Unlocking the Charms of New Braunfels, Texas

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Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

  • Food & Wine

  • Nature Escapes

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Texas

  • Downtown

  • History

  • Outdoors

A view of a local park with a river running through it on a sunny day.
Curator’s statement

Welcome to New Braunfels, Texas, where history, culture and outdoor adventure converge to create an unforgettable travel experience. Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, New Braunfels beckons visitors with its scenic beauty, German heritage and a wealth of recreational activities. From tubing down the picturesque Guadalupe River, to exploring historic districts and savoring authentic Texas barbecue, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Hill Country destination. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make New Braunfels a beloved Texas treasure.

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Where to stay in New Braunfels, Texas

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Things to do in New Braunfels, Texas

A waterpark, with curvy and colorful slides and a big pool during the daytime in New Braunfels.

Float the Rivers: Spend a relaxing day tubing or kayaking down the scenic Guadalupe or Comal rivers, enjoying the beautiful Hill Country scenery and refreshing waters.

Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark: Cool off at one of the country's top waterparks, featuring thrilling water rides, lazy rivers, wave pools and activities for all ages.

Take a Wine Tour: Discover the burgeoning wine scene in the Texas Hill Country with a wine tasting tour of local vineyards and wineries, sampling award-winning wines and enjoying scenic views.

Visit Landa Park:Spend a day at this expansive park, offering walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, paddleboat rentals, and a miniature train ride through the scenic landscape.

Attend a Live Music Event: Enjoy live music performances at iconic venues like Gruene Hall, where you can dance the night away to the sounds of country, blues and Americana music.

Explore the McKenna Children's Museum: Bring the family to this interactive museum, offering hands-on exhibits and educational activities focused on science, art, culture and history.

Play a Round of Golf: Tee off at one of New Braunfels' premier golf courses, offering challenging layouts, scenic views and top-notch amenities for golfers of all skill levels.

Go Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of the Hill Country countryside on horseback with a guided trail ride through scenic ranches and natural landscapes.

Attend a Festival or Event: Check out one of the many festivals and events held throughout the year in New Braunfels, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture.

Visit the Sophienburg Museum and Archives: Learn about the history and heritage of New Braunfels and its German settlers at this museum, featuring exhibits, artifacts and educational programs.

Go Fishing: Cast a line and try your luck at fishing in the Guadalupe or Comal rivers, known for their abundant fish populations and scenic beauty.

Day trips

San Antonio: Head south to San Antonio, located approximately thirty miles from New Braunfels, for a day of exploration and adventure.

Visit the historic Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the famous battle that took place there in 1836.

Explore the vibrant River Walk, with its scenic pathways, charming cafés, shops and restaurants lining the San Antonio River.

Take a boat tour along the San Antonio River to learn about the city's rich history and architecture, including the iconic Spanish colonial missions.

Austin:

Travel north to Austin, the capital of Texas, located approximately fifty miles from New Braunfels, for a day of music, culture and culinary delights.

Explore the eclectic neighborhoods of downtown Austin, including the historic Sixth Street entertainment district and trendy South Congress Avenue.

Visit the Texas State Capitol, where you can take a guided tour of the imposing pink granite building and learn about Texas history and government.

Enjoy live music at one of Austin's legendary music venues, such as the Continental Club or the Broken Spoke, and savor delicious Tex-Mex cuisine at a local restaurant.

Fredericksburg and Texas Wine Country:

Head west to Fredericksburg, a charming German-influenced town located approximately sixty miles from New Braunfels, for a day of wine tasting and exploration.

Explore the historic Main Street district, with its boutique shops, art galleries and German beer gardens offering authentic Bavarian cuisine.

Visit local wineries and vineyards in the Texas Hill Country, where you can sample award-winning wines and enjoy scenic views of rolling vineyards and countryside.
Take a scenic drive along the Fredericksburg Wine Road 290, stopping at wineries such as Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards and Pedernales Cellars for tastings and tours.

Places to eat & drink in New Braunfels, Texas

An outdoor, covered dining area with stone-tiled, tabletops with a view of green trees.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar: Located in a historic mill overlooking the Guadalupe River, this iconic restaurant serves up hearty Texas fare in a rustic setting.

Huisache Grill: Known for its upscale Southwestern cuisine and extensive wine list, Huisache Grill offers a sophisticated dining experience with a cozy atmosphere.

Muck & Fuss Craft Beer and Burger Bar: A favorite among locals, Muck & Fuss offers gourmet burgers, craft beers and creative cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere.

Krause's Cafe: Established in 1938, Krause's Cafe is a New Braunfels institution known for its German comfort food, beer garden, and live music events.

Gruene River Grill: Located in nearby Gruene, this restaurant offers Southern comfort food with a Texas twist, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Alpine Haus Restaurant: Serving authentic German cuisine in a cozy Alpine-inspired setting, Alpine Haus is a must-visit for those craving schnitzel, bratwurst, and other German specialties.

The Phoenix Saloon: Housed in a historic building dating back to 1871, The Phoenix Saloon offers a diverse menu of pub grub, craft beers and live music performances.

Pat's Place: A family-owned restaurant known for its homestyle cooking and friendly service, Pat's Place serves up classic American dishes with a Southern flair.

Myron's Prime Steakhouse: For a fine dining experience, Myron's Prime Steakhouse is the place to go, offering premium cuts of steak, seafood and decadent desserts.

Granzin Bar-B-Q: A local favorite for barbecue, Granzin Bar-B-Q serves up tender, smoky meats and classic sides in a no-frills setting.

Buttermilk Cafe:This cozy cafe is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options, including fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, and decadent cinnamon rolls.

Freiheit Country Store: A beloved spot for live music and Texas barbecue, Freiheit Country Store serves up mouthwatering brisket, ribs and sausage in a laid-back atmosphere.

Gennaro's Trattoria: Craving Italian cuisine? Gennaro's Trattoria offers authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, along with an extensive wine selection.

Need to know

As the sun sets on your adventures in New Braunfels, Texas, the memories of your explorations linger like cherished souvenirs, each day trip offering a new perspective on the rich tapestry of experiences found within the Lone Star State.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Texas. For more travel tips, check out my guide, Unveiling Marfa: Exploring the Artistic Oasis of West Texas.