Several attractions make New Braunfels, Texas, a memorable and enjoyable location. From museums to zoos, the New Braunfels community has it all. Other activities like shopping, biking, and sports may be enjoyable, but if the heat is too much or you want something less physical, going tubing is a fantastic alternative. For those who enjoy river tubing or want to experience it for the first time, consider planning a day of tubing at the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers!
What Is River Tubing?
River tubing involves riding an inner tube down a river. This can be done in a relaxing or energetic manner, as many people who use river tubes do so for sport. No matter your physique or age, anyone can enjoy Comal and Guadalupe river tubing.
River tubing is most often a more gentle activity than other water activities. You can either bring your own tube or rent one from a local company. Tubing usually takes place at a part of the water with a strong enough current to let you travel. While you may get wet, you can avoid falling off of the tube entirely. Of course, it’s highly recommended to wear a safety vest in case you do go in the water.
Comal River Float
Both residents and vacationers in New Braunfels have enjoyed navigating the Comal River, and for good reason. The river is shorter than the nearby Guadalupe River, and the water is generally more calm. The Comal River spans nearly two and a half miles, with a temperature fluctuating between 70 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. For beginners or those wanting a shorter and more relaxing experience, Comal River tubing may be the activity for you.
The Comal River tends to get quite busy during the late spring up to early fall. Texas is known for its significant heat in the summer, and the river’s calm and refreshing water may be just what you need.
Guadalupe River Float
The Guadalupe River is much larger than the Comal River, spanning nearly 230 miles from the San Antonio Bay to the Gulf of Mexico.
For more experienced swimmers and tubing enthusiasts, the Guadalupe River offers a longer and more scenic view of New Braunfels. If you don’t mind a longer and more involved tubing experience, the Guadalupe River can be a memorable break from the intense Texas heat.
The Rules of River Tubing
If you’re considering visiting either the Comal or Guadalupe River to enjoy a day of tubing, there are some ground rules you must be aware of.
Any disposable items, including cans, cups, bags, boxes, and bottles, are banned from the rivers. A New Braunfels disposable can ban was put into effect in order to keep rivers clean. With clean rivers, more people continue to come to visit the local community and enjoy tubing, swimming, fishing, and more.
If you still want to bring food and beverages to the river, you’re allowed to bring resealable containers and bottles. Every person is allowed to bring one cooler, which can’t exceed 30 quarts in size.
There are other rules to keep in mind to protect both the rivers and each other:
- Any noise devices (stereos, phones, etc.) cannot be audible past 50 feet.
- No glass or foam containers.
- No littering.
- All inner tubes cannot exceed five feet in diameter.
- Each person is limited to two tubes.
By adhering to the local law, everyone can enjoy this wonderful attraction without worrying about becoming injured or put in danger.
How to Prepare for Your Tubing Adventure
Once you’ve decided which river you’d like to experience and what the rules are, it’s time to prepare for your fun and exciting day!
There are certain items you’ll want to consider bringing along to either river. While none are required, each can make the tubing experience more enjoyable for everyone.
- Sunblock – The Texas heat can become intense, and you don’t want to dismiss the sun’s beaming rays, either. Make sure you bring sunblock and apply it before and during your tubing journey. The water may help you cool off, but your skin will gain extra protection from the sun by applying sunblock. This is especially true for anyone looking to experience the Guadalupe River, as these tubing sessions can last much longer than those on the Comal River.
- Drinking water or beverages – Nothing beats relaxing in a tube navigating gently down the river alongside a cold, refreshing beverage. Keep in mind that your beverage should be kept in a resealable bottle, as disposable bottles and cups are banned from both rivers. If the heat is a bit much, you’ll want to cool off with a cold beverage of your choice.
- Athletic shoes – Both the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers contain rocks, vegetation, mud, and other elements commonly found alongside water. It’s crucial you wear proper footwear while tubing, as this will protect your feet should you need to get out. If you fall out of your tube, you can walk along the ground without worrying about injury.
- Waterproof phone case and dry sack – It may seem tempting to bring multiple items along for the tubing journey, but it’s recommended to only bring what you need. If you’re bringing your phone, put it in a sack or waterproof case to protect it.
Once you’ve gathered all of the necessary items, you’re ready to experience a tubing adventure you can only find in New Braunfels.
New Braunfels is home to several unique attractions and successful businesses, but there comes a time when you may need a break. Vacations are a great way to unplug from your daily routine and get some much-needed relaxation. However, if your pet can’t come along, or you need a break from your pet as well, there are many pet boarding businesses in New Braunfels to consider meeting with ahead of time.
Country Cottage Pet Resort
One of Mayfair’s northern neighbors, Country Cottage Pet Resort, has cared for several different types of pets since 1997. You shouldn’t have to worry about anything back home while you’re on vacation, and Country Cottage Pet Resort aims to keep it this way. This business offers the following accommodations for your pets to ensure they’ll be nurtured and entertained.
- Tiny Town: If you have a smaller pet, Tiny Town includes everything they need to feel safe and taken care of. This area of the resort comes with a large TV, customized feeding, luxury bedding, daily maid service, and scheduled potty and play times.
- The Villa: For larger pets, The Villa contains enough space and accommodations for these guests. Along with customized feeding, a daily maid service, and scheduled play and bathroom times, The Villa includes larger doors, private areas for each pet, and raised beds with Mexican blankets.
- Kitty Condos: For vacationers who need a place for their felines, Country Cottage Pet Resort offers Kitty Condos. These spaces include some of the features of the other two locations while also providing a window and sunning shelf.
Comal Springs Pet Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for cat or dog boarding in New Braunfels, Comal Springs provides several different services to keep your pet safe and healthy while you relax wherever you go.
A unique feature of Comal Springs Pet Resort & Spa is the spa itself. If your dog would enjoy a day at the spa, there are bathing services available for dogs of all sizes. Many pet owners may think a spa is only for fun and not necessary, but this isn’t the case. A day at the spa can help your dog’s skin stay healthy and clean. The spa team also provides other services at the spa, including:
- Nail trimming
- Ear cleaning
- Teeth brushing
- Blueberry facial
- Anal gland expression
Comal Springs also provides what they call “Doggie Daycare,” which allows your dog to socialize with other dogs, increase their physical activity, and experience new sounds, smells, and sights. Before applying for Doggie Daycare, Comal Springs staff recommends doing a Meet & Greet session. This is to determine if your dog is a good fit for the daycare and resort.
For cat owners, Comal Springs offers unique accommodations for felines. The cat boarding area is kept separate from the dog boarding area so cats can enjoy a more relaxing and quiet environment. For example, the cat boarding area offers the following features:
- Cat condos with a separate place for their litter box
- Large playroom with a window for sunbathing and looking at nature
- Comfortable bedding
- Catnip and 1:1 playtime with a staff member, per request
- The ability to leave their condo to walk or run around the cat room
Bedding and litter boxes are changed out once a day, and staff will ensure cats are fed and content with their surroundings daily. If your cat needs a certain vaccination to qualify for our boarding area, they can provide it.
Comal Springs staff supervises pets at all times at their resort and spa, and they’re prepared to keep your pet fed, hydrated, clean, and entertained while you enjoy your vacation!
Jin’s Bed & Biscuits Pet Resort
Jin’s is another great option for dog and cat boarding while you take a vacation. They provide both boarding and day boarding services, so if your pet sitter works during the day, they can let Jin’s care for your pets during that time.
Jin’s feeds all pets the Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin diet, but you can request a special diet and bring your own food to the facility should your pet need it. The same can be done with any medications your pets take.
Jin’s also includes a playground for running and other activities, though all pets aren’t mingled together unless they come from the same family. The staff at Jin’s are also prepared to provide flea and tick treatment should something occur. The owners of Jin’s work hard to create an environment for pets that feel just like home. This way, your pets feel safe and secure in a clean, inviting atmosphere.
Enjoy Your Vacation
New people continue to move to New Braunfels thanks to recent developments and construction. With that comes more pets, and if you need a break from the city, you can do so without worry thanks to several welcoming pet boarding areas in New Braunfels that can protect and supervise your pets while you take time to relax from your hectic daily life.
Home builders in New Braunfels, Texas, have worked diligently to design new technologies in an attempt to conserve everyday resources. For example, water plays a crucial role in several essential activities, and homeowners tend to waste more water than they realize. Through WaterSense programs, water is conserved through reusing water in sprinklers, preventing leaks, use of WaterSense toilets, and more.
Mayfair is committed to providing current and potential residents in New Braunfels with homes designed to conserve water and other resources. Whether you’re a current or potential resident or business owner in New Braunfels, here’s what you should know about recent conservation strategies in the area.
WaterSense Programs
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes WaterSense as an effective method of conserving water and energy. There are several benefits to using WaterSense programs in your home, and Mayfair’s builder partners are prepared to implement these strategies.
• WaterSense Toilets: WaterSense toilets are intended to use less water while working similarly to or better than standard toilets. For many homeowners, including ones with large families, toilet flushes can add up considerably, and there may be cases where a full flush isn’t necessary. WaterSense toilets don’t use as much water to flush, yet they can still remove waste and prevent your water bill from getting out of hand.
• Leak Prevention: Leaky pipes can be devastating to deal with, mainly due to your water bill exceeding its usual amount. WaterSense homes are designed to be free of leaks while reducing the amount of water you need. Mayfair home builders have adopted this strategy and are working hard to offer homes that are free of leaks that could produce significant damage. To test for leaks, pressure-loss tests are performed to ensure water stays within pipes and makes it to whatever fixture or appliance you’re using.
• WaterSense in Commercial Environments: WaterSense can be efficient in both homes and commercial buildings. Commercial buildings such as schools, hospitals, and offices use water frequently, and most of this water can be conserved for other uses. If anyone is looking to relocate to New Braunfels to start their business, consider having builders implement WaterSense programs to conserve water and save money.
• Sprinkler Innovations: Sprinklers in both commercial and residential settings require a significant amount of water. Should a fire start, sprinklers are the first line of defense against it, and enough water needs to be used to prevent the damage from becoming overwhelming. WaterSense sprinklers have been continuously researched and innovated to lower the amount of wasted water while still providing enough for whatever situation is necessary.
• Overall Flexibility: When building new homes, the WaterSense method considers the whole house. This allows builders to determine the most cost-effective method of construction without interfering with water savings.
WaterSense has helped homeowners save more than 50,000 gallons of water and $700 in utility bills per year. By incorporating these strategies in New Braunfels homes, builders can help new and current homeowners find peace of mind knowing they’re saving money and benefiting the environment.
One Water Movement
To cooperate with New Braunfels’ regulations, Mayfair will develop a One Water strategy with the goal of improving how they manage water. No matter how water is used, be it a faucet or stream, Mayfair can implement modern technologies and strategies to conserve and reuse water in several unique ways. Originally crafted by the US Water Alliance, the One Water Movement aims to create more sustainable and cost-effective methods in water management, which can improve the lives of New Braunfels’ residents.
Lower Colorado River Authority
Mayfair has partnered with Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to enhance the lives of residents in the New Braunfels area by managing the Colorado River and how people receive water. When there is a risk of flood, the LCRA works to control the floodwaters and use the water in other ways. Not only does this prevent severe damage to agriculture, but this also allows businesses and industries to have enough water to drink and use for whatever they need.
The LCRA also manages electricity in the area, and they have adopted new strategies to manage the local power grid while managing the costs. Through a partnership with them, Mayfair can provide enough power to businesses and residents to meet their daily needs.
New Braunfels Utilities
New Braunfels Utilities (NBU) has provided information and resources to local residents since 1942, and they continue to find new ways to manage resources and conserve energy. Mayfair has participated in cost-sharing with NBU, which will allow them to expand water and electric services past their property limits. Mayfair’s partnership will also allow the NBU to create a new transmission line for power stability reasons. Losing power can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure when it will return. However, NBU is committed to strengthening Mayfair’s regional infrastructure in a way that saves money and energy.
The Future of Conservation
New Braunfels continues to welcome new residents and business owners who want to experience the thriving community. With an increase in new homes and buildings, resource management is more crucial than ever. Fortunately, many conservation efforts have been implemented in the area to control electricity, water, and more.
One of the best aspects of conservation is that new strategies are continuously developed. WaterSense technologies are still changing today, with new ideas for how to conserve water being tested daily. Stabilizing electricity can be a challenging task, but one that designers and builders are constantly working to improve. While significant progress has been made to conserve energy and save money, more can still be done. Mayfair has a vision of how New Braunfels could look, and conserving resources is one of the many strategies they can use to achieve this.
At Mayfair, we believe in the power of vision to drive progress and shape the future. Our Mayfair Map serves as a compass, guiding us through the evolving landscape of our project in New Braunfels, Texas. We embrace the idea that visions are not set in stone but rather a culmination of insights, learnings, and innovative thinking. Our Vision encapsulates our dreams, ambitions, and the collective wisdom of our team. It outlines the path we envision for our project and acts as a strategic guidepost, empowering us to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of our ever-changing landscape.
Welcome to Mayfair, coming to life in New Braunfels, just down the road from historic Gruene. Soon offering a variety of inspired new ways to live in a community filled with parks, connected by trails, energized by events and anchored by Midtown Mayfair — a vibrant shopping, dining and workplace district. Where food, friends and fun are a short walk away.
Here are just a few facts and figures about the small town, big living that we’re building.
Join Chip Mills, Senior Vice President of SouthStar Communities, overseeing the Mayfair development, as he takes us on a tour of the Mayfair property in its early construction phase.
“New Braunfels is a special place, and what we’re building is going to stand the test of time,” he said.
Watch the video below to see the vision for how a landscape of grass and brush will soon be home to a thriving community full of amenities for residents of varying economic means and lifestyles—and how he’s carrying on a family legacy by bringing this project to life.
Located in the heart of the Austin-to-San Antonio corridor, bisected by I-35, Mayfair will offer 6,000 residential units, 70 acres of commercial development, 120 acres of mixed-use space, and more than 2,000 new jobs in the region. More than 330 acres of public parks will also be added to the area, connected by trails and bike paths connecting to schools, homes, and retail offerings for easy accessibility.
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Installation has begun on state-of-the-art infrastructure across Mayfair’s 1,900 acres — including building community utilities through Comal County’s newly created Water Improvement District.
Construction crews from DNT have been busy installing water and sewer lines, and roads are beginning to form. DNT will start the road paving process this month and residential roadways in the first neighborhoods will begin to take shape as CC Carlton begins its utility work as well this month. Also, D&D will be heading up the construction of the area’s new regional storm water facility.
Aerial view of the future Mayfair roundabout. Photo: SouthStar Communities
First phase of homes breaks ground soon
SouthStar Communities has selected six builder partners to help shape the Mayfair community: David Weekley Homes, Dream Finders Homes, Highland Homes, Perry Homes, Scott Felder Homes, and Toll Brothers Homes. Each of these specialty builders was invited by SouthStar to participate in the project because of their quality craftsmanship, business integrity, energy efficiency, and smart technology.
“We started this project by asking how we can ensure a positive impact for the entire New Braunfels community in a way that creates lasting value and also addresses long-term planning,” said Chip Mills, Senior Vice President of SouthStar Communities, overseeing the Mayfair development. “A tremendous amount of work has gone into laying a collaborative foundation for Mayfair that is built with connectivity, accessibility, and quality-of-life as top priorities.”
Keep an eye out for our billboard!
Located in the heart of the Austin to San Antonio corridor–bisected by I-35, Mayfair will offer 6,000 residential units, 70 acres of commercial development, 120 acres of mixed-use space, and more than 2,000 new jobs in the region. More than 330 acres of public parks will also be added to the area, connected by trails and bike paths that also connect to schools, homes, and retail offerings for easy accessibility.
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Check back soon for more Mayfair construction updates and sign up to receive email updates, or visit us on social media at @MayfairTX on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Mayfair is excited to welcome Empire Group as its newest residential builder partner.
After pioneering its single-family build-to-rent homes in Arizona, Empire has moved into the hottest markets in Texas, including Fort Worth, Hutto, and now New Braunfels.
“In targeting areas to bring our single-family build-for-rent product, Mayfair was a perfect fit,” said Bryan Freel, managing director of development for Empire. “It’s a well thought out design, easy access from Interstate 35, and the currently available nearby amenities, along with what will grow organically within Mayfair, made it incredibly appealing to us and our capital partners.”
Empire’s build-to-rent residences will be located in the initial phase of Midtown Village, joining six national single-family builders to offer a mix of housing options in Mayfair’s first neighborhood.
Empire will build small, bungalow-style single-family homes in a gated community within Midtown. Freel said amenities include a resort-style pool, spa, clubhouse, fitness center, barbeque area, dog park, and covered and stall parking.
“Instead of offering these homes for purchase, they are available for rent – thus giving our tenants a no-mortgage, hassle-free living experience,” Freel said. “The individual residences all have private, fenced-in outdoor spaces and are of the highest quality, including 9-foot ceilings, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, walk-in closets and the latest in smart home technology.”
Mayfair VP of Development Chip Mills is excited about bringing this new offering to New Braunfels.
“Empire is a great addition to our residential mix in Mayfair,” Mills said. “We have set out to bring in builders with high-quality products to complement but also fulfill a need in the New Braunfels market. Empire’s rental homes and amenities within its gated community are going to do just that.”
Freel said he believes Empire residents will love being part of “such a well-planned out and brand new community.”
“Residents will have easy access to shopping, restaurants, parks, schools and entertainment — without the need to leave Mayfair. But if they choose to venture out of the community, it is easy to make a quick trip into downtown New Braunfels and the myriad experiences that it has to offer,” Freel said. “And for commuters, it’s less than a half-hour drive to San Antonio and under an hour to most of Austin metro. Just a perfect spot to call home.”
To stay up to date on the latest Mayfair news, sign up on MayfairTX.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @MayfairTX.
New Braunfels, Texas—
A year after breaking ground, New Braunfels-based SouthStar Communities is preparing for the first six homebuilders to begin construction later this year as progress continues to soar at the 1,900-acre Mayfair community.
Located in north New Braunfels along I-35, the Mayfair community plan introduces a new small town to Comal County, with a wide array of housing, schools, parks, trails and a retail town center. Offering a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, apartments and build to rent product, Mayfair will feature an array of living opportunities surrounded by retail, offices and schools – all connected by acres of parks and trailways.
“Our goal for Mayfair has always been to play a positive role in the growth of New Braunfels and the I-35 corridor,” said Chip Mills, Senior Vice President of SouthStar Communities, overseeing the Mayfair development. “A tremendous amount of work has gone into laying a collaborative foundation for Mayfair that prioritizes connectivity, accessibility, and quality-of-life, while enhancing the regional infrastructure of New Braunfels.”
Connectivity is a central theme in the Mayfair community, with over 30 miles of trailways that will connect residents to school, shopping, dining, offices and parks without ever getting into the car. The trailways include a dedicated off-street bike lane. At completion, Mayfair will boast over 330 acres of public parks, four planned Comal ISD schools and commercial/retail space to add over 2,000 new jobs to the region.
Mayfair has selected the first six builders to shape the Mayfair community: David Weekley Homes, Dream Finders Homes, Highland Homes, Perry Homes, Scott Felder Homes and Toll Brothers. Mills said each builder was specifically chosen for quality craftsmanship, business integrity, energy and water efficiency and smart technology. The first phase of new homes is anticipated to be underway late this year.
“The builders we have selected for Mayfair encompass the small town modern feel that Mayfair will be known for,” said Mills. “As the community grows, each new business, builder and partner will share our vision to create a positive impact on the New Braunfels area.”
The first release of homes, located within Mayfair’s Midtown Village, will feature a variety of single-family residences with move-ins anticipated for Summer 2024.
“Highland is excited to be invited by SouthStar Communities to build homes in this highly anticipated New Braunfels community,” said Joe Imperial, Vice President of Sales at Highland Homes. “We will be building our 50′ Artisan Series and our 60′ Classic Series, in sizes ranging from 1,800 to over 3,800 square feet, and with a variety of front elevations. We are looking forward to getting started.”
Perry, Toll Brothers and Dream Finders will join Highland in the first release, which is within an easy walk from Mayfair’s planned Midtown Plaza, a future hub of recreation, offices and retail.
“New Braunfels is a critical market for the growth of Perry Homes in Central Texas, and we are excited to help continue to shape this beautiful community,” said Chris Little, City President – Austin/San Antonio.
David Weekley Homes and Scott Felder Homes will break ground later this year as well, with a variety of homes located across the street from a future Comal ISD elementary school and adjacent to the community’s first public park, slated to open in late Spring 2024. The park will be the first of over 300 acres of public parks spread throughout Mayfair.
“We are excited to begin building our family-focused home designs in Mayfair, a place that shares our vision of creating strong communities where families can put down roots to build their lives,” said Taylor Solomon, Land Acquisition Manager at David Weekley Homes.
Located in the heart of the Austin to San Antonio corridor, bisected by I-35, Mayfair will offer 6,000 residential units, 70 acres of commercial development, 125 acres of mixed-use space, 160 acres of light industrial and more than 2,000 new jobs in the region. More than 330 acres of public parks will also be added to the area, connected by trailways of bike and walking paths that also connect to schools, homes, and retail offerings for easy accessibility.
The San Marcos River feels the love during annual Texas river clean up — the world’s longest.
Blog: March 4, 2023, Texas Rivers Protection Association