New Braunfels is an amazing travel destination in Texas. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in New Braunfels, Texas, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in New Braunfels, Texas, and the best places to visit in New Braunfels, Texas.
Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo
The Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo is a small roadside zoo specializing in snakes and other exotic species.
The Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo began as the Snake Farm, which has been a huge hit among New Braunfels attractions since its start in 1967.
With the many species of snakes housed here, lovers of scaly reptiles will appreciate a stroll through this zoo.
Observe primates like the adorable capuchin monkeys and other animals, including cats, longhorns, and exotic birds.
Sometimes, you can also see animals being fed or holding snakes.
Other species in the zoo besides your slithering pals include porcupines, alligators, otters, binturongs, and more.
You can participate in the animal encounters to meet some of the creatures up and personal.
Additionally, you might come across an adorable Fennec fox, an American alligator, and other creatures. Fascinating.
It is not permitted to feed wild animals. Still, there is a wonderful petting zoo where your kids can enjoy throwing snacks at the animals.
This zoo is one of the cool things in New Braunfels since you can hold or even carry the animals.
You will definitely have a unique experience here.
Address: 5640 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78132, United States
Established in 1967, which makes the roadside-attraction feel authentic rather than styled. It is accredited by the Zoological Association of America, a different body from the one accrediting the larger city zoos.
Canyon Lake
New Braunfels sits between San Antonio and Austin on two rivers, and almost everything worth doing here involves getting into one of them. The Comal runs about 2.5 miles entirely inside the city. Schlitterbahn does the rest. This is a fast-growing city of over 116,000 people rather than the small German town the guides describe.
Although there are many enjoyable activities in New Braunfels, Texas, a day at Canyon Lake is undoubtedly one of the highlights.
The lake has 80 miles of beautiful shoreline and is located on the Guadalupe River.
Fishermen, boaters, and anyone who enjoys cooling down on the water on a hot summer day frequent it.
In addition to offering stunning vistas of the still, clear waters, this lake is a popular location for water sports.
You will undoubtedly enjoy your time here if you appreciate being near and playing in the water.
Wondering what other fun adventures you can enjoy here? Go fishing, swimming, or boating on the lake with your equipment.
In addition, you will find five neighborhoods, two yacht clubs, a bustling marina, and more around the lake.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in charge of eight public parks, and they will provide you camping, boat ramps, and picnic spaces.
You may also go kayaking to the Guadalupe River below Canyon Dam.
While you’re there, be sure to see the Canyon Lake Gorge; it’s a sight you won’t want to miss.
In Canyon Lake Gorge, you can find dinosaur footprints and fossils dating back 100 million years. Fascinating.
Address: New Braunfels, United States
The US Army Corps of Engineers manages Canyon Lake for flood control on the Guadalupe, just west of New Braunfels. Its most interesting feature is an accident. The 2002 flood overtopped the spillway for the first time and carved the Canyon Lake Gorge, now visited by guided tour only.
Faust Street Bridge
One of New Braunfels’ most famous landmarks is the Faust Street Bridge.
In Comal County, this Whipple truss bridge across the Guadalupe River was built in 1887.
Take a trip and check out the Faust Street Bridge, one of the city’s many attractions.
The Comal River, which is currently running below, is beautifully visible from this old bridge.
The journey across is worthwhile because of the breathtaking river views that can be seen from this old bridge.
For your information, the Faust Street Bridge was shut down after suffering fire damage in 1978.
But today, the bridge is again open to bicycles and pedestrians. Sounds great.
Even during the day, the surrounding countryside is stunning. Crossing it when the sun sets is nice because it is lit up in the dark.
The Faust Street Bridge is a fantastic location for a stroll or a picnic lunch in New Braunfels.
Bring your camera along, and snap lots of lovely images as you cross the bridge.
You will also find many wonderful gifts to take home around the area.
Meanwhile, posing for romantic photos on the bridge is unquestionably one of the best things in New Braunfels.
Faust Street Bridge is fascinating to visit anytime, so don’t miss out.
Address: Faust St to Porter St., New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Built in 1887 by the King Bridge Company of Cleveland, and now open only to people on foot or on bicycles. It runs 640 feet over the Guadalupe. It joined the National Register in 2009. A short stop unless you are photographing it.
Fischer Park
Fischer Park is one of the top attractions in New Braunfels.
The largest park in the New Braunfels park system, Fischer Park, provides a variety of attractions for exploration and discovery.
You can stroll or run in the park for more than two miles of greenway pathways, where there is plenty of fresh air, sunshine, and nature.
Enjoy the two fishing ponds and the playgrounds in the park. You can take your kids with you so they can also have fun here.
Meanwhile, you can also explore the Monarch Waystation, the Archaeology/Paleontology Dig, and the two fishing ponds. Come and appreciate the scenic view of the area.
In addition, Fischer Park will allow you to see the breathtaking views of New Braunfels from the 62-acre hilltop park or dig for dinosaur bones.
They also have a splash pad, which is fantastic for kids or adults after a long run through the neighborhood in the summer.
Kayaking, fishing, and seeing countless gorgeous flowers, butterflies, and lizards are all possible.
The Fischer Park Nature Education Center offers numerous activities to ignite your interest and curiosity about the natural world. Fascinating.
Address: 1935 Hilltop Summit Road, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Gruene Halls
Stopping by Gruene Hall in New Braunfels is another worthwhile thing to do, and the name is singular rather than plural.
Gruene Hall, described as Texas’s oldest continually operating dance hall, was built in 1878. The qualifier matters, since other Texas halls claim earlier opening dates.
The Historical Gruene Hall is located just in front of the Gristmill.
You may spend an enjoyable evening dancing at Gruene Hall with some of the top country musicians in Texas.
Many people travel from around to attend performances at Gruene Hall by some of the finest country musicians in history.
These include prior performances by Willie Nelson, Gregg Allman, Hal Ketchum, and others.
Come and visit this lovely spot today to see it yourself.
Additionally, you can enjoy a night of dancing at Gruene Hall. Take your best companion and enjoy having a good time in this amazing place.
The oldest dance hall in Texas features live music every single night. If you are into nightlife, Gruene Hall is for you.
Be sure to try your hand at two-stepping on the spacious dance floor.
You will never know who you could run into in this impressive hall.
Once you visit this Gruene Hall, you can also have fun and enjoy some concerts.
Address: 1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Built in 1878 and never substantially remodelled, which is the point. The floor, the walls and the open side windows are the original ones, and the room is small enough that a nationally known act ends up playing it the way a bar band would. Gruene is a district of New Braunfels. The district joined the National Register in 1975.
Gruene Historic District
Spending the day in Gruene is another great thing you must do in New Braunfels.
On the Guadalupe River stands the historic Texas town of Gruene.
There is no better way to take advantage of everything Gruene has to offer than to rise in the old town.
The Gruene Mansion Inn is located in the 1872 Victorian home that belonged to Henry D. Gruene, the town’s founder, and is just a few feet away from the dance hall.
Staying here puts you in the center of everything. Fascinating.
Gruene Historic District offers you a variety of room types thanks to the addition of barns, the Carriage House, and other historic buildings.
Gruene Mansion Inn, a historic mansion constructed after Gruene’s original store burned down in the 1880s, is another must-see attraction while touring the hill country.
Meanwhile, the Gruene Mansion Inn has been renovated to become one of the greatest bed & breakfast hotels you’ll ever visit.
It will offer you 15 distinctive guest suites that showcase various global styles.
The oldest dance hall in Texas and a historical site established in 1878, Gruene Hall, still hosts live entertainment and dancing.
Additionally, Gruene has fantastic dining and shopping alternatives.
Have a wonderful stay at Gruene Historic District.
Address: 1201 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, Texas 78130, United States
Listed on the National Register in 1975. It started life as a separate settlement three miles upriver on the Guadalupe, and has since been brought inside the New Braunfels city limits.
Landa Park
Landa Park is one of many fantastic getaway locations.
One of the best things to do in New Braunfels is to visit Landa Park.
This 51-acre urban paradise has become the city’s most well-liked escape from the surrounding activity.
This beautiful park offers something for everyone. Landa Street leads to Landa Park, a large natural area.
The Landa Falls, Landa Lake, tennis courts, a big swimming pool, and a mini-golf course are all found at Landa Park.
In addition to the lake’s beautiful waters, this park features a miniature railway and extensive nature walks.
You can also find many picnic tables to set up and enjoy the day with your family.
Bike the Panther Canyon Nature Trail, or visit the Schlitterbahn Waterpark and the Guadalupe River Tubing Outfitter for kayaking or floating.
The Landa House Museum and the Landa Park Miniature Train are only a few historical attractions that can be found at Landa Park.
Given all the options, spending the entire day in the park is easy.
Spread a blanket under the canopy of huge oak trees, and bring your snacks.
While the kids play on the large park grounds, you can unwind for the day.
Address: 164 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
51 acres built around Comal Springs, the largest springs in Texas. The spring-fed swimming pool predates 1936 and is still in use. This is the water without the rental counter.
The rivers have rules. They matter more than any single attraction here. City ordinance bans disposable containers on the Comal and the Guadalupe inside the city, which covers cans, bottles and food wrappers. Life jackets become mandatory as the flow rises, first for children of eight and under, then for everyone on the water. Free ones are there for the taking. Lifeguards work the City Tube Chute during the summer months, and there are none at all on the Guadalupe inside the city limits.
Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture
There are many things to do in New Braunfels, Texas, but the Handmade Furniture Museum is one that you might have yet to consider.
It’s a tiny art gallery that features locally created furniture.
You can explore the furniture that the German immigrants specialised in manufacturing.
While exploring, you can also learn about the history of German immigration to Texas at the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture.
For additional knowledge, Nan and Bill Dillen, who collected furniture, once lived in the museum.
It presently exhibits its collection of more than 70 pieces of antique Biedermeier furniture, along with various handcrafted quilts, English ironstone, and era-appropriate accessories.
A log cabin, a summer kitchen, and a cabinet shop are accessible for tours.
You may observe the locals at work and purchase some of their creations.
Once you visit the museum, you will realise that it’s a fantastic way to furnish your home with distinctive furniture while also giving back to the community.
If you’re on a tight budget, this is a wonderful choice because admission is free.
At the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture, you will have fun while learning.
Address: 1370 Churchill Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
A narrow subject done properly: furniture made by the German cabinetmakers who settled this part of Texas and had to build what they could not import. It opens afternoons only. That catches people.
McKenna Children’s Museum
In New Braunfels, Texas, there are so many enjoyable things to do.
The McKenna Children’s Museum is one of the must-visit destinations in New Braunfels.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy it, and there is always something new to discover.
The museum strongly emphasizes offering education opportunities, promoting experimentation, and encouraging creativity and imagination.
Children under the age of eight are the primary audience for the McKenna Children’s Museum, and those children find it to be enthusiasts.
The interactive displays in this museum will keep your kids happy and interested if you’re seeking indoor activities to do when it’s rainy or gloomy.
Each exhibit offers a wealth of information to learn about while utilizing most of their basic senses, including sight, touch, and smell.
At the McKenna Children’s Museum, check out the Big Slide and the Climbing Wall—they’re all a lot of fun.
Meanwhile, your kids can also engage with displays like Destination Space and Lines Art Studio.
There are plenty of things to do, so your kids won’t ever get bored.
Allow your young students to explore the museum at their own pace.
Address: 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Aimed at younger children rather than teenagers, and closed on Sundays. West San Antonio Street, close enough to the middle of town to combine with something else in a morning.
Natural Bridge Caverns
The Natural Bridge Caverns are worth the drive, though the address is San Antonio rather than New Braunfels: they sit between the two, off Natural Bridge Caverns Road.
Due to its magnificent interiors and thrilling pathways, this natural wonder is a top choice for places to visit nowadays.
There are many sights to see, including stalagmites and stalactites, fossils, and cave creatures like bats and spiders.
Throughout millions of years, the Earth has altered, as you can see in layer after layer.
Check out the offered discovery tour to learn more about the local history and cave formations.
During the cavern’s guided tour, you may learn more about these incredible formations.
The formations are limestone rather than granite, which is what makes the stalactites and stalagmites possible at all, and the caverns run tens of metres below the surface rather than thousands of feet.
Take a walk through the nature preserve or take advantage of the bike and hiking trails if you want to stay active.
After spending the day underground, take a safari excursion at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch.
Along with Texas fauna, this ranch is home to exotic birds and animals worldwide.
You will get to see and study creatures you might not have even heard of before.
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States
Check the address. It is San Antonio rather than New Braunfels, and the caverns sit between the two cities on their own road. Underground temperatures stay constant year round, which makes this the reliable option on a day too hot for the river.
New Braunfels Farmers Market
Get out of the sun and explore the New Braunfels Farmers Market as another must-do activity while in New Braunfels.
Fresh produce isn’t the only item available at the New Braunfels Farmer’s Market.
You will also find wonderful arts & crafts, apparel, home goods, live entertainment, and more.
Visiting the market to browse cheap goods and fresh food is a great addition to your list of inexpensive things nearby.
When you visit the market, look at the local goods you can buy to take home.
The vendors provide a wide variety of handmade goods, including delicious cuisine, skincare products, and jewelry.
In addition, you can also grab and buy pizza and chocolate to baked products, meats, cheeses, and fruits and vegetables.
There are many things to discover and try at the New Braunfels Farmer’s Market, with over 75 vendors.
Throughout the year, the Farmers Market in New Braunfels conducts numerous events. You will experience a lot of fun here.
Some of the events you can enjoy are the Easter Egg Hunt over the Easter weekend in March or April, Kids Day around June 1, and Christmas activities over the holiday season.
Come and check out New Braunfels Farmers Market today.
Address: 186 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, United States
Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels
Any thrill seeker must visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark, the biggest waterpark in Texas.
The Schlitterbahn wave river, water slides, and other attractions may be found in each park’s ten sections.
One of the best things to do in New Braunfels is to go to Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
A 26-acre waterpark and resort, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, started in 2009.
It’s a terrific location for people of all ages and the fact that a family owns it adds to the fascination.
A visit here is undoubtedly among the best things to do in New Braunfels with kids because of the over 14 thrilling water slides and attractions that are both indoors and outside.
Splashing around this excellent water playground will keep your kids who adore the water from becoming bored.
Enjoy exciting coasters like the Downhill Racer and the Hillside Tube Chute.
Additionally, you can unwind by floating in the heated pools at Bamboozle Bay and the Congo River Expedition.
The 6 stories tall and more than a thousand feet long Master Blaster Water Coaster is another popular attraction you must try.
There is also the Black Knight, which will transport you through 550-foot-long tunnels of complete darkness.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark has a lot of immersive experiences for you to enjoy.
Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Seasonal, opening in early May, and now run by Six Flags after the merger with Cedar Fair. The resort side runs year round. The waterpark is a summer proposition, and plans should assume that.
Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theatre
It’s understandable why Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater is a local favourite.
This theater provides a singular experience that is unavailable elsewhere.
You can purchase double feature tickets at the Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theatre to watch two movies for one low price.
They play both vintage American movies in addition to the most recent releases. If you are a movie enthusiast, this spot is definitely for you.
Nothing compares to viewing a movie outside beneath the stars.
One of the best romantic things to do in New Braunfels for couples is the classic feeling of parking on a lot and watching from your car.
Nothing beats cuddling up to someone while watching the newest Hollywood films on a large outdoor screen.
Meanwhile, if that isn’t sufficiently Texan for you, they will perform a special show on July 4.
In Comal County, you will find the most unique Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater. It will also offer you to grab some popcorn and classic movie-going necessities.
In addition, a 50s-style cafe offers reasonably priced snacks and small meals to fill your tummy while keeping the look of olden times if you need something more to eat.
Address: 1178 Kroesche Ln, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
Three screens, opened in 2014, on Kroesche Lane. A drive-in that opened this century runs differently from a surviving mid-century one. Sound comes through the car radio, and the double features are the draw.
Texas Ski Ranch
In New Braunfels, the Texas Ski Ranch is a fantastic location for outdoor recreation.
It’s the ideal location for an outdoor day.
You will have access to wakeboarding, skiing, tubing slopes, zip lines, and an obstacle course at one of the world’s best man-made summer sports complexes.
Don’t worry if you’re trying a water sport for the first time. They provide instruction and a smaller lake where you can hone your abilities.
Other activities include snowboarding, skateboarding, paintball, skating, and trampoline park.
They have a restaurant upstairs and serve some of the best-frozen margaritas.
The Texas Ski Ranch, a very exciting place and one of the city’s main attractions, also has Loki’s Axe Haus, where you can throw axes.
Meanwhile, in the most famous Ironsides Craft Bar, you can grab and enjoy their delicious beer.
When you’re finished with all the excitement, you can let off some steam on a beach close to the water. Fascinating.
Both kids’ and adults’ activities are available.
Additionally, the ranch provides after-school programs, camps, birthday parties, and private lessons.
There are set hours for each activity in the park, which is open all year long.
In Texas Ski Ranch, have a good time while relaxing by the picturesque shoreline and watching boats pass.
Address: 6700 I-35, New Braunfels, United States
Texas Tube
In New Braunfels, Texas, Tubes down the Comal River are a well-liked pastime.
This sport may be done year-round due to the consistently nice water temperature; some people can never get enough of it.
One of the interesting things to do in New Braunfels is to watch people float down the river, and if you rent a tube, you can join them.
The Texas Tubes Outfitters in downtown New Braunfels on the banks of the Comal, they will offer you day passes.
The passes will enable you to take a return shuttle all day to accommodate you and your companions.
You will travel up and down the shuttle in one of the bottomless or bottomed tubes, with or without a cooler.
Drinking is permitted on the Comal, but the containers are not: city ordinance prohibits beverages and food in disposable containers, which covers cans, plastic bottles, glass and foam. Coolers are limited to one per person and to 30 quarts, and they must latch.
Life jackets are not always optional. They are required for children of eight and under once the Guadalupe rises past 500 cubic feet per second, and for everyone above 750, with tubing stopped altogether above 1,000. Free ones are available at both rivers.
Do not bring a can. Aluminum cans are among the disposable containers banned on the Comal by city ordinance, and the ban is enforced with fines, so anything you take on the water needs to be in a reusable container.
The Texas Tube is a must-see spot. Book your visit today.
Address: 250 Meusebach Street, New Braunfels, United States
Get this right before you go. Disposable containers are banned on the Comal. Coolers are capped at one each and 30 quarts, tubes cannot exceed 5 feet, and noise devices must not carry beyond 50 feet. None of it is discretionary.
Frequently asked questions about New Braunfels, Texas. #Top Attractions
Can you bring cans onto the Comal River in New Braunfels?
No. City ordinance prohibits beverages and food in disposable containers on the Comal River and on the portion of the Guadalupe inside the city limits. That covers aluminum cans, plastic bottles, glass, foam cups, zip-top bags and food wrappers, and it carries a fine. Alcohol itself is not banned, the containers are.
Do you need a life jacket to tube the Comal near Landa Park in New Braunfels?
It depends on the river flow. On the Guadalupe, life jackets are required for children eight and under once flow passes 500 cubic feet per second, and for all ages above 750. Tubing stops altogether above 1,000. Free life jackets are available at both rivers on a first-come basis.
Is Gruene Hall in the Gruene Historic District really the oldest dance hall in Texas?
It is described as Texas’s oldest continually operating dance hall, and it was built in 1878. The qualifier matters, because other Texas halls claim earlier opening dates. Gruene is a district of New Braunfels rather than a separate town, and the whole district is on the National Register.
Are Natural Bridge Caverns in New Braunfels?
No, the address is San Antonio, though the caverns sit between the two and are an easy drive from New Braunfels. They are limestone caves rather than granite, and the formations are stalactites and stalagmites. The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is beside them.
Is New Braunfels a small town, and how big is it around Landa Park?
Not any more. The Census Bureau put the city at 116,477 people in 2024, and the city itself says the population has grown by nearly 30 percent since 2020, placing it among the fastest-growing in the nation. It was founded in 1845 by German settlers, and that heritage is real, but the scale is no longer small.
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