Let me tell you about one of my favorite places to visit near San Antonio…… New Braunfels, Texas. This town is definitely a hidden gem of Texas! My husband and I visited here a few years back and fell in love. New Braunfels has a very rich Germanic background, successfully settled in 1845 due to its plentiful water and rich soil. At the heart of New Braunfels is the Comal River. Many visitors come to tube and swim these spring fed waters.
In fact one of the main attractions that pulls visitors here is the gigantic 65 acre water park! Schliterbahn Waterpark has 40 water features, 17 waterslides, a wave pool, inland body boarding, a 6 story uphill water coaster, cabana rentals, aaaaaaaaand you can even stay the night at their resort. Hubby and I had sooo much fun here. It is huge huge huge. Plan for at least one day and be prepared for some super cold water. Many of the tube slides are fed with the spring water from the Comal River.
If waterparks aren’t your thing, but you still want some water time fun there is a River Road. This road follows the Guadalupe River from Canyon Lake into New Braunfels. There are a ton of campgrounds, cabin rentals, and vacation rentals along the road. You can rent canoes or kayaks, go fishing, or just float in your tube. Make sure you check out Guadalupe River Scenic Area which is part of the River Road loop.
Landa Park is another great outdoors site. This is a 51 acre park with over 300 benches and picnic areas, an arboretum, several pools, miniature golf course, and a traditional golf course. The park has many trail options to walk through oooorr you could take the MINIATURE TRAIN!! That’s right, I said miniature train. Who doesn’t want to do that?! If you’re interested in checking out Comal Springs and Landa Lake you can rent a paddle boat. Work out your legs while sitting on your booty.
Make sure to check out Gruene while you’re in the area. They have a beautifully restored historic district, Texas’ oldest dance hall, and some super cute antique stores and art galleries. Oh! And if you’re a wino like me and the hubs there are a few vineyards/wineries to hit. Of course what small historic town visit is complete without a drive in movie? I’m so in love with these. The theater is called Stars and Stripes (very patriotic).
After a long day of fun in the sun you’re probably ready to stuff your face, I know I was. Chris and I had a fantastic dinner at Myron’s Prime Steakhouse. It was pretty expensive but the steak was out of this world and our server was so so so attentive.
If you’re interested in keeping that traditional German feel check out Alpine Haus Restaurant or grab lunch and maybe something sweet at Uwe’s Bakery and Deli. Speaking of sweets….after all that outdoors heat head on over to The Gourmet Ice Co for a cold treat. Their shaved ice is made with fresh fruit, herbs, and natural can sugar. PLUS they don’t use preservatives, artificial flavors, sweeteners, or dyes.
Wanting a really cool looking spot? Gristmill River Restaurant is the place to go.
Seriously y’all, this town is just too cute. I hope you find time to visit New Braunfels. If so let me know your favorite things to do!
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*Unfortunately when we visited we did not really take any pictures. So the pictures I have on this blog page are scavenged from google. If anyone feels I am using their pictures without due credit please tell me and I will attempt to rectify my mistake immediately.
The Girl and the Coconut 