Day Trip from Austin to New Braunfels, Gruene, and the Tejas Rodeo
Austin, I love you, but sometimes a girl’s gotta hit the road and explore beyond the city limits. So, I packed up my day-tripping essentials (comfy shoes, extra snacks, and a go-with-the-flow attitude) and headed about an hour south to New Braunfels, Gruene, and the legendary Tejas Rodeo. Let me tell you—it was a ride, literally and figuratively.
New Braunfels: A Mixed Bag of Fun and Frustration
I had high hopes for New Braunfels, what with its German roots, cute little downtown, and promise of charming vibes. But let’s be real—this place was packed. I tried to explore a few things, but between the crowds and the long lines, I wasn’t really feeling it. Maybe it was just an off day, or maybe I needed a pretzel or baked good to change my attitude, but I found myself itching to move on. Don’t get me wrong—New Braunfels has its gems, and I’d love to come back on a quieter weekday. But on a bustling weekend? It felt like standing in line at Disneyland without a FastPass.
Gruene: Funky, Fun, and Worth the Crowds
Next stop: Gruene (pronounced "Green," y’all), and let me tell you, this place made up for everything New Braunfels lacked in my book. Yes, it was also packed, but somehow, it was the fun kind of crowded—like a street party where you just go with the flow. The shops? Adorably funky, full of treasures that ranged from quirky antiques to Texas-chic fashion. The restaurants? Forget about walking in without a wait—definitely make a reservation beforehand unless you love waiting while hangry. I window-shopped, people-watched, and soaked in the charm of this little historic town before heading to the real reason I came: Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall.
This place is pure magic. The wooden floors creak with stories of country legends, the beer is cold, and the music is top-tier. Even if you don’t consider yourself a dancer, trust me—when a live band starts playing and couples start twirling, you’ll feel that Texas two-step itch. Whether you're sipping a Lone Star beer or just enjoying the atmosphere, Gruene Hall is a must-see.
Tejas Rodeo: My First Texas Rodeo, Literally
After a solid day of exploring, it was time for the main event: my first-ever Texas rodeo at Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde. Now, I’m not gonna lie—I had no idea what to expect. My rodeo knowledge was basically limited to cowboy boots and the phrase “This ain’t my first rodeo.” But let me tell you—this was Texan entertainment at its finest.
The energy? Electric. The cowboys? Rugged and absolutely insane. Watching these fearless riders take on massive, bucking broncos had me gasping, cheering, and questioning my own life choices—like, why have I never been to a rodeo before?! Between barrel racing, roping, and bronc riding, the show never slowed down. The crowd was into it, and I found myself swept up in the whole experience. Even if you’re a city girl at heart, this is one wild night you don’t want to miss.
And let’s not forget dinner—because what’s a Texas experience without some legit steak? Tejas Steakhouse & Saloon delivered exactly what I needed after a long day: a juicy, perfectly cooked piece of chicken in a classic Western setting.
