My husband and I, and 10 of our closest friends, just returned from our annual “River Trip” in New Braunfels, TX. There are so many things about this yearly trip that I look forward to: the crowded Comal and Guadalupe rivers, the relaxation, the food and the historic town of Gruene, TX. No matter what we do, we always make a trip to Gruene. Gruene Hall, which is located in the heart of Gruene, is Texas’ oldest dance hall. It is an old building with a somewhat west Texas country feel to it. It is occupied by a variety of musicians on any given night, and was the starting venue for some big names such as George Strait, Lyle Lovett and Charlie Robison. Gruene also has some of the best Maw and Paw shops that I have ever been to. You can find current souvenirs or hit up one of the local antiques shops. My favorite part of Gruene is the Gristmill Grill. The Gristmill is a fantastic restaurant, a little on the pricey side, but definitely worth every cent! The Gristmill sits along the Guadalupe River and was built in the late 1800’s as a cotton gin. You can feel the history behind this structure just by sitting there and breathing in the air. It’s such a peaceful feeling. Not only is the setting magnificent, but the food is to die for! Steaks, chicken, salads and some of the biggest onion rings I have ever seen! You can always dance off your dinner at Gruene Hall or by all the walking through the historic shops.
Gruene is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!
As a native Texan and living in Houston half of my life I visit San Antonio and Austin several times a year but have never stopped in New Braunfels. I have always wanted to but never seem to add it into our itinerary, however after your blog I am going to make it a point to put Gruene on my list of stops this year. It sounds very quaint.
ReplyDeleteTherese Shaath
I have been to New Braunfels several times to take my son to Schlitterbahn and we love it there. I however, will be having a new stop as well to visit the antique shops. I love going to antique shops because you can find some really cool things. Thanks for posting the information on the antique shops that are located in that area.
ReplyDeleteI love New Braunfels. I have been there four times just this summer and cant get enough of riding the river. Wish it was way higher so the tube shoots and rapids would be much more fun to ride as well. I would love to visit Gruene. It sounds like a blast.
ReplyDeleteI've never been to Gruene but I feel I know what you are talking about. I think all of the western cities in Texas are beautiful and great in their own little way.
ReplyDeleteI must say Texas has a lot of small towns and here is one to be on the lookout for visiting. Sounds like you all always have a good time. The website shows a lot of interesting places to see. I'll have to stop by this town someday.
ReplyDeleteI was in Gruene many years ago and don't remember much. Your blog and the website made me want to get in the car and start driving towards Gruene, which I will do before the summer is over! I also liked the picture of the weatherbeaten building.
ReplyDeleteWow I want to go there on my next trip out!! I usually do Garner State Park which is amazing but am wanting to do something different this summer. we take our trips in august so I am going to look in to this! NANCY RINGO
ReplyDeleteGruene indeed sounds amazing! I am from a small town and so I love the small town feel. Those are usually the placed with a BIG heart! On my next trip to Schlitterbahn, I will have to make a trip through Gruene!
ReplyDeleteSimona Muttilib
I'll be in San Marcos this weekend and plan on going floating in New Braunfels! I can't wait! Gristmill is delicious! My favorite restaurant after a long float down the river!
ReplyDeleteCentral Texas is my favorite part of Texas because there is always something fun to do. My friend saw Hootie and the Blowfish at Gruene Hall and he said it was awesome!
ReplyDeleteBrian Lesmeister