New Braunfels continues to shine, this time, earning seven awards at the 2025 Texas Travel Awards – more than any other city in Texas. From Best Food Festival to Best Shopping District, the awards encompass what makes the city special. New Braunfels has grown into a thriving destination without losing its historic charm and access to the Texas Hill Country.
New Braunfels was awarded seven Texas Travel Awards:
- Best Bar: Sidecar at Prince Solms
- Best Art Festival: Art Haus
- Best Food Festival: Wurstfest
- Best Museum: The Sophienburg Museum and Archives
- Best Music Festival: Gruene Music
- Best Outdoor Activity: Comal River
- Best Shopping District Statewide: The Gruene Historic District
A Taste of New Braunfels
Whether you’re craving a delicious bite or a craft cocktail, New Braunfels delivers. Sidecar at Prince Solms, an underground bar known for its moody ambiance and live music, serves handcrafted cocktails made with fresh seasonal ingredients and classic spirits.
For a bigger celebration of the taste buds, nothing beats Wurstfest, winner of Best Food Festival. This annual ten-day celebration blends German heritage with classic Texas charm serving up authentic German, Texan, and domestic brews, and a wide array of delicious food from local businesses.
History and Culture
Beyond food and drinks, New Braunfels also shines as a cultural destination, offering a rich history and culture. If you are looking for good music, the Gruene Music & Wine Festival has you covered. Honored with Best Music Festival (Big Market), the festival began as a one-day event in 1987 and has now grown to a multi-day celebration of Texas and Americana music to raise funds for the United Way of Comal County. The festival also celebrates wine and beer made in Texas.
Art Haus took center stage in the arts category, earning Best Art Festival, showcasing local artists every first Friday of the month. The Sophienburg Museum and Archives was awarded Best Museum, honoring the history and cultural heritage of New Braunfels and Comal County. Guests can explore local artifacts, photographic images, maps, and documents.
Shopping and Outdoor Fun
Outdoor adventures and historic charm go hand in hand at New Braunfels. The Comal River, awarded Best Outdoor Activity, invites visitors to float, swim, and soak up the sun in the picturesque river.
The Gruene Historic District–known as a Texas travel darling and winner of Best Shopping District (Statewide)–offers a different kind of fun. Residents and visitors can shop, dine, and dance in the 15 walkable acres designated a National Historic District. From unique boutiques to live music stages, Gruene represents the heart of New Braunfels.
What makes New Braunfels the diamond of the Hill Country?
Conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels offers the perfect blend of Hill Country charm and city living. With a city that promotes community, nature, and culture, it’s no surprise New Braunfels continues to attract residents and visitors alike. Families can enjoy festivals year-round while learning about the history of New Braunfels or try out local award-winning food options. There is truly never a shortage of things to do in New Braunfels and there’s only more to come.
Veramendi: Your Future Home
If you are thinking of making New Braunfels home, the Veramendi community is designed to meet the needs of you and your family. This master-planned community offers a wide range of amenities and small-town charm, making it the perfect place to live, work, learn, and play your way. Contact us today to start your next chapter and experience true Texas Hill Country Living.