If you’ve recently started looking for a change in scenery, vibe, and weather, New Braunfels, Texas, has something to offer for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it: more and more people are moving to New Braunfels to take in all of the Texas Hill Country charm that the city has to offer. New Braunfels offers unique vibes, a wholesome small-town feel, and many things to do within the community with the family or in the great outdoors.

A few of the iconic things to do in New Braunfels, TX include:

Natural Wonders and Summer Fun

Landa Park

The iconic Landa Park, situated along the famed Comal River, somehow squeezes over 50 acres of recreation opportunities and natural beauty into the heart of downtown New Braunfels. Thanks to Landa Park’s miles of well-maintained hiking trails, you can transport yourself from the charming German-inspired architecture of downtown New Braunfels to a serene natural environment with no more than a quick stroll. In addition to its beautiful nature areas, Landa Park also offers picnic facilities, a mini-golf course, a pool, and even a miniature train ride.

Texas Hill Country

In addition to the many wonderful parks and natural areas available in and around New Braunfels itself, the San Antonio/New Braunfels area also serves as your gateway to the vast recreational opportunities within the Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, paddling, camping, or weekend adventures to out-of-the-way breweries and BBQ joints, it’s all just out your backdoor in the Texas Hill Country after a move to New Braunfels, TX.

Reservations for Enchanted Rock State Natural Area typically book quickly, especially on weekends, holidays and in the spring season. It is strongly encouraged to reserve a day pass prior to traveling to the park. Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife Reservation System to make a reservation for park entry. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance of arrival.

The Texas Hill Country is as vast and open as its name suggests, and so are its recreation opportunities. Some other fun things to try while in Texas Hill Country include:

• Tour the Lyndon B. Johnson Ranch – This national park is home to the so-called “Texas White House” favored by former president LBJ. Steep in American history while enjoying some of the most scenic drives you can find anywhere on Earth.
• Explore Fredericksburg – If you love New Braunfels’ rich history and old-world German heritage, consider taking a drive out to Fredericksburg, an enchanting town known for some of those same things.
• Visit the Texas Wine Trail – Texas Hill Country is not all pristine, natural bliss, of course. Some of the more thriving businesses in the region are fully functional wineries, and there are enough of them that you can make a full day–or a full week, if you’re feeling adventurous–out of sampling them.
• Pedernales Falls State Park – One of the hidden gems among other, higher-profile national and state parks, Pedernales Falls offers plenty of hiking opportunities and stunning views of cascading limestone waterfalls.
• Attend a Local Festival – Texas Hill Country is known for its year-round festival atmosphere, with all sorts of unique events occurring in the region no matter when you visit.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Directly northeast of Landa Park is another New Braunfels icon, the Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The hot Texas weather ensures that Schlitterbahn enjoys a longer splash season than many of its national competitors. The convenient downtown location makes it close to the best eateries and shops making it an ideal family vacation destination.

Some of our favorite Schlitterbahn attractions include:

• Master Blaster – Hundreds of online reviews agree that the Master Blaster stands as one of the best waterslides in the park–maybe even in the whole country.
• Tube Chute – Schlitterbahn’s quintessential take on the tube-based waterslide ride is not to be missed on a hot summer day.
• Boogie Bahn – Can you ride the (artificial) wave? Schlitterbahn’s innovative Boogie Bahn area allows you to test your surf skills without leaving New Braunfels.
• Dragon’s Revenge – Another of the park’s more epic waterslides, Dragon’s Revenge is worth the wait on those hot days when the lines start to back up.

Like any high-end theme park, Schlitterbahn is always innovating and upgrading, so it’s worth a return trip if you can fit it into your busy summer itinerary.

Festivals and Live Music

If you enjoy music, New Braunfels offers a wide variety to listen to. Be sure you check the following:

Historic music venues

The greater San Antonio area is home to several iconic country-western music venues that thrive to this day. Look to Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, for a classic Texas Country concert. Gruene’s musical history is long and illustrious, with many important figures in country, western, and other genres having passed through or held longer residencies in the area. A show at Gruene Hall isn’t just a world class concert but also a chance to be immersed in the history of American music.

Whitewater Amphitheater is a gorgeous riverside venue that is just minutes away from downtown New Braunfels. Whitewater Amphitheater leans into their country western wheelhouse while also making an effort to diversify their bookings to cater to the wider tastes of Texans. In a single season at the amphitheater, you might be able to catch a quintessential Texas country concert from a superstar like Willie Nelson or Eric Church, then an EDM or other electronic music show, and even a classic rock concert from a timeless act like Foreigner.

And if you choose to go 30-minutes west looking for new tunes, Austin has an alternative music scene all its own.

Wurstfest

The single most iconic New Braunfels institution might be the annual fall festival that plays on the area’s German heritage. It is known as Wurstfest, and it’s held in New Braunfels each November. Despite its sausage-inspired name, Wurstfest is hands-down one of the best cultural heritage festivals anywhere, and it serves visitors and locals alike with a world-class combination of food, music, history, and other cultural treats.

If you’re interested in planning a trip to check out New Braunfels that coincides with Wurstfest, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to the annual festivities.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Image Credit: Fredericksburg CVB

New Braunfels, TX – Infrastructure and Community Resources

Of course, moving to the Texas Hill Country isn’t all about finding great food and entertainment. This is especially true if you’re bringing children with you. Thankfully, the New Braunfels, TX area also has great schools and healthcare systems to check those less-fun but still vitally-important boxes on your checklist:

Schools

The Comal Independent School District is a highly rated institution serving over 25,000 students and the New Braunfels Independent School District serves nearly 10,000 students per year. There are also a variety of world-class private schools and specialty educators throughout the greater San Antonio area. Those looking for higher education will find a move to New Braunfels puts them within striking distance of several quality colleges offering a wide variety of programs, including Texas State University San Marcos, Texas Lutheran University, and Northeast Lakeview College.

The diversity of high-quality education options makes New Braunfels a great place to put down roots if you have school- and college-aged kids who will be making the move with you. High-quality schools also reflect well on long-term property values and other important community metrics.

Hospitals

A relocation to New Braunfels will put you within a comfortable distance of several quality health systems and specialized clinics. Resolute Health and CHRISTUS Santa Rosa are two top providers in the area. New Braunfels is also home to a highly regarded PAM Health Specialty and Rehabilitation Hospital, which caters to patients with complex and long-term needs. World-class dentists, optometrists, and specialists of all types are also available throughout New Braunfels and the greater San Antonio area.

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The holiday season is all about joy, warmth, festive get-togethers, and, of course, delicious food. In the spirit of celebrating the festive season by way of our taste buds, the team at Mayfair is delighted to share some of our favorite holiday recipes and local New Braunfels dining and shopping secrets so you can find the perfect ingredient to elevate your holiday feast or a last-minute stocking stuffer for the fellow foodie in your life. 

Sharing food around the holidays is a great way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories that carry into the new year and beyond. Whether it’s a “Friendsgiving” potluck, a traditional dinner with your extended family, or your neighborhood cookie exchange, preparing and enjoying food as a family or community holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many people.

Here in New Braunfels, TX, we’re fortunate to have access to so many fresh, local ingredients from farmers’ markets and specialty shops to make our holiday dishes even more special. We are also inspired by the intricately interwoven threads of cultural traditions, from old-world Bavarian sausages to some of the best Tex-Mex we’ve ever tasted to our very own wine and olive oil producers in the adjacent Texas Hill Country.

Join us on this culinary journey through mouth-watering recipes, cherished holiday traditions, and the best New Braunfels has to offer.

The Mayfair Team’s Favorite Holiday Recipes

From our hearts and families to your own, we hope these recipes are gifts that keep giving year after year. Whether you’re looking for feasting staples, unique ideas, or sweet treats, the Mayfair team has got you covered this holiday season.

Green Bean Casserole

Todd Richert, Broker

Let’s start it off with Todd’s perfected version of a must-have Thanksgiving side dish: green bean casserole. Cream of mushroom soup and milk (use whole milk or even whipping cream for maximum thickness) come together to form a rich medium for succulent green beans and crispy onions.

Ingredients: 

• 2 cans of green beans (substitute fresh if desired) 
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup 
• ½ cup milk 
• 1 tsp soy sauce 
• Black pepper as desired 
• 1 1/3 cups french fried onion rings 

Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Stir soup mix, soy sauce, milk, black pepper, green beans, and 2/3 of the onion rings together in a 1 ½ quart casserole dish. 
• Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbling. 
• Remove and stir; add the remaining onion rings on top. 
• Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until onions are golden brown.

Butter Bundt Bread

Thad Rutherford, President & CEO

What could be better than a steaming bundt bread fresh from the oven on a holiday morning? Thad’s recipe makes it easy for a busy family to treat themselves on Christmas morning (or any morning) by allowing packaged biscuits to do the heavy lifting.

Ingredients: 

• 1 stick butter 
• 3 packages of Hungry Jack biscuits (10 oz) 

Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Melt one stick of butter in a bundt pan. 
• Arrange the biscuits in the pan without separating them. 
• Bake for 25-35 minutes. 
• Use a rack to cool.

Grandma’s Simple Sage Cornbread Stuffing

Terry Ramirez, Vice President of Operations

Real Thanksgiving connoisseurs know that stuffing can make or break a meal. Terry has us covered with this savory classic stuffing.

Ingredients: 

• 6 cups of pre-prepared cornbread, slightly stale/dry and broken into chunks 
• ½ stick of butter 
• 3-4 stalks of celery, chopped 
• 1 large onion, diced 
• 1 cup turkey, chicken, or vegetable stock 

• 2 tablespoons sage (fresh chopped if available, dried if not) 

Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Melt your butter in a large skillet, ideally cast iron. 
• Cook onion and celery until they just start to soften and become translucent. 
• Add half of your stock and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, uncovered. 
• Turn off the heat. Stir in the cornbread, sage, and the rest of the stock. 
• Dump the stuffing mix into a baking dish and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top layer of stuffing begins to brown and crisp.

Green Stuff Recipe 

Noelle Hemphill, Lifestye Coordinator

This make-ahead recipe from Noelle takes some of the stress out of Thanksgiving day food preparation!

Ingredients:

• 3.4 ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix
• 20 ounce can crushed pineapple 
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup pecans chopped
• 8 ounce container Cool Whip thawed

Instructions:

Start by mixing together the dry pudding mix, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped pecans. 

Next, fold in the thawed Cool Whip until well combined.

Chill overnight and have it ready to serve the next day.

Thanksgiving Dressing

James Tipton, Development Manager

No matter how you lean in the stuffing-dressing debate, James has got you covered with this wonderfully savory Thanksgiving dressing.

Ingredients: 

• 1 bag Pepperidge Farm cornbread stuffing 
• 1 bag Pepperidge Farm herb-seasoned stuffing 
• 1 lb breakfast sausage 
• 1 cup onion, chopped 
• 1 cup celery, chopped 

• 3 eggs 
• ¼ cup butter, melted 
• 4 cups chicken broth 

Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Mix stuffing, eggs, and butter. 
• In a skillet, brown the sausage, then add the celery and onion. Cook until translucent. 
• Add the sausage and vegetables to the stuffing mix. 
• Add chicken broth until the stuffing is very moist. 
• Bake for 30 minutes or until fully heated through.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

Kristi Robinson, Director of Marketing & Community Relations

Bread puddings and pecan-based treats make for hearty, wholesome favorites for many families this time of year, and Kristi’s pumpkin-fueled take maximizes those holiday vibes. This slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and forget it while you work on your wrapping and decorating.

Ingredients: 

• 8 cups stale (or oven-dried) bread, cut into cubes 
• ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped 
• ½ cup cinnamon chips 

• 4 eggs 
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling) 
• 1 cup heavy cream 
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed 
• ½ cup butter, melted 
• 1 tsp vanilla 
• ½ tsp cinnamon 
• ½ tsp nutmeg 
• ¼ tsp ground ginger 
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves 

Instructions: 

• Grease your slow cooker and place your bread cubes, cinnamon chips, and toasted pecans inside. 
• Whisk your eggs with the pumpkin, cream, sugar, butter, and spices. 
• Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes; if necessary, stir very gently to ensure complete coating. 
• Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on low heat for around 4 hours. 
• Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream!

Mayfair’s Favorite Holiday Traditions and Decor 

What good is an epic Christmas feast if you don’t have the decor to go with it and great people to join the celebration? The crew at Mayfair also has some thoughts about those all-important holiday aesthetics and the beloved family traditions that stand the test of time: 

• Tree decorating (James Tipton). “Whenever our tree goes up (usually the first week of November), everyone in the house takes turns hanging their personal Christmas ornaments until the tree is full. It’s a simple but fun time to get together and watch that year’s tree come to life.” 
• Advent calendars (Kristi Robinson). “My favorite home decoration is our advent calendar. My mom made it when our daughter was born, and we count down the days until Christmas by pinning fabric items to the holiday scene. As she got older, we started racing to see who could mark the most—it helps my record greatly now that she’s a teenager and sleeps in half the month!” 
• Cut-your-own Christmas tree (Thad Rutherford). “I loved when I used to take the kids to Elgin and cut down a Christmas tree, even in Texas! (Although it was small…)” 
• Christmas morning stockings (Terry Ramirez). “I love having the stockings hanging empty all month long. In our house, Santa fills the stockings, so it’s always a joy to watch the kids (at any age) come down Christmas morning to see their stockings filled.” 
• Christmas light cruise (Todd Richert). “My favorite Christmas tradition is driving around on Christmas Eve looking at Christmas lights, then heading to midnight mass.”
• Hidden Pickle Ornament (Noelle Hemphill). “On Christmas morning, we search for a hidden pickle ornament in the Christmas tree. The first person to find it gets a prize. I believe this is an old German tradition.”

Mayfair’s Favorite Holiday Hotspots for Shopping

New Braunfels’ charming downtown offers a unique opportunity to get out and experience the magic of the holiday season firsthand. Stroll down the beautifully decorated streets, explore one-of-a-kind boutiques, and find local treasures you won’t discover anywhere else. From cozy shops with locally made gifts to specialty stores brimming with festive vibes, holiday shopping in New Braunfels is about the experience as much as it’s about your gift list.

If you still need some gift ideas, these New Braunfels restaurants and gift shops are Holiday game-changers. Here are some of our favorite local shopping (and eating) secrets: 

• Farmer’s Market & 2tarts (James Tipton). “We’re big fans of the farmers market that sets up in the Krause parking lot every Saturday. There are so many different vendors and random things you can buy, from food to houseplants. We are also guaranteed to make our way through 2tarts at least once over the holidays for a fun treat.” 
• The Local & Huisache Grill (Noelle Hemphill). “We love shopping at The Local in New Braunfels for Christmas presents because it offers unique, custom finds while supporting small vendors of New Braunfels. Afterward, we love stopping by Huisache Grill for their tortilla soup, especially on colder days.”
• New Braunfels Smokehouse & Stahlman’s at Bear Creek (Kristi Robinson). “I always stop by New Braunfels Smokehouse during the holidays for Pecan and Raspberry Kringle. They are delicious! Then Stahlman’s at Bear Creek has amazing local jams, jellies, sauces, and even cute fresh holiday décor.” 
• New Braunfels Candle Company. Everyone loves a nice candle for a Christmas present, and you won’t find any finer than the handmade offerings right here in New Braunfels at the New Braunfels Candle Company on Castell Avenue. In addition to some of the highest quality candles in Texas, they also have candle-making classes and a lovely line of bath and body products. 
• New Braunfels Art League. For a truly one-of-a-kind gift, there’s no better source than your friendly local artists—and the New Braunfels Art League has the work of hundreds of them curated in one convenient location for shopping or just a little art appreciation. Put the New Braunfels Art League on your list of destinations for holiday shopping this year, and you’re sure to find something brand new for that person who truly has everything. 

We always love a chance to shout out some of our New Braunfels favorites; our hometown has a vibrant economy, with new businesses trying their hand every year. However, temporary events like art shows and craft fairs also offer unique opportunities for picking up meaningful gifts with local flavor. Sometimes, our favorite shopping experiences in New Braunfels happen when we simply take a walk and see what we can find.

Mayfair – Your Home for the Holidays and New Braunfels Dining

The whole team at Mayfair would like to wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season this year, and we look forward to seeing you in the new year. However you choose to celebrate this time of year with your family and your community, we hope it will involve lots of laughs, hugs, and memories made (plus some great food). For more great tips on New Braunfels living, and to stay up to date on all developments at Mayfair, including new units available, please bookmark our website and visit often.

Welcome to Mayfair, New Braunfels’ newest destination for inspired living. Just down the road from the charm of historic Gruene, Mayfair offers beautiful new homes and a lifestyle built around community connection and convenience. Thoughtfully designed parks, scenic trails, and year-round events bring homeowners together, while Midtown Mayfair serves as the heart of it all, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and workplaces.

New homes in Mayfair, starting from the $400s, are designed to fit your lifestyle—and we always have quick move-in options as well as new homes underway to fit your moving timeframe. Click here to explore our inventory and be sure to check out our builders’ year-end promotions to take advantage of great pricing and rate opportunities before 2024 ends!

Coventry Homes

Model Addresses:
322 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-887-8632

350 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
210-887-8632

Year-End Incentive:2/1 Buydown Program: Coventry will pay to lower your interest rate by 2% the first year and 1% the second year before returning to your fixed rate of 4.99% in year three and beyond. Contact the Coventry team for all the details and restrictions.

Highland Homes

Model Addresses:
346 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
512-834-8971

310 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
512-834-8444

Year-End Incentive:Now through December 31,purchase an inventory home in San Antonio and receive $20,000 to lower your interest rate. Learn about all the details and restrictions by contacting the Highland Homes team at Mayfair.

Perry Homes

Model Addresses:

342 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
830-313-9598

314 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
830-313-9516

Year-End Incentive:Now through December 31, save up to $30,000 your way – Sales Price Discount or 4.49% Interest Rate / 4.653% APR on 30-Year Fixed Rate or Closing Costs Savings. Contact the Perry Homes team at Mayfair to learn about restrictions.

Toll Brothers

Model Addresses:

338 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
877-500-0508

318 Cleveland Way
New Braunfels, TX 78130
877-500-0508

Year-End Incentive:50% off up to $50,000 in design options for both collections. For more information and to learn about restrictions, contact Toll Brothers at Mayfair.

Whether you’re ready to move now or prefer a home at an earlier stage of construction, we have options to fit your timeline. Explore Mayfair today and find the perfect home to suit your needs—and don’t forget to ask about our current promotions!

In the heart of New Braunfels, TX, the Mayfair neighborhood stands out as one of the most smartly planned, ambitious, and highly livable residential development projects in recent memory. It’s also noteworthy for its commitment to helping residents achieve more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyles. From water conservation to energy efficiency, Mayfair has been committed to a reduced environmental footprint (and an increased quality of life for residents) from day one, and it shows.

Mayfair’s residents and neighbors can point proudly to their commitments to water conservation, energy efficiency, sustainable construction practices, and the greater New Braunfels community. From its beautiful outdoor community spaces to its water-saving toilets and financial support of local environmental organizations, Mayfair stands out as one of the “greenest” new residential developments to be found in Texas–or anywhere in the United States.

While each individual person’s relationship with sustainability will look a bit different depending on their personal goals, beliefs, and means, all of Mayfair’s residents are contributing to a more sustainable world simply by living here.

Mayfair’s Green Practices and Features

Making your home at a brand-new Mayfair address can make it easier than ever before for you and your family to live a “greener” and more sustainable lifestyle. Here’s how:

Water Conservation

Water conservation can be a major issue during hot Texas summers, and that’s why it’s a cornerstone of Mayfair’s commitment to sustainable living. For example, Mayfair implements EPA-recognized WaterSense programs and top-of-the-line, highly efficient appliances and fixtures throughout the community, reducing water use without compromising performance.

From water-saving toilets to comprehensive pressure testing that can identify and stop leaks, Mayfair and the builders we partner with are committed to helping New Braunfels save thousands of gallons of water each year.

Energy Efficiency

Mayfair’s dedication to greener living extends to its use of the most energy-efficient appliances on the market, as well as its partnerships with local utility providers. These partnerships give us access to cutting-edge initiatives like smart grid technology and renewable energy integration. This not only stabilizes and diversifies Mayfair’s local power supply, but it also reduces the overall carbon footprint of the community.

Conscious Construction

Sustainable practices at a Mayfair home begin long before a resident ever moves in because they work with top local builders who are leaders in the field of sustainable home construction. Their builders employ many techniques to minimize the community’s environmental impact, including using paints and finishing materials that are more environmentally and health-friendly, the strategic use of recycled materials, and the installation of energy-efficient insulation, windows, and roofing.

Community Involvement

Mayfair’s commitment to sustainability and the environment extends beyond the development and into the greater New Braunfels community. To be a great neighbor to the rest of New Braunfels, it’s important to get involved with local environmental initiatives.

To that end, Mayfair makes ongoing donations to organizations like Headwaters at the Comal, the New Braunfels Parks Foundation, and the Comal Education Foundation as the community continues to grow. By supporting these organizations, Mayfair not only strengthens its bond with the larger New Braunfels community but also helps to foster a citywide culture of environmental stewardship.

Living Green at Mayfair: Practical Tips for New Braunfels Residents

Of course, sustainable living at Mayfair isn’t all about state-of-the-art appliances and donations to community groups. Each one of Mayfair’s residents can play their own crucial role in maintaining the community’s eco-friendly reputation. If you’re just beginning your sustainable living journey and aren’t quite sure where to start, here are a few quick tips:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – You might have first heard this one in Kindergarten, but now that you’re a homeowner, it’s a great time to get back to the fundamentals. Think carefully about what you discard, and practice the three R’s to minimize waste and conserve useful resources.
• Energy Efficient Appliances – When furnishing or upgrading your home, make sure you’re investing in appliances with high energy efficiency ratings to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. If you’re tempted by a less efficient appliance with a slightly lower price tag, be sure to consider the long-term energy savings involved in your decision.
• Native Plants and Grasses – Residents are encouraged to experiment with the use of native plants in their gardens and landscapes. Native plants are already adapted to local weather patterns, pests, and soil conditions, so they require very little in the way of water and chemical treatments. Traditional grass lawns require huge amounts of water, and the Texas heat means they’re especially unsustainable in New Braunfels. They also require frequent mowing, while native grasses require less upkeep. [***LINK TO NEW NATIVE PLANT BLOG***]
• Carpooling – Carpooling, when it’s a viable option, is another great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Biking – Biking to places of work, home, or even the grocery store is not only a good way to live green, but also healthy and a viable way of exercising.
• Walking – Walking is an excellent option for getting around and allows for extra socialization along with a way to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Minimize single-use plastic purchases: Using reusable rather than plastic water bottles might seem like a small change, but it makes an incredible difference in the amount of waste you generate each week. For leftovers and packed lunches, you could also make the switch from plastic baggies to reusable containers.

Remember, every small action you take to live more sustainably contributes to a greater change. For example, re-using a plastic mayonnaise jar as a container for hardware odds and ends might seem insignificant, but an incredible amount of waste would be prevented if every household found a way to re-use just one packaging item every week.

The Future of Sustainable Living in Mayfair

As the Mayfair development and the vibrant community it hosts continue to grow and thrive, so does its collective commitment to sustainability. Long-term plans for the community include the inclusion of more green spaces, enhanced water- and energy-efficiency technologies, and continuing to foster connections with the community and natural beauty of the New Braunfels area. In sticking to this greener path, Mayfair hopes to create a thriving, eco-friendly space that sets the standard for modern, sustainable living.

To learn more about sustainable living in Texas, bookmark the Mayfair website and check back often. Be sure to inquire about available units if you’re looking for a new home in New Braunfels.

At Mayfair, we believe building a sustainable community lies in the dedication and expertise of our team. We’re delighted to introduce the newest addition to our team, Development Manager James Tipton. As development manager, James is responsible for overseeing the development activities and guiding the execution of the vision for Mayfair.

A Texas A&M graduate with over five years in property development and management, James brings with him a wealth of knowledge and passion for community growth in New Braunfels. We sat down with our newest team member to learn more about his career journey and what inspired him to join Mayfair and New Braunfels.

Q: Can you share a bit about your background and experience in development?

Prior to coming to Mayfair, I worked with another development group in New Braunfels that was developing a master-planned community similar to Mayfair in size and scope. Most of my experience in development was gleaned from that project.

Q: What motivated you to take on the role of Development Manager at Mayfair?

I saw the advertisements for the Mayfair community and had done a fair amount of research on Southstar to know that the product they will deliver would be special and positively impact New Braunfels.

Q: New Braunfels is a unique and vibrant community. How do you envision aligning your expertise with the values and aspirations of its residents?

New Braunfels feels like a small town with so many charming characteristics, and being a part of the community itself, I particularly enjoy that small-town feel. I believe that sentiment is the exact outcome that Mayfair is trying to replicate in New Braunfels. We want Mayfair to be a small town in and of itself.

Q: What are your top priorities for enhancing the living experience for residents and the New Braunfels community?

I want residents to want to be in Mayfair for more than just where they start and end their day. Mayfair has the potential to be a one-stop shop for all kinds of living, and I want to help deliver that vision. There will be numerous benefits in the public amenities and added points of interest that will increase the quality of life for the Mayfair residents and the people of New Braunfels as a whole.

Q: What are you most excited about in this development?

I am excited about the emphasis being placed on the parks and trails. With one of the first projects being delivered, including a pump track and a disc golf course, I think it will add so much to the community right away.

Q: What innovative amenities or features are planned at Mayfair that will make the community stand out?

The way Southstar has planned the phases of Mayfair is unique. A seamless integration of parks, commercial property, and residential space makes Mayfair stand out from other developments in the region.

Q: What do you foresee the lasting impact of Mayfair being on New Braunfels?

The commercial opportunities, the parks and trails, and the variety of residential housing options will all contribute to the City of New Braunfels, producing that small-town feel that will be accessible to everyone in New Braunfels.

Q: What does being a part of a project like Mayfair mean to you?

We get to create a brand new community from scratch. The excitement and vision for a project like this is a “can’t miss” opportunity, and being part of that means a new adventure every day.

To keep up with Mayfair, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter! 

Nestled within America’s amber fields and independent farms lies a timeless autumn treasure. The pumpkin patch is where magic and nostalgia intertwine, and every pumpkin has its own tale, waiting to be told through you, your imagination, and your best efforts with a carving knife. Aside from being the perfect place to choose the perfect jack o’ lantern for Halloween, a great pumpkin patch might also have games, face painting, a corn maze, hay rides, hot cider, and any number of other treats. Texas tends to do everything a little bigger, and the pumpkins — and their patches — are no exception in terms of both size and fun!

If you’re looking for pumpkin patches in New Braunfels, look no further than the annual New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch conveniently located at the popular Rockin’ R tour operator in Gruene, TX. Carve out your perfect day on the farm with your family.

New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch Details

Where: The Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R takes place at Rockin’ R Gruene, located at 1405 Gruene Road, nestled along the scenic banks of the Guadalupe River. 

The Rockin’ R’s main business is operating river rides and other tours, but they put this family-oriented customer service experience to great use running their Pumpkin Patch event. Consider coming back during the summer months to try out one of their hugely popular Guadalupe River tubing packages, with prices as low as $25 for a basic tube. 

Local newspaper readers recently voted The Rockin’ R Best of New Braunfels 2023, so you know your New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 2023 experience is in good hands with them. 

Please note that there are three other Rockin’ R locations along the Guadalupe River alone and others on the Comal River. The Rockin’ R facility you want to visit for fall pumpkin patch fun is the Rockin’ R in Gruene, once again located at 1405 Gruene Road. 

When: The Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R is usually a month-long event, but the exact details can vary from year to year. For example, in 2023, the Pumpkin patch opened September 30 and lasted through November 18, Wednesdays through Sundays, with operating hours of 10 AM to 8 PM, while the 2024 event tightened up a bit, going to a Thursday through Sunday schedule spanning September 28 through November 3 and closing doors at 6 PM instead of 8.

The pumpkin patch typically operates throughout October and extends into both September and November, giving you a generous window for planning your visit. You may want to plan your visit around other special seasonal events taking place in the area.

What: Rockin’ R’s more than month-long pumpkin patch has a full complement of traditional and unique pumpkin patch amenities, including: 

• Awesome fall photo opportunities 
• Fall decor 
• Various activities for the kids 
• Seasonal treats and drinks 
• The pumpkin patch itself, of course! 

The New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R has a great reputation, with online reviews to match. Here’s what real New Braunfels visitors and residents are saying about the pumpkin patch and its host, Rockin’ R River Rides:

• “It was amazing!”
• “Will definitely be visiting again, for years to come.”
• “Awesome place at a great price!”
• “They care about people and offer the best experience possible!”
• “The family area was kid-friendly, and there were plenty of pumpkins available to buy.”
• “Setup was great!”
• “Excellent customer service.”
• “The pumpkins were pretty cheap, and good quality!”
• “It was awesome!”
• “There’s a large area with kids’ bounce houses and a corn pit. The kids have a lot of fun.”
• “Plenty of things for the kids to do.”

Other Local Fall Fun

While the Rockin’ R Pumpkin Patch is our annual go-to, there are plenty of other fall activities and events around Gruene and New Braunfels, ranging from the spooky to the serene. While offerings and specifics will vary from year to year, be on the lookout for:

• Stahlman’s at Bear Creek – If you’re looking to grab some pumpkins to carve at home, along with a few groceries, and maybe even get in some Christmas shopping, it’s hard to beat a trip out to Stahlman’s at Bear Creek, just north of New Braunfels.
• Braune Farms Fresh Produce – For those who just can’t get enough fall fun, another highly regarded pumpkin patch option in the local area is located at Braune Farms.
• Farmers Market – The local New Braunfels Farmers Market is a great way to spend a Saturday, and it remains open into the autumn months.
• New Braunfels Holiday Market – It is almost an understatement to call this annual gathering a mere craft fair. Kick off your holiday season with amazing offerings from over 100 merchants and local artisans at this multi-day event.
• Wurstfest – When another Halloween wraps up, you know New Braunfels’ world famous Bavarian bash, Wurstfest, is right around the corner! If you’re planning a Halloween-time trip to New Braunfels, why not extend your stay and plan to take in a day or two of this Oktoberfest-style cultural celebration?

Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch – Young Children’s Pumpkin Patch New Braunfels, TX 

For the younger kids, Rockin’ R maintains a separate installation called “Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch.” While the standard pumpkin patch is free to enter, Little Pumpkin’s requires a modest entry fee. Children under two are free, however, and there is also no charge for parents who are only supervising and not partaking in the fun. However, entry fees may vary from year to year.

So, what exactly does your little pumpkin get for their admission fee? A full day of fall fun, including: 

• Unlimited playtime in the corn pit (think a vintage fast food restaurant ball pit, but full of corn kernels instead of plastic balls) 
• Unlimited playtime on the jump pad 

• Up to two “make and take” fall crafting projects 
• Access to the bubble station 
• Access to a variety of fun kids’ games, including “dress the scarecrows” 
• Watch out for new additions from year to year!

Fall Field Trips to the New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 

A field trip with the whole class is a great way to experience the Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R and make lifelong memories with friends, teachers, and classmates. 

If you’re an educator considering a Texas pumpkin patch for a fall field trip destination, consider the package Rockin’ R has to offer you: 

• $8 per child discounted admission rate for schools (versus the normal $10 admission fee for Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch) 
• Access to the standard Pumpkin Patch 
• Admission to Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch (corn pit, jump pad, bubbles, crafts, etc.) 
• Special field activities

In addition to simply being a fun time for kids of all ages, a seasonal trip to a functioning pumpkin patch offers all sorts of potential for educational experience in areas like: 

• Biology – Pumpkin plants make a great prop for many a biology lesson, whether you’re focusing on their beautiful flowers and the pollination process, their edible seeds and flesh and the role they play in the ecosystem, or the various parts of the pumpkin itself that make them an awesome natural model of a cell.
• Weather – Pumpkins, like any crop, need certain weather conditions to grow well. An in-person visit to a working pumpkin patch is a great way to bring this lesson to life.
• Farming – A trip to the pumpkin patch is a great way to punctuate lessons about science and agriculture.
• Business – Get a behind-the-scenes look at a rewarding seasonal business model that enriches the local community.
• Physical fitness – Kids can get a great workout hitting the various activities at the Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch.
• Art – Various craft activities are also available for those who prefer to flex their artistic muscles. 

Please note that food is not included in the field trip package, but you can access picnic facilities for eating packed lunches.

Mayfair, TX – Your Year-Round Home in New Braunfels 

Instead of visiting New Braunfels for the excitement of pumpkin patch season, why not consider making it your new home? With various floor plans, styles, and ownership options being developed right now, Mayfair is a world-class residential development in New Braunfels that makes a perfect home base for year-round fun in the Texas Hill Country and beyond. Much like you might circle the pumpkin patch for hours before selecting the perfect orange gourd that speaks to your unique aesthetics, Mayfair offers various unit types and purchasing options to fit every style. 

There is no better time to move to New Braunfels, TX, by way of Mayfair than right now. After all, as soon as pumpkin patch season wraps up, another postcard-perfect Christmas in New Braunfels is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss it. 

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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Check back soon for more Mayfair news and sign up to receive email updates, or visit us on social media at @MayfairTX on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.

You probably think the housing market in this country is still going through post-Covid turmoil if you watch and read primarily national news sources, and to an extent, that is very true. In certain markets, however, strong growth paired with major incentives offered by developers and lenders is making 2023 an extremely compelling time to shop for new homes.

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