Guadalupe River flowing through New Braunfels

On a budget

Free things to do in New Braunfels

5 kinds of free outings in and around New Braunfels.

Good days out in New Braunfels don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.

Parks

25 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.

  • Landa Park1.1 mi from downtown
  • Fredericksburg Fields1.3 mi from downtown
  • Cypress Bend Park1.5 mi from downtown
See all 25 →

Libraries

Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.

  • New Braunfels Public Library700 E Common St
  • Westside Community Center Library2932 S Ih 35
See all 2 →

Historic places

17 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.

  • Comal County Courthouse
  • Brauntex Theatre
  • Carl W. A. Groos House
See all 17 →

Hiking

Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.

  • Canyon Lake11 mi northwest
  • Cranes Mill Park15 mi northwest
  • Potters Creek Park15 mi northwest
See all 20 →

Wildlife viewing

Birding and nature watching on public land.

  • Canyon Lake11 mi northwest
  • Potters Creek Park15 mi northwest
  • Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge54 mi north
See all 20 →

Around town

New Braunfels Texas City Hall
New Braunfels Texas City HallLarry D. Moore · CC BY 4.0
Emmie Seele Faust Memorial Library 2019, New Braunfels
Emmie Seele Faust Memorial Library 2019Larry D. Moore · CC BY 4.0
Tower new braunfels municipal 2013
Tower new braunfels municipal 2013Larry D. Moore · CC BY 4.0

Get a feel for the city

Exploring the Charm and Beauty of New Braunfels, Texas video thumbnail

THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT

Exploring the Charm and Beauty of New Braunfels, Texas

A local activity Short shared by Venture Addicts.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Questions

What are free things to do in New Braunfels?

Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.

Are there free events in New Braunfels this weekend?

Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.

Do I need a library card to use the library?

No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.

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