Making the move to New Braunfels? From insider tips to real estate options to restaurants, here’s everything you need to know about New Braunfels, TX.
So you’ve spent a perfect day in New Braunfels, and now you’re wondering what it would be like to live here?
If you’re thinking about making the leap to live in this quintessential little Hill County town, here are 11 big things you should know about moving to New Braunfels, TX!
1. How’s the commute from New Braunfels to San Antonio & Austin?
New Braunfels residents are in luck! While many Hill Country towns come with a hefty drive from any major city, New Braunfels’ location (just of I-35) lends itself to a more-than-manageable commute to either San Antonio or Austin. Head south (just over thirty miles) to downtown San Antonio, or travel north less than fifty miles into the heart of Austin.
2232 Pecan Tree: Pecan Crossing ($299,999)
2. What are the best neighborhoods in New Braunfels?
New Braunfels offers plenty of neighborhoods...but which one suits you best? From outlying communities with plenty of open space to historic gems in the middle of downtown Gruene, New Braunfels real estate isn’t lacking in options. If you’re looking for riverfront luxury, we recommend checking out River Chase or Riverforest. Those seeking master-planned neighborhoods should enjoy the resort-style amenities of Vintage Oaks and John Newcombe Estate, while buyers on a budget might want to check out Avery Park, Pecan Crossing, and Highland Grove. Looking for a garden home? Don’t pass up Cotton Crossing!
Image Courtesy of Wurstfest
3. What’s all this about German culture?
Founded by German immigrants in the 1840s, New Braunfels still proudly displays its Deutschland heritage. From the fresh kolaches at Naegelin’s (Texas' oldest continuously operating bakery) to the world-famous beer-and-sausage joys of Wurstfest, New Braunfels is all about keeping its roots alive and well. To prove it, here’s a list of 13 of our favorite local German traditions!
Image Courtesy of Gruene Hall’s Facebook Page
4. What’s the live music scene like in New Braunfels?
Live music is a Texas staple, and New Braunfels is the perfect spot to experience this Lone Star phenomenon. Gruen e Hall (the oldest dance hall in Texas) invites residents and tourists to tap their toes to a diverse lineup of nationally acclaimed acts, as well as local favorite events like Two-Ton Tuesdays and Gospel Brunch. Meanwhile, other local venues both big and small attract plenty of talented acts. Head to Whitewater Amphitheater, The Phoenix Saloon, Pour Haus, Freiheit Country Store, and River Road Ice House to see what we mean!
5. What are my options for schools in New Braunfels?
New Braunfels may feel like a small town, but local families certainly aren’t limited when it comes to local school options! Serviced by not one, but two highly acclaimed school districts, river city parents and students can choose an area of town zoned to their preferred district: either New Braunfels ISD (New Braunfels High School) or Comal ISD (Canyon High School). You can check out Niche.com’s rankings for NBISD and CISD to get started!
190 River Haven Rd (OFF MARKET)
6. What is the river scene like?
Perfectly positioned at the intersection of the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers (and just a short drive away from both Lake McQueeney and Canyon Lake), New Braunfels is the Texas getaway of everyone’s dreams. The Guadalupe River flows into Canyon Lake and runs along River Road, while the Comal (a spring-fed river) flows through Landa Park and passes downtown before merging with the Guadalupe. Grab a tube from Rock’n R River Rides or step out on the back porch of your waterfront property to enjoy the glory!
Image Courtesy of Stahlman's Official Facebook Page
7. Which New Braunfels small businesses should I frequent?
New Braunfels may be growing rapidly, but its local businesses are keeping the “small town” vibe alive and well. A few of our favorite resident-owned spots include Stahlman’s (a brick and mortar farmers market offering local and seasonal foods), Lot 59 (an eclectic boutique), 2tarts Bakery (coffee and treats galore), Gruene Antique Company (one of many antique shops in town), Gruene Outfitters (outdoor goods), and (of course) the artisans and makers selling goods at the New Braunfels Farmers Market and Old Gruene Market Days.
8. Where should I go for shopping and groceries?
Looking for the closest shopping hub to your New Braunfels home? This little town offers three different HEBs (Town Center at Creekside, 651 S Walnut Ave, and 1655 TX-46), as well as multiple shops and restaurants at Town Center at Creekside (Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target, JC Penney) and New Braunfels Marketplace (Alamo Drafthouse, Gold’s Gym, etc).
Image Courtesy of Dry Comal Creek Vineyards Facebook Page
9. What’s up with the local wine and beer scene?
If you’re seeking a robust brewery and winery culture, look no further. New Braunfels is rife with locally made wine and beer. New Braunfels Brewing Company, Faust Hotel and Brewing Co, and Guadalupe Brewing are always dreaming up innovative new recipes and techniques, while Dry Comal Creek Vineyards, The Grapevine, Water 2 Wine, and the Winery on the Gruene offer Texas-made specialties to sip on.
Image Courtesy of the Krause’s Cafe Facebook Page
10. Where should I eat in New Braunfels, TX?
Where do we even start? For German brews and food, try Krause’s Biergarten & Cafe and Friesenhaus. Head to Granzin’ s Bar-BQ and Blac k’s BBQ for melt-in-your-mouth brisket. Breakfast and brunch lovers will enjoy the taste of The DownT owner and Buttermilk Cafe, while anyone seeking classic dinner far might try Gruene River Grill or The Gristmill. Cravings, a small local favorite, is a one-stop-shop for organic sandwiches, and Huisache Grill is a to-die-for local bistro. Oh, and who could forget about breakfast tacos? Our favorite spots are El Nopalito and Las Fontanas.
Image Courtesy of the Wein and Saengerfest Facebook Page
11. Which local festivals are worth hitting up?
New Braunfels loves to gather as a community. From classic celebrations like Wassailfest, Wurstfest, and the Comal County Fair to city-wide parties and concerts like Folk fest, and Wein and Saengerfest, Gruene Music & Wine Festival, and Utopiafest, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the joys of living in New Braunfels.
And, if you’re ready to live in a town that feels like a “getaway” most days of the year, we’d be honored to be the ones to help guide you through the whole process, from connecting with a lender to signing the closing papers. Plus, we’ve created an exclusive guide just for the New Braunfels buyer! Let us know how we can help your search for the right home as seamless as possible.