Gruene Historic District
Gruene (pronounced "Green") is one of Texas's most charming historic districts — a preserved 19th-century cotton town sitting right above the Guadalupe River. You're walking distance from most of this. Start here.
Gruene Hall — Texas's Oldest Dance Hall
Built in 1878, Gruene Hall is the real deal — a legendary Texas institution where Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and Garth Brooks have all played. The schedule rotates weekly with both national and regional acts. Buy tickets in advance — shows sell out. Even on a quiet afternoon, just sitting on the back porch with a cold beer and watching the Guadalupe roll by is worth the stop. 1281 Gruene Rd
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
Set in a converted 1878 cotton gin on the banks of the Guadalupe River, the Gristmill is one of the most iconic dining experiences in the Hill Country. Multi-level deck, cold beer, Texas classics. A must on any visit — go for lunch or an early dinner. Waits can be long; go early or late.
The Gruene Door
One of the best restaurants in New Braunfels by any measure — the Gruene Door is the go-to for a special dinner. Creative American menu, beautiful space, impeccable service. Reviewers consistently call it the best meal of their trip. Reservations strongly recommended.
Gruene River Grill
A solid, relaxed choice right in the historic district — smoked pork tenderloin, chicken enchiladas, great desserts, and frozen margaritas on a lovely patio. A very easy dinner when you don't want to go far.
Cantina Del Rio
Great Tex-Mex right in Gruene — tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, excellent nachos, and a fantastic patio. Local favorite and a very easy, satisfying choice for lunch or dinner any day of the week.
The Birdhouse, Fancy Chicken & Fine Wine
A genuinely fun and unique concept — upscale chicken dishes paired with a thoughtful wine list in a cozy, well-designed space. One of the more creative restaurants in the area. A great choice for something a little different.
Mozie's
Cool atmosphere with exposed brick, warm lighting, and a creative menu that ranges from great brunch options to solid dinner dishes. A Gruene/New Braunfels favorite with consistently excellent food and service.
Tacos y Tequila
Family-owned Mexican restaurant right in the heart of historic Gruene. Authentic dishes celebrating the rich flavors of Mexico — a wonderful local option when you want the real thing without driving downtown.
Downtown New Braunfels
New Braunfels has a wonderful downtown with deep German roots, great food, and a walkable historic core. Worth an evening for dinner and a stroll through the old streets.
Old City Hall Restaurant & Bar
Brand new in 2026 and already a standout — the same team behind McAdoo's and La Cosecha has restored a stunning 97-year-old former city hall into a beautiful upscale dining destination. Elevated American classics including Texas beef tartare, peppercorn filet, vodka rigatoni, and an inventive cocktail program. Beautiful space, fantastic service, great energy. Reservations recommended.
Huisache Grill
One of New Braunfels' most celebrated restaurants — creative New American cuisine in a beautiful historic building on the main square. Consistently excellent food and service. A wonderful special-occasion dinner. Reservations recommended.
Myron's Prime Steakhouse
New Braunfels' premier steakhouse — prime beef, excellent service, and a classic upscale atmosphere. Chilean sea bass and crème brûlée are standouts. The place to go when the occasion calls for a serious steak.
La Cosecha
Incredible traditional Mexican food in a stunning restaurant setting. Impeccable service and one of the highest-rated dining experiences in New Braunfels. The margaritas are outstanding. A genuine gem — don't miss it.
McAdoo's Seafood Company
Fresh seafood in the Hill Country done surprisingly well. A lively, fun atmosphere with great Gulf fish, shrimp, and oysters. One of the best options in town for a non-BBQ night out.
Naegelin's Bakery
The oldest bakery in Texas — in continuous operation since 1868. Strudel, bear claws, kolaches, and German pastries that have been made the same way for over 150 years. A mandatory morning stop. Get there early.
Faust Brewing Company
German-heritage brewery in a stunning historic building in downtown New Braunfels. Great craft beers with a nod to the city's German roots, solid food, and a beautiful biergarten patio. Perfect for a relaxed evening.
The Rivers — Tubing, Floating & Water Fun
New Braunfels sits at the confluence of two legendary Texas rivers. This is what people come for. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of it.
🌊 The Guadalupe River — Your River
Whiskey River sits right on the Guadalupe — the river you can see and hear from the property. A beautiful, scenic float with cypress-lined banks and Hill Country views. Flow is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. In normal flow years it's a wonderful longer float; in recent lower-flow years it's been a peaceful, gentle drift. Check conditions before heading out.
🌊 The Comal River — Spring-Fed & Reliable
Spring-fed, crystal-clear, and 72°F year-round regardless of weather or drought. Short (~3 hours), consistent flow, and always reliably runnable. Includes the famous Tube Chute. When Guadalupe levels are low, the Comal is your best bet — it never disappoints.
Rockin' R River Rides
Literally two doors down from Whiskey River — the most convenient tubing option you'll ever have. Five legendary locations on the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, tubing, rafting, and day camping. Private exits, friendly staff, great reputation for groups. Plus live music at the Rockin' R pavilion on weekends — you can hear it from the property!
Comal Tubes
Another great Comal River option — crystal-clear spring-fed water through tube chutes and gentle rapids. Fun, relaxed float of 2–3 hours. Staff are friendly and the whole experience is very well organized. Note the Can Ban rules below for containers.
444 Tubing Company
Highly praised for exceptional customer service and an organized, hassle-free experience. ~2 hour float. Discounts for military, first responders, and teachers. Great tube chute at the start. Easy shuttle back. A fantastic local option.
Texas Tubes
The most popular Comal River outfitter — open daily 9am–4:30pm, last shuttle 7:30pm. Spring-fed 72°F water with the famous Tube Chute. About 3 hours to float. Alcohol is legal but must be in reusable containers (see Can Ban below). Book ahead for summer weekends.
Tube Haus
Specializing in the famous Guadalupe Horseshoe Loop since 1978. Parking included, beer cans welcome, no overcomplicated rules. A beautiful stretch of the Guadalupe near Canyon Lake — great for those wanting a longer Guadalupe experience.
Paddle TX — Crystal Kayak & Rentals
One of the most unique experiences in the area — transparent crystal kayaks that let you look straight down into the crystal-clear spring water below. Offer night trips, regular kayak and paddleboard rentals, and guided tours. A genuinely special experience.
What you CAN bring: Alcohol is legal and welcome — just transfer it into reusable containers. Yeti tumblers, insulated water bottles, flasks, wineskins, thermoses, Camelbaks, and reusable sport bottles are all fine. Coolers must have a locking lid and be 30 quarts or less. Most outfitters sell reusable cups if you forget.
Other river tips: Go early — parking fills up fast on summer weekends. Wear water shoes (rocky banks). Apply and reapply sunscreen. Check Guadalupe flow levels before going (USGS river gauge online) — low water can make the float shallow. The Comal is always reliable.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark — The World's Best Waterpark
Schlitterbahn New Braunfels is a genuine bucket-list item — repeatedly voted the world's best waterpark, it's built around the actual Comal River with a mix of water rides, lazy rivers, and attractions. Open April through September (weekends only April–May, daily June–August). Buy tickets online in advance — lines at the gate are long. A full day activity. 400 N Liberty Ave
Golf Cart Rentals
Gruene is a golf cart-friendly area — and honestly, cruising around the historic district, the river road, and the surrounding area in a cart is one of the most fun ways to spend an afternoon. Two great local options deliver right to you.
GrueneGo Kartz
Locally owned family business — they deliver luxury golf carts directly to you and pick up at your convenience. Highly rated for honest, friendly service and reasonable pricing. Serving Gruene, New Braunfels, Canyon Lake, River Road, and beyond. Just call to reserve. Perfect for a day of exploring the historic district and river area in style.
Howdy Carts
Beautiful golf carts available throughout Gruene, New Braunfels, Canyon Lake, Wimberley, and Seguin — delivered right to your door. Great local option with an easy booking process. A fun and practical way to get around the Gruene area without fighting for parking.
Wineries & Breweries
New Braunfels' deep German heritage makes it a natural home for craft brewing, and the Texas Hill Country wine scene has quietly become one of the best in the country. Explore both.
Winery on the Gruene
Award-winning boutique winery right in the Gruene Historic District — 90+ wines blended, fermented, aged, and bottled right here in New Braunfels. Texas wines, Hill Country wines, fruit-infused wines, reds, whites, mead, and sparkling. Tastings daily, no reservation required. Staff are known for being wonderfully warm and knowledgeable.
Dry Comal Creek Vineyards
Full of character and great wine — the winemaker brings knowledge from Cornell, France, Australia, and the Finger Lakes. The tasting room is beautiful and the wines are genuinely special. A step up from the typical Hill Country tasting room experience.
Faust Brewing Company
New Braunfels' most beloved brewery in a stunning historic building downtown. German-style lagers, bold IPAs, and everything in between. Beautiful biergarten patio. Also a great restaurant. The community hub for beer lovers in the city.
Guadalupe Brewing Company
Craft brewery putting a creative spin on traditional styles — including their famous pecan-infused honey ale. A lively local spot that captures the spirit of New Braunfels brewing culture. Worth a stop for craft beer enthusiasts.
Rebecca Creek Distillery
Award-winning Texas whiskey and spirits distillery with tours and tastings. A natural stop for guests of Whiskey River who want to lean into the spirits theme — beautiful Hill Country setting and genuinely good whiskey.
Fredericksburg Wine Road 290
If wine is your thing, the drive to Fredericksburg along Highway 290 is one of the great Texas road trips — over 50 wineries and tasting rooms within a few miles of each other. Becker Vineyards, William Chris, Grape Creek, and dozens more. Plan a full day and get a designated driver.
Live Music & Entertainment
Gruene and New Braunfels have one of the best live music scenes in Texas outside of Austin. You have world-class options right outside your door.
Gruene Hall
The oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Garth Brooks — they've all played here. Weekly lineup of national and regional acts. Cold beer, sawdust floors, back porch overlooking the Guadalupe. Buy tickets in advance — it sells out. Non-show nights are equally magical.
Whitewater Amphitheater
One of the best outdoor music venues in Texas — a natural limestone amphitheater on the banks of the Guadalupe River. Regular schedule of major national acts, country, rock, and Texas music. A stunning setting for a concert.
Gruene Light Bar
A lively bar right in the Gruene area with regular live music, a great patio, and a fun crowd. A perfect spot to keep the evening going after dinner or before heading to Gruene Hall.
Our Lady Bar & Patio
A beloved local bar with a great outdoor patio and regular live music. Less touristy than some Gruene spots — a genuine local hangout with cold beer and good vibes any night of the week.
Gruene Grove
Outdoor bar and event space in the Gruene area with a great relaxed atmosphere. Live music on weekends, cold beer, and beautiful outdoor setting. A great option for a low-key evening out.
Outdoors, Hiking & Nature
The Texas Hill Country has a lot more outdoor adventure than most people expect. Start in town and work your way out into the hills.
Landa Park & Panther Canyon Trail
New Braunfels' crown jewel park — 50+ acres along the Comal River with beautiful walking trails, shaded pecan groves, and a spring-fed swimming lake. The Panther Canyon Nature Trail (1.6–1.8 miles) climbs the Balcones Escarpment through oak-juniper woodland with great views. Perfect for a morning walk. Miniature train, paddleboats, and a golf course too.
Guadalupe River State Park
About 5 miles of interconnected hiking paths through limestone outcroppings, shaded oak groves, and along the Guadalupe River. Beautiful Hill Country scenery, swimming, fishing, and camping. A proper Texas state park experience — take the drive, it's worth it.
Canyon Lake Gorge
One of Texas's most dramatic geological sites — a 1,000-foot gorge carved in just three days during the 2002 floods, exposing 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks and fossils. Guided tours only (book in advance). A genuinely awe-inspiring and unique Texas experience.
Honey Creek State Natural Area
Quiet two-mile loop along Honey Creek within Guadalupe River State Park — past teal water, dwarf palmettos, and bald cypresses. Access via guided tours on weekend mornings. One of those hidden Texas gems that rewards the effort to get there.
Blue Hole Regional Park — Wimberley
One of the most beautiful natural swimming holes in Texas — clear spring-fed water under towering cypress trees in the charming town of Wimberley. Admission required, capacity limited (reserve ahead in summer). A perfect half-day paired with lunch in Wimberley's wonderful downtown.
Bauer Trail
A peaceful 3.5-mile loop through wildflowers, prairies, and Hill Country scenery with Guadalupe River access and views of ancient windmills. One of the most scenic trail experiences near New Braunfels. Best in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Family Fun & Attractions
New Braunfels punches well above its size for family activities. Between the waterpark, the caverns, and the museums, you could fill a week.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Repeatedly voted the world's best waterpark — built around the actual Comal River with water rides, master blasters, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Open April–September. Buy tickets online in advance. Budget a full day and arrive early. Genuinely one of the great summer experiences in Texas.
Natural Bridge Caverns
The largest known commercial caverns in Texas — stunning underground formations, guided tours, zip lining, gemstone mining for kids, and a ropes course above ground. A genuinely spectacular natural wonder. One of the best attractions in all of Texas. Allow half a day.
McKenna Children's Museum
One of the best children's museums in Central Texas — hands-on exhibits, a creative environment, and a wonderful rainy-day or hot-day option for families with younger kids. Well-organized and genuinely engaging for children of all ages.
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo
A genuinely unique roadside attraction that has grown into a respected small zoo — alligators, exotic big cats, a huge collection of snakes, and lots of interactive experiences. Kids absolutely love it and adults are usually surprised by how much fun it is.
Gruene Historic District
The whole Gruene area is a living museum — wander the streets, peek into the old buildings, explore the original general store, and soak in 150+ years of Texas Hill Country history. Free to explore at any time. The context makes the food and music even better.
EVO Cinemas Creekside 14
A great modern movie theater with recliner seating and full food and bar service. Perfect for a hot afternoon, a rainy day, or when the group needs something low-key. Full food and cocktail menu served in the seats.
Day Trips Worth the Drive
Whiskey River puts you in one of the best locations in Texas for day trips — San Antonio and Austin are both close, and the Hill Country extends in every direction.
San Antonio
One of America's great cities is 30 minutes away. The River Walk, the Alamo, Pearl District (excellent food and cocktails), the missions, the zoo. You could spend a week. Pearl District alone is worth the drive for a lunch and afternoon. San Antonio is genuinely special.
Austin
Live Music Capital of the World is 45 minutes north. 6th Street, South Congress, Rainey Street, the bats under the Congress Bridge at dusk, incredible food, world-class music any night of the week. A full city day easily done as a day trip.
Fredericksburg
The jewel of the Texas Hill Country — German heritage, world-class wine road (50+ wineries on Hwy 290), excellent Main Street shopping and dining, the National Museum of the Pacific War, and some of the best peach orchards in the country. A quintessential Texas day trip.
Wimberley
One of the most charming small towns in Texas — beautiful art galleries, great boutique shopping, excellent restaurants, and Blue Hole Regional Park for swimming. The square on summer Saturdays is one of the great simple pleasures in the Hill Country.
Canyon Lake
A beautiful reservoir in the Hill Country just 20 minutes away — great for boating, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Several parks and marinas along the shore. A wonderful half-day if you want a lake instead of a river. The gorge nearby is a geological must-see.
San Marcos
The charming college town between New Braunfels and Austin has a beautiful spring-fed river, Texas State University, great local restaurants, and the famous San Marcos Premium Outlets for shopping. A fun easy stop if you're heading toward Austin.
Boerne
A beautifully preserved German Hill Country town on the way toward San Antonio — wonderful Main Street with antique shops, boutiques, excellent local restaurants, and a genuine small-town Texas charm that feels unhurried and authentic. Kendall County Courthouse, Cave Without a Name nearby, and great dining all within a few blocks. A lovely half-day stop.
Lockhart & Salt Lick — Two Great BBQ Day Trips
Lockhart is the official BBQ Capital of Texas by act of the state legislature — a small town with four legendary joints. Black's BBQ (oldest family-run BBQ in Texas, since 1932), Kreuz Market (since 1900 — no sauce, no forks, just meat), and Smitty's Market are all within walking distance of each other. Go hungry and plan to hit more than one. The Salt Lick in Driftwood is a different kind of BBQ pilgrimage — all-you-can-eat family style in a legendary Hill Country setting with century-old oaks, an open pit you can watch, and a BYOB policy. Adjacent Salt Lick Cellars has wine. 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood — about 45 minutes north toward Austin.
A Few Practical Tips
- River & tubing tips — Go early. Parking at Gruene and the river outfitters fills up by 10am on summer weekends. Wear water shoes (the river banks are rocky), apply and reapply sunscreen, and bring a dry bag for your phone. Alcohol is legal on both rivers — enjoy responsibly.
- The Comal is always a safe bet — The Guadalupe's flow varies with Army Corps management of Canyon Lake. In drought years it can be uncomfortably shallow. The Comal is spring-fed and reliably great year-round. When in doubt, tube the Comal.
- Gruene Hall — buy tickets in advance — Shows sell out, especially on weekends. Check the schedule at gruenehall.com before you arrive and buy ahead. Even without a show it's worth walking through for a beer on the porch.
- Parking in Gruene — The historic district parking fills up fast on weekends. There's overflow parking nearby — be patient and expect a short walk. It's worth it.
- Schlitterbahn — book online — Gate prices are higher, lines are longer, and summer capacity sells out. Buy tickets at schlitterbahn.com before you go. Arrive when it opens.
- Natural Bridge Caverns — book tours in advance — The guided cave tours fill up on weekends. Reserve online before you drive out there.
- Texas heat is real — Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. Start outdoor activities early in the morning, hydrate constantly, and seek shade or AC mid-afternoon. The river is your best friend on a hot day.
- Naegelin's Bakery — Go early. They sell out of the best items by mid-morning. Worth getting there at opening.
- San Antonio is closer than you think — 30 minutes on I-35. If you haven't been to the Pearl District, go. It's one of the best urban food and drink destinations in the state.