Story and photos by Scott Kendall (unless otherwise indicated)
Tubing the Guadalupe River
A long time summer tradition is tubing down the Guadalupe River. From families to couples to a variety of fun groups, floating the Guadalupe River is a fan favorite in the Texas Hill Country. Rent a tube, kayak or canoe on River Road in New Braunfels, and launch your own floating adventure.
Enjoy Texas Home Cooking
No one goes hungry when visiting the Texas Hill Country. From country fried chicken, chicken fried steak, Tex Mex, great BBQ, and fine dining, visitors to the Texas Hill Country can find some memorable meals. Restaurants like The Gristmill, Huisache Grill, Pat’s Place, and other great local restaurants will keep you satisfied.
Gruene Mansion Inn
Among the many lodging options in the Texas Hill Country, the historic Gruene Mansion Inn is a wonderful choice in New Braunfels. The Gruene River Inn, the Gruene Homestead Inn, and the Hampton Inn and suites are other great options.
Wineries in New Braunfels
Just off Highway 46 west of New Braunfels is the lovely Dry Comal Creek Winery. Known for their reds, whites and ports made from the Black Spanish grapes that flourish in the area, visitors can enjoy the spacious picnic areas under shady majestic oaks while they sip on their favorite wines and listen to live country western music.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark, #1 water park in the world
Schlitterbahn has been voted the number one water park in the world for many years running. With modern gravity defying rides alongside the lazy river, guests can choose from exhilarating thrill rides to more relaxing floats through the park and into the Comal River. Bring along your own coolers for a picnic and cold refreshments as you rotate between working on your tan and partaking in the various water activities.
Architecture of Old Town Churches and Buildings
With a large contingent of the German early settlers and current residents, the influence on many of the early buildings is evident throughout New Braunfels. The impressive Comal County Courthouse, built from local limestone in 1898, is the focal point for much of the intricate work done by artisans through the years. Other buildings of note include the Lindheimer House, Krause’s Cafe, and the Prince Solms Inn B&B as just a few of the many German influenced buildings in New Braunfels.
