🛒 Costco Update, River Paddling & Historic Home Restoration

March 05, 2026

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Good morning, New Braunfels! Big things are happening around town this week, from the long-awaited Costco getting closer to opening, to a chance to paddle the Guadalupe with local heroes, and a meaningful effort to restore one of the city’s oldest historic homes. Let’s dive into what’s happening.

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GET READY: COSTCO NEARS ITS NEW BRAUNFELS GRAND OPENING

Massive $37M warehouse project nearing completion

The long-anticipated Costco in New Braunfels is entering its final stretch, with construction crews finishing exterior details on the nearly 158,000-square-foot warehouse and fuel station near Kohlenberg Road. The newly mounted Costco signage now stands tall over the site, a clear signal to drivers along I-35 that the opening is getting close.

While an exact date hasn’t been confirmed, Costco’s website points to an April launch. Once the doors open, shoppers can expect the full warehouse experience the brand is known for — bulk groceries, electronics, home goods, a food court, and a full-service fuel station.

A relaxing day on the river for veterans, first responders, and volunteers

Heroes on the Water is returning to the Guadalupe River this Friday at 2 pm for a special paddling event bringing together veterans, first responders, and volunteers for a few hours of connection, conversation, and time outdoors. The event is designed to create a welcoming space where participants can relax and enjoy the peaceful current of the river.

No kayaking experience is required. Just show up ready to enjoy the water and good company. The event will take place at the Guadalupe River Turnaround in New Braunfels.

Looking for a fun family outing during the upcoming spring break? The San Antonio Zoo is always a hit, and right now you can score discount admission tickets with up to 30% off. It’s an easy day trip from New Braunfels and packed with things kids (and adults) love.

Explore 750+ animal species across 56 acres, from giraffes and rhinos to kangaroos and Komodo dragons. One of the newest highlights is Congo Falls, a massive new gorilla habitat featuring a 70-foot climbing tower and immersive jungle-style environment. Add train rides through Brackenridge Park, shaded walkways, and tons of exhibits to explore, and it’s the kind of place you can easily spend the whole day.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN?

Here are some of the events we’re most excited about over the next few days:

THURSDAY
🎨 Art Afternoons for Kids (0–7) at New Braunfels Public Library (4:00 PM)
🎤 Allan Hendrickson Band at The Grapevine in Gruene (4:30 PM)
🧑 Teen Time at New Braunfels Public Library (5:00 PM)
👢 Line Dance Lessons at Gruene Hall (6:00 PM)
🧵 DIY After Dark – Felt Heart Garlands at New Braunfels Public Library (6:30 PM)
🔥 Campfire Kingdom at Gruene Hall (7:00 PM)
🎼 CYT SA New Braunfels Presents The Music Man JR at Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre (7:00 PM)
🎹 Corey Weaver Trio at Watering Hole Saloon (8:00 PM)
🎶 Teague Brothers Band at Gruene Hall (8:30 PM)

FRIDAY
🎨 Open Studio (DIY Experience) at Painting With A Twist (2:00 PM)
🧘 Flow with Purpose at Guadalupe River (2:00 PM)
🎸 Big John Mills at Gruene Grove (3:00 PM)
🤝 Teen and Tween Drop-In Volunteer Hours at New Braunfels Public Library (5:00 PM)
🎸 True Labowski at The Grapevine in Gruene (5:00 PM)
🎉 First Friday in Downtown New Braunfels (5:00 PM)
🐟 Fish Fry at VFW Post 7110 (5:00 PM)
🎶 Alli Mattice Band at Krause’s Cafe (6:00 PM)
✨ Sip & Sparkle DIY Trinket Dish at The Artitude Cottage (6:00 PM)
🤠 Clay Hollis at Freiheit Country Store (7:00 PM)
🎤 Adam and Chris Carroll at The Redbird Listening Room (7:30 PM)
🎵 Uncle Lucius at Gruene Hall (8:00 PM)
🤠 Brayden Stewart Band at Happy Cow Bar (8:30 PM)
🚂 Fast Movin’ Train at Watering Hole Saloon (8:30 PM)
🎶 I35 at The Phoenix Saloon (8:30 PM)

SATURDAY
🛻 Bulky Goods Drop Off at Multiple New Braunfels Locations (7:00 AM)
🎶 Luke Leverett at Guadalupe Brewing Company (8:30 AM)
📚 Family Storytime at New Braunfels Public Library (10:30 AM)
🎸 Connor Phillips at Gruene Hall (11:00 AM)
🎤 Owen Stroud at Krause’s Cafe (11:30 AM)
🍷 Saturday at the Vineyard at Dry Comal Creek Vineyards (12:00 PM)
🎵 Michael Monroe Goodman at The Grapevine in Gruene (1:00 PM)
🎸 Bo Phillips at Gruene Hall (1:00 PM)
🎭 CYT SA New Braunfels Presents The Music Man JR at Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre (2:00 PM)
🐉 Dungeons and Dragons – Campaign Session at New Braunfels Public Library (2:30 PM)
🎨 Misty Hike at Painting With A Twist (5:30 PM)
🎶 Jess & Dave at The Grapevine in Gruene (4:00 PM)
🌅 Sunset at the Lake at Painting With A Twist (7:00 PM)
🎤 Kelly Willis with Marina Rocks at The Redbird Listening Room (7:30 PM)
🤠 Hank Weaver Band at Happy Cow Bar (8:30 PM)
🎸 Uncle Lucius at Gruene Hall (9:00 PM)
🎶 Jay Eric & Rumor Town at Watering Hole Saloon (9:00 PM)

Looking for a fun way to unwind after work? Head to The Courthouse for Ladies Night Pickleball every Thursday from 4–9 pm. It’s open to all skill levels, so whether you’ve never picked up a paddle or you already love the game, you’re welcome on the court.

There’s a free women’s lesson from 7–8 pm, followed by open play from 8–9 pm, and equipment is provided so you can just show up and join in. Plus, enjoy a complimentary glass of wine anytime between 4–9 pm while you play, mingle, and relax.

No reservations needed. Just grab a friend — or come solo — and make it your new Thursday tradition.

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Preserving one of New Braunfels’ oldest stone homes

The Braunfels Foundation Trust has announced plans to restore the historic Hinman House, the first stone house built in New Braunfels. Located on Castell Avenue across from Krause’s Cafe, the building has quietly stood as part of the city’s story for generations.

The restoration will preserve the structure’s historic character while giving the Trust a permanent home in the building. A special fundraising event, Supper at the Haus, will be held on May 8 to support the project and help ensure this important piece of local history remains part of the community for years to come.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Dittlinger Roller Mills once supplied flour not just to local stores, but also to the U.S. government.

WEATHER FORECAST 

Thursday: High: 86º | Low: 69º | 40% chance of precipitation

Friday: High: 83º | Low: 69º | 35% chance of precipitation

Saturday: High: 82º | Low: 59º | 75% chance of precipitation

Burn Ban: ON

Water Restrictions: Stage 2 (In Stage 2, watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed one day per week based on the last digit of your address BEFORE 10:00 a.m. and AFTER 8:00 p.m.)

Right here in New Braunfels, T Bar M Camps & Retreats has spent 45 years creating Christ-centered experiences that help people unplug, connect, and grow. While many know them for their unforgettable overnight summer camps for kids, T Bar M also offers day camps, family camps, and year-round retreats for businesses, ministries, and organizations.

From adventure activities and mentorship for kids to team-building retreats for adults, there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re looking for a place where faith, friendships, and meaningful experiences come together, T Bar M continues to be a Hill Country favorite.

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That’s all for today. Thanks for keeping up with New Braunfels Life.

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Until next time,

— The New Braunfels Life Team

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