Along the banks of the Guadalupe River in Comal County sits the historic district of Gruene (pronounced “green” for the out-of-staters). It is technically part of New Braunfels, but it has a history all its own – that of an old cotton ginning town that saw a decline in the 20’s & 30’s due to the boll weevil and the Depression. A renaissance in the 70’s led to its rebirth as a destination for day tripping tourists.
There are a few shops and a winery on the main street to check out while you wait for your table at the Gristmill,
which is a great place to enjoy steaks, chicken, fish, sandwiches in a renovated barn on a ridge that overlooks the river.
There are shops for women
Home decor, jewelry, gifts for kiddos
And even an outfitters for the men to check out
Gruene Outfitters
Cotton Eyed Pea sells tshirts, books, and other souvenirs.
The General Store sells all types of local bottled/jarred sauces, salsas, marinades, and dips. As well as souvenirs, books, and toys for the kiddos.
I wish my pictures had turned out a little bit better, but it’s so hard to capture the relaxed, comfortable feel of Gruene in a photo. I like the way this picture turned out.
Texas’ Oldest Dancehall
Be sure to check the schedule at Gruene Hall to see if one of the many talented Texas country musicians is playing the night you are there.
If you can make a whole day or weekend of it, rent a toob from one of the many outfitters in New Braunfels and spend the day floating down the river. If you have kids, check out Schlitterbahn, one of the most fun water parks in the state.
Trivia time! Does anyone know what kind of tree this is?
It looks like it was transplanted from a Dr Seuss book
Get yourself to Gruene soon! It is a great place to spend a summer weekend in Texas.
RoadTrippinTexas 