Why You Need to Visit Gruene, Texas

Gruene, Texas (pronounced "Green") is one of Texas 's oldest settlements. Originally founded by German farmers in the mid 1840s, Gruene was settled shortly after nearby New Braunfels . Many of Farmer Gruene's original houses still exist as bed and breakfasts or restaurants, and even an original dance hall (Gruene Hall) that was formerly a saloon.

The little town wasn't always as bustling as it is today. In the 1920s, the town fell in to disrepair as the Great Depression and the boll weevil explosion impacted the family businesses in the area. Only one business in the area survived: Gruene Hall, which continues to host Texas (and other) musicians nightly to this day.

Gruene Hall is a destination for many people in and of itself: largely unchanged since it was built, the 6,000-square-foot dance hall became a magnet for up-and-coming musical acts and has been known as a staple of the central Texas music scene.

Visit Gruene, and you'll be transported to a place far from Dallas, Houston or Austin: it's bona fide Texas at it's best. The General Store is very much the way it would have been in the mid-to-late 1800s, and several of the favorite area restaurants are housed in buildings that belonged to Farmer Gruene.

Texas Hill Country cuisine is something to be experienced, too. Two of Gruene's main restaurants, The Gruene River Grill and the Gristmill, serve local cuisine. Composed of Texas-meets-German main courses, the food embodies the town's identity. The Gristmill Restaurant and Bar occupies the space that was previously used as an 1870s cotton gin; the Gruene River Grill has a patio that will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the green Guadalupe River.

For local places to stay, try the Gruene Mansion Inn, which is formerly Farmer Gruene's home, carriage house, corn crib, and barn area. Close to everything, the Inn provides an excellent location and local Texas Hill Country charm and hospitality. Another bed & breakfast worth trying is the Gruene Apple. With more amenities and a bit larger than the Gruene Mansion Inn, the Gruene Apple B&B is as "hotel" as it gets in Gruene.

Be sure to take some time out of your schedule (especially if it's warm) to take a dip in the Guadalupe River . Texans come from all corners of the state in the summer to tube down the river with coolers of beer and barbecue. For more information on the closest place to tube the river, check with any local or with the front desk at your hotel or bed & breakfast.

Whatever you decide to do in Gruene, you will surely enjoy the famous central Texas hospitality and charm that will leave you wondering when your next escape to the Hill Country will be.

Resources:

http://www.gruenetexas.com/

http://www.gruenehall.com/