Explore Medina County through a range of themes: the Medina River and Medina Lake, historic architecture, and Alsatian traditions in Castroville. When planning, it is worth considering the kind of experience you are looking for: Some dates follow a set event calendar, while conditions on the water can change.
River, Lake, and Historic Routes
The Medina Dam was completed in 1912. Old River Road follows the Medina River and can only be used during daylight hours. Flat Rock Crossing is also on this road: In the 18th century, Spaniards used the ford to transport building materials and supplies to the missions established in Frio River Canyon. Here, a present-day road description meets a historic transportation route.
At Medina Lake, the landscape is shaped by coves, rocky outcrops, and the beds of its tributaries. At the end of Park Road 37, in Plum Creek Cove, there is a concrete ramp. It can be used at most water levels; when the water is lower, boats can also be launched from the gravel shore. Water levels and local management can change conditions, so it is advisable to check before your visit.
To reach Castroville Regional Park, travel from US 90 via Geneva Street and Lisbon Street: Follow Geneva Street south for 0.4 miles to Lisbon Street and turn there. From there, it is 0.2 miles to the park entrance. Check road conditions before you drive.
Architecture and Cultural History
The Medina County Courthouse showcases Classical Revival architecture with Italianate influences. St. Louis Catholic Church was built in 1870 from local limestone and hand-hewn cypress. The Steinbach Haus offers a different historical perspective: It was originally built between 1618 and 1648 in Wahlbach, France.
The Castroville Historic Walking Tour takes visitors to more than 70 homes and structures built between 1844 and 1920. The Biry House is the site of the Castro Colonies Living History Center. Together, the names and dates offer a tangible starting point for exploring Castroville through its architectural history and the places connected to it.
The Landmark Inn State Historic Site spans five acres beneath tall trees along the Medina River. Its history encompasses migration, industry, and historic preservation in Texas. The Landmark Inn is considered part of the San Antonio metropolitan area—a regional connection worth keeping in mind when placing the site in context.
Alsatian Traditions and Events
In Castroville, especially large numbers of Alsatian red poppies bloom along roads and in gardens in March and April; bloom intensity varies from year to year. The Alsatian Festival is held annually on the last Saturday in April. It celebrates Alsatian culture in Castroville and the other Castro Colonies of Medina County. Festival offerings include traditional Alsatian food, as well as beer and wine. Check the program for the current edition before your trip.
The History Happy Hour also combines history with a set date: It takes place quarterly on the second Thursday in March, June, September, and December at 6:30 p.m. at the Landmark Inn. Historians and family stories bring the history of Castroville and the region to life. Check the current schedule before planning your visit.
Green Spaces in Hondo
Hondo maintains 107 acres of parkland across 14 city parks. Each park is equipped with picnic tables, barbecue grills, and playground equipment. This city park offering complements the county's historic sites and water-related attractions with another way to spend time outdoors.
When choosing a vacation rental, it can help to decide on the main focus of your trip first. For a festival visit, the date of the current edition is key; for a stay that includes boating, water levels and local management matter. This can help you choose travel dates and check the relevant conditions in advance to suit your plans.
Discover more destinations: Mico, La Salle County, Hardeman, Bowie County, Comal, Bandera, Grayson, Kimble County.
For the broader travel overview: Texas.
