Take a Look into New Braunfels, TX’s German Culture
New Braunfels is a picturesque city located at the mouth of Texas Hill Country known best for its old-fashioned charm. Settled in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, the culture thrives to this day! New Braunfels houses many marvelous historic sites, namely a 19th-century settlement and the oldest dance hall in Texas that is still up and running today. Locals and travelers can mingle downtown where they can sample the best flaky strudels and wonderful Texas wines. Those who enjoy watersports will love the proximity of the two rivers–Guadalupe and Comal–that run through the city, while those looking for shade will enjoy their time exploring the local caverns.
Continue to read on how to explore the true German culture of New Braunfels, TX when next visiting the city.
Check Out the Oldest Bakery in Texas
Naegelin’s Bakery, located not too far from the Main Plaza, has served a taste of German culture since 1878. This New Braunfels institution bakes all of the best traditional European delicacies, however, their apple strudel is the true apple of their eye. The treat is known to sell out early in the afternoon, so make sure to set time aside to get there early. Ruin your lunch when you work through the carefully set up selections of danishes, Lebkuchen (frosted cookies), or Kolaches (firm pastries filled with fruit or meat).
Mingle with the Community in the Historic Downtown
With a convenient location on I-35 between San Antonio and Austin, New Braunfels is a popular destination. The downtown district is a vibrant destination for those looking to explore a thriving cultural atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy shopping up and down at local boutiques and gift shops on San Antonio Street at the likes of the Downtown Antique Mall or The Local, then stop at the many eateries for delicious cuisine. If you are celebrating anything, check out live music at the many pubs, including the Alpine Haus Restaurant, or Krause’s Cafe.
Visit Landa Park
If you are in the mood for scenic outdoor recreational activities, head for the giant oak that can be found at Landa Park. The 51-acre green space is a short walk from downtown and a perfect place for romantic interludes or family outings. Find a well-shaded spot and bass fish, or pack snacks and walk the Panther Canyon Nature Trail, keeping an eye out for wildlife sightings. Just off Landa Park Drive, you can find the Landa Park Boathouse, where you can rent a paddleboat for an affordable price.
Stay the Night at a Haunted Hotel
The Faust Hotel opened mere weeks before the 1929 stock market crash. The Faust remained one of the only businesses to survive The Great Depression through hard times. Renovated in the 80s, the Italian Renaissance Revival-style house is one of the most historic landmarks in Texas. But there is a darker history. The Faust is considered one of the most haunted hotels in Texas. From spooky sightings to furniture rearranging itself, there is little that scares visitors away. The hauntings are part of Faust’s appeal, and brave travelers will book rooms and hope for a sighting.
Take a Walk on the Historic Faust Street Bridge
In its time, The Faust Street Bridge was an engineering marvel. The 1887 Whipple truss roadway bridge is the only one of its kind and still stands on its original site today. The Faust Street Bridge is a pedestrian walkway and tourist landmark, with locals choosing the spot for photoshoots and ceremonies. Walk beneath the bridge enjoy a peaceful respite and see the belly of the bridge.
Celebrate German Heritage at Wurstfest
Like clockwork, every November New Braunfels honors its German roots with a 10-day Wurstfest. This fest brings the best wursts, beers, and Bavarian delicacies to the Wursthalle in Landa Park, wander the charming grounds with an authentic German beer in hand, and put your polka-dancing skills to the test. Sit and relax with family and friends at the Biergarten while the kids let loose at the Kinderhalle, a special children’s entertainment area. The Marketplatz hosts dozens of vendors that provide unique shopping opportunities.
Dance Your Shoes off at Texas’ Oldest Dance Hall
The historic community of Gruene was a thriving town with a lucrative textile industry, but when the Great Depression hit, by the 50s Gruene became a ghost town. The neighborhood has been revitalized and can be found on the National Register of Historic Places. Check out the Victorian-style Gruene Family Home, book a room at the Gruene Mansion Inn Bed and Breakfast, and walk the infamous Gruene Hall. Music’s biggest names have played at Texas’s oldest dance hall, including George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Garth Brooks.
Explore the Underground Natural Bridges Caverns
The Natural Bridge Caverns got its name from the natural limestone that graces the front of the cave’s entrance, New Braunfels’ most exciting organic wonder. The underground space is full of massive rock formations and miles of underground caverns. The Discovery Tour takes visitors through extensive caverns, while the Hidden Passages tour takes you to smaller underground chambers with rare and delicate formations to observe. Surface attractions include a zip-lining experience, shopping, dining, and the Bracken Bat Cave.
Experience the Rivers like a Local and Enjoy Tubing
Both the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers run through New Braunfels, making this city the perfect destination for watersports. Visitors can enjoy fly-fishing year-round in the Guadalupe and tube with locals in the spring and summer months. The river can be crowded on hot days, so make sure to check online to research several tubing locations to find the right experience.
Conclusion
New Braunfels, TX is a beautiful Texas Hill Country city with a long history of German roots, showcasing German heritage with historic sites and long-standing establishments. From exploring historic sites from the downtown area to staying overnight at a haunted hotel, there is something for everyone to enjoy about New Braunfels, while celebrating the German roots of the city. Let the professionals Rex Edwards Jr., Broker guide you in finding the perfect home in the many beautiful New Braunfels neighborhoods today.