2025 New Braunfels Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

The Faust Street Bridge has been one of the top landmarks in the city of New Braunfels for more than a century, ever since its construction in 1887. It is a simple Whipple truss bridge built in Comal County over the wide and long Guadalupe River. It was one of Texas’ first passages over water without a toll, as a huge majority of bridges at the time were operated and owned privately. In addition to being one of the most historic things to do in New Braunfels, the Faust Street Bridge was one of the first multi-span bridges of its construction, and now, it’s virtually one of the very few of its kind that remains in the state at all – as well as one of the last bridges of wrought iron to be built in the state. At first, the bridge was important for wagons and carriages drawn by horses, but it was eventually able to bring automobiles across its length. In 1978, the Faust Street Bridge was damaged in a fire and was subsequently closed. Now, pedestrians and bicycles are able to use the bridge once more. It’s lovely to cross it when the sun sets, as it is all lit up in the dark, but even during the day, the surrounding scenery is breathtaking. Address: New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The New Braunfels Railroad Museum is a delightful location that is perfect for locomotive aficionados. If you’re looking for places to go that’ll give you insight into Texas’ railroad history, then well, you’re in the right place! It is made up of a former depot building that has been restored. Specifically, the building was used for the Union Pacific, the International & Great Northern, and the Missouri Pacific lines. Completely free to enter and explore, the New Braunfels Railroad Museum gives you the chance to view a mix of full-size and miniature locomotives. You’ll get to see a genuine 1950s caboose, a restored authentic Pullman dining car, and a tourable railcar and engine. You may even have the chance to drive a model train, watch a train show, or visit the library, which houses an impressive 600 or so books related to railroads and locomotives. Address: 302 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Winery on the Gruene is named after its location in the historic area of New Braunfels’ Gruene. It is a family-owned boutique winery that has won multiple awards, and it creates more than 30 different kinds of wines. Production at all stages is performed within the property, ensuring high-quality authenticity! Winery on the Gruene provides daily tastings without the need for reservations, and its delicious wines of various notes and flavors have made it one of the popular New Braunfels attractions for couples and wine-loving adults. As you sample different notes, you’ll get to stare out over the stunning scenery of Greune and the adjacent Guadalupe River. Address: 1308 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The New Braunfels Fire Museum opened in 1995 after the Battalion Chief at the time, Darren Brinkkoeter, put forward the suggestion for its creation. He and many other firefighters pooled together to make this dream a reality, allowing the museum to open on the city’s 150th anniversary. Before being converted to its new purpose, the New Braunfels Fire Museum was the original Central Fire Station of the city that was used from 1918 to 1985. Within it, you’ll see why it’s one of the most interesting tourist attractions in the city, as it contains all sorts of genuine artifacts and memorabilia. Among the items you’ll see at the Fire Museum are an 1886 Hose Cart, a 1923 LaFrance Pumper, a 1931 American LaFrance, a 1950 Ford Pumper, and various Bucket Brigade Buckets, all used in the transportation of equipment for fire extinguishing. You’ll also spot old tools, communication devices, clothing, and helmets! Address: Hill Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

In Central Texas, German settlers came to establish a brand new colony, and the best way to learn about their actions and history is at the Sophienburg Museum. The museum is home to a wide array of information, artifacts, maps, articles, and photographs relating to those colonists as they made their way into America into what was, atu the time, referred to as Indian Territory. The Sophienburg Museum allows you to trail the tracks of Prince Carl and his fellow settlers with more than a million different items on display. Lectures, research material offerings, and events are provided and held regularly so you can learn even more about the city’s heritage, as well as the heritage of the surrounding Comal County.

Watching a performance at the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre is one of the most fun stuff to do in the lovely city of New Braunfels, providing high-quality entertainment and modern technology hand-in-hand. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and it was opened at a crucial time – just as Pearl Harbor was attacked, plunging America into war. People came to the theatre to seek reprieve from the painful realities of the world. The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre opened as a cinema, or a movie theatre, in 1942. This was right after another theatre had burned down in the area, meaning more audience members were naturally drawn to it. When it was almost left to rot, locals pooled together to save it, and in the late 1990s, it was preserved, restored, and reopened as a performing arts center – which is how it remains now! The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre is one of the area’s chief destinations for performance arts. The theatre boasts more than 605 seats and mixes lush art-deco architecture with high-tech modern technology. Performers of all kinds, from comedians to bands and from singers to acting troupes, come to showcase their art and talent here every year. Address: 290 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The McKenna Children’s Museum is an extremely fun and exciting spot in New Braunfels that is perfect for children who love hands-on and interactive activities. There’s no shortage of what to do so your children simply won’t manage to get bored! The museum focuses on providing opportunities to learn, to encourage experimentation, and to create and foster imagination. The McKenna Children’s Museum is targeted at kids below the age of eight years and is truly enriching for those at that age. All sorts of things to enjoy are arranged throughout different scenarios, experiences, and displays. For example, there is Tot Spot, Under the Comal River Exhibit, Grocery Store, Destination Space, Lend a Hand Ranch, McKenna Hospitable, and Outside the Lines Art Studio. The McKenna Children’s Museum is all about play and excitement. Kids will get to learn about music, space, light, languages, hospitals, rivers, animals, and more. Your children will be able to explore the outdoors, cities, space, and towns all from the expanse of the museum as they experience simulated driving, camping, spaceship launches, and play. Address: 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo began simply as the Snake Farm, which was incredibly popular among New Braunfels attractions since its opening in 1967. At the time, it was a home for reptiles, snakes, and various historic mammals, and it grew into a famous roadside attraction. Ownership of the Snake Farm changed in 2007, prompting its rebranding into the Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo. This change allowed it to expand its repertoire, providing over 500 various animals in addition to the snakes and reptiles of old. Capuchin monkeys, longhorns, cats, exotic birds, and more filled the expanded displays. The Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo would become an officially accredited zoo in 2012. Today, it continues to grow in popularity, providing snake-handling events, animal feeding watch events, and animal stewardship and conservation education. It still has a lot of the original exhibits it had back when it was just Snake Farm, all renovated and restored while providing more space for the animals within. If you’re an animal enthusiast, you must add the Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo to your list of New Braunfels’ places to visit! Address: 5640 Interstate 35 S, New Braunfels, TX 78132, United States

Among some great vacation spots is Landa Park! Landa Park is one of the best things to do in New Braunfels and has become the city’s most popular reprieve from the hustle and bustle surrounding it, an urban oasis spanning 51 acres. It was established way back in 1989 and has served locals and tourists alike, with loads of modern amenities and facilities to provide an enjoyable recreational outlet for all. More than just a simple park in the truest sense of the word, Landa Park is the green heart of New Braunfels. It boasts a sizable swimming pool, a lake called Landa Lake that may have trout and always has paddle boats to use, a miniature train that goes from one end of the park to the other, and two hiking trails, namely the Harry Landa Tree Trail and the Panther Canyon Nature Trail. There is also an 18-hole golf course, a mini-golf course, horseshoe pits, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and the lovely Comal Springs! If even with all of that, you still want more out of Landa Park, check out the beautiful William and Dolores Schumann Arboretum, which boasts 96 tree species. You can also go to feed the ducks, bring your kids to one of four playscapes, or explore the historical gazebos and structures. For food, you’ll love the whopping 75 barbecue grills, oak-sheltered picnic spots and tables, and more! Address: 164 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Schlitterbahn Waterpark is one of the most fun of New Braunfels’ places to go, with a whopping 70 acres of exciting things to occupy yourself with. It’s a great spot for people of all ages and is owned by a family, which makes it even more interesting. Located on the Comal River’s banks, it is constantly changing and growing and has earned a reputation as one of the world’s greatest waterparks in its 15 years of life. Schlitterbahn Waterpark boasts 17 water slides, tubing adventures stretching 3 miles, 7 playgrounds for children, 3 uphill-coasting water coasters, the world’s first surfing machine, numerous restaurants, a selection of accommodation options, and picnic spots. All in all, Schlitterbahn Waterpark has a total of 51 different attractions, with 72-degree water that is cool and relaxing. Some of the most loved rides at Schlitterbahn Waterpark are the high-soaring Sky Coaster, the cheerful Boogie Bahn, and the exciting Torrent Wave River. The adrenaline-pumping Master Blaster Water Coaster is also much loved, with 6 stories of height and more than a thousand feet of length. There is also the Black Knight, which brings you through pitch blackness through tunnels spanning 550 feet. Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The Comal River has always been one of the top New Braunfels attractions, fed by the springs out of the beautiful Edwards Aquifer. It is this river that was the greatest draw for tourists visiting the area for many, and it stretches past Landa Park, then Downtown New Braunfels, and then Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Eventually, it merges into the larger Guadalupe River. One of the biggest activities associated with the Comal River, of course, is the Comal River Float. Simply put, this involved the act of floating on the river along its length. You can do so by bringing your own tubes or renting them, or perhaps by renting a canoe or paddleboat. There are also rope swings, places perfect to jump from, and picnic spots available all around. Regardless, kit out in swim-appropriate clothing and enjoy the warm water as you float down the river for approximately two and a half hours. The temperature of the water is pretty much warm through most of the year at 70-72 degrees, making it quite pleasant and refreshing, especially in the summer. Address: New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

#summervacay I felt like I’d stepped into old Texas when I wandered through Gruene on a summer afternoon. Historic buildings, boutique shops, and live country music filled the warm air. I had a cold beer at Gruene Hall—Texas’s oldest dance hall—and watched couples dance as the sun set. There was BBQ cooking nearby and the Guadalupe River just steps away. It’s a mix of charm, tradition, and laid-back fun. You can’t help but smile in Gruene. #summervacay

Stop focusing only on Orlando 🌞 Texas' Schlitterbahn Waterpark is a game-changer‼️ Praised by CNN as "America's most thrilling and fun waterpark," it has consistently ranked as the world's No.1🏆. The highlight? The "Master Blaster" water coaster 🎢 with over 1,000 feet of track, zipping through water at heart-pounding speeds. It's 10 times more thrilling than a regular roller coaster! For those who prefer a more relaxed vibe, there are plenty of "raft and water slide" options, perfect for enjoying in a bikini without feeling awkward 💃. The park is massive, featuring tropical vibes, German village themes, and futuristic water slide zones that are Instagram-worthy 📸. Best part? Lazy people rejoice✨—the interconnected water channels let you float through the entire park without even touching the ground! 📌 Handy Tips: 1. Check the official website/app for limited-time discounts. 2. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds; weekends can be overwhelming. 3. Bring water-friendly sandals; the ground can get scorching hot. 4. Pack your own towel/waterproof bag; lockers cost extra. 5. Rent a private cabana for great photos and a comfy rest spot. Located in New Braunfels, Texas, it's just an hour's drive from Austin or San Antonio 🚗. Dive into this "ultimate family fun water kingdom" and make your summer unforgettable 💦.

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Getting There - Attraction - Hotels - motel 6 Food & Restaurants - tj Shopping -

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The Circle Arts Theatre was founded in 1968 by a divorced mother who was taking a massive leap of faith. She had two children with special needs and was quitting her more stable job in nursing to open what was then known as the Community Actors Theatre, which she built in the fairgrounds within an old exhibition hall. Three years later, Elizabeth was approached by the WurstFest Association to host a play for the festival in return for the ability to use a building in Landa Park. She agreed, and since then, the theatre has only grown. Its first full season was in 1972, with the number of plays increasing each new season, and by 1978, it was hosting classes in the performing arts for children. Today, the Circle Arts Theatre has grown into a great New Braunfels spot for a good night of fun performances and engagement through shows of all kinds. The theatre and its troupe have won many awards across different categories and topics and have grown to include touring companies, summer camps, and numerous events! Address: 124 Elizabeth Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Looking for more options for what to do outdoors in New Braunfels with your children? Prince Solms Park is a quaint little choice! It’s essentially a large playground covering 19 acres of ground, boasting courts for basketball and tennis, a 9-hole course for disc golf, and a big area for play. The Prince Solms Park also boasts direct access to the gorgeous Comal River, providing opportunities to float down the river from here. A lovely “tube chute”, which is a slide into the water fitted into the river dam’s side, provides a unique way to access the river, and there are some swimming holes further upstream. There are also some great picnic areas so you can watch the river flow by and relax! Address: 100 Liebscher Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Wurstfest is a celebration of the history and deliciousness of sausages, and it’s been one of the most fun things to do in New Braunfels since its conception in 1961. In the beginning, the festival was just a one-day, simple event with a few visitors, but today, it is a 10-day extravaganza of music, culture, heritage, and food drawing visitors from across the state and even the country. With thousands of annual visitors, Wurstfest offers a taste of German culture mixed delightfully with Texas rowdiness. If you’ll be in the city this weekend, why not check out one of New Braunfels’ biggest events by taking a large appetite along to sample some sausages! There will even be games, carnival rides, performances, and beer from Texas and German brewers! Address: 178 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture is pretty much what it says on the tin, but also a little more. It is a fun way to learn about the history of New Braunfels and the rest of Texas and its German immigration, told through the “words” of furniture that the German settlers made. The building of the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture was once the home of Nan and Bill Dillen, a pair of furniture collectors who managed to amass more than 70 unique pieces of genuine antique furniture of Biedermeier make. This collection is what is now displayed in the museum, as well as other interesting pieces like English ironstone, handmade quilts, accessories from the period, and more artifacts of German-Texan culture and the Biedermeier era of Central Europe. Within the 11-acre property of the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture itself, there are other places to visit. A summer kitchen, a shop that sells cabinets, and a log cabin can all be toured. This museum’s beautiful hand-crafted creations are a true sight to behold, each one made from master carpenters, or Tischlermeisters. Address: 1370 Churchill Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

The New Braunfels Farmer’s Market is a delightful place to go to if you want to get deeper in touch with the locals. You can find virtually anything here, from the typical produce of vegetables and fruits to baked goods, cheeses, and meats. There is chocolate to sample, pizza to eat, skincare items to try, and hot food to enjoy. You can purchase products for your home, too. With over 75 vendors at the New Braunfels Farmer’s Market, there’s no end to what you can explore and try out. Live entertainment will serenade you as you feast your eyes. Better yet, the market is open without fail every Saturday, so you can check it out this weekend as one of the things to do in New Braunfels! Address: 186 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States