NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas — The Texas Travel Awards revealed the best destinations to travel to in 2024 and New Braunfels took home many awards. Discover the best places to visit in the Texas Hill Country town during spring break.
New Braunfels was named Destination of the Year, the most sought-after award on the list.
Located about 50 minutes south of Austin and 40 minutes north of San Antonio, New Braunfels is full of small-town charm, stunning views, and interesting history.
It is also home to the best winery on the list. Comal Creek Dry Vineyards is owned by the Romero family and uses 100% Texas grapes.
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity with animals, the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch in New Braunfels is a good option. Winner of the Grand Market Outdoor Activity Award, the ranch is a safari adventure right in the heart of Texas. Visitors can observe and feed more than 700 animals from the comfort of their car.
For those looking for the perfect vacation, check out The Dolly chalet, which won the award for the most “Instagrammable” spot in Texas. The cottage, with a Dolly Parton pink theme, is located in 8Sages-Gruene, an estate across the Guadalupe River from the historic center of Gruene, a German-Texas town.
Winning two awards – one for Best Large Market Under The Radar Event and one for Best Large Market Community Event – is the Thru the Chute Cardboard Boat Race in New Braunfels. Competitors race in their hand-made cardboard boats along the banks of the Comal River. The 2024 race is scheduled for April 27, 2024.
The first iconic tourist attraction on this list is none other than Gruene Room in New Braunfels, one of the oldest and still operating dance halls in Texas. Built in 1878, the hall retains most of its old-world charm and is a landmark for those interested in learning more about Texas history.
