nights, Chocolate Walk, and Stocking Stroll.

ARTS AND CULTURE A thriving local arts and cultural scene includes several art galleries, the Boerne Community Theatre, and Boerne Perform of world-class performances to town each year. The City of Boerne’s “Art al Fresco”

program is responsible for the public art installations that dot the trail system and other locations along DINING There are many local talented chefs who contribute to the eclectic array of dining options, with choices that range from casual Sprinkled throughout town and along the Hill Country to unwind with a nightcap, including several craft breweries, some of whom offer live music, outdoor seating, and pet-friendly areas. The cuisine includes European, German, American, BBQ, and much more. There are also some wonderful bakeries and coffee shops in town.

OUTDOOR/NATURE For outdoor enthusiasts, there are multiple hike and bike trail systems in both Boerne and throughout Kendall County. There are also numerous city and county parks, recreational facilities, Boerne City Lake, nearby state parks, and the popular Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm—a wilderness preserve and farm that feature who want to explore down under, there are also two show caves in Boerne-- Cascade Caverns, and Cave Without a Name.

Award-winning healthcare close to home.