Gruene, Texas

This small town describes itself as "Gently resisting change since 1872". It is a relaxing, comfortable place and a popular day-trip visit for residents of San Antonio and Austin. The entire town has been awarded status on the National Register of Historic Places. If you are hot, go tubing in the scenic and gently flowing Guadalupe River, just down the hill from the commercial district. If you are thirsty, stop for a beer at the Historic Gruene Dance Hall, as Willie Nelson sometimes does. Built in 1878, this dance hall is the oldest in Texas. This famous hall is an icon for all Texas dance venues and as such has been featured in several Hollywood films including the famous dance scene in the movie Michael. If you like to shop, visit the numerous antique and novelty stores, including the old mercantile store, in the quaint town center. Many original structures from the town's heyday still exist, including the Gruene Family Home, a classic Victorian built in 1872 and operating today as the Gruene Mansion Inn. Gruene's history begins in 1872 when first generation German American farmer Heinrich (Henry) D. Gruene purchased 6,000 acres (24 km2) of farmland three miles (5 km) north of New Braunfels along the Guadalupe River.