Located just north of San Antonio, New Braunfels is a charming small town with a rich history, a diverse culture, stunning views, and countless local attractions and festivals. It’s no wonder why the city draws a large number of tourists throughout the year.
If you’re planning to visit New Braunfels but don’t know what to do when you’re here, you should check out the local music scene! There are plenty of live music venues in the city, where local artists and music lovers meet. Here are some of our favorite spots:
Billy's Ice
If you enjoy good music and a fresh cold beer, then you’ll love Billy’s Ice. This laid-back indoor/outdoor venue is a long-time New Braunfels Institution, offering a full bar, basic grub, and live music every night.
The diverse music scene, as well as its ample variety of food and drinks, makes Billy’s Ice the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends. The free live music is perfect for dancing and singing along!
Black Whale Pub
New Braunfels was originally settled by German immigrants in the 1800s. When the town was first settled, one of the first bars built was named Zum Schwarzen Wallfisch (meaning “to the black whale”).
Legend has it that most nights one could hear the inmates of the nearby jail singing with the patrons of the saloon, until the bar was moved years later.
This piece of New Braunfels' history was revived in 2007 when the modern Black Whale Pub opened in that very same location where the Zum Schwarzen Wallfisch once stood. Today, the Black Whale Pub is a well-known spot with great drinks, amazing food with a German flare, and the best live music.
Sidecar
Looking for a live music venue with a more quiet and intimate atmosphere? Located in the heart of downtown New Braunfels, underneath the Prince Solms Inn, is a dimly lit venue with great music and delicious cocktails.
Sidecar regularly features live music, including jazz and other popular genres. Additionally, their ticketed events, such as the highly anticipated New Year’s Eve extravaganza, make for a night of fun and unforgettable memories.
Downtown Social
Located in the heart of New Braunfels, Downtown Social is a well-known venue among the locals. With an eclectic setting, this American bar & bistro has something for everyone.
This includes delicious food, unique craft cocktails, live music, and a wide variety of games, from bowling to Scrabble. If you want to learn more about the local music scene, you can’t miss Downtown Social’s regular jam sessions, featuring some of the best singer-songwriters in the area.
Gruene Hall
Built back in 1878, Gruene Hall is the oldest continually operating and most famous dance hall in the state of Texas.
With its historic architecture intact, incredible acoustics, and old-school atmosphere, Gruene Hall is the perfect spot to grab a drink and listen to some great music. With at least one artist every night, this venue features a wide array of music, including indie, rock, blues, and country.
The Watering Hole Saloon
Are you into sports and music? Then the Watering Hole Saloon is perfect for you. This popular sports bar and pub is where live music meets sports. They have countless entertainment options, including NFL Sunday Ticket, pool tables, electronic darts, live music, and karaoke nights.
Whitewater Amphitheater
If you’re looking for bigger-scale events, then the Whitewater Amphitheater is the place to go! It’s no wonder why the Whitewater Amphitheater was nominated for the Academy of Country Music Award for Outdoor Venue of the Year in 2022!
Live Music Festivals
The city of New Braunfels hosts various festivals throughout the year, from food and wine to cultural events. Here are some of the most popular music events in the city:
1. Wurstfest
New Braunfels has a rich German heritage. If you want to learn more about the city’s history and culture, you can’t miss Wurstfest. Created in 1961, this yearly festival has evolved into a world-known event to promote and preserve the city’s rich heritage.
As of today, Wurstfest is a 10-day event filled with games, entertainment options, food, and cultural activities! Visitors can enjoy traditional German food, live music, and dancing, as well as a variety of carnival rides, games, and family-friendly activities.
2. Gruene Music & Wine Festival
The Gruene Music & Wine Festival was originally created in 1987 to raise funds for the United Way of Comal County. Today, it’s one of the most well-known music and food events in the Lone Star State.
Now, every October, you can enjoy the best of the local music scene, as well as try some of what local wineries, breweries, and restaurants have to offer. The best part is that all the proceeds go to the United Way of Comal County!
3. River Revival
River Revival is an annual camping and music festival held on the banks of the beautiful Guadalupe River. Created by Splice Records and Saint Arnold Brewing Company, this independent music festival has gained quite a reputation in the past decade since its creation.
Whether you’re an avid festival goer, foodie, or camping enthusiast, you can find plenty of things to do in this wholesome festival. Meal and camping spaces are all included in the ticket price, however, you will have to bring your own camping supplies and coolers.
Bottom Line
New Braunfels is a lively town with a rich history and plenty of local attractions, including many live music venues and yearly festivals. If you’re in town, you have to visit local staples such as Billy’s Ice, the Black Whale Pub, Gruene Hall, and the Whitewater Amphitheater.
If you want to dive deeper into the local music scene, then you have to buy tickets for any of the many music festivals hosted throughout the years, such as the Gruene Music & Wine Festival and the unique River Revival.
Want to learn more about what New Braunfels has to offer? Contact Limestone Country Properties today!
