Best Texas Hill Country Engagement Session Locations
I love helping my couples choose photoshoot locations that fit their personalities and love stories. From taking photos in your favorite small town to adventuring off the beaten path, the Texas Hill Country has some of the best engagement session locations. Here are a few of my favorites between Austin, San Antonio and all the small Texas towns in between.
Top San Antonio Engagement Photo Locations
The Pearl – San Antonio, TX
Historic Downtown Hub
Many of my San Antonio-area couples love The Pearl – and it’s easy to see why. With easy access to the Riverwalk and centered around the Culinary Institute of America, this SA staple allows for so many unique engagement photo shoot ideas. Make it a weekend getaway and stay at the historic Hotel Emma located onsite.
Want to see more? Check out Alyson and Jon’s Pearl engagement photos.
The McNay Museum – San Antonio, TX
Artful & Timeless
The McNay offers 25 acres of beautifully curated outdoor grounds to use as your backdrop. This location has a variety of aesthetics to choose from with Spanish Colonial architecture to contemporary installations like the iconic “LOVE” sculpture. The creative possibilities are endless!
- Be sure to confirm availability with their rental and events calendar
- Photography pass/fee required by the museum
The Riverwalk – San Antonio, TX
Iconic Riverside Oasis
The Riverwalk has stolen the hearts of countless locals and visitors alike with its vibrant culture, history and boat tours. It doesn’t get more authentically San Antonio than these meandering limestone paths.
Central Library – San Antonio, TX
Vibrant Modern Vibes
A stunning contemporary building filled with photogenic angles, this library engagement location is a stand-out. Perfect for any book lover or art enthusiast!
Confluence Park – San Antonio, TX
Stunning City Park Vibes
Dramatic stone arches, lush greenery and truly unique (and eco-friendly) architecture capture the eye at this downtown San Antonio city park
Mission Concepción – San Antonio, TX
Old World Elegance
A beautiful San Antonio landmark, Concepción stands as the oldest unrestored church in America. With deep historical roots, this mission is a beautiful backdrop with iconic stone archways and lovingly tended grounds.
- Note: This is the only mission that doesn’t require a park pass or photography permit!
Éilan Hotel and Spa – San Antonio, TX
Romantic European Aesthetic
Tuscan-inspired architecture, panoramic Texas Hill Country views, plus European-style touches make this San Antonio hotel a go-to for elegant and timeless engagement photos.
Top Austin Engagement Photo Locations
South Congress – Austin, TX
Trendy Downtown Vibes
Taking photos along South Congress is a fun way to capture the spirit of the capitol’s downtown. Countless murals and iconic local businesses line the street for a truly Austin vibe. Plus, a short walk north of the neighborhood takes you to the waters of Lady Bird Lake for even more picturesque possibilities!
Butler Park – Austin, TX
Urban Naturescape
The winding Colorado River cuts through scenic downtown Austin at this urban park engagement location. With the Austin skyline perfectly outlined behind the river, this spot creates a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Want to see more? Check out Nicole and Danny’s Butler Park engagement photos.
- Note: Parking can be challenging. If the lot off of Dawson Road or West Riverside is full your next best bet is the parking garage for Palmer Events Center. Parking in the garage is FREE on Sundays.
Top Small Town Hill Country Engagement Photo Locations
Looking to escape the cities and venture out into the scenic countryside? These small-town engagement photo locations are a sweet way to capture your love.
Cibolo Nature Center – Boerne, TX
Hill Country Golden Hour
Grand Cypress trees line the banks of Cibolo Creek and provide a natural canopy for stunning outdoor portraits. The nature center provides six miles of outdoor trails and the perfect setting for capturing those dreamy golden hour engagement photos.
- Dog-friendly
Joshua Springs Park and Preserve – Comfort, TX
Natural Hill Country Vibes
With over 400 acres to wander, Joshua Springs captures the idyllic outdoor setting of the Hill Country. The parkland stretches out all around you with rolling grass fields, a tranquil pond and the shade of oak trees.
Signor Vineyards – Fredericksburg, TX
Classic Hill Country Winery
Deeply rooted in the Fredericksburg wine scene, Signor has a long-standing Hill Country heritage and offers a beautiful backdrop of grapevines and French country gardens. While many vineyards are best in the spring and summer, Signor is stunning year-round due to their carefully upkept grounds – making it one of my personal favorites!
- Vineyard photoshoot tip: Contact the winery for their photo policy. Many charge a small fee.
James Kiehl River Bend Park – Comfort, TX
Intimate Outdoor Oasis
A hidden Hill Country gem, this park is situated along the rambling Guadalupe River with countless walking trails. With much less foot traffic than other popular parks, this location is a sweet spot for a picnic engagement shoot or to relax riverside.
- Dog-friendly
Downtown Comfort, TX
Idyllic Small Town Charm
Sometimes it’s all in a name – and Comfort brings all the quintessential sweetness you could desire for a small town engagement session. Downtown is speckled with quaint shops, restaurants and antique malls for a range of timeless backdrops.Want to see more? Check out Sirena & Garrett’s downtown Comfort engagement photos.
Top Hill Country State Park Engagement Locations
For my nature-loving couples, these Texas Hill Country engagement session locations include some of the most diverse outdoor spots in the state. I’m always up for an adventure, and these parks not only create beautiful photos, but wonderful memories.
Note: these locations do require park day passes.
Garner State Park – Concan, TX
Riverside Adventure
One of the most beloved rivers in the Hill Country, the sparkling waters of the Frio are a magical centerpiece of this engagement location. Whether you want to dip your toes into the shallows or hike to the top of Old Baldy Summit, this park does not disappoint. Garner is especially beautiful for fall Hill Country engagement photos with its stunning autumn colors.
Want to see more? Check out this surprise proposal at Garner State Park.
Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City, TX
Tranquil River Vibes
Pedernales Falls offers a stunning backdrop for photos with the river running over and around sweeping slabs of limestone. A short drive from Austin, it is an easy hike down to the falls with well-maintained steps that take you down to the riverbank.
Want to see more? Check out Emma & Stephen’s Pedernales Falls engagement photos.
- Park tip: During their busy season (spring/summer), book your entry in advance as the park fills up quickly.
Palmetto State Park – Gonzales, TX
Hill Country Tropical
Named after the dwarf palmettos growing under the trees, this park offers a hint of the tropics just an hour’s drive from Austin or San Antonio.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – Fredericksburg, TX
Breathtaking Hill Country Views
For thousands of years, people have been drawn to the natural magic of Enchanted Rock. Hike to the top of this spectacular pink granite rock for awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Hill Country.
- Park tip: Make reservations in advance as the park fills up quickly.
Guadalupe River State Park – Spring Branch, TX
Rambling River Vibes
The tranquil shores of the Guadalupe River cut through spectacular limestone cliffs,
making this park a beautiful backdrop for nature-inspired engagement photos.
These are just a few of the best Texas Hill Country engagement session locations – and my list of favorites is always growing!
Want to have your engagement story captured in a fun and romantic way? Let’s plan your session together! Get in touch here.
