Find the Best Things to Do in Gruene
By Krissy Gillaspia
Austin Local Expert
About Gruene
You aren't truly a Texan if you haven't been to Gruene, Texas. Pronounced 'green', Gruene was began as a settlement to early German pioneers who settled near the Guadalupe River. Over time, the area evolved into a small town with a general mercantile, a cotton gin, and a saloon in the 1870's. For several decades, it degenerated nearly to ghost town status. Today, the mercantile is known as Gruene General Store and the cotton gin is a very popular restaurant known as Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. Perhaps the most well known feature of Gruene is that local saloon. Gruene Hall is now recognized as the oldest dancehall in Texas.
Gruene is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Texas travel industry recognizes this mainstay of Texas culture as a premiere attraction for visitors.
See & Do
From Gruene River Outfitters to the Rockin' R, adventurous water lovers will enjoy renting a tube, loading an ice chest with their favorite beverages and soaking up sunshine along the beautiful Guadalupe River.
Shoppers enjoy strolling the streets of Gruene and visiting specialty stores during the day. At night, put on your boots and head on over to Gruene Hall, the oldest dancehall and saloon in Texas where the likes of Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard have graced the stage.
Experience true Texas flavor in Gruene!
Eat
Gruene has restaurants with personality. From Tex-Mex to seafood to a coffee house, you can find something to satisfy your cravings while you wander the historic district. Be sure to visit the Gristmill. It is a landmark and popular with locals as well as visitors from surrounding areas.
The flavors are as charming as the town so plan to spend a day, an afternoon or an evening.
Party
Gruene may be a small town but some big names have performed here. Gruene Hall boasts many big names and great times. However, smaller establishments also provide indoor and outdoor music. Texas weather in the summer is perfect - at night - for hanging out with friends and listening to great music. Oma Gruene's Secret Garten is host to a multitude of local musicians and outdoor concerts are the norm and River Road Ice House also boasts a variety of Texas artists on a regular basis.