Top Things to Do in New Braunfels, Texas

New Braunfels Spring & Summer Activities

When spring comes, New Braunfels really comes to life. The Comal and Guadalupe rivers are full of kayaks, tubes, and laughter as thousands of people float in the clear water under blue skies. Before you relax and float through the day, stop by one of the many local outfitters to get some gear.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark is one of the biggest and most popular water parks in the country. It has miles of slides, lazy rivers, and rides powered by natural spring water. People who want to stay dry can ride their bikes on the trails around Landa Park or through Fischer Park, which is close by.

Most nights, live music comes out of bars, breweries, and beer gardens in the city center. There is always a stage ready to be heard, from the lively honky-tonk shows at Gruene Hall (the oldest dance hall in Texas) to the summer concert series at Whitewater Amphitheater. There are also food and wine festivals, art markets, and warm evenings on restaurant patios with a cold local beer in hand. ​

New Braunfels Fall Adventures

The air gets cooler, the leaves turn golden along the rivers, and the mood is more relaxed, making it one of the best times to visit. It's festival season again! From the New Braunfels Wine & Saengerfest to the Gruene Music & Wine Festival, there's a lot of hometown fun with a Hill Country twist.

You can visit the antique stores and shops in the Gruene Historic District or take a scenic drive through the winding Hill Country roads just outside of town. At night, you can see a show, eat real Texas barbecue, or dance to live country music with the locals under the stars. ​

New Braunfels Winter Activities

Winter in New Braunfels might not bring snow, but it does bring a lot of charm, music, and traditional Texas events. Walk through the downtown area, where holiday lights twinkle along Seguin Avenue and the trees around Main Plaza shine with color. Wurstfest, the city's famous 10-day celebration of sausage and German culture, kicks off the season. It takes place in Landa Park and features polka music, dancing, and lots of beer and bratwurst.

As Christmas gets closer, check out the Downtown Holiday Market and Light Up Downtown. Local stores stay open late, serving cocoa and cider while carolers walk around. Families can see shows at the Brauntex Theatre or drive through Santa's Ranch, which is just outside of town. It's a Texas-sized display of over a million lights and animations. Landa Park is a great place to hike or have a picnic on cool, crisp days. The Comal River runs through the park and is lined with tall oaks. New Braunfels is known for being friendly and festive, and that doesn't change even when it's not busy. ​

Year-Round, New Braunfels Delivers Texan Character

New Braunfels is constantly alive with its contemporary adventure and vintage charm. When you raise a stein at Wurstfest, dance to live music at Gruene Hall, or float down the river with friends, the town's German heritage and Texas spirit come together harmoniously. The town offers stunning landscapes, vibrant traditions, and a friendly community vibe.