The Comal Springs in Landa Park are considered the largest springs in Texas and the American Southwest—a notable natural feature of New Braunfels. The city also offers expansive parkland, a variety of trails and reminders of German immigration history. When planning your trip, it’s worth considering these highlights separately: a spring or a trail through greenery serves a different interest than architecture, a self-guided tour or a festival.
Parks and Trails
Landa Park covers 51 acres and offers numerous amenities in the shade of large oak trees. It officially opened to the public in 1936. Both Comal Springs and Panther Canyon are within the park; Panther Canyon offers several trail options. This means the springs as a natural feature and the choice of trails stand as separate highlights.
Fischer Park offers different highlights: The 62-acre site sits on a hill and includes more than two miles of greenway trails, two fishing ponds, a splash pad, playgrounds and a Nature Education Center. At the same time, the park preserves more than 30 acres as native prairie. Visitors can enjoy both specific park amenities and an area expressly preserved as prairie.
The free Paleontology Dig is located at the Nature Education Center. At this interactive attraction, visitors can dig up and explore dinosaur fossils in the sand. You can also rent kayaks at the Rent Fun kiosk in Fischer Park from morning until evening. Availability may change, so check before your visit.
The Dry Comal Creek Trail offers a clearly defined loop: The 2.25-mile route passes through various habitats, including wooded savannas and areas along the creek. The trail is open to hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers. Unlike the more than two miles of greenway trails in Fischer Park, this is a specific loop route. The scenery also differs: Savannas and creekside areas characterize the trail, while Fischer Park includes trails and prairie areas, among other features.
Water and River Conditions
The Comal River is spring-fed and suitable for tubing. Its water temperature stays between 70 and 72°F year-round; river conditions can vary, however. The river may close during high water or for public safety reasons. If you’re planning to go tubing, check conditions before your visit.
History and Architecture
The Central New Braunfels Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known for its history and culture of German immigrants. Downtown New Braunfels features architecture with 19th-century German influences. Self-guided tours of the Downtown New Braunfels Historic District offer another way to explore this historic part of the city; check tour options before your visit.
Wurstfest
Wurstfest is an annual celebration featuring German culture, food, music, dancing, carnival rides and games, beer, and Alpine- and Bavarian-style entertainment. If you’re planning to visit New Braunfels for the festival, check the event dates before making your plans.
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