Photo Via Wikimedia.
With Thanksgiving in the rearview and Christmas just around the corner, this weekend is the perfect time to take a drive outside of Austin's city limits before the holiday parties, family gatherings and gift exchanges start to pile up. There's no better way to unwind than spending the weekend in Gruene! The historic town is nestled between Austin and San Antonio just outside of New Braunfels, and the first weekend of December is the most magical time for a visit.
If you're new to travel in Texas or looking for a short getaway to kick off the holiday season, take a look at our recommendations on where to stay, shop, eat, and play in Gruene, Texas.
Where to Stay:
Gruene Mansion Inn B&B
1275 Gruene Rd
Stay in the heart of Historic Gruene at this gorgeous historic home.
Gruene Homestead Inn
832 Gruene Rd
A collection of historic farm homes on eight acres of an original German homestead.
Antoinette's Cottage
1258 Gruene Rd
200 steps from Gruene Hall with the oldest area of the house predating the Civil War.
Where to Eat & Drink:
Gristmill
1287 Gruene Rd | Su-Th 11a-9p, F-Sa 11a-10p
Chicken-fried steak, burgers, ribs, and Texas-sized salads are served overlooking the river at this 1878 cotton gin-turned restaurant.
Mozie's
1601 Hunter Rd | Su-Th 11a-11p, F 11a-12a, Sa 11a-1a
Casual classic American dining with a full bar and TV sports are served up inside this rustic establishment.
The Grapevine
1612 Hunter Rd | Su-Th 10a-9p, F-Sa 10a-10p
Gruene's very own tasting room with a variety of craft beers and wines.
1633 Hunter Rd | M-F 11a-5p, Sa 11a-7p, Su 11a-6p
Get your fix of Texas pecans at this sweet stop.
What to See:
Gruene Hall
1281 Gruene Rd | M-F 11a - 12a, Sa 10a - 12a, Su 10a-10p
Built in the 19th century, this dance halls hosts Americana & blues musicians nightly.
Gruene Water Tower
Center of Gruene Historic District
The most iconic piece of history to sit on the main street of Historic Gruene.
Where to Shop:
Alibi Boutique
339 Main Plaza | M-Sa 10a-6p, Su 12-5p
Classic styles meet trendy looks at this ecclectic Gruene boutique.
Simply Detailed
1255 Gruene Rd | 10a-6p
Texas-inspired brands offer country chic clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Gruene General Store
1610 Hunter Rd | Su-Th 9a-9p, F 9a-10p, Sa 9a-11p
One of the top 40 places to visit in Texas, selling knick knacks and snacks.
What to Do:
Annual Christmas Market
December 2-3 (10a-5p) | Gruene Historic District
This Gruene tradition is a great way to jumpstart your holiday shopping! Nearly 100 vendors gather in the Gruene Historic District outside of Adobe Verde to sell uniquely-crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Old Gruene Market Days occur monthly, but a special visit from Cowboy Kringle sets this December market apart!
16th Annual Pony Express Ride
Decebmer 2 (10a) | Gruene Historic District
This Saturday, the Gruene Historic District will receive Pony Express riders from the Heritage Trail Ride Association of New Braunfels with a special "Christmas Greetings" message from the Governor of Texas. Bring your holiday cards and have the stamps cancelled with the 2017 commemorative stamp representing Gruene.
Gruene Town Lighting
December 2 (5 - 6:30p) | Gruene Historic District
Cowboy Kringle is set to ride into town on horseback and light the town of Gruene for the holidays! Come celebrate with live music, festival food, and wine available for purchase. Stores will remain open
You can enjoy the holidays in Gruene any weekend in December. If you can't make it this weekend, there's always the annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk the weekend of December 9th! Have you visited Gruene? Tell us what you love most about this charming Texas town on the Moreland Properties Facebook page or mention @morelandprops on Twitter.