Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Gruene, Texas

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Sleep, shop, play, dine, and wine in the historic district of Gruene, New Braunfels, Texas!

The once “sleepy” little German-Texan town in Comal County strives to be a bona fide Texas through time.

From the food they serve, and the items they sell, to the music they play, Gruene manages to be one of the most fun and entertaining tourist destination in Texas.

Amidst the efforts to develop from a small town, Gruene remains authentic and rich in culture.

If you’re searching for places to visit on your next trip, here are good reasons why Gruene, Texas, is the one.

Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo

How far off the road would you go to see a galore of snakes, primates, exotic breeds, and wildlife in Texas?

If you’re not a fan of snakes, expect to see a bunch, as this nice little attraction in New Braunfels has nearly all types of snakes and exotic animals you can see.

The Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo has been a popular roadside attraction for all locals and travelers for half a century. It is home to over 500 species of animals accredited by the Zoological Association of America.

Originally a snake farm, the zoo has had an extensive collection of snakes, reptiles, and other exotic mammals since it was established in 1967.

You’d be interested to see their petting zoo for goats, cows, and cute llamas, the world’s largest rodent, endangered primates, the world’s most dangerous snake, rattlesnake pit, concession stands, and gift shops.

Celebrate a birthday in the “wildest way imaginable” with one of their party packages, which comes with a free private animal show!

Being accredited by the Zoological Association of America, the zoo focuses on animal education which is why they heavily support educational tours and field trips that are memorable and interactive.

Meet your favorite furry, feathery, hairy, and scaly friends in this pleasant Texas zoo.

Address: 5640 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78132, United States

Cypress Bend Park

Cypress Bend Park is every traveler’s chill pill and stopping point for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and more.

The forested park is named after the many Cypress Trees along the bank of the Guadalupe River. It has great space for your little kids or pet dog for some BBQ-themed afternoon. While bringing your furry friend to this amazing sanctuary is nice, don’t forget to put them on a leash.

It’s also a serene spot for meditating, listening to music, or journaling. You can snuggle with your blanket under the beautiful trees near the water.

Visitors and locals go to Cypress Bend Park to tube or float down the Guadalupe River, swim, kayak, or fish in the water. It’s a place to launch watercraft, walk, run, or play.

Like most community parks, Cypress Bend offers fishing space, a parking lot, pavilions, a playground, an open area, restrooms, and access to the river. It’s a free park, so you don’t have to spend to enter the premises.

Appreciate and observe nature as you walk their trail shaded by lush trees. Once is not enough after you visit this park because you will likely be fond of spending a regular day here.

Many people enjoy the features and amenities in the park, including the Cypress Bend Park pavilion for reservation. The pavilion has 11 picnic tables for 60-80 people and a BBQ grill. You can rent this space for a certain price while the public park remains open.

Families and groups enjoy quality time in Cypress Bend, but you won’t feel crowded in this 16.93-acre park.

Address: 503 Peace Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Great food is waiting for you beneath Gruene’s landmark water tower.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar makes one of the best foods in Gruene, Texas. It overlooks the Guadalupe River and has been considered one of the unique dining spots in Texas for around 50 years.

The historic Gristmill depicts a picturesque setting in Gruene. Fill your plates with their signature steaks, chicken, fish, and burgers for a good price. Don’t miss the Gristmill’s secret specialties – tomatillo chicken and bronzed catfish.

For fellow sweet-tooth, they serve the very popular signature Jack Daniel’s Pecan Pie which is everybody’s pick.

Your dining experience is incomplete without their “quintessentially” Texan drinks, fresh cocktails, Texas beers, and well-priced wine.

Gristmill is a mixture of history, location, and turn-of-the-century architecture, building quite a reputation since 1977.

No matter where you sit, you’ll get a view of the river and feel a rustic vibe.

Besides outdoor and indoor dining, the restaurant features intimate dining rooms with native stone fireplaces and an indoor bar with wood burning stove.

You can stay on their refreshing, bricked patio nestled in a grove of trees for a more exciting experience.

Party lovers would want to celebrate practically every occasion on one of Gristmill’s outfitted dining areas that can accommodate nearly any size party. Their intimate dining room for two is also perfect for every lovers’ trip.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is every traveler and town folks’ favorite – a place you would suggest to your friends once you get a taste.

Address: 1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Gruene Coffee Haus

Feel the love from Gruene with every sip in Gruene Coffee Haus!

You deserve a good cup of coffee from the hole-in-the-wall coffee shop in Historic Gruene, Texas.

Gruene Coffee Haus is a family-owned business in Gruene that has served one of the best coffees in the quaint town since 2007.

You will love the smell of coffee aroma when you enter their little shop as they roast a fresh pot daily. You are free to watch the process to enjoy the experience truly!

The amazing baristas will welcome your questions with glee and assist you with all your coffee needs.

There are great selections on the menu that will make you smile with every sip! Choose from a full espresso menu, gourmet drip coffee selections, 24-hour cold brews, many frappe flavors, smoothies, Italian sodas, and pastries made from scratch by Mrs. Bush’s Pie Co & Sweet Dreams Bakery (NB).

Find your favorite spot and feel cozy, read books, work, or just sit back and relax. You are encouraged to make new friends, too!

Live life on the edge and order their selection of craft beer and mimosas to-go.

Gruene Coffee Haus is ready to serve you from morning to night.

If you like to purchase their beans, the Texas Pecan and the House Blend are great to store in your house for a regular sip.

Travelers not from around New Braunfels will want to come back to this hidden gem.

Address: 1720 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Gruene Hall

Open since 1878, Gruene Hall is the oldest operating dance hall in Texas. You’ll be surprised how packed they still are in this modern time!

The 19th Century dance hall has been a place for fun-filled nights in Gruene, Texas. Willie Nelson, Gregg Allman, Hal Ketchum, and more performed in this hall with some of the best country musicians in the state. In fact, there’s a short list of great performers who haven’t been on this historic stage.

Regardless of what day you visit the town, you can always catch live music any day of the week.

The 6,000 square foot with a high-pitched tin roof retained its original layout with side flaps for open-air dancing, a bar in the front, a small lighted stage in the back, and a huge outdoor garden.

You can still see advertisement posters and signs from the 1930s and 40s hung on its walls.

Gruene Hall has been known globally as a tourist attraction and a major music venue for upcoming and established artists. It was used as a set for the 1996 American fantasy film Michael starring John Travolta.

Spending a night in Gruene Hall is more than just love for music but also history!

They serve food, beer, and decent wines. You can visit their shop to see Gruene merchandise, such as caps, tees, posters, and mugs.

Address: 1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Gruene Mansion Inn

Just steps away from Gruene Hall, sleep in the Victorian-style house in the heart of the Historic Gruene District.

The Henry Gruene Family Home, now Gruene Mansion Inn, is a bed and breakfast in a very convenient location in Gruene.

The 1872 hotel is right next door to Gruene Hall and several other establishments like the Gristmill and other fine dining restaurants.

It’s easy to catch live entertainment, float the Guadalupe River, enjoy shopping downtown Gruene or explore the best nightlife in New Braunfels from here. Shopping, dining, and entertainment are steps away!

A little backstory, the Gruene Mansion Inn was built for the town’s founder, Henry D. Gruene. Although the building has been around for over a century, nothing much has changed since.

Gruene hosts yearly festivals such as Gruene Music and Wine Festival annually, Tour De Gruene in November, Gruene Country Christmas in December, and Gruene Market Days every third weekend.

The Mansion Inn is active during these festivities, and they will never miss you out!

Their clean and spacious rooms would make a great sanctuary after a long, fun day in Gruene. The hotel accommodation, service, and view are incomparable.

You’ll wish a place like Gruene Mansion Inn existed in every town.

Address: 1275 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Hinman Island Park

If you are craving a swim in open water, this beautiful park along the banks of the Comal River is the place for you.

Located on Hinman Island Drive, between Landa Park and Prince Solms Park, Hinman Island Park is a recreation area for kids and adults. Enjoy the company of friends or family on one of their picnic tables or benches under large oaks, and have easy access to the river.

The 10-acre park provides a safe space for walking or jogging, swimming, snorkeling, scuba, tubing, fishing, and many more while enjoying the sights and crystal waters.

You’ll have access to BBQ pits and grills, a playscape, restrooms, and parking spaces. However, the place tends to get overcrowded during weekends, holidays, or peak seasons. Coming over on weekdays is best.

Make sure you plan your trip so you will have fewer obstacles on the way. For instance, bringing your food is more convenient than cooking at the location, although that’s also part of the fun. Hey, it’s your call!

The park is easy to get to by car, but parking can be tough. Overall, the park is very accessible, with functional ramps and bridges.

It’s okay to do nothing, too! You can simply watch the pretty sights and enjoy refreshments as long as you don’t litter. The place is truly heavenly when there’s not much crowd.

Nevertheless, Hinman Island Park is everyone’s little paradise in New Braunfels, Texas.

Address: Hinman Island Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Landa Park

There are never too many parks in New Braunfels, Texas, but only some came about with interesting history.

Landa Park dates back to 1936 when the city bought the land surrounded by springs and flowing waters of Comal.

The 196-acre city park was once the location of Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, also known as Las Fontanas (the fountain). After having passed through private hands, the site was turned into a resort and picnic spot, bringing tourists to the park.

Today, tourists continue to adore the beauty and natural scenery of Landa Park. More features and amenities were added to the riverside park, making it a more famous attraction.

Attractions include nature trails under shades of giant oaks, a local miniature train, miniature golf, picnic tables, paddle boats, Panther Canyon, and a tour of the Schumann Arboretum with over 80 species of trees.

Naturally, swimming was a hit in the park, but a large portion of the lake was not made accessible to the public to protect endangered species.

There are many things to do and explore in Landa Park that is safe and enjoyable. You can spend a whole day or have a quick lunch. You will find it a great spot to pass the time either way.

Address: 164 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Master Blaster

Have a blast on the best water ride in the United States – voted “time and time again!”

Six stories tall and over a thousand feet in length, you’ll feel your stomach turn while riding down the Master Blaster – an uphill water coaster at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Waterpark, Texas.

It has been voted the best water ride in the nation three times, making it the first and only attraction to win all three best new products awards.

There’s no excuse not to join this thrill except for the minimum height of 4’2 feet. It’s a combination of up and down roller coaster propelled by jets of water.

The adventure starts on the launch platform at the top of the Blastenhoff Tower, where two-passenger inflatable boats await.

You better not be afraid of heights because passengers are sent down a three-story plunge, back up three stories, and into a twisting tunnel.

Once you’re dropped into the course, you will reach a certain point entering the climatic pretzel-shaped downward spiral.

Master Blaster has been the anchor attraction of the park since 1996. It’s the kind where you would spend your childhood and go back to even when you’ve grown.

Looking from a bright perspective, you get a bird’s eye view while on the tower overlooking the river and blind spots of the park.

Address: New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA

McKenna Children’s Museum

A “walk on the bright side of learning,” McKenna is a children’s space for culture, color, and fun learning.

Imagine beyond limits with the collection of interactive exhibits and magical hands-on environment of the McKenna Children’s Museum.

The kids are free to explore the safe areas of the place where the magic happens. All exhibits are curated to stimulate learning and encourage imagination. These include the areas of science and technology, healthy eating habits, art and culture, gardening, and more.

It also has a variety of indoor exhibits, such as a hospital with a doctor’s office and an ambulance that lights up, a bank, and a grocery store.

The museum has small, themed areas, like the western section, a camping section with a bat cave, an indoor playhouse, and a toddler section.

The outdoor section features lots of water table play, musical instruments, a nice playground, and a spacewalk with bright red lights down the hall that leads to a pitch-black room full of stars.

The gift shop was a nice addition to the little kids’ museum.

McKenna Children has hosted perfectly themed children’s birthday parties that kids loved.

Located in the McKenna Events Center near downtown, the museum is the perfect destination for child play and learning.

Address: 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture

Home to native plants, Texas wildflowers, and old oak trees, the Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture goes way back.

The museum showcases the artisanship of the novel Biedermeiertrained furniture makers of Early New Braunfels and a stunning collection of structural and domestic artifacts from some of the first European migrants who settled in the heart of the Lone Star State.

A hidden gem for some time, more people discovered this unique museum. Not every day you’ll see a room of furniture crafted by New Braunfels’ historic German immigrant community.

On your tour, expect a brief history of Gruene and its settlers. After an hour or so, you will appreciate how this little town came to be.

Every piece of handmade furniture depicts the life, challenges, and experiences on the Texas frontier in the late 1800s.

If you are keen to know more about Texas history, this is a place you should add to your travel list. It’s simple and not as fancy or big, but the space is good enough for old and new crowds.

The guides with tremendous knowledge of the pieces will be happy to tour you around the house.

Among the many other treasures are several exceptional crafts of locally famous Tischlermeisters or “master carpenters” Heinrich Scholl jr. and Johann Michael Jahn.

Address: 1370 Churchill Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Prince Solms Park

This beautiful park at the side of the Comal river is not historical as the other New Braunfels parks, but you’ll be relaxing just the same.

Prince Solms was named after Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, the founder of New Braunfels.

Like Hinman Island, Prince Solms is a recreational space that people go to for tubing down the Comal River. It’s an entry point, exit point, and a picnic and recreation venue in one beautiful location.

You may assume that the place is as historical as Landa Park, but sorry to disappoint; the site does not have the most history in all of New Braunfels. However, it’s just as worthy of a visit as any park in the city.

You’re free to throw a picnic party at Prince Solms on one of the many picnic tables and benches or lie on a blanket covering the green grass.

It has clean, functional restrooms and a playground for all ages to play games, mostly involving a ball.

If it’s your first visit, you’ll notice that the place is quite popular with the locals, especially on the Fourth of July. You’re lucky if you can secure a parking space, but don’t mind parking a little far behind.

Your walk along the river is delightful, and so will your morning run, with nature to see.

It’s a great place to swim and float on the Comal River, with lifeguards in action.

Address: 100 Liebscher Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels

Plan the Hill Country holiday vacation of a lifetime with Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels – the world’s best waterpark!

You heard it right! The park has won the “Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Award” for Best Waterpark for 24 years straight as of 2022.

It’s on everyone’s bucket list for things to do in Texas Country Hill during the summer.

From deeply stunning river rides to pools and waterslides, the adventure goes from mild to wild.

Every area in the park’s distinct sections is as large as most regional waterparks, containing a swim-up bar, a river, a children’s section, and other signature attractions.

No wonder it’s the ultimate summer destination for many families and groups.

Schlitterbahn’s resort also hosts different accommodations and room types for visitors ranging from a basic hotel room to a multi-room vacation home.

The fun never ends in Schlitterbahn Waterpark as they open year-round.

It’s a 70-acre space shared for fun and thrill, nestled along the beautiful banks of the Comal River.

Summer with family, friends, or special someone is never blatant in famous world-class attractions.

Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States

Stones and Bones Museum

Stones and Bones Educational Traveling Museum is not your usual museum. For over 20 years, they have collected and knocked on many locations, bringing various items to satisfy your archeological curiosities.

Owners John and Susan Mellyn of Historic Gruene, Texas, have been collecting artifacts most of their lives.

They have 37 unique displays, 17 cultures represented, 8000 artifacts, 475 schools visited, and 99 lessons.

It’s the nature of their business to travel out of New Braunfels, Texas, and come to schools, libraries, or other events.

Their passion for stones and bones started with two arrowheads from Denver, Colorado.

Their unique display of African animal skulls, African trade beads, Amazon shrunken heads, crystals, comic books, fossils, and more will spark your interest in Archeology, Paleontology, or Geology.

You’ll love rocks and natural history in a flash.

Address: 1707 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA

The Grapevine in Gruene

It’s easy to spot one of Gruene’s largest selections of Texas wines.

“Time you enjoy wasting is never a waste of time.”

The Grapevine believes that your minute does not have to be short. Time slows down when you enjoy every bit of it.

This wine-tasting room off the main street will help you blow off steam after a long drive or a stressful day. Stop once in a while to discover the real stuff in the Texas Hill Country.

They offer a large selection of local and sample wines you can enjoy on the garden or patio under oak trees.

From casual drinkers, and wine geeks to craft beer devotees, The Grapevine has curated a list of the best wines you must taste first, then take home to your liking.

Enjoy live music by local musicians while you view the water tower and historic Gruene Hall from under the shady tree canopy.

The Grapevine has grown over time and now incorporates craft beer and sparkling wines into its menu. They proudly offer something for every budget, palate, and preference.

It’s a perfect time to dress up for a date night in this magical and romantic scene.

Everyone is welcome to peruse their merch shelves of hand-selected pieces of glassware, wine accessories, books, tea towels, candles, gourmet snacks, and more.

Sit, sip, and savor the ambiance of the one-of-a-kind winery tucked in the heart of downtown Gruene.

For more wineries in Texas Country Hill, visit the best things to do and places to visit in Paris, Texas, because “home is where the wine is.”

Address: 1612 Hunter Rd. New Braunfels, TX 78130

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