Texas Attractions: Gruene Historic District
City: New Braunfels
Address: 1601 Hunter Road, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Phone: 830-629-5077
Website: www.gruenetexas.com
About the Gruene Historic District:
"Gently resisting change since 1872" is the motto of the Gruene Historic District, a k a Gruene, Texas. Or simply Gruene (pronounced "green") as the locals call it.
The township of Gruene was founded in what is now New Braunfels, on the banks of the Guadalupe River, in the 1840s. About 20-30 families made their living as cotton farmers, and the cotton gin (now the Grist Mill Restaurant) was built in 1878. The dance hall, Gruene Hall, was built around the same time.
Most of the businesses went under during the Great Depression, and the cotton mill burned. Only Gruene Hall continued operating. But beginning in 1975, Gruene started coming back to life as building were restored and turned into antique shops, restaurants and other shops and businesses. The remains of the burned out cotton mill became the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar, one of the most popular in the San Antonio-New Braunfels area.
Today, the Gruene Historic District is an eclectic collections of shops, restaurants, bed-and-breakfast establishments and other touristy destinations, but it is also popular with the locals (especially the famous Gruene Hall and the Gristmill Restaurant).
There is no admission to enter Gruene and free parking is abundant. Market Days are regularly scheduled, and special events take place throughout the year.
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