Texas Traditions Tour

Experience the heart of Texas traditions on this 7-day / 6-night guided journey where cowboy heritage, Texas history, and Southern hospitality converge for an unforgettable adventure. Learn the cowboy way on a working ranch, join local characters at "the round table", and share stories around campfires beneath star-filled skies. Savor legendary Texas BBQ, float the spring-fed rivers of the Hill Country, get yourself a pair of cowboy boots, and dance the night away at Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas. Explore San Antonio’s Alamo and historic missions, stroll through vibrant markets, and discover the charm of small-town Texas. With the Gardners as your local hosts and guides, you’ll enjoy home-cooked meals, authentic experiences, and the warm welcome Texas is known for.

Is everything truly bigger and better in Texas? There's only one way to find out!

Day One: Arrival in Texas & Famous Steakhouse Dinner

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be welcomed by the Gardners, your friendly local hosts and guides. From there, you’ll travel to Centerville, Texas, a small town with deep Texas heritage. After checking into your cozy BnB, you’ll have time to settle in and get acclimated to your surroundings. That evening, enjoy a hearty Texas steakhouse dinner at one of Texas’ most famous steakhouses, a beloved local steakhouse known for its no-frills, full-flavor offerings—choose from steak, chicken, or pork, followed by homemade cobbler with ice cream, a house specialty.

Day Two: The Cowboy Way in Leon County

You will rise to a warm home-cooked country breakfast before visiting the Cowboy Church of Leon County—a come-as-you-are, faith-filled gathering that reflects the area’s deep-rooted values. After your morning at the Cowboy Church, you’ll find your way to the most beloved local eatery in town, where locals gather for Southern comfort food and good conversation. Expect to be treated like family and entertained by some true local characters. Then return to the ranch BnB for 4-wheeler ride, cattle check, and ranch chores. If a few cows have wandered off, you might find yourself in a spontaneous roundup—a taste of real ranch life. In the evening, gather for a home-cooked dinner and finish the day with a campfire under the starry Texas sky to share stories and enjoy the peace of the countryside.

Day Three: Authentic Texas Ranching & Chuckwagon Dinner

After breakfast, spend the morning at the local “Round Table” at Langley’s Store for coffee and conversation, then visit with a local farmer/rancher, helping with feeding animals, fixing fences, planting or harvesting crops, or wrangling cattle. Enjoy Texas BBQ at a legendary roadside stop known for a wide variety of homemade jerky and treats. You’ll then return to the ranch for optional horseback riding through the pastureland. As the sun dips low, you’ll savor a chuckwagon dinner with a cowboy poet—complete with campfire cooking and cowboy storytelling, a reminder of life’s simple pleasures. If you're up for a thrill, you'll have the option to try your hand at a true Texas tradition–a guided hog hunting adventure.

Day Four: Journey to the Texas Hill Country

You'll start with breakfast, then head southwest, stopping in Taylor, TX for legendary Texas BBQ brisket and ribs. After lunch, take a stroll down Austin’s Congress Avenue, stretching your legs as you pass historic shops and catch a glimpse of the grand Texas State Capitol. From there, you’ll continue on towards New Braunfels, shopping for cowboy boots and western wear along the way. Not far down the road, you’ll settle into your River Road accommodations, enjoy a home-cooked dinner, and unwind with local brews or live Texas music.

Day Five: Texas River Floating & Gruene Hall Dancing

After a hearty breakfast, set out for the ultimate Texas summer tradition—floating a spring-fed Texas river in the Hill Country. This is where Texans go to unwind with friends, family, and there’s always a cold drink in hand. As you drift through the cool, spring-fed waters and scenic Hill Country views, you’ll pause midday for a riverside picnic, meeting fellow Texans along the way. In the evening, explore the historic town of Gruene, TX, with its historic shops and antique stores, dine at a riverside restaurant, and dance (or relax) at Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest dance hall.

Day Six: Remember the Alamo – San Antonio City Tour

Travel to San Antonio, the Alamo City, and explore Mission San José, the San Fernando Cathedral, and the Alamo—three iconic landmarks that tell the story of the fight for Texas’ independence, and all part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage site. Dine at San Antonio’s most colorful and beloved Tex-Mex restaurant, then stroll through Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican Market in the USA. End the day with a farewell dinner in New Braunfels and perhaps one last evening of live Texas music.

Day Seven: Farewell Breakfast & Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast at the BnB and soak in the last moments of Hill Country charm. Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance to relax or pick up a last-minute Texas souvenir. When it’s time, your guide will take you to the airport, ensuring you arrive with plenty of time for check-in and a smooth journey home. You’ll leave with lasting memories and a true taste of Texas.

Included

• Professional Guides*
• All Transportation*
• Accommodations at BnB*
• Breakfasts (6), Lunch (6) & Dinners (6)
• Dine at some of Texas’ Most Famous Joints
• Three Nights in Laid-Back Centerville
• Three Nights in the Hill Country
• Visit a Real Cowboy Church*
• Ride 4-Wheelers on a Farm & Ranch
• Experience Life on a Farm & Ranch*
• Ride Horses on a Ranch*
• Chuckwagon Dinner under the Stars*
• Go Hunting / Shoot Guns*
• Shop for Cowboy Boots & a Cowboy Hat
• Float a Texas River*
• Visit Multiple Live Music Venues
• Dance at the Oldest Dance Hall in Texas
• Visit Mission San José
• Visit San Fernando Cathedral
• Visit the Alamo
• Professional Photography + Photos*
• Detailed Itinerary & Tour Packet
• Seasonal Packing List
• Emergency Support

Not Included

• Airfare
• Visa (if necessary)
• Alcoholic Drinks
• Tips (Guides, Drivers, etc)

More Information

• A star next to items under INCLUDED note that more information can be found in the WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TOUR section.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TOUR

On this Texas Traditions Tour, you’ll start your journey with a warm welcome at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental and wrap things up in Austin at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. From the moment you arrive to the moment you head home, we’ve got everything covered—your transportation, accommodations, private tours and experiences, and meals have all been thoughtfully arranged and taken care of by Gardner Tours. Your guide will be by your side the whole way, sharing stories, history, and local insight to give you a genuine taste of Texas—from cowboy culture to small-town charm. All we ask is that you kick back, soak it all in, and enjoy yourself. And if plans happen to shift a bit along the way, don’t worry—our guides are seasoned pros who’ll handle any bumps in the road with calm and care, making sure you’re always well looked after and getting the authentic Texas experience you came for.

Your Tour Guides

Our guides are not only knowledgeable in the culture and region—they are dedicated hosts committed to serving you throughout your entire journey. From the moment your day begins to the time you return to your BnB each night, they are there to ensure your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. You’ll have the freedom to take the tour at your own pace—whether that means savoring every bite of a meal, soaking in a scenic view, or asking as many questions as your curiosity allows. Whatever you need, your guide will be there to accommodate, assist, and make sure every moment of your trip feels seamless, personal, and warmly cared for.

Texas Tour Transportation & Time on the Road

On any of our Texas Tours, you’ll travel in comfort in a private vehicle reserved just for your group—no strangers, no crowded shuttles. Our vehicles are spacious, clean, and equipped to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Your pace is our pace, and we’re happy to slow down, speed up, or take that scenic detour if it suits you. While there may be a day or two with longer stretches on the road (usually no more than three hours total in a day), we make frequent, thoughtful stops to stretch, explore, and enjoy the sights and tastes that make Texas special. Whether it’s pulling over at a roadside BBQ joint, browsing a small-town antique shop, or snapping a photo of longhorns in the pasture, we make sure the journey is just as memorable as the destination. With your friendly local guide behind the wheel, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and soak up the Texas scenery.

Texas Tour Accommodations

During your stay in the Lone Star State, you’ll be settling into cozy, locally-owned bed and breakfasts where charm and warm hospitality are part of the package. These handpicked Texas BnBs often come with a front porch made for sittin’, a swing or rocker to unwind in, and homey touches like antique furnishings, hand-stitched quilts, and fresh-brewed coffee in the morning. Most rooms comfortably sleep two guests, but if you’d like to bunk up with your travel partners (up to three folks per room), just let us know in your booking notes—we’re happy to make arrangements so y’all feel right at home.

Cowboy Church

Cowboy Church is a come-as-you-are, Jesus-centered gathering rooted in the heart of Texas’ western heritage. It’s a place where folks in boots and hats worship right alongside visitors from all walks of life—no dress code, no expectations, just genuine faith and warm hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or just passing through, you’ll be welcomed with open arms by a community that lives out their values with heart and humility.

The Farm & Ranch

Days on a Texas farm and ranch—especially in the summertime—sure can be a sweaty affair, with the heat and humidity rollin’ in strong from June through September. So, we kindly ask that you come prepared for the weather, but rest assured—this isn’t a hard-labor experience. The emphasis is on learning, connecting, and soaking up the authentic rhythm of farm & ranch life at a gentle pace. You’ll join your hosts for whatever the land calls for—maybe feeding animals, fixing a fence, planting or harvesting crops, or even wrangling cattle—but always in a way that’s comfortable for you. No two days are ever quite the same out here. Our goal is to give you a true, hands-on feel for what life’s really like for a Texas farmer and rancher, but always at your pace. Don’t worry, Texas farmers and ranchers don’t move very fast to begin with. There will be plenty of time for stories, photos, and questions along the way, with cold water and snacks on hand to keep you feeling good. Planting season usually runs from mid-February to late March, with harvest happening mid-May through early August, but no matter when you visit, the real highlight is time spent with your local hosts—swapping stories, learning the ropes, and experiencing the true spirit of Texas farm and ranch life without feeling rushed or worn out.

Horseback Riding on the Ranch (optional)

The horses you’ll be riding on this tour aren’t just any horses—they’re seasoned pros with years of experience under their saddles. Most of ’em have spent their days in rodeo or wranglin’ cattle out on the ranch, so they know their way around folks. That said, they’re as gentle as a spring breeze and always happy to meet new riders. We’d never set you up with a wild horse or one that isn’t fully trained—your safety and comfort are our top priorities. So whether you’re a first-timer or an old hand, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hooves. Since this is an outdoor activity, horseback riding is weather-dependent—if Mother Nature decides otherwise, we’ll adjust plans with a comfortable and equally enjoyable alternative. But don’t worry, if riding horses is not your thing, you’re more than welcome to sit this one out and enjoy the 4-wheelers once more. This is your tour, and we’ll always honor your pace, your preferences, and the weather’s say-so.

Chuckwagon Dinner on the Range

As the day winds down, you’ll step back in time for an authentic chuckwagon dinner on the open Texas range. Your host—a lifelong cowboy, chef, and poet—will welcome you with the warmth of Old West hospitality as he serves up a hearty meal of steak, beans, biscuits, and cobbler, all cooked low and slow over an open fire. Expect rustic seating around the chuckwagon that sets the stage for a relaxed evening beneath the wide Texas sky, where the glow of sunset gives way to a canopy of stars. Between bites, you’ll be treated to cowboy poetry and ranch stories that capture the spirit of life on the range. Since this is a true outdoor experience, the chuckwagon dinner is weather-dependent—we’ll make every effort to proceed as planned, but if the forecast doesn’t cooperate, you’ll enjoy the same Texas flavors and cowboy hospitality in a cozy, covered setting nearby. Be prepared for rustic facilities, cooler evening temperatures, and, in warmer months, a few mosquitoes—layers and bug spray are recommended. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if shared in advance. More than just a meal, this slow-paced evening invites you to savor good food, good company, and the timeless magic of Texas under the stars.

Hunting & Shooting (optional)

Here in Texas, we believe in doing things the right way—especially when it comes to firearms. Before you ever lay a hand on a gun, we’ll walk you through a thorough safety briefing to make sure you feel confident and secure. Your safety is our top concern, and we don’t cut corners when it comes to handling firearms. Should you decide to join in on the hunt, you’ll likely be going after wild hogs—an invasive critter that tears up the land and gobbles up crops faster than you can say “barbecue.” But don’t worry, if hunting is not your thing, you’re more than welcome to stick to target shootin’ or sit this one out altogether. This is your tour, and we’ll always honor your pace and your preferences.

Floating a Texas River

In the Texas Hill Country, floating a river is a time-honored summer tradition—and we’ll show you why it’s such a beloved way to cool off. You’ll hop onto an inner tube (with or without a bottom to keep your rear-end scratch-free) or climb aboard a large raft if you prefer. Inner tubes are the classic—and usually considered “the most fun” way to float, letting you drift lazily while still splashing around with your group. Whether you’re meandering down the Guadalupe or the spring-fed Comal, you’re in for a memorable experience. The best months for river floating are typically May through September, when warm weather pairs perfectly with the cool spring-fed waters, though June, July, and August are the most popular and lively times. Do note that Texas summers can be hot and dry, and every once in a while, a drought lowers the water levels. That just means that our water levels will determine which river you float, and it also often affects the length of your float. Don’t worry, if you visit in a dry season, the float may be a little slower, with a few more rocks to navigate, but it never takes away from the fun. There will always be plenty of water to dip your toes in, cool off, and soak up that Hill Country sunshine. We’ll make sure you’re well-prepared with everything you need for a safe, easy-going day on the river—whether it’s a lazy float or a lively one, the Texas rivers never disappoint.

Departure Day

As your unforgettable Texas Tour comes to a close, how your final day unfolds will depend on your flight departure. If you have a late flight, you might get to sleep in and take the morning easy. If your flight is early, we will need to rise early and get on the road. We will plan accordingly, and when it’s time to head out, your Gardner Tours guide will escort you directly from your BnB to the airport. We’ll ensure you arrive 3–4 hours before your scheduled flight so you have plenty of time to check in, clear security and customs, and pick up any last-minute Texas souvenirs. Our goal is to make your departure just as smooth and stress-free as the rest of your journey.

Professional Photography + Edited Photos

Here at Gardner Tours, we take a lot of pride in capturing your adventure through professional photography—so you can put your phone down, soak in every moment, and truly enjoy the ride. In fact, offering photography came about thanks to one of our guests who told us, “Y’all take such great photos, I haven’t needed to take a single one. I’ve loved just being present.” That sure stuck with us, and now we make it part of every tour. As a friendly little trade, once you leave us a review on TripAdvisor, we’ll send you a link to download your edited tour photos—free of charge. It’s our way of saying thanks and helping you relive the memories, long after you’ve hung up your boots.

Our Guarantee to You

At Gardner Tours, we’re dedicated to providing you with an experience that’s as professional and polished as it is warm and welcoming. From start to finish, you can count on a thoughtfully planned journey that’s comprehensive, engaging, and full of local charm. If you have any questions or if there’s something you’d like to tweak to make this tour fit you even better, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to accommodate your requests and make sure your Texas adventure is exactly what you’re hoping for—and then some.