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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.

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Blog Family Fun Lifestyle Tips TX

Summer vacation – Travel hacks

If you’re like millions of other folks, you’re probably itching to head out on a summer vacation. Travel industry experts are predicting this to be a record-setting travel season – Memorial Day weekend alone saw over 42 million travelers. 

 

With busy skies and busy highways being a likelihood with so many heading out for vacation, here are a few tips to help make your trip a hassle-free one. 

 

Leave Early or Late – If you’re traveling by plane or train, consider opting for a red-eye ticket. These are often a little cheaper and may be less crowded. 

 

It’s probably not the safest idea to drive through the night, but if you can leave a few hours before morning rush hour, you’ll have less traffic to contend with on the roads. Just be sure to go to bed early the night before so you’re well rested. 

 

Use Alternative Routes – The U.S. interstate system revolutionized travel, but all those six-lane highways can get pretty crowded at times. Consider plugging an alternative route into your GPS that doesn’t take you on the interstate.

 

Often times these alternative routes aren’t that much longer and are less crowded. You may even discover some off-the-beaten-path places worth stopping at along the way.  

 

Flash Your Credentials – Many restaurants, rental car companies, hotels, and even airlines offer discounts based on affinity affiliations. Often times these discounts apply to senior citizens, Triple AAA members, first responders, active or military veterans, students, and even teachers. All you have to do is ask. 

 

Use Social Media to Your Advantage – Follow airlines and hotels on social media before your trip. This way, you’ll be privy to any important announcements or limited-time offers. 

 

The same goes for theme parks. Parks like Disney and Universal Studios also have apps that may be worth downloading to help find a bathroom or locate attractions with shorter wait times. 

 

Bring a Water Bottle – This is a simple one but can be a big money saver. By bringing a reusable water bottle with you, you’ll be able to save on constantly having to buy water bottles, a cost that can add up quickly in airports and theme parks. 

 

Pack Smart – Good organization is key for packing, and packing cubes make keeping everything organized that much easier. Not only do they help with organization, but they work like mini-compression sacks and enable you to cram more stuff in your suitcase. 

 

Block Out the Noise – If you’re going on a long flight or will be bunking with people whose sleep habits you’re unfamiliar with, do yourself a favor and buy some noise-canceling headphones. Trust us; they’re much better at blocking out snoring or loud music than simply shoving tissue in your ear. 

 

Splurge on Lunch – If you’re a foodie who loves to eat at the best restaurants on vacation (and who doesn’t?), then you know that eating out can get expensive. Check if the restaurant you’re eyeing offers a less expensive lunch menu and splurge on your mid-day meal rather than dinner. 

 

As much fun as heading out for a summer vacation is, it’s always great to come back to a home you love and sleep in your own bed. If you’re looking for the perfect home, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about Kyle and our inventory of available homes