Things To Do
in New Braunfels
New Braunfels is a charming city located in the state of Texas, United States. It is known for its rich German heritage and cultural attractions, such as the annual Wurstfest celebration. The city is also famous for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Comal and Guadalupe rivers which offer opportunities for tubing and water activities.
Visitors can enjoy exploring historic downtown, shopping at unique boutiques, or relaxing in one of the many local parks.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the historic Gruene district. Visit the Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas, and enjoy breakfast at a local café.
Spend your afternoon tubing down the Comal River, a popular activity for all ages. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a picnic for a delightful riverside lunch.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy live music and local cuisine while soaking in the beautiful sunset.
Rent bicycles and explore the scenic River Trail along the Guadalupe River. Stop by the local farmers' market for fresh produce and snacks.
Visit Landa Park, where you can relax or take part in various outdoor activities like paddle boating. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery that offers classic Texan dishes.
Return to Landa Park for a leisurely evening stroll as the sun sets. Enjoy a peaceful picnic while you unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of German and Texan influences.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including rivers and parks, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Vibrant local festivals, such as Wurstfest and the New Braunfels Arts and Crafts Showcase.
- Growing food scene with diverse dining options.
- Family-friendly attractions, including Schlitterbahn Waterpark and animal parks.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Rapid growth leading to increased traffic and congestion.
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potential for extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and storms.
- Tourist influx can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
Best Activities in New Braunfels
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely float down the scenic Comal River, known for its clear water and beautiful surroundings. Tubing is a popular summer activity in New Braunfels.
Explore Landa Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, a mini-golf course, paddle boats, and beautiful spring-fed pools for swimming. It's a great place for outdoor family fun.
Experience the natural beauty of New Braunfels by hiking the Panther Canyon Nature Trail, a relatively easy trail that winds through scenic woodlands and offers opportunities for birdwatching.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Braunfels with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Braunfels
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers beautiful views of the Comal River, walking trails, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for photos and relaxation.
The Guadalupe River provides stunning views and opportunities for water-based photography, especially during sunset.
This historic district features charming buildings and a picturesque atmosphere, ideal for capturing the essence of New Braunfels.
Food in New Braunfels
New Braunfels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Czech pastry that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Visit Naegelin's Bakery for delicious kolaches.
Must-Try!
Savor the Texan flavors with brisket tacos, often served with tangy salsa and fresh cilantro. Head to local food trucks or spots like Huisache Grill for authentic brisket tacos.
Explore the German influence with schnitzel, a dish consisting of breaded and fried meat, often served with potato salad or spaetzle. Alpine Haus Restaurant is a recommended spot for excellent schnitzel.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Braunfels better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food at the New Braunfels Farmers Market, held on Saturdays. Don't miss the diverse food stalls offering local delights.
During the annual Wurstfest, indulge in a smorgasbord of German sausages, street food, and traditional beers. This lively event is a hub for authentic food and vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In New Braunfels, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when first meeting someone.
People in New Braunfels appreciate politeness and friendliness, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and greet others with a friendly attitude.
New Braunfels has a strong Texas culture, so it's important to show respect for local traditions, such as cowboy culture and Texan hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Braunfels with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Braunfels
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in New Braunfels, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill, and the same percentage applies to other service providers like bartenders, hotel staff, and taxi drivers.
Payment in New Braunfels follows standard practices prevalent in the United States, including the use of credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payment apps. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are increasingly popular. Cash is also widely used, and ATMs are readily available throughout the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Braunfels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit New Braunfels, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. It's a popular time for outdoor activities like hiking and tubing on the rivers.
Summer brings hot temperatures to New Braunfels, making it an ideal time for water activities such as floating the rivers or visiting Schlitterbahn Waterpark to cool off.
Fall is another pleasant time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for outdoor exploration and wine tours in the nearby Hill Country.
Winter in New Braunfels is mild, making it a great time to visit for those looking to escape colder climates. The holiday season also brings festive events and Christmas markets to enjoy.
New Braunfels at Night
Hiking in New Braunfels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park with trails, picnic areas, and a river walk, perfect for short hikes and outdoor activities.
A natural spring with nearby trails that offer an excellent hiking experience along the river.
Features hiking trails that wind through scenic areas near the Guadalupe River, ideal for nature walks.
A nature preserve with several miles of trails through diverse ecosystems and beautiful vistas.
Offers a variety of trails for hiking along the riverbanks, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and picnicking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into New Braunfels through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach New Braunfels by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles south of New Braunfels, this is the closest major international airport serving the area.
Situated about 70 miles north of New Braunfels, this airport serves as another international gateway for the region.
Located approximately 200 miles north of New Braunfels, DFW is one of the largest and busiest international airports in the United States.
About 150 miles southeast of New Braunfels, this airport serves the Houston area and offers numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in New Braunfels identifies as White, which includes individuals of European descent.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the city's cultural heritage and demographic history.
This group comprises a smaller percentage of the population compared to White and Hispanic residents.
Asians make up a small but growing demographic in New Braunfels, contributing to the city's diversity.
Individuals identifying with two or more races represent a small percentage of the population.
This group represents a very small portion of the population in New Braunfels.
The number of residents identifying as Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander is minimal in New Braunfels.
The Soul of New Braunfels
Discover the essence of New Braunfels through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played indoors and outdoors, enjoyed by both youth leagues and adult recreational teams in New Braunfels.
Widely participated in by children and adults, soccer leagues and tournaments are common in local parks and facilities.
High school football is a significant community event in New Braunfels, with passionate support for local teams.
Youth baseball leagues and local adult teams offer opportunities for players of all ages to engage in the sport.
Given the warm climate, swimming is a popular recreational activity at local pools and rivers, including the Comal River.
Beach and indoor volleyball are enjoyed by residents, with numerous courts available for play.
Golfing is popular with several local courses offering beautiful landscapes and community tournaments.
Rugby has a growing presence in New Braunfels, with local clubs and events attracting players of various skill levels.
With access to trails and parks, mountain biking is a favored outdoor activity in the natural landscapes surrounding New Braunfels.
The rivers provide excellent kayaking opportunities, making it a popular water sport for both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Braunfels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries provide diverse vegetarian and vegan choices, ensuring that plant-based diners can savor Texan and international flavors. Places like Muck & Fuss and Union Street Station offer notable options.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at various establishments in New Braunfels. From gluten-free buns for burgers to specialized dishes, the food scene caters to gluten-free needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of New Braunfels with these cultural adventures.
