Historic Gruene Texas

Pronounced like the color green, Gruene has earned its designation as a Historic Town by the State of Texas — and for good reason. This charming community, nestled within the city limits of New Braunfels, is rich in history, character, and Southern hospitality.

Henry D. Gruene founded the town in 1872, purchasing land with his father and brothers to start a cotton farm. That same year, he built the first family home — a graceful structure he modified over time. Today, that home still stands proudly as the Gruene Mansion Inn, complete with its Victorian galleries. It’s recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and is a designated Texas Historic Landmark.

Behind the welcoming archway, a collection of outbuildings that were once part of the original estate have been thoughtfully restored and now serve as part of the Gruene Mansion Inn, blending history with hospitality.

Towering over the town is the iconic Gruene water tower — a beloved landmark visible for miles. It stands as a beacon, guiding visitors back time and time again to this unforgettable slice of Texas.

Whether you're a weekend traveler or settling in for a longer stay, Gruene offers a lively mix of experiences for everyone. Visitors from all over return again and again for the unique blend of history, culture, and fun.

Gruene’s prime location makes it an ideal getaway. Austin lies 40 miles to the north, San Antonio is just 25 miles south, and Houston is about 160 miles to the east. Nearby destinations like New Braunfels and Canyon Lake are only minutes away.

H.D. Gruene built the town’s first mercantile store in 1878 to serve local cotton farmers and passersby. That store was later moved across the street, where it now lives on as the Gruene Antique Company, still capturing the spirit of the original.

Gruene Hall

No visit is complete without a stop at Gruene Hall. Built in the 1880s, this legendary bar and dance hall quickly became the heart of the community — and it still is. As the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas, it has hosted country music legends like Willie Nelson, George Strait, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Lyle Lovett. A full list of performers can be found inside the hall, where the music never stops and the good times roll.

Looking to cool off? The Guadalupe River is the perfect spot for swimming, wading, tubing, or rafting. It’s a refreshing escape the whole family can enjoy — whether you’re floating downstream or simply soaking up the sun.

 

Tourist Attractions in the Gruene Area:

• Natural Bridge Caverns – New Braunfels
  Texas' largest caverns. Located west of New Braunfels, Texas.
• Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch – New Braunfels
  Take a safari drive thru Texas style. Located west of New Braunfels, Texas.
• Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort – New Braunfels
  America's most favorite Waterpark resort.
• Canyon Lake
  Canyon Lake is a popular lake to the north of Gruene for boating and other water related recreational activities.
• Touring Texas
  This web site provides tourist information for the state of Texas with links to over 100 cities and towns throughout Texas.
• Wonder World Park - San Marcos, Texas
  The most visited cave in Texas.
• Seaworld Adventure Park - San Antonio
  Amusement rides, water rides and fun, shows with dolphins, whales and sea lions, and much more.
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas - San Antonio
  Six Flags Fiesta Texas is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with a full line-up of rides, shows, and family-fun entertainment.
• San Marcos
  San Marcos has some of the largest outlet malls in the country.

Things to do near and in Gruene:

• The crystal clear water of the San Marcos River offers perfect tubing, swimming, and sunbathing.
• Take a walking or trolley tour of historic San Marcos.
• Enjoy nature watching and photography at its finest.
• Take the glass-bottom boats tour at Aquarena Center.
• Shopping at the world-class factory outlet stores and local tourist stores.
• Antique shopping in the area - some of the best in Texas.
• Dining at the river front or downtown restaurants.
• Visiting Art Centers and Museums.
• A "must" on any tourist’s list is the 246 acres of parks with the San Marcos River running through 150 acres of this parkland.
• Canyon Lake with its 80 miles of scenic shoreline is only 45 minutes away.