Key Takeaways
- New Braunfels, Texas, offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, historical attractions, and cultural experiences for visitors year-round.
- Whether you’re floating the river, exploring historic sites, or enjoying local festivals, New Braunfels provides something for everyone.
- The city’s unique blend of German heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant community make it a top destination for travelers of all kinds.
Table of Contents
- Float the Comal River
- Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns
- Visit the Gruene Historic District
- Attend Wurstfest
- Relax at Landa Park
- Take a Scenic Drive Along the Hill Country Trail
- Visit the New Braunfels Railroad Museum
- Hike at the Guadalupe River State Park
- Check Out the New Braunfels Farmers Market
- Enjoy Live Music at Gruene Hall
Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels is a charming city that perfectly blends outdoor adventures, rich history, and cultural experiences. Founded in 1845 by German immigrants, New Braunfels has become one of the state’s most popular destinations, offering a mix of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re drawn to its picturesque rivers, its festivals, or its historic sites, there’s always something to do in New Braunfels year-round. With its unique mix of German heritage, outdoor beauty, and vibrant arts scene, New Braunfels is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Texas.
1. Float the Comal River
One of the top things to do in New Braunfels is to float the Comal River, a family-friendly activity that allows you to experience the natural beauty of the area while relaxing in the cool, clear waters. The Comal River is known for its gentle current, making it the perfect spot for tubing and leisurely floating. Whether you’re alone, with friends, or with family, floating down the river offers a unique and refreshing way to spend a sunny day.
You can rent tubes and other floatation devices from various rental companies located along the river. Many of these companies also offer shuttle services, so you can float to your heart’s content and be picked up and returned to the starting point. It’s a quintessential New Braunfels experience that combines relaxation with scenic views and fun. Whether it’s summer or winter, floating the Comal River remains a popular year-round activity.
2. Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the Natural Bridge Caverns are a must-visit. Just a short drive from downtown New Braunfels, these massive underground caverns offer guided tours that take you through impressive limestone formations. The cavern system is one of the largest in Texas, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating geological formations that are millions of years old.
Visitors can explore the caverns on a variety of tours, ranging from basic walking tours to more adventurous options like spelunking. In addition to the caves, the surrounding area offers activities such as zip-lining, a maze, and a mining sluice for kids. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, the Natural Bridge Caverns provide a unique and unforgettable experience.
3. Visit the Gruene Historic District
The Gruene Historic District is a charming area of New Braunfels that transports you back in time. This well-preserved district is home to historic buildings, antique shops, and some of the best live music venues in the region. Gruene Hall, the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas, is the district’s crown jewel, offering live music every weekend. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets, enjoying a cold drink at one of the local taverns, or dancing to country tunes at Gruene Hall, you’ll feel the rich cultural history of this Texas gem.
In addition to its historical charm, Gruene is known for its events, especially the annual Gruene Music and Wine Festival, which brings together music, food, and wine for a fun-filled weekend. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying live performances and unique shopping experiences. Gruene offers a nostalgic, vibrant, and fun atmosphere year-round.
4. Attend Wurstfest
Wurstfest is one of the most popular events in New Braunfels, celebrating the city’s German heritage with a lively mix of food, music, and cultural activities. Held every November, this 10-day festival attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy delicious German sausages, beer, live music, and traditional dancing. Whether you’re indulging in bratwurst, pretzels, or enjoying a cold stein of beer, Wurstfest brings the spirit of Germany to Texas.
The festival features plenty of family-friendly activities, including carnival rides, games, and contests, making it an event everyone can enjoy. For those interested in learning more about German culture, there are performances of traditional German folk dances and musical acts throughout the event. Wurstfest is a celebration of New Braunfels’ roots and is a must-attend for anyone visiting in the fall.
5. Relax at Landa Park
Landa Park is a beautiful and spacious park located in the heart of New Braunfels. With its peaceful walking trails, serene lagoons, and large picnic areas, Landa Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is home to a lovely golf course, as well as the Landa Park Aquatic Complex, which includes a pool and lazy river. Whether you’re walking through the shaded trails, enjoying a family picnic by the creek, or swimming in the pool, Landa Park offers a relaxing escape in the middle of the city.
The park also features a charming train ride that’s perfect for families with young children. The train takes visitors on a scenic route through the park, offering a fun way to see the sights. With so many amenities and natural beauty, Landa Park is one of New Braunfels’ most beloved outdoor spots and is perfect for enjoying a relaxing day in nature.
6. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Hill Country Trail
The Hill Country Trail is a picturesque route that winds through the beautiful Texas Hill Country, offering stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns like New Braunfels. This scenic drive is perfect for a leisurely day trip, whether you’re exploring the countryside, stopping at wineries, or visiting historical landmarks along the way. The trail also takes you through natural parks and wildlife areas, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
As you travel the Hill Country Trail, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various towns known for their antique shops, local art, and traditional Texas fare. The landscape changes with each season, offering a different experience throughout the year. If you’re looking for a relaxing, beautiful drive with plenty of places to explore, the Hill Country Trail should definitely be on your list.
7. Visit the New Braunfels Railroad Museum
The New Braunfels Railroad Museum is a fantastic stop for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike. Located in the historic downtown area, this museum showcases the history of the railroad in New Braunfels and its role in the city’s development. Visitors can explore antique trains, railway memorabilia, and learn about how railroads helped shape the region. The museum’s exhibits include a collection of model trains, old train cars, and artifacts that tell the story of New Braunfels’ railroad past.
In addition to its static displays, the museum often hosts events such as train rides, educational programs, and special exhibitions. It’s a great stop for families, particularly those with young children who are fascinated by trains. The New Braunfels Railroad Museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-see destination in the city.
8. Hike at the Guadalupe River State Park
Guadalupe River State Park is a stunning natural retreat that offers miles of hiking trails, scenic views, and plenty of opportunities to experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The park is known for its clear, flowing waters, where visitors can enjoy swimming, tubing, and fishing. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s well-maintained trails, which wind through oak and cypress trees and offer breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscape.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and other animals, making it a great destination for wildlife watching and photography. With options for camping, picnicking, and other outdoor activities, Guadalupe River State Park provides a peaceful and scenic escape for nature lovers. It’s the perfect place to spend a day hiking, relaxing by the river, or enjoying a picnic in the great outdoors.
9. Check Out the New Braunfels Farmers Market
The New Braunfels Farmers Market is a vibrant, community-centered market that offers fresh, local produce, artisanal products, and handmade goods. Located in the heart of the city, the market features a variety of vendors selling everything from organic fruits and vegetables to homemade soaps and unique gifts. It’s a great place to shop for local products and support small businesses while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
In addition to fresh produce and local goods, the Farmers Market often features live music, food trucks, and seasonal events, making it a fun place to visit with friends and family. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for a meal or just browsing the booths, the New Braunfels Farmers Market offers a welcoming and engaging experience. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local community while enjoying the best of what New Braunfels has to offer.
10. Enjoy Live Music at Gruene Hall
Gruene Hall is one of Texas’ most iconic live music venues and the oldest continually operating dance hall in the state. Located in the historic Gruene district, Gruene Hall has hosted countless legendary musicians over the years, and it continues to feature live performances from country, blues, and rock artists. Whether you’re dancing to the music or simply enjoying the show, Gruene Hall provides a memorable night out in New Braunfels.
In addition to its regular music performances, Gruene Hall is also a venue for special events, including festivals and community celebrations. Its charming atmosphere, combined with its rich history and excellent acoustics, makes Gruene Hall one of the top destinations for live music lovers in New Braunfels. Whether you’re a local or visiting, a night at Gruene Hall is a quintessential New Braunfels experience.
What to do if you have kids?
New Braunfels is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. The Gruene Historic District offers a variety of family-friendly shops and attractions, and the New Braunfels Railroad Museum is sure to excite children who are fascinated by trains. For outdoor fun, Landa Park and Guadalupe River State Park offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and even swimming, while the Imagine Culinary Children’s Museum is a great stop for hands-on fun and learning. With so many options, New Braunfels provides a perfect getaway for families looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Where can I find free events in New Braunfels, Texas taking place this weekend?
If you’re looking for free events in New Braunfels this weekend, check out Planmyweekend.ai, a helpful tool for discovering local events. Whether you’re interested in free concerts, farmers markets, or outdoor festivals, this platform makes it easy to find exciting, no-cost activities happening in the city. Simply input your preferences, and Planmyweekend.ai will provide a list of free events you can enjoy throughout New Braunfels. It’s the perfect way to explore the city and take advantage of all the amazing, cost-free activities New Braunfels has to offer.
Final Thoughts
New Braunfels, Texas, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural history, and vibrant community events that make it an ideal destination year-round. Whether you’re floating the Comal River, exploring historic sites like Gruene Hall, or enjoying the local festivals, there’s always something exciting to do. The city’s welcoming atmosphere, rich German heritage, and scenic beauty make it a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Plan your trip to New Braunfels and experience everything this unique city has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai