Your New Braunfels Tourist Guide to All the Best Attractions
Discover Things to do in New Braunfels That You Can't Find Anywhere Else
Come and experience one of the most unique places in Texas! New Braunfels is a small city with big attractions that bring in visitors from all around the country. Some of the most popular New Braunfels tourist attractions are connected to the city's German heritage and one-of-a-kind environment.
Keep exploring to find out more about New Braunfels attractions, hotels, wineries and more!
Schlitterbahn |
Wurstfest
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Quiet Community Close to the Big Cities
Take a look at a map of New Braunfels and you'll find it's an easy drive from several major Texas cities. Austin is 40 miles to the north, San Antonio is just 25 miles to the south and Houston is 160 miles to the east. The historic towns of Gruene, TX and Canyon Lake are also just a few minutes away.
Even if New Braunfels hotels are booked up, you can still get to experience the city if you're staying nearby. Trust us, it's worth the trip!
Tubing down the river |
Paddleboats for rent
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New Braunfels, Texas - Points of Interest Out on the Water
Looking for a little water activity? Jump on in, because the water is fine.
Some of the top New Braunfels, Texas points of interest are out on the water. Enjoy swimming in spring-fed pools, lazily tubing down the river or having fun with the family at one of the world's largest water parks.
With the Comal River and Guadalupe River running through New Braunfels, visitors and the local folk get to enjoy a variety of water recreational activities as well as beautiful scenery. These activities take center stage during the summer months with the nationally-known Schlitterbaun Park being one of the biggest New Braunfels attractions.
Where German Heritage Coexists With Texas Lifestyle
Few visitors realize how strong of a presence Germany has in Texas. In 1990, 17.5% of the population claimed full or partial German descent and ancestry. At the heart of Texas-German heritage is New Braunfels.
New Braunfels was founded in 1845 by Prince Carl of the Solms-Braunfels region of Germany along with a group of German farmers and craftsmen. For decades, the city prospered and the population of German immigrants and descendants grew. Today, German names can be seen on the billboards and street signs throughout the city. Homes, buildings, crafts and local cuisine also point to the city's German influence.
Experience Oktoberfest Without Going to Germany
In New Braunfels, German history and heritage is taken seriously - even when there's beer involved. Every fall New Braunfels hosts Wurstfest. It's one of the largest German festivals in America with a few Texas twists. Wurstfest is noted for being an authentic festival that closely replicates the Oktoberfest events held in Munich.
In fact, many of the Wurstfest coordinators have been to the real thing, which is why New Braunfels' Oktoberfest events are so popular. Dance the polka in the grand hall, explore the beer museum and enjoy authentic German fare for two weeks out of the year.
Railroad Depot and Museum (Circa 1890)
Take a Train Ride Back in Time
If you're looking for things to do in New Braunfels, you won't want to miss the Railroad Museum. The Historic Railroad & Modelers Society has carefully restored and preserved the station,which is free to see and open to the public. The museum contains dozens of artifacts and pictures that any train or history enthusiast will appreciate.
Landa Park is another of the New Braunfels tourist attractions that should be on your must see list while you're visiting. Don't miss your chance to take a tour through the park on the miniature train!