New Braunfels Named a Top Destination to Visit and Live in 2024

Recently recognized by Forbes Advisor as one of the Top 50 travel destinations for 2024, crowned the “Destination of the Year” by the Texas Travel Awards, and named by Money.com as one of the 50 best places to live in the U.S., New Braunfels’ rich history, vibrant downtown, and stunning natural beauty offers an unparalleled lifestyle that attracts tourists and new residents alike.

A Blend of History and Modern Fun

New Braunfels boasts a charming downtown area that seamlessly blends historical sites with contemporary attractions. Founded in 1845 by German settlers, the city is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Gruene Historic District, where you can find Texas’ oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall. This area is a bustling hub of activity, featuring one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, speakeasies, craft breweries, and eateries, many of which are locally owned and operated.

Exterior view of historic Gruene Hall
Gruene Hall is the oldest operating dancehall in Texas, offering up live music every day of the week.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

One of the key highlights of New Braunfels is its stunning natural beauty, particularly the spring-fed Comal and Guadalupe Rivers that intersect the town. These rivers have been a central part of life in New Braunfels since its founding, offering residents and visitors a refreshing escape with activities such as tubing, kayaking, and swimming – in fact, the City of New Braunfels estimated that a quarter million visitors enjoyed the Comal River during the summer of 2023 alone!

In addition to river recreation, New Braunfels is home to award-winning attractions like the Natural Bridge Caverns, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, and Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort, providing ample opportunities for adventure and family fun.

Aerial view of people floating on colorful inner tubes down the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels, TX.
The Comal and Guadalupe Rivers offer endless opportunities for fun on the water

Festivals and Cultural Events

New Braunfels is well-known for its cultural events, and perhaps none are more famous than Wurstfest. This acclaimed 10-day German heritage festival, held annually in the first week of November, draws over 200,000 visitors, celebrating the town’s German roots with music, food, and, of course, the best bratwurst in the Hill Country – making it a must-visit event that draws many residents back year after year.

Couple in traditional Bavarian clothing dancing during Wurstfest
From Wurstfest to Wassailfest, New Braunfels celebrates its unique culture and heritage in style

A Thriving Community with Growing Opportunities

Beyond its attractions and events, New Braunfels is a thriving community with a rapidly growing population. The city’s booming job market, which added a record 39,000 new jobs in 2023, is expected to continue growing, with a projected 21% increase in job growth over the next four years. This economic vitality, combined with affordable real estate and a diverse array of recreational activities, makes New Braunfels an ideal place for families and young professionals looking to relocate.

Experience Meyer Ranch – Your New Home in New Braunfels

As New Braunfels continues to gain recognition for its exceptional lifestyle and vibrant community, now is the perfect time to consider making it your home. Meyer Ranch, a master-planned community in the heart of New Braunfels, offers an array of beautiful homes and amenities designed to complement the city’s unique charm. With spacious floor plans, modern designs, and a strong sense of community, Meyer Ranch provides the perfect setting for you and your family to enjoy all that New Braunfels has to offer.

Experience the best of Hill Country living at Meyer Ranch

To learn more about about Meyer Ranch and to explore our available homes, contact us today for more information or to schedule a personalized tour of the community so you can see for yourself why New Braunfels has been named one of the best places in Texas to live, work, and visit.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Crown Community Development

Crown Community Development was founded on the same premise of excellence that began with Henry Crown, one of Chicago's most notable civic leaders of the 20th century. Learn more about Crown Community Development here.