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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun

Day Trip: New Braunfels

From the bustling energy of Austin to the small-town charm of Fredericksburg, there are plenty of reasons to play tourist in the Texas Hill Country. If you haven’t yet made your way down to New Braunfels for a weekend or even a day trip, make a point to check it out this summer. 

 

It’s only a 30-minute drive from Kyle down I-35 S, and there are plenty of places for families and couples to explore. 

 

Cool Down

 

If you’re looking to beat the Texas heat this summer (and who isn’t?), then New Braunfels has some fantastic ways to do so. 

 

One of the biggest draws for the Texas town is the Schlitterbahn Water Park. The park bills itself as “the world’s best waterpark,” and there’s no shortage of slides and pools to back this claim up. The park has over 20 slides, pools, lazy rivers, and other water rides to cool down with. 

 

If you’re looking for a more natural setting when it comes to summer fun on the water, then don’t miss out on tubing the Comal River. Texas Tubes runs daily tubing trips on the river and provides everything from the tubes to the transportation. All you have to do is sit back and relax for the 4-hour float down the river. 

 

Shop, Drink, and Eat

 

No trip to New Braunfels is complete without a stop in the city’s charming downtown area. From local boutiques to hometown eats, here are a few places worth checking out. 

 

Dancing Pony: The clothing boutique located on W. San Antonio Street offers a stylish assortment of both women’s and men’s clothing. If you’re looking to add a new piece to your wardrobe, you’re bound to find it here. 

 

Lot 59: Offering everything from one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces to art and home decor, there’s a 

bit of everything at this local shop. Whether it be vintage records or handcrafted glass art, this is one of the best stores in town to find a unique gift. 

 

2Tarts Bakery – Since 2010, two sisters have owned and operated this local bakery that’s known for fresh desserts, cakes, and pastries – all made from scratch! The menu always has a few special monthly items, as well as customer favorites like red velvet cheesecake brownies. 

 

Huisache Grill – If you’re seeking an intimate date night experience in New Braunfels, then be sure to grab a table at this local restaurant. Housed in a century-old building, the restaurant offers an upscale American menu with items like farm-raised, pan-fried trout, and sirloin steak with a blue cheese butter sauce. 

 

Faust Brewing Company – This spacious beer garden is always a popular spot during the summer months. With plenty of seating, live music, and a delicious selection of German and English-style beers, it’s just the spot to spend a couple hours on a sunny weekend afternoon. 

 

Where to Stay

 

If you plan on staying the night, there are plenty of chain hotels in the area to choose from, but for a more unique experience, check out the Schmitz Bed & Breakfast or the Comal Inn

Overlooking the park in downtown New Braunfels, the historic Schmitz B&B is within walking distance of many of the city’s restaurants and shops. 

 

Located on the banks of the Comal River, the Comal Inn offers easy convenience to both downtown New Braunfels as well as The Schlitterbahn Water Park.

Of course, after a weekend getaway, there’s nothing better than coming home to a house you love. To find your dream home, reach out to the Crosswinds team today.

Categories
Area Attractions Family Fun Lifestyle

Daytrip to New Braunfels

If you’re looking for a day trip that promises plenty to do and is no more than half an hour’s drive, set your sights on New Braunfels. Jump on the I-35 and head south to discover natural wonders, mammoth water slides, and world-class cuisine. 

 

Float the River – If your idea of a perfect summer day involves letting your cares drift away as you float down a river, then be sure to check out Rockin R River Rides. The outfitter offers tube and kayak trips on the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. Tubs and kayaks are provided, as well as drop off and pick up after your float is done. There’s even a bar and food truck on-site for post-float refreshments. 

 

Cool Off on a Wild Slide – If floating down the river is a little too tame or you simply prefer a man-made lazy river float, be sure to check out Schlitterbahn Waterpark. It’s the largest waterpark in Texas and boasts 51 attractions, from relaxing wave pools to heart-pumping near-gravity-defying slides. Day passes start at just $49, and should you need repeat rides on Dragon’s Revenge, season passes are available.

 

Hit Up Downtown – With its many unique shops, quaint cafes, and inventive restaurants, Downtown New Braunfels is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Stop by stores such as Dancing Pony Boutique, Got Toys?, or Arlan’s Market for unique gifts and locally made crafts. After a bit of shopping, pull up a chair at Myron’s Steakhouse, Union Street Station, or one Downtown New Braunfels, among many other restaurants. 

 

Rock Out – A visit to Austin or San Antonio isn’t necessary to catch a great concert. Since 2007, the Whitewater Amphitheater has been welcoming music’s biggest legends and rising new stars. With a capacity of 5,600, the amphitheater has seen everyone from ZZ Top to Eric Church and Midland take the stage. 

 

Mellow Out – Sometimes, a day trip calls not for excitement but sheer bliss and relaxation. If that’s what you’re seeking with a visit to New Braunfels, be sure to book an appointment at Retreat Day Spa. For over 30 years, the spa has been offering facial, body, hair, and nail treatments, all in a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. 

 

Grab a Drink – There are plenty of breweries and wineries to check out in the Texas Hill Country, and New Braunfels is home to two standouts. Five Stones Brewery offers a range of brews in addition to coffee and food options, as well as special events on select weekends. Be sure to stop by Dry Comal Creek Vineyards as well to sample wines in the tasting room or pick up a bottle to bring home with you. 

 

Explore a Natural Wonder Natural Bridge Caverns is a New Braunfels highlight that is not to be missed! A tour of the caverns is the ideal way to escape the Texas heat, as the temperature inside the cave is 70 degrees year-round. In addition to cave tours, kids can mine for gems and fossils or scale the Twisted Trails ropes course. There are also special events, such as yoga and concerts, that take place inside the caverns. 

With close proximity to New Braunfels, Austin, and San Antonio, Kyle is central to much of the Texas Hill Country. If you’d like to find a home here, contact the Crosswinds team to learn more about our available inventory of homes.