Taylor & Philip
Things To Do
Gruene Hall
Located prominently in the main intersection of Gruene is Texas oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall. The white waterfall façade and unique Alamo like architecture makes it hard to miss. Built in 1878, it was the social center point of the town of Gruene. Gruene was rural hot spot. The main economic driver was cotton cultivation. The town died in the 1920’s with the bowl weevil plight. Fortunately, in the 1970’s the town was bought and redeveloped into what it is today. Currently, Gruene Hall is one of the best places to catch some the hottest country music acts in the country.
Black's Barbecue New Braunfels
The Original Black’s BBQ opened its doors in 1932 in Lockhart, TX as a meat market. It wasn’t until 2nd Generation Pitmaster Edgar Black Jr. came along that we turned into a full-fledged restaurant. Over the years we have expanded across Central Texas with four locations for folks to enjoy a meal in our dining room. When you come to our restaurant, you’re reminded of the good ole days. People talking to other people, phones are put away, and the smell of brisket fills the air. You truly get a sense of family and belonging. Philip & Taylor recommend trying the beef rib!
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
https://gristmillrestaurant.com/menu/ The original Gruene cotton gin was built way back in 1878. Gristmill River Restaurant opened its doors in 1977, concocting steaks and hamburgers from a tiny kitchen in the corner of that same broiler room. Those thick slabs of juicy meat remain staples of the current upscale casual dining menu, but they’ve been joined by popular South Texas fare such as chicken fried steak, fried catfish, grilled chicken, Texas-sized sandwiches, fresh fish and Gristmill’s secret specialties — tomatillo chicken and bronzed catfish. Our multi-level restaurant features outdoor and indoor dining with views of the Guadalupe River, intimate dining rooms with native stone fireplaces, and indoor bar with wood burning stove, a relaxing beer garden and a merchandise store located in the bottom of the old water tower. The Gristmill was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Cantina del Rio
Cantina del Rio is just a couple doors down from Gruene Hall. In business since 2010, Cantina is situated in a bustling shady nook, river side and comfortable under the oak tree canopy. The building was originally constructed in Martindale, Texas in the early 1900’s and was moved to Gruene in 1983. The menu honors staples like classic enchiladas and satisfying tacos alongside surprisingly crave-worthy burgers and fries. A Cantina favorite, the “El Rey Burger” (a.k.a. The King) is one of the best kept secrets in Gruene Historic District! Don’t miss our craveable margarita— it’s been voted the best in town for a reason! Whether you like them frozen or on the rocks, these signature sips of perfection are made with top shelf tequila and fresh, hand-squeezed lime juice.
Clear Springs Restaurant
The Land on which Clear Springs Restaurant now stands was originally surveyed by James Bowie, a hero of the Alamo, in 1825. Clear Springs Hall and Store was built in 1873 for storing cotton. It now houses Clear Springs Restaurant which has preserved the historical atmosphere of the structure and the memory of the early German community. At Clear Springs Restaurant, we've spent the last 35 years proudly serving the best fried American catfish, hand breaded onion rings and juicy thick cut steaks to people all over the State of Texas.
Krause's Cafe & Biergarten
With live entertainment, unique community events, 100+ beers, and an impressive German American menu, Krause’s is a local treasure. From schnitzels and bratwurst with sauerkraut to pretzels and potato soup, our menu offers a taste of Germany deep in the heart of the Lone Star State. Open 7 Days a Week for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The outdoor Biergarten is the center of the party with a stage, live music most nights, and room for the kids to play. The perfect setting for a mixer type of event or large gatherings. This area can be reserved for a group of any size. Stage size: 12 feet by 24 feet. Stage, microphone, and sound equipment available depending on the events happening that day.
Naegelin's German Bakery
Naegelin's Bakery, a New Braunfels institution for 142 years, was founded by Edouard Naegelin, Sr. who came to town in 1868 with a sack of flour and less than a dollar cash in his pocket. His first bakery in New Braunfels was in the Goldebagen building located at the site of the present City Hall. In 1870 he moved to the present title, on South Seguin Avenue, and bought the property in 1874. His son, Clinton Frank, owned and operated the bakery prior to its sale to the Granzin family in the early 1980's.
Historic Downtown Tour (2.5 hrs)
2.5 hour (2-3 miles) walking tour; 10am daily
Guadalupe River
Unlike other rivers in Texas, the Guadalupe River (and the Comal River) are blessed with limestone river bottoms and bubbling natural springs. This gives us the prettiest water in the state that never runs dry. Floating the Guadalupe River in Gruene is a Texas right of passage.
Landa Park Golf Course
Landa Park Municipal Golf Course is a one-minute drive from Gruene Estate’s wedding and reception venue. The course was recently redesigned and upgraded in 2017. Green fees are nominal and the course offers a style of play for both novice and expert golfers.
The Alamo
It is a 35 minute drive to the Alamo.
Natural Bridge Caverns
It is a 25 minute drive to Natural Bridge Caverns.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
It is a 25 minute drive to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch.
Spoetzl Brewery
It is 70 miles to Shiner.