Living in New Braunfels: Our Guide for You
October 27, 2021
Close to both San Antonio and Austin, New Braunfels is a town experiencing unprecedented growth. In fact, it is the 3rd fastest-growing city in the nation. Money magazine named it one of the “Best Places to Live in America” in 2020.
Easy access to Interstate 35 is one reason for the city’s popularity. In addition to being able to commute to San Antonio or Austin, residents can easily drive to Gruene and San Marcos. Another reason is that despite New Braunfels’ rapid growth, it still feels like a small town.
The housing market is growing in New Braunfels so if you are looking for a new home, this is a great place to invest. Popular communities include Legend Point and Overlook at Creekside. Legend Point is located near favored attractions such as historic Gruene Hall, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, The Bandit Golf Club and Landa Park, as well as offering a pool, picnic pavilion, playground and winding trails. Overlook at Creekside is an 88-acre enclave that will soon boast a recreation complex with a pool, pavilion and playground.
Children in New Braunfels attend schools in the New Braunfels ISD and Comal ISD. Legend Point is zoned New Braunfels ISD, one of the top 15 best school districts in the San Antonio area, according to Niche. It is in the top 20 for the best teachers. Niche rates Comal ISD as one of the top 100 districts in Texas. District schools boast a 98 percent graduation rate, and 100 percent of students take the SAT. Overlook at Creekside is zoned to schools in Comal ISD.
Most residents of New Braunfels live life outdoors. The city is nestled between the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, which offer opportunities for tubing, hiking and kayaking. Boating is available on McQueeney or Canyon lakes. A popular spot for cooling down is Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort. Natural Bridge Caverns is 25 miles west of the city.
Music lovers enjoy a thriving scene. Historic Gruene Hall is considered a major music venue for up-and-coming and established artists. Whitewater Amphitheater hosts A-list musicians such as Lady A, Chris Young and Willie Nelson.
Festivals are a huge part of New Braunfels’ life, particularly the world-famous Wurstfest. A celebration of German culture, the festival features Alpine and Bavarian entertainment, food and beer. Other festivals include Quiltfest, Texas Woodcarvers Guild, Folkfest, Utopiafest, Wein and Saengerfest.
When it comes to dining, there are a lot of options, but locals favor Buttermilk Cafe, Naegelin’s Bakery, Huisache Grill and Krause’s Café. If craft beer is your thing, you will want to hit up New Braunfels Brewing Company, Guadalupe Brewing, Dry Comal and Faust Hotel and Brewing Co. The historic district is a great place to shop for antiques. For more modern looks, there’s New Braunfels Town Center at Creekside, Gruene Lake Village and WestPointe Village.