20 Fun Things To Do In New Braunfels Texas

1. Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort

Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort is located in new braunfels, Texas. It was established in 1979 and has remained one of the top waterparks in the United States since. The park is famous for its thrilling water rides including the Master Blaster and the Dragon Blaster.

The park also has relaxing tube slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, that are accessible for all ages. Apart from the rides, Schlitterbahn offers accommodation for visitors with cozy rooms and suites.

The friendly atmosphere complemented by the beautiful view of the Comal River, earns the Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort a top spot in the list of things to do in New Braunfels, TX.

2. Boat Ride In Comal River

Initially started as a popular activity in Comal River, the boat ride is a must-try activity for visitors. As one of the shortest rivers in the world, it offers a great environment with scenic views around. The river is located near downtown New Braunfels and is surrounded by greenery and clear waters.

The river offers visitors a great environment for a boat ride with gentle currents throughout the trip. During the ride, you can enjoy the beautiful landscape, and spot wild animals while crossing the famous Tube Chute slide.

Except for refreshing boat rides, the Comal River is also a perfect place for other water activities like tubing, swimming, and picnicking along its bank.

3. Explore Landa Park

Landa Park is another perfect place in New Braunfels Texas for outdoor activities. Situated along the banks of the Comal River, the park offers different activities for all ages. Visitors can choose from activities like train rides, paddle boats, or a refreshing swim in the pool. 

The park also contains beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, BBQ grills, and playgrounds for kids. For outdoor geeks, the park houses a mini-golf course, tennis courts, and the famous Panther Canyon Nature Trail for hiking and birdwatching.

Meanwhile, for nature lovers, the park's area is fully covered with greenery, gardens, and a large number of ancient oak trees, offering a calm environment.

4. Visit Gruene Historic District

Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels is a beautiful area deeply rooted in the past. The district was established in the 1800s and is renowned for its old-age buildings and rich history. A visit to the district is a great option for those interested in Texas heritage.

The district also houses the oldest dance hall in Texas, the Gruene Hall, where visitors are welcomed with live music and dancing. While in the district, you can explore the antique stores and cafes around the streets. Another great thing to do is to taste the local cuisine.

Apart from that, you could take a short walk with family and friends along the Guadalupe River while tasting wine at the local vineyards. The Gruene Historic District is a great family destination to spend a day exploring and enjoying the beauty of the place.

5. Visit The McKenna Children's Museum

Located at the center of New Braunfels, the McKenna Children's Museum is a wonderful place for a family visit. It offers a fun learning environment for kids through different exhibits and hands-on activities. Visitors can let their kids spend time and socialize while exploring the area. 

Kids of different ages can enjoy being doctors, chefs, an artist, and multiple things they wish to be. They along with their parents can also attend the science exhibits like the water table and outdoor garden.

Established with a motive to inspire kids' creativity and curiosity, the McKenna Children's Museum has been a great choice for locals and visitor parents from all around the world.

6. Take Pictures At Faust Street Bridge

Faust Street Bridge is an amazing place in New Braunfels for taking scenic pictures. Built in the 1800s, the bridge is widely popular for its iron trusses hanging over the beautiful Guadalupe River. The combination of these two elements offers visitors perfect portraits and landscape shots.

The bridge has multiple spots to take pictures from different angles alongside the magical sunrise and sunset view. You could also explore the nearby riverbank for more photo opportunities. The Faust Street Bridge is a vibrant location to enjoy a peaceful family time.

7. Taste Wine At Dry Comal Creek Vineyards

Dry Comal Creek Vineyards, established in 1992 is located at 1741 Herbelin Rd in New Braunfels. It is a great place to taste the authentically brewed wine in a relaxing environment. Visitors are welcomed in the tasting room with a variety of local and award-winning red and white wines.

The vineyard also offers you a beautiful setting to explore around while enjoying the fresh grapes in the fields alongside perfect views of the countryside. Apart from wine tasting, visitors can learn more about the wine preparation process from the friendly staff around.

As a wine lover, the Dry Comal Creek Vineyards is a must-visit place while in New Braunfels.

8. Watch Movie At Stars And Stripes Drive In Theatre

Another perfect destination to spend family time in New Braunfels is the Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theatre. Located just 8 miles away from New Braunfels, the theatre lets you enjoy the latest film while staying inside your car. The place has multiple theaters offering various movie options to visitors.

With great cinematic experiences, evenings would be a great time to catch a movie at Stars and Stripes Drive-in Theater. The place also has multiple classic cafes around the corner to collect popcorn and other snacks.

Visitors can also spend time at the playgrounds while their kids play a few games before the movie starts. The unique experience offered by the place has made it one of the most popular places in the state.

9. Go Waterskiing At Texas Ski Ranch

The Texas Ski Ranch is an adventure park that was established in 2001. Spread across 70 acres, it offers a great environment for multiple outdoor activities like wakeboarding and waterskiing. The ranch is a beginner-friendly place to spend a fun time alongside scenic views.

Beyond skiing, the ranch is also popular for activities like a skate park, trampolines, ropes course, and a cable system to ride across the water. While on the ranch, you can also enjoy delicious meals at the on-site Wahoo's Fish Taco restaurant.

With a vibrant outdoor setting and multiple activity options, skiing at the Texas Ski Ranch is another great thing to do in New Braunfels.

10. Go Paddling At Guadalupe River

Flowing through the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River is a perfect spot for paddling adventures. The river is a combination of scenic views and a peaceful environment. While paddling through, visitors are rewarded with greenery, wildlife spotting, and clear water underneath. 

As a convenient spot, paddlers can start their journey from several points and travel across with ease in the slightly wavey water. For first-time paddlers interested in the experience, the river area also has multiple shops to rent out kayaks or canoes.

Paddling at the Guadalupe River is a great way to enjoy the atmosphere along with friends and family.

11. Tour The Sophienburg Museum

The Sophienburg Museum is a perfect place in New Braunfels to learn about the city's rich history. The museum was established in the early 1930s and showcases the heritage of the first German settlers of the area. During the exploration, you will find different exhibits featuring artifacts, photos, and documents of the early city founders.

The major highlights of the museum include historic homes, displays on local industries, and artifacts showcasing the cultural history of New Braunfels. For history geeks, the knowledgeable staff makes learning about the city's past easy and fun.

Touring through the Sophienburg Museum is a perfect way to spend time while exploring and educating yourself more about the place.

12. Shop At New Braunfels Farmers Market

Located in downtown New Braunfels, the New Braunfels Farmers Market is a perfect shopping place for visitors. The market offers a variety of products including fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts, and local goods. The market is held every week bringing together farmers, artists, and food vendors.

Visitors can explore all those shops lined up in the street and discover local products while supporting small businesses. For visitors, the farmers' market is a lively place to enjoy family outings and collect some souvenirs from the local shops. 

13. Float The Guadalupe River

The Guadalupe River is not just a great place for kayaking but also for other outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful landscape, the river offers floating opportunities in the refreshing waters for locals as well as visitors. Visitors can select from a boat ride or tube ride to enjoy the scenic view of the area.

After floating at the river, you can plan a picnic on the riverbanks along with friends and family while spotting local wildlife. No matter what your age or preferences, the river offers something for everyone.

While on a trip to Texas, the Guadalupe River can be a great choice to spend a family vacation or escape the city's crowd.

14. Try German Food At Krause's Cafe

While on a trip to New Braunfels, another must-visit place is the Krause's Cafe, established in 1983. It is a family-owned restaurant that offers a blend of traditional German flavors and Texan hospitality. Visitors can choose from multiple authentic dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and many more.

The restaurant also has an outdoor beer garden with great dining experience. For food lovers, the Krause's Cafe is a great place to explore German cuisine prepared with quality ingredients.

Visitors can also enjoy refreshing German drinks complemented by an outdoor beer garden and the restaurant's beautiful interior.

15. Walk Through Downtown New Braunfels

A walk through the beautiful downtown of New Braunfels is a great way to explore the city's history and culture. The downtown area houses historic buildings lined up with vibrant shops along the streets. While strolling around, you can find antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries filled with local works.

During the walk, you can also stop by cafes and restaurants to taste the local cuisine. The Historic court house and the colorful murals are a few landmarks of the city.

Overall, the Downtown New Braunfels offers a great exploration opportunity with a delightful ambiance and safe walk streets.

16. Eat Sweet Treat At Naegelin's Bakery

Among the sweet lovers, the Naegelin's Bakery is a renowned place to enjoy delicious sweet treats. Dating back to 1868, the bakery is the oldest one operating in Texas. The bakery offers freshly baked sweet options like pastries, cakes, cookies, and pies to the visitors.

The atmosphere and friendly staff add depth to the dining experience, making it a must-visit spot on the list of food enthusiasts. The Naegelin's Bakery is a perfect place to enjoy a quick snack with a traditional touch.

17. Enjoy Beer At New Braunfels Brewing Company

While in New Braunfels, the New Braunfels Brewing Company is a place to enjoy locally made beers with a unique and flavourful experience. The place offers different beers to select from. It invites visitors to taste a variety of beers available in the compound.

The New Braunfels Brewing Company occasionally hosts multiple events welcoming visitors to relax and enjoy their favorite brew. It is a perfect place to experience Texas hospitality along with a glass of beer in a relaxing environment.

18. Hiking At Cypress Bend Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cypress Bend Park is a scenic setting to explore the city's landscape. The park is situated along the banks of the Guadalupe River and features a trail that passes forests and open meadows. Throughout the hike, visitors can enjoy the peaceful sound of nature while spotting wildlife and various birds.

The Cypress Bend Park hiking trail is an easily accessible trail that is perfect for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Along the way, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the area alongside beautiful views of the sunrise and sunset.

The hike through the park is a perfect destination to spend a day fun and adventurous day in New Braunfels TX.

19. Take A Day Trip At San Antonio

A trip from New Braunfels to San Antonio is a great way to explore the history and culture of Texas. Located a few miles away, San Antonio houses great attractions like the historic Almo. Visitors can also spend time at restaurants, and shops lined up along the San Antonio River.

Market Square offers you another great opportunity to explore the local crafts and authentic Mexican cuisine. The SeaWorld San Antonio and the San Antonio Zoo are also some major attractions to spend family time.

San Antonio offers a blend of historical knowledge and entertainment activities like shopping, dining, and strolling.

20. Visit The Animal World And Snake Farm Zoo

The Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo has been offering adventure since its establishment in 1967. The zoo is home to many wild animals from all around the world. The list includes animals like Tigers, Iemurs, and reptiles. Along the exploration, visitors can take a closer look at animals roaming around in spacious habitats.

The zoo also hosts multiple education events to educate visitors on animal behaviors and conservation efforts. With a family-friendly environment, the Animal World And Snake Farm Zoo is a perfect spot to educate your children about the animals.