New Braunfels, TX

One can’t mention New Braunfels without mentioning the famous Comal River.  At 2 miles long, it’s the shortest river in Texas and perfect for an afternoon float. The most popular place to start your float is Prince Solms Park. Grab your tube, your beverage of choice, and hop in. While most of this river is slow moving, the city tube shoot near the beginning will give you all the whitewater you can handle and has been known to flip many a floater. You might want to hold onto your stuff, or else be prepared to make an involuntary donation to the river depths.

For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, head to the Texas Ski Ranch, where you can learn to wakeboard without a boat. Just grab a board and hold on tight as a cable-system pulls you around a circular lake. My advice for first timers: watch out for the turns, and be prepared to spend more time under the water than on top of it!

To start your day, visit Naegelin’s Bakery, the oldest bakery in Texas dating back to 1868. The fresh baked goods are made with age-old German recipes. The apple strudel is amazing and the old-fashioned German cookies like “spingerles” and “Pfeffernusses” will have you thinking you’re back in the motherland.

If you’re looking to add a little spice to your day, then stop by the Phoenix Saloon, a chili parlor housed in the building where chili powder was invented in 1894. They serve it the Texan way (read: the right way), as every bowl of chili is served bean-free with chunks of sirloin and lots of spice. Be warned, the “ring of fire” bowl requires a waiver. They’ve also got burgers and sandwiches for all those who don’t like chili (if that’s even possible…)