Gruene

Gruene is a historic district along the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels, Texas, with buildings in late Victorian style and traditional German half-timbered houses. The structures line the main street and riverbank, surrounded by old trees.

The settlement began in the 1840s when German immigrants established cotton farms and brought their building methods. After economic decline in the mid-20th century, the district was restored and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

The name is still pronounced in German today, though the place sits firmly in Texas. Many visitors come for the connection to Texas country music and for the regional wines produced nearby.

The area sits by the river, so walking along the waterfront path is easy. Access to most buildings is at ground level, but there are cobblestones and uneven paths.

The dance floor in the old hall still has original boards from the 19th century. In some spots you can see the marks left by decades of dancing and celebration.