Things to Do in New Braunfels and Gruene with Kids
Few places in Texas offer as much family fun packed into one destination as New Braunfels and Historic Gruene. Whether your family loves floating crystal-clear rivers, riding miniature trains through towering oak trees, spending the day at a world-famous waterpark, exploring underground caverns, shopping local boutiques, or simply enjoying great food together, there’s something here for every age.
The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Day 1
- Breakfast at Herbert’s Taco Hut
- Landa Park
- Aquatic Complex
- Lunch at Tin Top Burger Shop
- Historic Gruene
- Gruene Hall
- Rhea’s Ice Cream
- Dinner at Freiheit Country Store
Day 2
- Natural Bridge Caverns
- Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
- Lunch at The Bird Haus
- Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo
- Tipsy Cow Ice Cream
- Movie at Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre
Explore | Eat | Sweet Treats | Shop
EXPLORE
Discover charming towns, scenic parks, unique attractions, and hidden gems that are perfect for your next family adventure.
Schlitterbahn New Braunfels
Often ranked among the best waterparks in the world, Schlitterbahn features more than 50 attractions including tube chutes, lazy rivers, children’s splash areas, wave pools, and thrilling water slides.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Purchase tickets online well in advance for the best pricing.
400 N. Liberty Ave.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-2351
https://www.schlitterbahn.com/new-braunfels
Historic Gruene
The Historic Gruene District feels like stepping back into the 1800s. Families enjoy wandering the wooden sidewalks while exploring unique boutiques, restaurants, candy shops, wine tasting rooms, and Texas landmarks.
1281 Gruene Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
https://gruenehistoricdistrict.org
Gruene Hall
Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall has hosted legends like Willie Nelson, George Strait, and Lyle Lovett. Families are welcome during many daytime performances and special events.
Estimated Admission: Ticketed evening concerts vary. Many daytime performances are free.
1281 Gruene Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-5077
https://gruenehall.com
Gruene Mini Golf
Inspired by Gruene’s rich history, this 18-hole miniature golf course features fun obstacles and local landmarks throughout the course.
1612 Hunter Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-5077
https://grueneminigolf.com
Natural Bridge Caverns
Texas’ largest commercial cave system offers breathtaking underground formations, guided cave tours, ropes courses, gem mining, climbing experiences, and seasonal family events.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: The cave stays about 70 degrees year-round, making it a great escape from the summer heat.
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78266
(210) 651-6101
https://naturalbridgecaverns.com
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Drive through more than six miles of Texas Hill Country while hundreds of free-roaming animals—including giraffes, zebras, rhinos, ostriches, bison, antelope, and deer—wander just outside your vehicle.
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78266
(830) 438-7400
https://wildliferanchtexas.com
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo
Home to hundreds of animals, Animal World offers interactive experiences, educational presentations, and close encounters with reptiles, mammals, birds, and exotic species.
5640 IH-35 N.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-1907
https://www.awsfzoo.com
Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre
Enjoy a nostalgic evening watching movies under the stars. Before the films begin, kids can burn off energy on the playground while families enjoy classic concessions.
1178 Kroesche Ln.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-7469
https://driveinusa.com/new-braunfels
Landa Park Aquatic Complex
The Aquatic Complex features an Olympic-size pool, a spring-fed pool that stays around 72 degrees year-round, water slides, and a zero-depth splash area designed especially for younger children.
350 Aquatic Circle
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 221-4360
https://www.newbraunfels.gov
Landa Park
One of Texas’ most beautiful city parks, Landa Park spans more than 50 acres beneath towering oak trees and is fed by the crystal-clear Comal Springs. Families can spend hours exploring scenic walking trails, multiple playgrounds, fishing spots, paddle boats, picnic areas, miniature golf, and wide-open green spaces.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Arrive before 10 a.m. during the summer for easier parking and cooler temperatures.
164 Landa Park Dr.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 221-4350
https://www.newbraunfels.gov/parks
Float Down the Comal or Guadalupe River
The Comal River is one of the shortest navigable rivers in the world and stays refreshingly cool year-round thanks to its spring-fed water. It’s ideal for a leisurely float with older children and teens.
Known for its scenic beauty and longer floats, the Guadalupe River offers everything from gentle family sections to more adventurous stretches, depending on water levels.
Better in Gruene Mural
Located on the exterior wall of a boutique next to Gruene Grove at 1263 Gruene Road
George Strait Mural
1720 Hunter Road, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Greetings from New Braunfels Mural
The Planet K store located at 1691 N. IH-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
EATS
From local favorites to hidden gems, discover delicious places where everyone at the table can find something they’ll love.
The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
While there isn’t a playground, few restaurants capture the spirit of Gruene like The Gristmill. Perched above the Guadalupe River beneath towering cypress and oak trees, it offers incredible views and a one-of-a-kind setting.
After lunch or dinner, kids can explore Historic Gruene, browse the General Store, play mini golf, or listen to live music nearby, making this a destination rather than just a meal.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Request a patio table overlooking the river and arrive early on weekends.
1287 Gruene Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-0684
https://gristmillrestaurant.com
Tacos y Tequila Mexican Kitchen
Families appreciate the combination of quick service, generous portions, and a playground that makes waiting for food much easier.
A dedicated playground sits adjacent to the outdoor patio, allowing parents to enjoy a relaxed meal while children stay entertained.
651 S. Walnut Ave.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-1400
https://tacosytequilanb.com
Freiheit Country Store
Part restaurant, part historic dance hall, Freiheit has welcomed Texas families for generations. Live music, spacious outdoor seating, and an authentic Hill Country atmosphere make it feel like more than just dinner—it’s an experience.
The large outdoor playground gives children plenty of room to burn off energy while parents relax beneath the shade trees. It’s one of the best family dining setups in the area.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Plan dinner around a live music evening and let the kids dance while you enjoy dessert.
2157 FM 1101
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-6177
https://freiheitcountrystore.com
Tin Top Burger Shop
Located just minutes from downtown and Schlitterbahn, Tin Top is the kind of neighborhood burger joint families discover once and return to again and again.
Kids can enjoy the outdoor play area while waiting for fresh burgers and hand-cut fries.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Save room for dessert—Rhea’s Ice Cream is just a short walk away.
276 W. San Antonio St.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-2878
https://tintopburgershop.com
Casa Garcia’s
Large portions, welcoming service, and family-friendly outdoor seating make Casa Garcia’s a dependable choice any day of the week.
The outdoor playground provides a fun distraction for younger diners before or after the meal.
1691 TX-46 W.
New Braunfels, TX 78132
(830) 387-4053
https://casagarcias.com
Saludo’s Mexican Restaurant
Located close to downtown attractions, Saludo’s is a convenient stop before exploring the heart of New Braunfels.
A dedicated outdoor play area gives children room to move while parents relax nearby.
185 S. Seguin Ave.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-7200
https://saludosnb.com
The Bird Haus
With its spacious outdoor seating, relaxed atmosphere, and regular live music, The Bird Haus is an easy place for families to unwind after a busy day of exploring.
214 Trade Center Dr.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
https://thebirdhaus.com
Herbert’s Taco Hut
Serving New Braunfels since 1976, Herbert’s has become a local tradition. The combination of authentic Tex-Mex, friendly service, affordable prices, and a playground makes it one of our favorite family stops before spending the day at Landa Park or Schlitterbahn.
One of the few Tex-Mex restaurants in New Braunfels with a dedicated playground, Herbert’s gives kids a place to climb and play while parents enjoy a leisurely meal. The playground is close enough to the patio that it’s easy to supervise little ones.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Start your day here with breakfast tacos before heading to Landa Park. You’ll beat both the restaurant and park crowds.
1440 N. Business IH-35
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-8741
https://herbertstacohut.com
ICE CREAM & SWEET TREATS
From homemade ice cream and oversized cookies to pies, candy shops, and other delicious finds, these sweet stops are worth the trip.
Tipsy Cow Ice Cream
Small-batch ice cream made fresh with rotating seasonal flavors, homemade waffle cones, milkshakes, and kid-friendly classics.
Howdy Kiddo Tip: Don’t let the name fool you—there are plenty of delicious flavors just for kids.
1705 S. Walnut Ave., Suite 105
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 214-0676
2154 Gabriels Place, Suite 104
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 302-7448
https://tipsycowicecream.com
Rhea’s Ice Cream
Choose from handcrafted small-batch ice cream, floats, homemade waffle cones, cookie sandwiches, and seasonal flavors. Located just steps from Gruene Hall, it’s the perfect place to cool off while exploring the historic district.
1263 Gruene Rd.
Gruene, TX 78130
(830) 627-9191
https://www.rheasicecream.com
2tarts Bakery
Treat yourself to cupcakes, cookies, macarons, cakes, brownies, breakfast pastries, and seasonal desserts made from scratch. The colorful display cases are irresistible for kids, and parents appreciate the creative flavors and quality ingredients.
139 N. Castell Ave., Suite 300
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 387-4606
www.2tarts.com
Scoop Street
Scratch-made premium ice cream, sorbet, floats, espresso drinks, and fresh waffle cones. Downtown location, creative flavors, and generous scoops make Scoop Street a favorite stop after shopping.
230 W. San Antonio St.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 302-7940
https://www.scoopstreetnb.com
SHOPPING
One of the best parts about visiting Gruene is that you don’t need an itinerary. Simply park your car, wander the historic district, and let curiosity lead the way. Nearly every storefront is locally owned, making it one of the most enjoyable shopping experiences in the Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re looking for toys, books, Texas-made gifts, antiques, boutique clothing, homemade fudge, or a scoop of ice cream, Historic Gruene offers something for every member of the family.
Gruene General Store
Established in 1878, the Gruene General Store is one of the district’s most iconic stops. Inside you’ll find Texas-made foods, old-fashioned candy sold by the pound, homemade fudge, Blue Bell ice cream, toys, puzzles, books, coffee, souvenirs, and gifts.
Kids love browsing the candy barrels and toy selection while parents appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere. It’s nearly impossible to leave without a sweet treat.
1610 Hunter Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-6021
https://www.gruenegeneralstore.com
Got Toys?
A fun, family-owned toy shop stocked with classic board games, stuffed animals, and nostalgic toys.
1714 Hunter Rd. New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-4700
Got Toys Website
Goosefeathers
A cute children’s boutique featuring a huge wall of Jellycat stuffed animals, kids’ clothes, and special gifts.
1627 New Braunfels St.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 660-3256
Gruene Olive Tasting Room
Sample olive oils, balsamic vinegars, gourmet foods, and unique kitchen gifts while the kids enjoy tasting breads and dipping oils.
1641 Hunter Rd.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 627-9087
https://www.grueneolive.com
