New Braunfels
New Braunfels‘ (Brawn-fulls) translates as the ‘New Brown Rock’ in the Texas Hill Country, but most likely was named for Braunfels in Germany. Once there, you will find a strong German influence and cultural hints. As a result, visitors enjoy a variety of activities for individuals, couples, and families. Nearly half-way between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels offers the entertainment options of a big city while maintaining that small town charm and beauty for which the Hill Country is famous.
Founded in 1845 by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, the town was located near Comal Springs. As the largest natural spring source in Texas and the Southwest United States, settlers were drawn immediately to the area. As you would expect, New Braunfels grew to the fourth largest city in Texas by 1850. Today, the city takes a more relaxed approach to life. Folks living in the ‘New Brown Rock’ appreciate the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
Water Activities
The founders of New Braunfels built the town around outdoor water activities. As a result, Schlitterbaun was built! Schlitterbaun offers sixty-five acres of exciting and innovative rides for adults and children alike. This popular Texas Hill Country destination ranked as one of the top water parks in America by US News and World Report.
If you want a slower, more relaxing experience, consider tubing down the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers. Each offers a different experience. The Guadalupe’s water flow is controlled by Canyon Dam, so the temperature and current can change. As a result, you should plan to spend around three hours tubing this section of the Guadalupe River. The largest natural spring in Texas feeds the Comal River, so the water stays around seventy degrees and provides a calm, shorter trip than the Guadalupe float. You may even want to park down river first and walk to the entry, for example.
Comal River
Guadalupe River
Journey Through Geologic Time
Back in the mid-1960’s, a few college students from San Antonio were given permission to explore the area now known as Natural Bridge Caverns. Convinced that a large underground passages existed under the amazing 60-foot limestone bridge, the students explored the area. With persistence and science, the team discover and amazing labyrinth of caves and features.
Now, you can explore the caves safely and learn about the geology. As a result, we are confident you will enjoy the world premier show caverns, and one of the most popular attractions in Texas.
Historic Gruene Hall
Texas’ oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall, maintains its original layout to this day. You may try to overthink the pronunciation of this town, as we did. After considerable research and beer consumption, we found it is simply pronounced ‘Green’. Yup – that simple.
Since 1878, musicians and patrons have enjoyed fun-filled nights. Bands like Blue Water Highway, Zane Williams, Lea Ann Womack, Melissa Etheridge, Tanya Tucker and many more are scheduled to perform. With so many headlining acts performing, you will want to purchase tickets online in advance.
Lee Ann Womack
Blue Water Highway
Zane Williams
Melissa Etheridge
Tanya Tucker
Hungry Now?
The ‘New Brown Rock’ offers more food, wine and beer options than you can imagine. Delectable Bavarian food is on full display to whet the appetites of all food lovers. The historic Faust Hotel and Brewery offers an amazing menu of great pub food and beer brewed right on-site.
Faust Brewing and Beer Inspired Food
‘eine Last abnehmen’ (Take a Load Off)
Our last German language lesson for the article summarizes the next step – time for the perfect Hill Country vacation home. Partnering with a premier lodging company makes your search simple. With just a few details, we can help your stay become memorable for a lifetime.
