Location: New Braunfels
Top Things to do in New Braunfels
10 Things to Do in New Braunfels That You Shouldn't Miss
With German names on the street signs, summer bier gartens and the annual Wurstfest, New Braunfels blends the character of its German namesake with the charm and beauty of Texas Hill Country. Old World heritage is abundant in the Historic District of Gruene, featuring the ruins of the original Gristmill and live music at the Gruene Hall. Those in search of more modern fun can check out the Schlitterbahn waterpark, spelunk in the Natural Bridge Caverns or test the waters at Canyon Lake.
Restaurants in New Braunfels
1. Landa Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 574 reviews
Park that features paddleboats and train rides; great for families.
Reviewed By kotam32 - Pearland, Texas
We searched for the top things to do with kids in New Braunfels and Landa Park came up. My kids loved the train which was only $3/rider. My daughter loved it so much she went back for another trip. It weaves through the park, highlighting all the areas. We tried to rent the paddle boats but it was an hour wait. There were three separate playground areas for the kids. Plenty of space for my son to start a pick up soccer game. Although we didn’t use them there were several pavilions to rent with grills. There is an aquatic complex that would be great during the summer. One of the pools is even spring fed. It the perfect place for my two kids to get outside and play after being in the car all day.
2. Gruene Historic District
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 657 reviews
A former ghost town that offers a General Store and souvenir shops as well as THE Gristmill and Gruene Hall.
Reviewed By kaaate7 - Liverpool, United Kingdom
Visited for the day from New Braunfels (which only cost $6 in a taxi). This is a lovely, quaint town to wander around in. The general store is worth a visit but we loved the dance hall. The show that evening was sold out but on a Sunday afternoon it was lively with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Great place for having a few drinks and people-watching.
3. McKenna Children's Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 152 reviews
Reviewed By capitollover - Austin, Texas
I went to this "museum" with my cousin and her grand kids, ages 5 and 3. They both loved it! The 5 year old boy loved the xrays in the clinic, the water activity and climbing activities outside, and the air tubes and soft balls. The 3 year old girl liked the grocery store, the music activities outside, and the clinic.
They played non-stop for 2 hours, which is a pretty good feat for a play space.
I recommend it for kids about 18 mos. to 8 years. Plan to spend at least 2 hours, and possibly up to 4 hours. Bring a change of clothes in case they get wet playing in the water activity. There are a couple of picnic tables for you to enjoy your snacks if you bring some.
The admission is $7.50 for everyone, no senior or military discounts, but you can get coupons online if you plan ahead.
4. New Braunfels
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 209 reviews
Reviewed By bandman - Lafayette, LA
Years ago I fell in love with this area when looking for a college. I ended up going elsewhere but the San Marcos/New Braunfels area has always held a special place in my heart. It is growing up but it has stayed beautiful! I highly suggest this area for a romantic quiet winter getaway. I think this is the best time of the year here because you can enjoy the beauty of the area without the crowds!
5. Canyon Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 215 reviews
One of the deepest lakes in Texas boasts more than 80 miles of scenic shoreline and is a favorite spot for outdoor activities year round.
Reviewed By Djure20 - Innsbruck, Austria
I was traveling with my fellow from austin to san antonio and visited this place in november! After we went for a walk over the damn, enjoying the sight and the good air, we went down to the lakeside! we went along the lakeside, climbing some stone and found a cool place to swim! after swimming and enjoying the sun for 1-2 hours we proceeded to visit the creek, that had his genuin behind the damn. it is a beautiful spot in nature and we made a lot of pics! heya fellows, break your trip, visit this place for a day in autumn, relax there, enjoy mild temperatures and continue afterwards!
one Point on the negative side of the balance: some guys littered the seaside all along with beercans! so sad!!!
sidemark: a helicopter drone filmed us during swimming, but i am sure that was just per chance!
good place, no negative points!
6. Comal River
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 487 reviews
A two-mile river (the world's shortest) that offers sites for family picnics and gatherings.
Reviewed By Lacey C - Granbury, Texas
It's wonderful to tube here in the summer but it's a great place to visit in the fall and winter, off season, as well!
7. Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Come explore over seventy acres of shared family fun, thrilling adventure, and relaxation! Schlitterbahn is nestled along the beautiful banks of the Comal River and features world-famous attractions, epic river adventures, kid’s water playgrounds, and beautiful spots to relax and share a picnic.
Reviewed By Shooters22 - New Braunfels
There is something for all of your liking. My daughters love to just go through the Lazy River or the other that just goes in circles with big waves. My other family wanted to do long tube rides or ride the big slides.
Best thing is you can bring your own drinks and food!!!
Plenty of room to set up camp somewhere and all of your family knows where you will be!
8. Stars and Stripes Drive In Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Stars and Stripes New Braunfels is a brand new drive-in theater unlike any you've experienced before! Although our facility is modern, it's not lacking any part of the vintage drive-in experience that many of us hold dear. We show new double features year-round. For the full drive-in experience, visit our 50's Cafe to grab Rockin' Eats & Tasty Treats. Arrive about an hour early to skip the line!
Reviewed By JKSQUARED82 - San Antonio, Texas
Recently made an impromptu stop on the way home from the river. (2adults,2teens,2 babies) Clean facilities, plenty of space to park , friendly people parked around us. Would be awesome if they offered food delivery to your car for people with small children who don't want to wait in the long food lines. I did appreciate seeing security come around often and telling people to turn off their lights. Wish they wouldn't allow people to run their cars too (not cool when people around you are sitting outside their car who don't want to smell ur exhaust) maybe they can make a side for people who are staying in the vehicles and people who aren't :) I would recommend to anyone and we will be back for sure :)
9. Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo
Overall Ratings
4 based on 287 reviews
Two Attractions, One Admission:Mountain Lion CubsExciting Croc & Alligator ShowPetting ZooWorld's Largest RodentEndangered PrimatesMost Dangerous Snake in the WorldBirds of the WorldCarnivore Feeding ShowRattlesnake PitConcession StandGift ShopAnd much more!!Check web site for showtimes, vary according to season.
Reviewed By Nicole T - Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
Great staff and awesome visit. Very informative. Can touch some of the animals, watch the lions eat. They are expanding and bringing in more animals. Very worth it can spend hours in here for decent and learn lots. Look on the website to plan your visit to see what's on the schedule. Great time.
10. Faust Street Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 90 reviews
Reviewed By Dianne W - Sugar Land, Texas
Not easy to find and parking is very limited but worth the visit. This bridge was the only route between San Antonio and Austin in the late 1800s. It was built in 1887 and is now only a walking bridge with lots of history. You get a great view of the river. Walk down under the bridge and take a dip in the cool river with limestone ledges to relax.
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