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Did you know that Gruene isn’t actually a town—and that Texans pronounce it like the color “green”? In German, it’s properly pronounced “Grew-na”, but here in Texas, we like to keep things simple. Gruene is officially a Historic District within the city of New Braunfels.

Once an independent community, Gruene thrived in the late 19th century. But in the 1920s, disaster struck: a boll weevil infestation crippled the cotton industry, and the Great Depression dealt the final blow. By 1930, the population had dwindled to just 75 residents. After World War II, highway development bypassed the area entirely, and Gruene slipped into ghost town status. In 1979, it was annexed by New Braunfels.

The community’s roots go back to 1872 when Henry D. Gruene, along with his father and brothers, purchased land to establish a cotton farm. That same year, he built the family’s first home, which evolved over time into what we now know as the Gruene Mansion Inn. Featuring ornate Victorian galleries, the inn still stands today and holds listings on both the National Register of Historic Places and as a Texas Historic Landmark.

One of the town’s most iconic landmarks, Gruene Hall, was built in the 1880s and quickly became the community’s social heart. Located at the end of Hunter Road where it meets Gruene Road, this rustic bar and dance hall is the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas. Over the years, it has hosted an impressive roster of musical legends, including Willie Nelson, George Strait, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Lyle Lovett. Inside the hall, you’ll find a full list of the artists who’ve graced its stage..

Gruene is centrally located: just 25 miles north of San Antonio, 40 miles south of Austin, and about 160 miles west of Houston. Nearby attractions include New Braunfels and the sparkling waters of Canyon Lake—both only minutes away.

Whether you're here for shopping, wine tasting, tubing on the river, dancing under the Texas stars, or simply relaxing, Historic Gruene offers something for everyone. Visitors keep coming back—not just for the charm, but for the feeling that somehow, time slows down just enough to enjoy it all.

Canyon Lake Cabins | Summit Vacation & RV Resort | New Braunfels TX

on the Guadalupe River

Cabin Rentals, Vacation Rentals and RV Park located on the Guadalupe River 4 miles from Canyon Lake and a short drive to New Braunfels, TX. This scenic Texas Hill Country Resort provides the perfect vacation destination to enjoy Guadalupe River tubing, mini-golf, pools, hot tubs, playgrounds, sand volleyball and resort amenities. Also a perfect Canyon Lake venue and event space for weddings, family reunions, and corporate events.

 

 

Canyon Lake

 

Canyon Lake Cabins | Summit Vacation & RV Resort | New Braunfels TX

on the Guadalupe River

Cabin Rentals, Vacation Rentals and RV Park located on the Guadalupe River 4 miles from Canyon Lake and a short drive to New Braunfels, TX. This scenic Texas Hill Country Resort provides the perfect vacation destination to enjoy Guadalupe River tubing, mini-golf, pools, hot tubs, playgrounds, sand volleyball and resort amenities. Also a perfect Canyon Lake venue and event space for weddings, family reunions, and corporate events.

 

 

Canyon Lake

 

Rustic Ridge Bed and Breakfast

Canyon Lake

20th Anniversary Special - Check out our website for details
Enjoy a romantic getaway for two. This secluded cedar log cabin overlooks a pond into beautiful Texas sunsets. You will have the cabin with a gated entrance all to yourself. Close to Potters Creek Park on Canyon Lake.

 

Gruene Market Days

Step into the heart of historic Gruene every third weekend from February through November and discover the timeless charm of this beloved Texas town.

Stroll through over 100 booths featuring the finest handcrafted goods—from artisan jewelry and custom furniture to unique pottery, gourmet spices, and one-of-a-kind artwork. Every vendor is carefully selected through a juried process, ensuring only top-quality, handmade items are on display.

Return for a festive twist during our Christmas Market, held the first weekend of December. Enjoy the annual Town Lighting, snap a photo with Cowboy Kringle, and soak up the holiday spirit in true Gruene style.