Schlitterbahn is a family-owned and operated waterpark and resort located in New Braunfels, Texas, United States. The park is known for its innovative water rides and attractions, including the world’s longest water coaster and the world’s first uphill water coaster. It has been a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers since its opening in 1979.
The park spans over 70 acres and features over 40 water attractions, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and children’s play areas. The park is divided into two main sections, the Original Section and the Surfenburg Section.
The Original Section, which opened in 1979, is home to the park’s most popular rides, including the Master Blaster water coaster, the Black Knight tube slide, and the Kristal River lazy river. The Surfenburg Section, which opened in 1996, features rides and attractions with a surfing and beach theme, including the Boogie Bahn wave ride, the Skycoaster thrill ride, and the Torrent wave river.
In addition to its water attractions, Schlitterbahn also offers a variety of dining and shopping options, as well as a full-service resort with lodging accommodations ranging from standard hotel rooms to luxury treehouses. The resort also offers amenities such as a heated pool, hot tubs, and a fitness center.
Over the years, Schlitterbahn has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named the world’s best waterpark by Amusement Today for 23 consecutive years from 1998 to 2020. The park has also been featured on several television shows and movies, including an episode of Extreme Engineering on the Discovery Channel and the movie Piranha 3D.
Best Rides at Schlitterbahn
To help you plan your perfect day at Schlitterbahn, here are some of the best rides and attractions the park has to offer:
- Master Blaster: This water coaster is one of Schlitterbahn’s most popular attractions, and for good reason. It takes riders up and down hills, through tunnels, and around curves, all while being propelled by water jets. At 3,000 feet, it is also the world’s longest water coaster.
- Black Knight: This enclosed tube slide is one of the park’s oldest attractions, but it remains a fan favorite. Riders plummet down a dark, twisting chute, experiencing drops and turns along the way.
- Congo River Expedition: This lazy river is anything but lazy. It takes riders through rapids and around waterfalls, all while providing a relaxing and refreshing experience.
- Boogie Bahn: This surf simulator is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of surfing without hitting the ocean. Riders can catch waves on a bodyboard or surfboard, and even attempt to do tricks.
- Dragon’s Revenge: This ride takes you up and down several hills and drops, providing a thrilling experience that’s perfect for adrenaline seekers.
- Kristal River: This relaxing lazy river takes riders through caves, waterfalls, and beautiful landscaping, making it a great way to cool off and relax.
- Torrent River: This wave river offers a unique experience by creating waves that are over three feet high, allowing riders to body surf or use a tube to ride the waves.
- Blastenhoff Beach: This family-friendly section of the park offers a variety of water attractions for all ages, including kiddie pools, water playgrounds, and a family raft ride.
- Skycoaster: For the ultimate thrill-seekers, the Skycoaster takes riders 180 feet into the air before dropping them into a freefall at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
- Wolfpack: This multi-person raft ride takes you through several drops and turns, providing a fun and exhilarating experience for you and your friends.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Schlitterbahn waterpark in New Braunfels, Texas, is during the shoulder season, which is generally from mid-April to mid-May and from mid-September to mid-October. During this time, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the water attractions, but the crowds are typically smaller than during the peak summer months.
Visiting during the week rather than on weekends can also help you avoid large crowds. If you do plan on visiting during the summer months, aim to arrive at the park early in the day to avoid long lines and crowds.
It’s important to keep in mind that Schlitterbahn is an outdoor waterpark, and the weather can be unpredictable. Texas summers can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take breaks from the sun as needed.
If you’re looking to save money on your visit, consider purchasing tickets in advance online or through a third-party discount provider. Additionally, some hotels in the area offer discounted tickets to guests, so be sure to check with your accommodations before purchasing tickets.
Check out the Master Blaster here: