New Braunfels, Texas: The Ultimate Summer Travel Guide
Written By a New Braunfels Native
Are you planning on visiting New Braunfels this summer? Are you unsure of what to do? In this post, I will give you all the information you need to plan the ultimate summer trip to this charming town.
The best travel advice is one from a local. Since I grew up in New Braunfels, I will give you all the information you need to plan your trip here.
So, let’s get started.
About New Braunfels
New Braunfels is a famous Texas Hill Country destination known for its rich German history, rivers, live music, and delicious food. The city is located between Austin and San Antonio, making it a great Texas travel destination. You can learn more about the town at PlayInNewBraunfels.com.
The most popular time to visit New Braunfels is in the summer (May through August). However, you can visit all year with an average of 225+ days per year, or 61.6%, being sunny. If you are not a fan of large crowds (like me), I recommend going in the pre-season (March through early May) or post-season (September through October).
New Braunfels’ German History
Now for the history…
New Braunfels was founded in 1845 by a German Prince who named the city after his hometown: Solms-Braunfels, Germany. German settlers flocked to the town and established nearby German communities like Fredericksburg.
When strolling through downtown, you will notice that the city’s German heritage is strongly preserved.
Tourism
As I stated earlier, summer is the most popular time to visit and when the city receives the most tourists. Additionally, many tourists return in November for Wurstfest, a German beer and sausage festival, and in December for Wassailfest.
Top 10 Things To Do in New Braunfels
There are many fun things to do in New Braunfels and for all ages. You may not have time to do all these, so pick the ones that match your taste.
1). Float the River
Firstly, you must float the river because this is what our city is known for! Many tubing outfitters in New Braunfels provide tubes and shuttle services for an easy floating experience.
There are two rivers: the Comal River and the Guadalupe River. If you only have time to float one, I recommend the Comal because it is more seamless, and the water is typically clearer.
The Comal River
The Comal River runs centrally through downtown, eventually leading into the Guadalupe River. This river is known for its 72-degree year-round water temperature. Although man-made, it is naturally spring-fed, so its water is crystal clear.
The Comal is only 2.5 miles long and has been proclaimed the “longest shortest river in the world.” Therefore, the float is relatively short, and there are tube outfitters all along the river, making the floating process easy.
Tip: there are rules on the Comal, such as a can-ban, so make sure to read them before you go.
Click here to read my guide to floating the Comal, including a list of the best tubing outfitters, what to bring, and more!
The Guadalupe River
Unlike the Comal, the Guadalupe River is 230 miles long and runs through many parts of New Braunfels, including downtown and Gruene. The river also passes through nearby cities, such as Seguin, Kerrville, and Boerne. Eventually, the river flows into the Gulf of Mexico (but don’t worry—you won’t be floating that far).
The Guadalupe is characterized by its changing rapids and natural rocks. Therefore, locals enjoy the river for fly fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. If you want a little adventure, then definitely visit the Guadalupe.
Because of the Guadalupe’s size, there are fewer tubing outfitters along the river. I recommend the Horseshoe. Although not a tube outfitter, it’s a fun, leisurely float because you start and end at the same place! All you have to do is pay for parking and walk down to the river (oh, and bring your tube, which is cheaper than renting one).
2). Hang Out at Float In River Club
Secondly, you should check out Float In River Club, a family-owned and operated business on the Comal River. In addition to being a river club, Float In is a bar, restaurant, tubing outfitter, event space, and riverside beach.
Unlike other spots on the Comal, Float In provides guests with front-row river seating, private cabanas, grills, restrooms, food, drinks, and music. The property also has many photo ops and outdoor games to entertain you.
A couple of things to consider:
1). If you enjoy the party vibe, go on the weekend. Weekends on the Comal get crowded but are a lot of fun if you are into that. Also, every weekend, there is a live DJ.
2). If you want to relax and enjoy a more laid-back vibe, go during the week. The river is much less crowded.
Tip to SAVE $: The City of New Braunfels charges for parking right outside Float In’s gate, but what tourists do not know is there is free parking right up the street.
3). Take a Sunset Stroll at Faust Street Bridge
Thirdly, you should take a stroll on Faust Street Bridge, a hidden gem overlooking the Guadalupe River.
As you can see in the picture above, the view is gorgeous! I recommend going right before sunset to get the best lighting for photos. And, If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk to the left side of the bridge down to the river to dip your feet in. This would also be a great spot for an evening picnic!
4). Enjoy a Morning at New Braunfels’ Farmers Market
Fourthly, you should spend one morning at the New Braunfels Farmers Market. This market is held every Saturday from 9-10 a.m. in the parking lot of Krause’s Café. Local farmers, businesses, and artisans sell their goods, from produce to jewelry to sweet treats.
The perfect morning is to shop at the farmers market, enjoy live music, and then grab a coffee and breakfast at Krause’s Café.
5). Spend a Day in Gruene Historic District
Gruene (pronounced “green”) is another popular destination. Technically, Gruene is another city, but it is located in New Braunfels (a city in a city?).
The small town is known for its country and old-timey ambiance, making you feel you have teleported to another time. The Gruene water tower, red brick buildings, and Gruene Hall are ideal photo backdrops.
When in Gruene, you should check out Gruene General Store. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, including cowboy hats, magnets, postcards, and more. Also, the homemade fudge is delicious!
6). Put on Your Boots and Go Dancin’
If you are from Texas, you most likely own a pair of boots and know how to Texas two-step.
However, no worries if you are not from Texas, do not own a pair of boots, or do not know how to dance! New Braunfels dance halls are very inclusive. There are two places I recommend: Gruene Hall and Whitewater Amphitheater.
Gruene Hall
Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, is a must-visit. There is live music every day, so you will not miss out no matter when you go. The music is old Texas country style, and the performers are typically not big names, providing a more chill atmosphere.
Additionally, Gruene Hall offers swing dance lessons every Tuesday night from 6 to 7 p.m. before the Two Tons of Steel band plays for only $10 per person.
Whitewater Amphitheater
Whitewater features more prominent names, like Parker McCollum, Flatland Cavalry, or Randy Rogers Band (a New Braunfels Local).
So, if you prefer a more immersive concert experience, I recommend going to this venue rather than Gruene Hall.
Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance, and if you’re a country music fan, plan your trip around who is performing.
7). Unleash Your Inner Child at Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Schlitterbahn is the original waterpark and has been nominated “best waterpark” 23 years in a row. New Braunfels locals Bob and Billy Henry opened the park in 1979. As a family-owned and operated business, the Henry family developed and innovated the company with great pride to create what is there today.
Schlitterbahn is a top tourist destination, providing fun for all ages (even adults). There are pools, restaurants, bars, gift shops, lazy rivers… and many rides, of course! Some of the rides include the world’s longest ride, The Falls, and the first-ever surf simulator, Boogie Bahn.
Tip: Arrive early and ride the rides first to avoid long lines, then spend the rest of the day relaxing in the rivers and pools.
Make sure to try Dippin’ Dots, tiny, delicious ice cream balls!
8). Spend Some Nature Time at Landa Park
Landa Park is a riverside park with a walking trail, picnic tables, ducks, a miniature train, playgrounds, and more! If you have kids, definitely take them here to play and ride the train. But don’t forget to bring bread for the ducks!
On the other hand, if you do not have kids, you probably will not be using the train or playground. So, I suggest bringing a blanket and food for a nice picnic beside the water.
9). Explore Downtown New Braunfels
New Braunfels’ Historic Downtown District has so much to offer. I promise that spending a day getting to know Downtown is worth it. There are bakeries, shops, bars, restaurants, museums, a local theatre, antiques, boutiques, historic landmarks, and more! Also, Downtown is small enough for you to walk everywhere.
For all my shoppers out there, this is for you. I first recommend going into the antique shops to find some neat treasures. Also, Downtown has some cute boutiques run by New Braunfels locals that you must visit.
Favorite Boutiques: Dancing Pony, Boutique Chloe Rose, River Rose, and The Local
Next, take pictures at the gazebo and courthouse stairs for an “old-timey” aesthetic.
After that, enjoy a late lunch. If you’re in the mood for a more casual place, Bootleggers Pizza Parlor or Muck & Fuss are good. Otherwise, Huisache is my all-time favorite restaurant. It is hidden, so not many tourists know about it. The menu has unique dishes, such as spinach artichoke dip and parmesan-breaded chicken—yum!
And last but not least, satisfy your sweet tooth at one of the bakeries! Naeglins and 2Tarts are my favorites. Naeglins is the oldest bakery in Texas and is German-style, of course. The kolaches, gingerbread cookies, and smiley face cookies are delicious.
10). Bar Hop in Downtown New Braunfels
I told you about a day downtown, so now it’s time to tell you about New Braunfels’ nightlife. New Braunfels’ bars used to be quite old school, but in recent years, there have been some new developments, making the nightlife more “hip,” if you will call it.
There are lots of places, so bar hopping is a must…Pour Haus Patio Bar is the most well-known, with its “Instagrammable” swings and nightly live music. Another favorite is Moonshine & Ale Piano Bar. Downtown Social is also fantastic and has many games, such as pool and giant Scrabble. If you like Karaoke, Black Whale Pub has a secret top floor just for singing Karaoke.
Where to Eat in New Braunfels
Do you love discovering new places to eat when traveling? As a local, I know the BEST places to eat in New Braunfels. You can’t go wrong with any of New Braunfels’ restaurants, but I will tell you my favorites.
So, here are the places I recommend for each course, along with their general location and price range:
| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |
|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk Café (Gruene; $$) | Naturally Café (Gruene, $$) | Huisache Grill (Downtown, $$) |
| Union Station Diner (Downtown; $) | Pat’s Place (Downtown; $) | Krause’s Café (Downtown; $$) |
| Marina’s Mexican Restaurant (Downtown, $) | Cravings (Downtown; $) | McAdoo’s Seafood Company (Downtown; $$$) |
| Muck and Fuss (Downtown, $$) | Gruene River Grill (Gruene; $$) |
Where to Stay in New Braunfels
Guadalupe River Houses
Guadalupe River Houses has multiple overnight rentals, each with unique offerings. There are rentals in Gruene or on Lake Dunlap, all close to what I discussed earlier. Also, all places come with a fully equipped kitchen!
I recommend staying in one of the hand-built redwood tree houses at Cloud Lane. They are fully equipped with everything you need to feel at home. The Cloud Lane property is the most incredible place I have stayed. It is located on Lake Dunlap, only a 10-15-minute drive to downtown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Braunfels is a place you should add to your bucket list for Texas travel destinations. The city is fun and charming for all types of travelers. I hope this post helps you experience the ultimate summer trip to my hometown.
Sich amüsieren!
Madison Marie
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