The Best Hotels to Book in New Braunfels, Texas

Located steps from the Guadalupe River, this 17-room boutique hotel is steeped in a trifecta of Texas charm: Southern grace, period luxury and woodsy comfort. Rooms, both courtyard and river view, offer a potpourri of ambiances: Cowboy cabin décor in the Homestead and Wild West, carved mahogany antiques and a canopy bed in the Victorian, rustic hardwoods in the Retreat. The oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall, sits just a short walk away. Don’t worry if your dancing shoes usually don’t find their footing – there’s free wine!

Awash in light hardwoods and rustic stone, the suites at this glorified cabin resort skew more countryside hideaways than a family suites resort. Ranging in size from big to enormous, you won’t want for space here with self-standing homes that feel like oversized residential retreats channeling Hill Country character. Amenities in every unit include fully-equipped kitchens and a washer/dryer; outdoor common spaces feature a barbeque area, pool and hot tub. Forgot something? There’s even a convenience store on the property (not the world’s largest, but still).

The 74-room Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is a contemporary choice along I-35, putting it on prime real estate for reaching Schlitterbahn Waterpark, shopping the charming boutiques in the Gruene Historic District, exploring Natural Bridge Caverns or simply enjoying all that downtown New Braunfels has to offer. Soothing earth-toned color schemes illicit of sense of welcome and relaxation in the room and suites while the outdoor pool and firepits make for an idyllic spot for a nightcap.

Occupying a lovely location right along the riverbank of the Guadalupe River on the southern side of I-35, this Courtyard by Marriott maintains a serene vibe on the outskirts of town. Stylish Texas-inspired décor throughout the property instills a sense of place, and the expansive lobby feels as big as Texas itself. Bright rooms feature all the Marriott mod-cons and often look out onto the river and verdant surrounds. A lush backyard leads straight down to the river – in theory, you could paddle all the way into downtown New Braunfels.

Part of a cluster of chain hotels along I-35 just south of downtown New Braunfels, this Fairfield Inn features rooms and suites specifically designed to create a stress-free experience. Pillowtop mattresses topped with custom duvets and spacious ergonomic workstations highlight room comforts, while a lobby triad of light hardwoods, natural stone and contemporary nature photography create a soothing environment upon arrival. Communal dining tables at breakfast even afford an opportunity to meet fellow travelers and adventurers.

Attractions including Schlitterbahn Water Park, Guadalupe River, Gruene Historic District, Comal River, Landa Park, Gruene Hall, and Whitewater Amphitheater are all within striking distance from this contemporary choice, which sets itself apart from its neighbors with an all-kitchenette lineup of 83 rooms. On-site laundry facilities are a convenient option for river rats who aren’t afraid to get down and dirty in the town’s waters. All in all, a guest-friendly space-per-dollar ratio makes this a good deal.

The Hilton Garden Inn’s more northernly position on I-35 means it’s a quicker commute to the world’s largest convenience store and popular San Marcos Premium Outlets Mall than fellow New Braunfels hotels. You might wear yourself out running rampant through either or having an adventurous day in town, but either way, the expansive outdoor patio lounge here is an inviting place to kick back with a cold one as your day winds down.