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Nestled along the I-35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels has transformed from a small German settlement into a popular tourist destination in the Lone Star State.
This Central Texas gem draws visitors with its blend of spring-fed rivers, water parks, historic districts, and German heritage dating back to the 1840s.
Whether you want to float the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, explore caverns, or dance at Texas’s oldest dance hall, this guide covers the top attractions for your next getaway, including hidden gems and can’t miss things to do.
1. Downtown New Braunfels
Photo Credit: Regan Bender
Downtown mixes German heritage with Texas Hill Country charm, featuring cobblestone streets, restored 19th-century buildings, and fresh-baked strudel aromas.
Downtown is perfect for browsing, dining, and evening entertainment within walkable blocks. The Main Plaza hosts seasonal events, farmers’ markets, and street music. Boutique shops offer antiques, Western wear, and local crafts. Enjoy German beer gardens, live music venues, and historic spots like the Faust Hotel.
2. Gruene Historic District
This preserved 19th-century cotton town overlooks the Guadalupe River and features original limestone buildings and an old cotton gin.
Riverfront dining with stunning views, charming shops featuring handmade goods, and concerts at nearby Whitewater Amphitheater make Gruene a vibrant cultural hub that beautifully blends history, music, and local flavors, attracting visitors year-round for a truly unique experience.
Gruene Hall, Texas’s oldest continuously operating dance hall, hosts live music almost nightly.
3. Comal River
Photo Credit: wk35mm
At just 2.5 miles, the Comal River is one of the shortest river systems in the world, but it offers iconic tubing experiences. Fed by the world-famous Comal Springs, the water stays a constant 72°F year-round, making it a refreshing retreat even in the summer heat.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks or an active day floating downstream, the Comal River is a great place to discover New Braunfels’ unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The clear river passes shaded banks lined with giant oak trees and picturesque bridges, making the entire experience even more special.
Local outfitters provide tubes, shuttles, and safety gear, ensuring a fun and secure adventure. The gentle current suits families, beginners, and water sports enthusiasts, with life jackets recommended for all.
4. Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River offers a longer and more varied experience for tubing, kayaking, rafting, and paddleboarding. Ancient cypress trees line its banks, providing a scenic backdrop as the river shifts from calm stretches to gentle rapids. Along River Road, local outfitters offer equipment rentals and help visitors choose float lengths suited to their preferences.
Many come to experience both the thrilling water sports and the lively atmosphere that surrounds this iconic New Braunfels attraction. In addition to water activities, the Guadalupe River is renowned as a top trout fishery, with rainbow trout stocked each winter.
Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, riverfront bars, and grills serving local favorites like sizzling fajitas, making the area a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and vibrant riverside dining.
5. Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort
Founded in 1979, Schlitterbahn is a world-renowned waterpark on the Comal River’s banks, voted the best for over two decades. It features spring-fed tube chutes, lazy rivers, big slides, wave pools, kids’ areas, and uphill water coasters.
Schlitterbahn offers attractions for all ages, including thrilling rides for adrenaline seekers and gentle pools for families with young children. The park operates late spring through early fall, with on-site lodging available. Water shoes and sunscreen are essential.
6. Landa Park & Comal Springs
Landa Park, the “Beauty Spot of Texas,” spans 51 acres centered on Comal Springs, the largest spring complex in the American Southwest.
The park offers a historic spring-fed pool, Olympic facilities, shaded walking trails, two hiking trails through Panther Canyon, a miniature train, paddle boats, three playgrounds, picnic spots, miniature golf, and an outdoor amphitheater.
7. Natural Bridge Caverns
Photo Credit: Fadrian Hartono
Texas’s largest commercial cavern system, Natural Bridge Caverns, offers visitors a captivating underground experience with its stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations.
Guided tours lead guests along well-lit walkways with railings, while adventure and lantern tours explore deeper, more mysterious sections of the cave. Maintaining a cool 70°F year-round, the caverns provide a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
Above ground, visitors can extend their adventure with exciting activities such as ropes courses, zip rails, and gem mining, making Natural Bridge Caverns a perfect blend of education and thrill for all ages.
8. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
This 450-acre drive-through safari houses over 500 exotic animals from 40 species, including giraffes, zebras, and ostriches. Guests stay in vehicles on a marked loop, with opportunities to feed animals. Walk-through petting zones and guided tours are available.
The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch supports conservation and education programs, making it a fun and educational experience for families and animal lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with wildlife in a safe environment, and seasonal events add extra excitement to each visit.
9. Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo
Operating for over 40 years,the Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo specializes in reptiles, including dangerous snakes, crocodilians, primates, big cats, and birds. It offers educational exhibits, keeper talks, animal encounters, and alligator shows.
Located conveniently along I-35, it’s a great stop for shorter outings or when river conditions are unfavorable. Visitors can enjoy close-up views of exotic animals and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts, making it both a fun and informative experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
10. Historic Outdoor Art Museum & Public Murals (HOAM)
Downtown features a free, self-guided collection of murals and public art depicting German settlers, Comal Springs, music traditions, and Hill Country landscapes. The artworks at HOAM are near the Main Plaza, making them perfect for a stroll that includes coffee or bakery stops.
These vibrant murals tell the rich history and culture of New Braunfels, offering visitors a visual journey through the city’s heritage. Local artists have contributed to this outdoor gallery, making it a hidden gem that beautifully captures the community’s spirit and invites exploration beyond the usual tourist spots.
11. Sophienburg Museum
The Sophienburg Museum and Archive showcase the rich history of New Braunfels, highlighting its founding by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels. The exhibits delve into early immigration, frontier life, and the town’s growth, featuring artifacts, photographs, personal letters, and cultural displays.
This museum is an invaluable resource for genealogical research and offers visitors a deep understanding of the city’s German roots, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Central Texas heritage.
12. Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre
Offering nostalgic outdoor movie experiences, the Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater shows first-run double features on multiple screens. Guests can listen via car radio or watch outside with chairs and blankets. The 1950s-style café serves dinner and snacks, including classic favorites like burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
It’s a family-friendly, romantic evening option, especially in spring and fall, offering a charming retro atmosphere that complements New Braunfels’ unique blend of history and modern entertainment. Seasonal events and themed nights add to the fun, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Plan Your Visit to New Braunfels’ Top Attractions
New Braunfels combines natural beauty, German heritage, and outdoor fun, attracting millions annually. Whether tubing the rivers, exploring caverns, dancing at Gruene Hall, or cooling off at Schlitterbahn, there’s something for every season. Visitors can also enjoy scenic hiking trails, authentic German cuisine, lively festivals, and family-friendly parks.
Start planning your adventure today with the help of our in-depth guide to all the top attractions. And don’t forget to book vacation rentals or boutique hotels early, especially for summer weekends and Wurstfest in November, to secure your ideal base for exploring this Central Texas gem.
