Things To Do
in New Braunfels
New Braunfels sits between the Comal and Guadalupe rivers in Texas Hill Country, about halfway between San Antonio and Austin. Founded by German settlers in 1845, its preserved historic districts blend Old World architecture with modern Southwest culture. The town is famed for its river recreation, scenic landscapes, and the Gruene Historic District with live music and German-inspired cuisine.
Whether you’re chasing family-friendly attractions or a riverside sunset, New Braunfels offers outdoor charm mixed with rich cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic downtown area of New Braunfels, where you can admire the charming architecture and quaint shops. Visit the New Braunfels Museum of Arts and Music to learn about the city's rich heritage and artistic culture. Don't forget to grab a delicious breakfast at one of the local cafes, indulging in homemade pastries and strong coffee.
After lunch, head over to the iconic Gruene Historic District, where you can explore antique shops and the famous Gruene Hall, the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Enjoy a leisurely float down the Guadalupe River, soaking in the warm sun and the beautiful surroundings. For a taste of local flavors, stop by a local brewery for a tour and tasting session.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, where you can savor Texas barbecue or fresh seafood. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, watching the twinkling lights reflect off the water. Wrap up your evening with live music at a local venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of New Braunfels.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular eatery before heading to the Comal River for a day of water fun. Rent a tube or kayak and float down the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush trees and friendly fellow adventurers. The gentle current makes it perfect for families and those looking to relax under the Texas sun.
After floating, find a shady spot for a picnic lunch near the riverbank, enjoying the lively atmosphere around you. For the more adventurous, try out stand-up paddleboarding, where you can take in the scenic views while getting a bit of exercise. If you're looking for a thrill, consider taking a guided river rafting tour to experience the rapids.
As evening approaches, head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a local restaurant that serves traditional Tex-Mex cuisine, enjoying dishes like enchiladas or fajitas. End your day with a nightcap at a riverside bar, listening to live music and enjoying the warm Texas air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
| 🛍️Groceries for two weeks | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or small café beverage | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $2.50-3.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong river-based recreation and family-friendly attractions
- Rich German-Texan heritage with historic districts
- Good access to San Antonio and Austin for day trips
- Varied outdoor activities and scenic hill country views
- Hot summers with humidity; crowds near river areas
- Limited public transit; mostly car-dependent
- Some areas can be tourist-focused and pricey
Places to Visit in New Braunfels
Visit one of these nice places.
Exterior shots of Texas’ oldest dance hall with the river backdrop and festive signage.
Rustic mill building along the spring-fed river—great sunset colors by the water.
Clear blue river with swaying shade trees; perfect for long exposure shots.
Historic German-immigrant heritage site with medieval-style architecture and charming streets.
Gothic street lamps and storefronts with German-Texan charm.
Food in New Braunfels
New Braunfels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled sausages served with tangy potato salad and mustard, a classic Gruene-District staple.
Must-Try!
Breaded, pan-fried cutlet paired with egg noodle dumplings and traditional gravy.
Fermented cabbage with warm pretzels, often enjoyed with a cold beer.
Delicious Czech-inspired pastries found in bakeries around town, often filled with fruit or cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market along Gruene’s streets with local vendors, crafts, and regional bites.
Weekly market featuring local produce, meats, breads, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Texans are friendly; a simple hello and smile goes a long way.
Appreciate the historic German influence; polite and direct communication is common.
Safety
Tipping in New Braunfels
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; round up at cafés; tip housekeepers $2-5 per day; tip taxi/shuttle drivers.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is always handy; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wildflowers bloom; comfortable temperatures; expect smaller crowds before summer heat.
Hot and humid; best for river activities and early-morning excursions; stay hydrated.
Pleasant weather with fall colors and many outdoor events and festivals.
Milder winters; occasional freezes; festive lights and seasonal celebrations.
New Braunfels at Night
Hiking in New Braunfels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with interesting geological formations near Canyon Lake.
Forested trails along the river with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Shaded loop around the lake with easy, family-friendly terrain.
Drift into nearby cave walls with trails near San Antonio, offering dramatic limestone landscapes.
Airports
How to reach New Braunfels by plane.
About 30-35 miles away; easy drive via I-35 with rental car access.
Approximately 40-50 miles away; fast access along I-35.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for river activities, parks, and kid-friendly museums.
Popular for scenic living in nearby communities and seasonal visitors.
Drawn to outdoor recreation, craft beer, and live music.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Seasonal river recreation along Comal and Guadalupe rivers.
Local sports culture with high school and college teams nearby.
Several hill-country courses suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Braunfels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie burgers, salads, and grain bowls; ask for meat-free sauerkraut or potato dishes, and opt for sides like grilled vegetables.