About half way between Austin and San Antonio (or approximately a 45 minute drive from each) is the Gruene Historic District located in the city of New Braunfels. You will know you have arrived when you see the historic landmark water tower. Gruene (pronounced "green") is a charming rustic Texas town with a unique history. It is most famously known for Gruene Hall, built in 1878, which is the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas.
Gruene Dance Hall: The historic dance hall is 6,000 square feet and maintains its original layout and structure. Gruene Hall has live music every day so check the schedule and try and catch a show in this historic venue! Many country music stars have played in Gruene Hall over the years, including Willie Nelson, The Chicks, Lyle Lovett and George Straight. You never know if the musicians you see here will make it big in the future!
Gruene Shopping: While waiting for the show to start, spend some time shopping at one of the many specialty boutiques or antique stores lining Hunter Road that runs through the middle of the town. Two of my favorites were The Dancing Bear and The Gruene General Store. The Dancing Bear was a cute gift store with unique collectibles, home decor, specialty foods and garden accessories in its outdoor garden area. The Gruene General Store hasn't changed much since it opened in 1925 and was selected as one of the 40.best places to visit in Texas! It has a soda fountain, homemade fudge and souvenirs all in an enchanting nostalgic setting.
The Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar: Be sure to make time to grab a bite to eat at the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar before you head out of town. The Gristmill is included on the National Register of Historic Places and is located beneath the Gruene landmark water tower in the ruins of a 1878 Cotton Gin overlooking the Guadalupe River. There are multiple levels of dining and an outdoor beer garden. We sat on an open air patio nestled in a grove of trees overlooking the River. It felt like we were eating in a tree house! The food was delicious and the setting was beautiful.
Gruene Mansion Inn: If you are having so much fun in Gruene that you want to spend the night, your only option with be the Gruene Mansion Inn. I did not personally stay here, but it looks charming. It is a unique boutique hotel with 30 rooms and a "Pantry" that is stocked with delicious, locally curated grab-and-go items. It is located in the former home of one of the original Gruene family members so you can really feel a connection to the town!
Although it is small, there is so much to see in Gruene Historic District. You can catch a show in the oldest dance hall in Texas and shop in a General Store that is on the list of the 40 best places to visit in Texas. That is pretty amazing! So make a quick side trip on the drive between Austin and San Antonio...you won't regret it.