Gruene Texas, a small town near New Braunfels in the Hill Country region of central Texas, has a distinct charm that embraces the spirit of the Wild West. It’s known for its historic buildings and charming downtown district filled with antique stores, art galleries, restaurants, and even cowboy hats. Additionally, visitors can savor the delectable taste of “chicken fried steak” in local eateries, adding to the delightful experience. Gruene also offers plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, kayaking, camping, and more, making it a delightful destination for those seeking both adventure and a touch of cowboy heritage.
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Whether you’re looking to explore a unique piece of history or just enjoy some time outdoors in nature, there are lots of things to do in Gruene that will make your trip enjoyable and memorable. From live music at Gruene Hall to tubing down the Guadalupe River—there’s something for everyone! So grab your friends or family and experience all this quaint little town has to offer!
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Gruene Hall
Gruene Hall is the oldest dance hall in Texas. Built in 1878, the 6,000-square-foot hall with a high-pitched tin roof will take you back to those days when music was simple and people were carefree. Its impressive layout includes side flaps for open-air dancing, a bar in the front, and a small lighted stage in the back. There’s also a huge outdoor garden – perfect for soaking up some sunshine while listening to live music.
With numerous famous artists taking the stage over the years – from George Strait to Willie Nelson – it has established itself as one of the premier honky-tonks in Texas. Whether you’re looking for an evening of fun or want to step back into simpler times, Gruene Hall is an ideal spot for experiencing the unique culture that makes Texas so special.
1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene River Inn
Located just a 5-minute walk from the historic Gruene Hall is the Gruene River Inn, a 14-room hotel sits atop a cliff with the only front row views of the Texas Hill Country. With 300 feet of private Guadalupe River frontage and an outdoor bar with stunning views, the Gruene River Inn is a stunning property.
Amenities:
- Complimentary Snacks & Coffee
- Mini Fridge & Microwave
- TV
- Free WiFi
- Hair Dryer
- Private Balcony
1111 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX
Gruene General Store
Located along Hunter Road, in a historic building dating back to 1872, Gruene General Store is one of the oldest continuously operated establishments in several Texas towns. The store boasts an impressive array of items, including apparel, accessories, books, home decor, handmade fudge, Texas souvenirs, and more -all at affordable prices.
In addition to the retail offerings at Gruene General Store, visitors can also enjoy traditional Texan activities such as ice cream socials, live music events, and more. On any given day, folk musicians playing classic tunes fill the air while guests browse the shelves or sit together on the porch, swapping stories over a glass of iced tea or cold beer.
1610 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene Coffee Haus
Gruene Coffee Haus is an idyllic spot in the heart of Historic Gruene, Texas. For over ten years, this family-owned and operated hole-in-the-wall has provided locals and visitors with specialty coffee made from freshly roasted beans. Their signature blend is Texas Pecan Coffee, combining roasted pecans and coffee beans that will make your taste buds sing.
Gruene Coffee Haus also offers guests many other amenities, including freshly baked goods, espresso drinks, cold brews on tap, teas, and juices. They also host live music on Friday nights, so feel free to bring your instrument and join in! Or, if you’re looking for something a little more laid back, there are board games available for guests who want to spend quality time with friends or family.
1720 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River is one of the most beautiful waterways in the entire state, offering plenty of outdoor seating for visitors to enjoy the picturesque views. This picturesque river also provides exciting rafting opportunities for adventure seekers. It runs through the charming small town with ample outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities.
For those who prefer land-based activities, hiking trails make it easy to explore wooded areas and grassy meadows where wildflowers bloom in springtime. Additionally, visitors can experience the vibrant nightlife by heading to Gruene Hall—the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas—for some two-stepping fun under its vintage tin roof ceilings or stroll along pebble paths lined with twinkling lights while listening to live music echoing from local venues.
503 Peace Avenue New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene Historic District
This quaint district is nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River and is full of charm and old-world beauty. Gruene Historic District offers excellent entertainment options, including live music at Gruene Hall, which regularly hosts concerts featuring top country artists such as Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and George Strait. It’s also a perfect destination for a road trip, allowing you to explore the surrounding scenic landscapes while enjoying the district’s attractions. There’s also a variety of local wineries offering tastings and tours so you can sample some delicious vintages while enjoying beautiful views. For foodies, Gruene Historic District is a great spot to explore diverse culinary offerings from local restaurants such as The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar, which serves classic comfort food like fried chicken biscuits with sawmill gravy, or The Grapevine Café, where you can enjoy classic Mexican cuisine like tacos de barbacoa served with salsa verde.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene Mansion Inn
Gruene Mansion Inn is a unique accommodation located in one of the state’s most historic and exciting districts. Located next door to the famous Gruene Hall, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a stay in a small-town inn with all the amenities you need and some of the most lively entertainment and nightlife.
This unique hotel is situated right on the banks of the Guadalupe River, where guests can relax on private patios while enjoying spectacular views. About 8 miles away is Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels if you’re looking for family fun, while golf enthusiasts won’t miss their chance to play on a course designed by Arnold Palmer at Landa Park Golf Course. Plus, you can always take a short drive to San Antonio for sightseeing tours of some of its world-famous attractions, such as The Alamo or Sea World® San Antonio.
1275 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is an iconic dining spot treasured by locals and visitors for many years. Located beneath the town’s historic water tower and in the ruins of an 1878 cotton gin overlooking the breathtaking Guadalupe River, this unique restaurant and bar offer guests a truly unforgettable experience.
Here you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and delicious drinks crafted to perfection. Gristmill also offers live music performances and outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing on the Guadalupe River—there’s something here to keep everyone entertained. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and other special events in the Texas Hill Country!
1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene River Grill
Gruene River Grill has been serving the New Braunfels area in San Antonio and Austin since 2004. Located in central Texas, this restaurant offers air-conditioned indoor seating and an outside patio seating area with stunning views of the nearby Guadalupe River. For more special occasions, private dining rooms are also available for reservations.
At Gruene River Grill, they pride themselves on using local vendors to bring fresh and quality ingredients for scratch-made recipes. They offer a full-service bar, premium liquors, frozen margaritas, brewed craft beers, and an extensive wine list.
1259 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene Antique Company
Gruene Antique Company, along with its charming boutiques, is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves antiques and unique finds. Located in a stunning historic building across Gruene Hall, the 6,500 sq. ft. store, along with its boutiques, offers a variety of treasures ranging from rare collectibles to one-of-a-kind decor items.
Explore the shop’s ever-changing selection of vintage gems, as well as the boutiques’ delightful offerings, for the true antique enthusiast – from early 20th-century furniture and curiosities to classic glassware, jewelry pieces, and more.
Whether it’s your first or nth time visiting Gruene Antique Company and its boutiques, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as soon as you enter the beautiful building they occupy.
1607 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Gruene Outfitters
Gruene Outfitters has been a staple of the Hill Country community for over 30 years. Gruene has plenty of activities to choose from for those looking to relax outdoors.
Outdoors enthusiasts are also sure to appreciate that Gruene Outfitters offers professional fly fishing classes at their store location so newcomers can learn from experienced pros how to make the most out of their time spent on the water or land.
Stop by today and get geared up with all the best outdoor apparel available in town – after all, it is where style meets function!
1629 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in Gruene, Texas, is an experience like no other. The fun things include the beautiful Guadalupe River, where you can have the time of your life catching the abundance of Rainbow Trout and other native warm-water species, all while exploring the breathtaking scenery. Located near New Braunfels, Gruene is home to some of the most awesome fly fishing spots in Texas. Don’t forget to visit Gruene and enjoy the thrill of catching something delicious while getting an up-close look at some of nature’s most colorful creatures – from rainbow trouts to bass. Overall, whether you’re an experienced angler or if it’s your first time picking up a rod handle – fly fishing in Gruene is an activity worth trying, full of fun and excitement.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Rockin R River Rides
Rockin R River Rides is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the Comal River in style. Located on the edge of Gruene, Texas, this family-owned business has been providing locals and visitors with unforgettable river experiences since 1986. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or just getting your feet wet in the world of water sports, Rockin R’s expert guides will provide you with all the necessary equipment and knowledge needed for a safe yet thrilling adventure down Comal River. With plenty of activities like tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and more – there’s something for everyone at Rockin R!
1405 Gruene Road New Braunfels, TX
Old Gruene Market Days
Old Gruene Market Days is a delightful festival full of culture, entertainment, and shopping opportunities. The event showcases over 200 vendors from across the country offering handmade goods such as jewelry, leatherwork, clothing, and ceramics. There’s also plenty of delicious food to indulge in, like authentic German sausages and schnitzel, as well as a variety of other flavors from around the world.
Live music performances all day feature local bands playing traditional tunes and upbeat jams that will have you toe-tapping. You can even participate in traditional contests such as tug-of-war competitions or pie-eating races. There’s something for everyone at Old Gruene Market Days!
1724 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX
Gruene, Texas, is a day trip destination that should be on everyone’s list. The city of Gruene is filled with a rich culture steeped in German heritage that dates back to 1845 when Henry D. Gruene first settled there with his family. With the Gruene River Grill to enjoy some of the best food in town and unique finds from the Gruene Antique Company and Gruene Outfitters, there’s something for every taste here. For those looking to get outdoors and explore nature, fly fishing at some of the most beautiful spots around can’t be missed! And don’t forget about Old Gruene Market Days – with over 200 vendors offering handmade goods you won’t find anywhere else, plus live music performances all day long. From wine-tasting rooms, texas wines, and local wine flavors to outdoor activities and Victorian spots with National Register of Historic Places status, experience everything this Hill Country gem has to offer!
