If you’ve called Texas home for any significant length of time, then you know the heart and soul of our state can be found in its smallest towns. According to HGTV, Gruene is one of the most charming small towns to visit in America, and we couldn’t agree more. From the oldest dance hall in Texas to the pristine Guadalupe River, Gruene has so much to offer. Let’s take a trip, shall we?
Located within the city of New Braunfels, about halfway between Austin and San Antonio, Gruene is a small Texas Hill Country town whose German roots date to the mid-1800s.
Chris Lauer / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images The town was once significant cotton-producing community along the Guadalupe River; however today, its economy is supported almost solely by tourism.
As you stroll through the charming town square, you’ll discover all sorts of historic buildings, including the world-famous Gruene Hall.
Flickr/Lauren Mitchell Built in 1878, Gruene Hall is the oldest dance hall in Texas. You just might run into Willie Nelson himself during your visit (seriously - he’s performed here more than once!).
Another noteworthy landmark is the Gruene General Store, which has been around since 1925.
Flickr/Jimmy Smith It’s always a fun time to peruse the vintage merchandise, and there are lots of kitschy souvenirs for the whole family. Oh, and don’t leave without some of their homemade fudge! It just might be the best in Texas.
The pristine Guadalupe River cuts right through town, and it’s wildly popular for tubing and fly fishing.
Martina Birnbaum / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images Prospective fly fishers can pick up gear from Gruene Outfitters, and Rockin’ R is the premier tube outfitter for those looking for a leisurely float.
On the third full weekend of each month from February through November (and the first weekend of December), Old Gruene Market Days brings together nearly 100 artisans selling a variety of handmade goods.
TripAdvisor/Moved2Texas You’ll see everything from woodwork to food items, plus wine tastings, dining options, and live entertainment while you shop.
All that exploring sure works up an appetite, and there’s no better place to indulge your hunger than the Gristmill.
Facebook/Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Nestled directly underneath the Gruene water tower, this celebrated eatery is located in the ruins of an 1878 cotton gin.
Seating is available both indoors and out, and the multi-level patio overlooks the Guadalupe River.
Facebook/Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar As for the menu, it features everything from juicy burgers and steaks to fresh salads, sandwiches, and seafood, plus a full bar and nearly a dozen decadent desserts.
You’ll need a place to rest your head at night, and we highly recommend the Gruene Mansion Inn.
BDPhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images Just steps away from all the action, this boutique hotel is the former home of H.D. Gruene, the second son of German immigrants Ernst and Antoinette Gruene, who founded the town. The inn has 30 rooms, and each one imparts a unique charm all its own.
To learn more about Gruene, visit the town’s official website or Facebook page.
Chris Lauer / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images
The town was once significant cotton-producing community along the Guadalupe River; however today, its economy is supported almost solely by tourism.
Flickr/Lauren Mitchell
Built in 1878, Gruene Hall is the oldest dance hall in Texas. You just might run into Willie Nelson himself during your visit (seriously - he’s performed here more than once!).
Flickr/Jimmy Smith
It’s always a fun time to peruse the vintage merchandise, and there are lots of kitschy souvenirs for the whole family. Oh, and don’t leave without some of their homemade fudge! It just might be the best in Texas.
Martina Birnbaum / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images
Prospective fly fishers can pick up gear from Gruene Outfitters, and Rockin’ R is the premier tube outfitter for those looking for a leisurely float.
TripAdvisor/Moved2Texas
You’ll see everything from woodwork to food items, plus wine tastings, dining options, and live entertainment while you shop.
Facebook/Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
Nestled directly underneath the Gruene water tower, this celebrated eatery is located in the ruins of an 1878 cotton gin.
As for the menu, it features everything from juicy burgers and steaks to fresh salads, sandwiches, and seafood, plus a full bar and nearly a dozen decadent desserts.
BDPhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images
Just steps away from all the action, this boutique hotel is the former home of H.D. Gruene, the second son of German immigrants Ernst and Antoinette Gruene, who founded the town. The inn has 30 rooms, and each one imparts a unique charm all its own.
Have you ever been to Gruene? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do there? Tell us in the comments section below, then check out our previous article for more small towns in Texas worthy of a trip.
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Address: Gruene, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
