By Robert Macias
Austin Expert, about.com
[post_ads_2]A small town 40 miles south of Austin, New Braunfels is known primarily for the popular Schlitterbahn Waterpark, but that’s just the beginning of the fun available in the area.
1. Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort
The
Blastenhoff area has some of the most exciting rides (plus, it’s fun to
say). The Wolfpack Raft Slide starts at the top of the tower in the
center of the park. Up to four people can ride together on a 72-inch
raft through a five-story gauntlet of curves and drops. The Master
Blaster Uphill Water Coaster sends two-person rafts on a harrowing ride
up, down, up and sideways. For those who prefer mellower tubing, there’s
also a circular course around the park. 400 North Liberty Avenue, New
Braunfels; (855) 246-0273
2. Chuck’s Tubes
Located
on the less-crowded Comal River, Chuck’s Tubes offers tubers a lazy
ride through one of the coolest, bendiest stretches of the river. They
also rent mini-kegs and insulated backpacks for beer.
At the end of the day, you can buy top-notch
barbecue in the parking lot. In a business where many of the customers
are rowdy and/or drunk, it’s tough to get consistently high praise, but
this place manages to do it again and again. The staff clearly enjoys
working here, and they’re determined to help you have fun (safely). 493
North Market Street, New Braunfels; (830) 625-3991
3. Gruene Hall
Opened
in 1978, Gruene Hall is Texas’ oldest dance hall. The rustic building
is basically one big room with a stage at one end, a bar at the other
and a wooden dance floor in between. The venue attracts surprisingly
high-profile acts, ranging from Willie Nelson to Chubby Checker. While
tickets are required for weekend performances, many of the shows during
the week are free. Keep in mind that part of the rustic charm is the
lack of air conditioning, but there are plenty of fans and cold beer.
1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels; (830) 629-5077
4. Gristmill
Perched
on a hill above the Guadalupe River, Gristmill is a sprawling
restaurant built out of the remains of a historic mill. The multi-level
eatery has breathtaking views of the river from indoor and outdoor
seating. Burgers and steaks are the restaurant’s main attractions, but
they also have chicken-fried steak, catfish and decadent pies. 1287
Gruene Road, New Braunfels; (830) 625-0684
5. Natural Bridge Caverns
Located
about 15 minutes west of New Braunfels, Natural Bridge Caverns is one
of Texas’ true natural wonders. The guided tours take you through
massive underground rooms and through narrow passages with shimmering
walls. You’ll see huge stalactites and “flowstones” that look like
petrified waterfalls. Beyond the caves, the park also has ziplines and
an area where kids can pan for minerals. 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns
Road; (210) 651-6101
