There’s little doubt that the most spectacular nightlife in Texas Hill Country can be discovered in historic downtown New Braunfels, TX. Night owls, club kids, and country music buffs alike flock to San Antonio Street to sip on libations, dance, and revel in the warm Texas heat. New Braunfels Escapes welcomes travelers from all over the South, many of which are genuinely surprised to find so many dazzling bars in New Braunfels, TX (as well as neighboring Gruene). There’s certainly no shortage of potential entertainment and amusement in this 175-year-old, German-esque community.
The 5 Best Bars in New Braunfels, TX
We couldn’t think of a better way to commemorate a full day of trout fishing, backland hiking, and Canyon Lake adventures than with a night out on the town. Thus, the New Braunfels Escapes team compiled five of our favorite bars in New Braunfels, TX, ranging from a martini lounge to an old-school saloon and a classic country music joint.
1. Moonshine and Ale
Sing-along piano bars are hard to find—but not in New Braunfels, TX. Moonshine and Ale “shot bar” provides a whirlwind of excitement and amusements, thanks in large part to the talented musicians who grace Moonshine’s stage. It’s a mini version of an urban, big-city bar that offers cheap drinks, knee-slapping entertainment, and swift service, regardless of the crowd’s size.
2. Pour Haus / Downtown Social
Pour Haus and Downtown Social is a duo threat on the corner of San Antonio Street and Academy Avenue. On particularly gorgeous evenings, most folks trickle onto Pour Haus’ sizable patio. However, once the bass-thumbing music starts blaring at the neighboring Downtown Social, droves of bar-hoppers scurry into this massive arcade hall, where you’ll find a bevy of games, such as shuffleboard, ping-pong, and foosball.
3. Gruene Tini’s
Gruene Tini’s is not only one of the best bars in New Braunfels, TX, but it just might be the finest martini lounge in Texas Hill Country. The colorful, utterly delicious concoctions will leave a lasting impression on your long-awaited vacation. The sleek, albeit welcoming lounge pairs perfectly with the innovative martinis, ranging from a Gummy Bear Tini to a Cucumber Tini and an Almond Joy Tini.
4. Billy’s Ice
Billy’s Ice remains the best place in town to listen to live country music (outside of the Gruene Hall). Unlike most bars in New Braunfels, TX, Billy’s Ice has an open-air concept that feels a lot like Grandpa’s renovated barn. It’s a welcoming, nostalgic slice of Americana that every small town in Texas seems to boast. And the music is always on point.
5. Phoenix Saloon
Phoenix Saloon remains one of our favorite eateries. Although, once the sun dips below the west Texas hills, Phoenix transforms into a bustling live music venue. But it’s buzz never quite reaches a level of Billy’s Ice or Downtown Social. While trendy and popular, Phoenix has a laid-back atmosphere and a small-town bar feel. Meanwhile, the late-night grub is worth revisiting.
Guadalupe River Vacation Rentals
New Braunfels Escapes manages a fleet of Guadalupe River and Compal River vacation rentals, many of which are a short distance away from the best bars in New Braunfels, TX. Start and finish each glorious day in Texas Hill Country inside one of our prized condos or homes, such as the Riverfront Haven, the Red Barn Cabin, or Southern Comfort. On-site luxuries commonly include private acreage, floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, covered patios, instant river access, chef’s kitchens, and tube rentals.
To book a well-deserved escape to historic New Braunfels, TX, please check availability online (or call us directly at 830-632-5455).