Situated in the rolling hills of Central Texas is the state's first waterpark, Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels. For the past 40 years, Schlitterbahn has been one of the top destinations for family fun during the hot summer months. Located less than an hour outside of the Austin city limits, Schlitterbahn makes for the perfect day trip for families visiting the Austin area.

The park was built out of the banks of the scenic and winding Comal River, in the picturesque town of New Braunfels. Experience tube chutes, rides, slides and pools using the clear, spring-fed water of the Comal River, which remains a cool 72 degrees year round. In honoring the region’s original German roots, the name “Schlitterbahn” derives from a combination of two German words, "schlitter," meaning "slippery," and "bahn," meaning "road." German influences can be seen throughout the park from the names of rides to the exterior designs.

Rides & Attractions

Schlitterbahn has been considered one of the top waterparks in the world for the last 23 years, and the park has grown to more than 70 acres with 50+ attractions. With two distinct sections of the park, visitors can ride a free tram between the original West section of the park (Schlitterbahn) and the newer East section (Blastenhoff, Tubenbach and Surfenburg). The park offers multiple pools, tube chutes, activity pools, kids' lagoons, lazy rivers and slides for all ages, along with swim-up bars, heated pools, multiple dining options and unique, signature attractions like the Master Blaster, an up-hill water coaster.

If you're visiting with kids, every park has a safe area for children to play, and specially-designed rides for the younger crowd. Schatze’s Central Park in the Original Schlitterbahn has plenty of shade and water features like a mini car wash, pint-sized slides, a splash-pad and even magical castle where families can meet-and-greet with Schatze, the park mascot.

Hours & Admission

Schlitterbahn is open weekdays 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m during the summer months. General admission is $69 for adults, $59 for children and seniors 65+. Admission is free for children 3 and under.

Parking is free for everyone and there is a complementary Tram to take you between the different areas of the park. The park also allows you to bring your own food and drinks (no glass or alcohol).

Before you visit, check out the website for a list of rides to make a note of new attractions and which park to explore first.

Photos courtesy of Schlitterbahn Waterparks and Resorts.