by Krishan Narsinghani, Kelsey Welsh × Vaughn Lowery
Planning a family getaway? I bet you haven’t thought of adding New Braunfels, Texas to the list of possible destinations, but you really should. New Braunfels, Texas is home to one of the largest immersive theme parks in the United States. Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort is home to the most eclectic collection of water rides in the world. Guests dive headfirst into constant adventure as they float down one of the 51 rivers, slides and chutes that the park has to offer.
Schlitterbahn translates to “slippery road” in German, honoring the heritage of the family who started it all. Bob and Billye Henry uprooted their three children in 1966 and moved from Houston to New Braunfels to pursue Bob’s dream of owning and operating a small family business. The Henrys responded to a “for sale” ad in a local newspaper and purchased a cabin resort along the Comal River. They installed a tube slide that would dump their guests into the river. A few years after studying Floridian waterparks, the Henrys realized that they could incorporate the concept into their own resort; and voilà, Schlitterbahn was born. The flagship property was established in 1979 and has been offering both thrill seekers and sight seers ideal vacation experiences for nearly four decades. Since its founding, four additional properties have opened up: Galveston Island, Texas; South Padre Island, Texas; Corpus Christi, Texas (which included a 9-hole golf course); and Kansas City, Kansas.
Staff members of 360 Magazine were invited to get our feet wet and dive into the fun at the original New Braunfels location. Schlitterbaun Waterpark & Resort is a hotspot for family vacations, corporate outings, and friendly getaways. The park maintains a refreshing 72-degree temperature for the spring water that flows into the rides, tube slides and pools. The famous Boogie Bahn surfing simulator, which is one of the first of its kind in the world, is a favorite of pro-boarders, inexperienced newbies, and everyone in between. Over 50,000 gallons of water circulate over the ride’s foam surface, which was built to cushion the occasional gnarly wipeout, yet the water depth measures just a few inches.
Guests can take a break from water coasters, such as the award-winning Master Blaster, and enjoy the miles of scenic river that flow amidst the 100-year-old oak, cedar and cypress trees. The river serves as a water source to the park’s attractions as well as a backdrop for guests to gawk at while they slip and slide their way to an amazing vacation experience. During our visit, we found out exactly what it is about Schlitterbaun that has made it worthy of 19 consecutive, 36 overall, Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket award wins.
Calling all grill-masters; Schlitterbahn is littered with BBQ stations so that guests can whip up everything from hamburgers and hotdogs to grilled tofu and corn-on-the-cob. Those who are not quite so grill-savvy or simply don’t feel like cooking can make use of the park’s catering services or head down to one of the food stands and pick up a delicious BBQ brisket or a cheeseburger topped with flaming hot Cheetos. Guests 21-and-over can enjoy their favorite drinks by visiting one of the bars or bringing their own from home since, unlike most other theme-parks, the park is BYOB. Families can relax and enjoy their meals by taking the time to sit and snack at one of the park’s many picnic spots.
The resort accommodations and beautiful surroundings set Schlitterbaun apart from all other waterparks. It is perfect for all sorts of travelers: visitors can choose any of the seven room types or even opt for a stylish seven-room vacation home. Resort guests who choose to stay at one of the luxurious Riverbend Cabins are treated to an unbeatable view of the Canal River as well as given an Early Access pass to the Blastenhoff Section, where Master Blaster is located. Schlitterbahn has various room configuration options complete with a living space, kitchenette and stackable washer/dryer to keep the family’s clothes fresh.
360 Magazine had a blast; we didn’t want to leave! So, water you waiting for? Book your vacation and experience an aquatic adventure like no other.
“Splash. Sleep. Repeat” at Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
