The video above is a walking tour of downtown New Braunfels, Texas, filmed during a Saturday afternoon visit that started at the Phoenix Saloon. David Bridwell stopped in to catch Andy Hollman performing and ended up getting invited on stage to play a few songs himself. From there, the video covers the layout of downtown, the German-Texas heritage that shapes the area, and a run through the live music spots and late-night destinations along the square.
What Live Music Venues Are in Downtown New Braunfels?
Downtown New Braunfels packs a surprising number of places to hear music into a pretty compact area. Here's what you'll find along and around the square:
- Phoenix Saloon — A historic bar that predates Prohibition and kept serving through it. Known for live cover bands, excellent chili, and a laid-back afternoon crowd. They claim to be the originator of chili powder, and the history inside the place backs that up.
- Moonshine & Ale — A piano bar where you can hear the crowd from the sidewalk. It gets loud and fun in there.
- Pour House — A late-night spot with country music and what could generously be called a wild atmosphere. If you want things a little unfiltered, this is the place.
- Water to Wine — Great food paired with live music, a solid pick if you want to sit down for a real meal and still catch a set.
- Muck & Fuss — Popular burger spot that books acoustic acts. Jess and Dave were playing on the day this was filmed.
- Sidecar — A downstairs speakeasy with quality cocktails and occasional piano bar nights. The vibe is more intimate and low-key.
- Brauntex Theatre — A large historic theater that hosts music events and performances throughout the year.
Beyond downtown, Gruene is the other major destination for live music in the area, located just a short drive away and home to the famous Gruene Hall.
German-Texas Heritage and the Feel of the Town
New Braunfels sits about 30 miles northeast of San Antonio and 50 miles southwest of Austin in the Texas Hill Country. The population is approaching 100,000, but it still carries a small-town feel that makes it easy to relax. The German immigrant influence from the 1800s shows up everywhere — in the food, the architecture, and annual events like Wurstfest. The Comal River draws crowds for tubing, especially in warmer months, so the tourist population shifts a lot depending on the season.
One thing worth noting is that New Braunfels leans heavier into country music than a lot of other Texas regions. You'll hear it at the Pour House, mixed in with cover bands at the Phoenix Saloon, piano bars downtown, and even some German-style music at certain events. The New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung actually publishes live music listings, and nearby towns like Wimberley and San Marcos have their own listings too — all useful if you're planning a Hill Country music weekend.