A Hidden Texas Hill Country Escape Between Austin and San Antonio With Safari Parks and Tubing Rivers

Tucked between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels feels like a secret Hill Country retreat you stumble upon and never want to leave. Sparkling rivers invite you to float all afternoon, while limestone caverns and a wild safari park add a dash of adventure. Historic German roots show up in music, food, and charming streets that beg for a slow stroll.

Ready to discover where lazy tubes, two steins, and starry nights all meet.

1. Float the Comal River

The Comal River is short, spring fed, and crystal clear, which means effortless tubing with cool water even in peak summer. You can rent a tube right by the river, stash your flip flops, and drift under cypress shade like a local. Lifeguards and easy exits make it beginner friendly, so bring friends and a waterproof bag.

Expect a few small chutes for giggles, plus plenty of sun if you want a warm float. Arrive early on weekends to skip lines and find parking near Landa Park. Pack reef safe sunscreen, a snug strap for sunglasses, and a trash bag so you leave this gem pristine.

2. Guadalupe River Day Trip

When you want a wilder float, the Guadalupe River brings bigger bends and classic Hill Country views. Outfitters shuttle you to various put ins, so you can choose a mellow stretch or a sporty run with playful riffles. Between the limestone bluffs and towering cypress, every bend feels like a postcard.

Bring river shoes, a secure cooler tube, and always check water flow levels before launching. On cooler mornings, anglers cast for trout near well known runs, and you can join a guided lesson. You will find plenty of riverside taco stops afterward, so save room for a celebratory bite and a cold drink under the trees.

3. Natural Bridge Caverns Adventure

Just west of New Braunfels, Natural Bridge Caverns invites you underground into a cathedral of limestone. Guided tours wind past towering columns, shimmering soda straws, and rooms that echo with every footstep. The cool air feels amazing after a hot river day, and the storytelling guides bring the geology to life.

Above ground, challenge a ropes course, zip on lines, or pan for gems with kids. Wear closed toe shoes, bring a light jacket, and reserve tickets ahead on busy weekends. Afterward, swing by the gift shop for local snacks and a cold drink, then step outside to watch Hill Country sunsets paint the ridge line gold.

4. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Safari

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch pairs perfectly with the caverns for a day of wonder. You drive your own car through the safari, windows down, feed bag ready, as zebras, ostriches, and antelope wander across the road. It feels playful and surprisingly peaceful, with Hill Country hills rolling in the background.

Go early for active animals and softer light, and keep hands safe around enthusiastic beaks. The ranch has walking areas, snacks, and photo ops, so plan extra time. Kids love the baby animal barn, and you will leave with a camera roll full of grin worthy closeups.

It is an easy memory maker between river days.

5. Gruene Historic District and Gruene Hall

Gruene feels like a time capsule with a honky tonk heartbeat. Stroll past vintage storefronts, smell barbecue drifting through the air, then step into Gruene Hall, Texas oldest dance hall. Scuffed floors, breezy windows, and a small stage host rising songwriters and big names who love intimate sets.

Arrive before sunset to browse boutiques and grab a table for chicken fried steak or tacos. When the music starts, two step with locals or hang back by the beer line and people watch. Photos outside the water tower and the Hall are musts.

You will leave humming, dust on your boots, and a grin you cannot shake.

6. Landa Park and Springfed Pool

Shaded by ancient cypress and sprinkled with spring-fed ponds, Landa Park is the green heart of New Braunfels. You can ride the miniature train, rent paddle boats, or spread a picnic blanket under the canopy. The springfed pool stays refreshingly cool, perfect after a downtown stroll or river float.

Bring a frisbee, snag a shady table, and listen for ducks chattering near the water. Early mornings feel calm, while weekends buzz with families and runners circling the paths. The adjacent Comal headwaters boardwalk teaches you about the springs that power this town.

It is an easy, affordable way to slow down and breathe.

7. Schlitterbahn New Braunfels

Few water parks balance old-school charm and modern thrills like Schlitterbahn, where classic tube chutes use real river water and follow a natural current beneath shady trees. Newer sections bring high speed coasters, wave pools, and kid zones that make the whole crew giddy.

Lockers, picnic friendly policies, and free parking keep the day simple and budget friendly. Wear a rash guard for sun, water shoes for grip, and keep a dry bag in the locker for breaks. Arrive early to hit headliners first, then settle into lazy rivers until sunset.

You will sleep like a rock afterward.

8. Downtown New Braunfels Eats and Beer Gardens

Heritage and hometown pride define the flavor of downtown New Braunfels. You will find German plates with crispy schnitzel, pretzels bigger than your face, and Tex Mex favorites stacked with fresh salsas. Beer gardens pour local lagers and Hill Country saisons, all under twinkling lights and easy conversation.

Walk between stops, sample a flight, and save room for kolaches or a slice of pecan pie. Weeknights feel relaxed, while weekends brim with live music and patio buzz. Ask bartenders for local river tips or lesser known trails to chase tomorrow.

You will leave full, chatty, and already planning round two.