Nestled along the Guadalupe River between San Antonio and Austin lies the charming town of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by German settlers, this small city still retains much of its German heritage and old-world charm. But beyond its quaint downtown and historic architecture, New Braunfels has so much more to offer visitors. From outdoor adventures and water activities to fascinating museums, breweries and wineries, live music venues and family-friendly attractions, there are endless things to do in new braunfels.

This guide will cover all the top things to see, do and explore during your visit to this lively Hill Country destination. Here are the best attractions, activities, restaurants and more to add to your New Braunfels itinerary:

Outdoor Fun Along the Rivers

The natural splendor of the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in New Braunfels. Tube the river, kayak, paddle board, swim and more in the crisp, clear waters that wind through town.

Tubing

Floating down the Guadalupe in an inner tube is practically a rite of passage in New Braunfels. Grab a tube and drift lazily downstream, soaking up the scenery and sunshine as you go. Several local outfitters like Rockin’ R River Rides, River Ranch Tubing and Landa River Trips offer tube rentals, shuttles and guided floats.

Planning tip: Beat the crowds by going tubing midweek or early/late in the day during peak summer season. Bring sunscreen, water shoes and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Paddle Boarding and Kayaking

For a more active river excursion, book a stand-up paddle board or kayak rental. Paddle through gentle rapids, float under the tree canopy and stop to swim along the way. Rockin’ R and Gruene Outfitters are popular spots to rent gear and arrange trips.

Swimming

If you prefer swimming to floating, hit up the Comal River which has several designated swimming areas along Landa Park Drive. Pack a picnic, bring some inflatable pool toys and cool off with a dip in the refreshing spring-fed waters. Pro tip: arrive early to snag a shaded spot along the banks.

Fishing

Cast out your line for bass, catfish and perch in both the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers. Stop by the Angler’s Alley bait and tackle shop downtown to chat with the local fishing guides and get the latest on what’s biting.

Area Parks

New Braunfels boasts an amazing array of parks where you can hike scenic trails, picnic, camp, geocache and more.

Landa Park

This showcase “central park” of New Braunfels contains the iconic spring-fed Comal River that winds through shaded groves of old cypress trees. Other highlights here include paddle boat rentals, a mini train ride for kids, a small amusement park, and a picturesque pavilion overlooking the river.

Gruene River Grove

Adjacent to the historic Gruene shopping district, this park sits along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Fish from the shore, swim in the cool waters, throw a disc golf round or enjoy a picnic in the shade.

Prince Solms Park

Tucked away in the countryside outside downtown, this large park features hiking and biking trails that traverse the hilly landscape and scenic views of the Guadalupe River valley below.

Camp Huaco Springs

Part of the adjacent Canyon Lake Recreation Area, Camp Huaco Springs offers over 50 campsites nestled in the shade of bald cypress trees along the Guadalupe River. Relax at your campsite or check out the nearby swimming area, basketball courts and miles of biking and hiking trails. Reserve sites online in advance.

Family Fun

New Braunfels delivers plenty of family entertainment from water parks to miniature trains to hands-on museums.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark

This massive, award-winning water park sprawls across 65 acres along the Comal River. Thrill slides, tubing chutes, uphill water coasters and kid zones with mini water slides make Schlitterbahn a prime place to cool off Texas-style.

Pro tip: Book your tickets online early and arrive when gates open to avoid long lines. Consider staying at the on-site resort which includes free waterpark admission.

McKenna Children’s Museum

Let the kids explore this bright, engaging museum tailored for ages 1-12. Exhibits like the Inventor’s Workshop, Hospital Zone and Space Exploration area foster hands-on play and learning. Outside, a wheelchair-accessible playground complete with splash pad, music garden and treehouse provides sensory-rich outdoor fun.

Austin & Texas Central Railroad

All aboard this miniature train at Landa Park for a delightful 20-minute ride along the Comal River and through the woods surrounding this central city park. The trains chug along on a one-mile loop track and operate daily.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Escape the Texas heat by descending into the amazing underground caverns located just outside New Braunfels. This family-friendly attraction offers guided walking tours of the massive caverns as well as thrilling options like zip-lining, repelling and climbing walls. Don’t miss the fascinating bat flight viewing each summer evening at dusk when thousands of bats emerge from beneath the natural limestone bridge.

Downtown New Braunfels

Historic downtown New Braunfels invites leisurely strolls beneath shady trees as you browse its many unique shops, restaurants and architectural landmarks.

Main Plaza

Get oriented in the heart of the downtown at this central plaza lined with flowers, tiled walkways and antique street lamps. Stop at the famous “frog fountain” said to grant wishes to those who touch its head. Gaze up at the Romanesque-style Comal County Courthouse built in 1898. Nearby, find restaurants with patio dining, brewpubs, tea rooms and dessert cafes perfect for an afternoon break.

Heritage Village

Just off Main Plaza, this outdoor living history museum contains a collection of restored historic buildings and artifacts that tell the story of New Braunfels’ German heritage and founding. Costumed interpreters sometimes roam the grounds demonstrating traditional folk arts and crafts. Don’t miss the spectacular hand-carved antique bar inside the Prince Carl Saloon.

Conservation Plaza and Public Market Days

Browse local art, crafts and farm goods at this public market hosted downtown on Thursdays and Saturdays. Join in the free yoga classes on Saturday mornings or relax by the splash pad and listen to live music pop up on the Plaza’s performance stage.

Faust Hotel and Bridge Street

Stay overnight at the 1920s-era Faust Hotel situated above the Bridge Street shops and restaurants. Or simply stop by Bridge Street to snap photos of the picturesque hand-painted murals gracing historic commercial buildings. Boutiques, antiques stores, candy shops and cafes reward leisurely browsing here.

Museums and Historic Sites

Visiting the fascinating museums and landmarks around New Braunfels provides a deeper dive into the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Sophienburg Museum and Archives

This museum chronicles the founding of New Braunfels and the settlement patterns of its early German pioneers through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Don’t miss the intricate miniature replica model of the original town. Genealogy research services are also available on site for those wishing to trace their ancestry.

Conservation Society – Fischer Store

Step back in time at Fischer Store, an authentically restored 19th century mercantile and post office housed in a beautiful rock limestone building on East Coll Street. Run by the local Heritage Conservation Society, this living history site offers periodic demonstrations of early Texas crafts and skills.

Hill Country Museum of Art

Admire an impressive collection of Texas landscape paintings and sculpture in a modern gallery space at Point Lookout Park. Special exhibits also showcase Western-themed artworks by contemporary artists. Trails surrounding the museum invite scenic hikes with river views after your museum visit.

Historic Post Office Mural

Adorning the 1936 New Braunfels Post Office lobby is a striking Depression-era mural depicting the town’s early German settlers, painted by the artist Clyde Forsythe. Many of the figures are based on 19th century studio portraits of local residents that hang in the Sophienburg Museum across the street.

Gruene Historic District

Wander the restored historic buildings of Texas’ oldest dance hall at Gruene Hall, the iconic Grist Mill restaurant and neighboring shops housed in original 1920s structures. Market days feature local vendors in the fields behind the landmarks.

Live Music and Nightlife

New Braunfels has an eclectic music scene playing out nightly in its many popular venues downtown and in Gruene.

Gruene Hall

Famed country, folk and Americana artists have graced the stage at Texas’ oldest dance hall since it opened in 1878. Catch live bands and musicians almost nightly at this iconic saloon. Outdoor patios and dining make it a great place to spend an evening.

Whitewater Amphitheater

Major touring acts entertain crowds nearly every weekend spring through fall in the outdoor setting of this scenic amphitheater set along the Guadalupe River. Book seats or grab lawn tickets for genres ranging from country and comedy to pop, rock and soul.

Phoenix Saloon

Pull up a seat in this cool underground bar for local bands, karaoke nights and dancing after dark in historic downtown. Built inside original underground vaults beneath Main Plaza, the vibe here is funky, laid-back and lively.

Rockin’ R River Rides

At their waterfront outpost along the Guadalupe River, Rockin’ R hosts live music nights spotlighting popular cover bands. Sip your favorite local brew and relax riverside under the stars while listening to free shows.

New Braunfels Music Venues

Catch intimate live music nights and open mic performances at The Prince Solms Inn, Molly Joe’s, Hooz Got It and The Pour Haus downtown. Texas country, red dirt rock, blues and acoustic artists take the stage in these popular local venues.

Breweries and Wineries

Sip local craft beverages from the region’s booming brewery and winery scene. Many also offer live music, food trucks, tours and outdoor lawn space for relaxing.

Guadalupe Brewing Co.

Based at their brewery and taproom on Seguin Avenue, this homegrown New Braunfels craft brewer pours over a dozen unique beers like their signature Honey Pilsner and seasonal Wild Hill Country IPA. Pints, flights and brewery tours available.

Lazy River Brewing

Try award-winning brews like the River Run Blonde Ale in the tasting room or out on the dog-friendly patio along the scenic Guadalupe River. Special small batch releases keep the beer menu ever-changing.

Dry Comal Brewing

Found inside the historic Mueller Honey Plant, Dry Comal’s taproom has an industrial-chic vibe and lively downtown locale. Sip brews like their hibiscus saison or coffee porter then grab tacos from the Cafe de Chas food truck just outside.

Rebecca Creek Distillery

Texas whiskeys, bourbons, vodka and specialty drinks are handcrafted on-site at this tasting room set amid sprawling hill country acreage. Free distillery tours run throughout the day or book a happy hour or dinner tasting.

Texas Hill Country Wineries

Just outside New Braunfels, the countryside opens up to rolling hills dotted with scenic wineries. Spend an afternoon sampling award-winning Texas varietals at spots like Dry Comal Creek Vineyards, Fairhaven Vineyards and 46 Cellars. Many offer wine tastings, vineyard tours and gourmet dining on site.

Farmers Markets and Festivals

In addition to the regular Public Market Days downtown, keep an eye out for these local food and cultural celebrations during your New Braunfels visit:

Farmers Market at Creekside

Every Saturday throughout the spring and summer months, this open-air market sets up along Creekside Farm and Events Center south of downtown New Braunfels. Browse stalls piled high with farm-fresh produce as well as artisanal baked goods, coffee and crafts.

Wurstfest German Festival

For 10 days each November, New Braunfels puts on the ultimate German heritage celebration at Wurstfest Grounds. Enjoy endless German music, food, drinks, dancing plus carnival rides and games while dressed in your lederhosen and dirndl best!

Dickens on Main Christmas Festival

On select December weekends, downtown New Braunfels transforms into a magical Victorian holiday village, complete with caroling, food and vendors all decked out in full Dickens-era character. Don’t miss the lighting of the towering Christmas Pyramid structure brought in specially from Germany.

Top Restaurants in New Braunfels

From German bakeries to Texas BBQ joints, downtown New Braunfels offers an array of dining spots reflective of the city’s multicultural roots. Here are the top local eateries to try during your visit:

The Gristmill Restaurant

Set inside the historic Gruene water-powered gristmill along the Guadalupe River, the Gristmill’s scenic outdoor patio and down-home Texas cuisine has made it a local institution since 1977. Come for the signature chicken fried steak, monster onion rings and peach cobbler, all served in hearty portions.

Naegelin’s Bakery

Operating since 1868, Naegelin’s is Texas’ oldest continuously running bakery. This old-fashioned shop cranks out authentic German pastries by hand like strudels, kolaches, breads and cakes using historic family recipes. Grab an apple kuchen or broetchen to go! Cash only.

Charly’s Tacos and Taquitos

At this tiny downtown spot, enjoy handmade flour and corn tortilla tacos stuffed with your choice of fillings like brisket barbacoa, chorizo potatoes or succulent pork al pastor. Wash it all down with a Mexican soda or horchata.

Pho Lucky

Tucked upstairs on San Antonio Street, this humble eatery delights with fragrant pho noodle soups, bánh mì Vietnamese sandwiches and fresh Vietnamese coffee. Try the beef pho or spicy lemongrass Vermicelli bowl.

Big Daddy’s Burgers

Juicy half-pound burgers, Cajun fries, milkshakes and cold beer will satisfy your cravings at this casual spot near Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The Big Daddy Burger doubles down with two patties while vegetarians will love the southwestern black bean version. Outdoor picnic tables welcome.

Huisache Grill

New Southern cuisine shines at this upscale downtown restaurant located in a restored historic building. Savor shrimp and grits, seared duck breast, roasted chicken or any of their perfectly seared steaks in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere. Make reservations in advance.

Shopping in New Braunfels

Beyond the adorable downtown boutiques, New Braunfels also boasts some of the best outlet shopping in Texas. All budgets will find stores to explore.

The Downtown Shopping district

Stroll Main Plaza and adjoining streets to discover home decor stores, antiques and collectibles vendors, clothing boutiques, gift shops and old-fashioned candy stores. Standouts include The Foundry offering stylish Texas-made goods and Herbs & More for essential oils, teas and apothecary items.

Gruene Historic District

In addition to the iconic Gristmill restaurant, Gruene Hall dancehall and historic architecture, you’ll find over 40 specialty shops housed in restored buildings. Boutiques and galleries offer fashion, Texas-made products, home decor and gifts ranging from fun souvenirs to upscale items.

Prime Outlets New Braunfels

Just off Interstate 35 outside town, this mammoth outlet mall features 100+ brand name stores including J.Crew, Nike, Kate Spade, Brooks Brothers and Le Creuset. Shop previous season styles and overstock merchandise at steeply discounted prices.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay

Here are some of the top neighborhoods and areas to consider for your New Braunfels accommodations:

Downtown

Stay central to all the action by booking a downtown hotel, B&B or vacation rental. The Faust, Prince Solms Inn and Elizabeth Street Guest House are some charming historic properties with vintage architecture and river views.

Along the Guadalupe River

Choose lodging right along the Guadalupe to enjoy waterfront scenery and easy river access. Properties like Rockin’ R River Rides, River Ridge Suites and River Run Outfitters offer prime positioning.

Near Schlitterbahn Waterpark

For families focused on waterplay, stay at resorts and hotels clustered around Schlitterbahn like Schlitterbahn Resort, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Best Western.

Between the Rivers

The neighborhoods between the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers offer quick driving access to both downtown and water recreation. The Springhill Suites New Braunfels is a solid lodging choice here.

No matter where you stay, the small town of New Braunfels makes it easy to get around and experience all the culture, history, food and outdoor adventure this little city has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time of year to visit New Braunfels?

Spring and fall are ideal times with comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. Late May through August brings hot weather but offers the most water activities. September-November still sees pleasant weather but lower lodging rates after summer.

2. What is there to do in New Braunfels at night or in the evening?

Some top evening activities in New Braunfels include:

• Live music and dancing at Gruene Hall or other downtown music venues
• Nightlife around Main Plaza including bars like Phoenix Saloon
• Sunset cruises, paddling or fishing on the rivers
• Stargazing along the banks of the Guadalupe River
• Evening bat emergence viewing at Natural Bridge Caverns (seasonal)
• Movie or concert nights at the Whitewater Amphitheater
• After-dark thrills at Schlitterbahn Waterpark or Natural Bridge Caverns

3. Is New Braunfels a good place for families with kids?

Definitely! New Braunfels offers tons of family-friendly activities. Top kid spots include Schlitterbahn waterpark, the McKenna Children’s Museum, tubing down the rivers, miniature train rides and the Natural Bridge Caverns cavern tours. The downtown and Gruene historic district also have lively dining and entertainment families enjoy.

4. What is the best way to get around New Braunfels?

New Braunfels is fairly compact and walkable downtown. But having a car is ideal to reach attractions along the rivers as well as wineries, breweries and outdoor areas. Interstate 35 bisects the town making driving easy. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are also available, though limited.

Conclusion

With its picturesque setting amid the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, charming small-town vibe and abundance of cultural attractions and outdoor activities, New Braunfels offers an enticing getaway just minutes from big city amenities in San Antonio and Austin.Discover a myriad of activities in Midland, TX, where the options range from tubing and water play to exploring fascinating history and architecture. Just like in New Braunfels, you can also enjoy live music, dancing, visit theme parks, and savor great local cuisine, ensuring there’s something for travelers of all ages and interests.Use this guide to start planning your own unforgettable Texas Hill Country adventure in New Braunfels.