City Tube Chute - Image 1
1 / 10

City Tube Chute

4.5
·193 reviews·New Braunfels, United States

Experience the thrill of the Comal River's City Tube Chute, a unique natural water slide and popular tubing spot in New Braunfels, Texas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays before 7 PM

Avoid weekend crowds & parking fees

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
City Tube Chute - Image 1

City Tube Chute

Best Time

Weekdays before 7 PM

Avoid weekend crowds & parking fees

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the thrill of the Comal River's City Tube Chute, a unique natural water slide and popular tubing spot in New Braunfels, Texas. TikTok+1

4.5
(193 reviews)

"The 'Thru the Chute' event is EASILY one of my FAVORITE annual events in New Braunfels! Instagram"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for navigating the riverbed and protecting your feet.

🛟 Bring a Life Jacket

Recommended for safety, especially if you're not a strong swimmer.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tube Chute Thrill

The Tube Chute Thrill

Comal River

Experience the exhilarating rush of the City Tube Chute, a unique river feature for thrill-seekers.

TikTok+1
Thru the Chute Boat Race

Thru the Chute Boat Race

City Tube Chute

Witness creative cardboard boats race through the chute in this fun, annual community event.

TikTokInstagram+1
Comal River Floating

Comal River Floating

Comal River

Enjoy a classic Texas river float, with rental tubes and riverside amenities available.

TikTokInstagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Summer weekends get packed! Arrive early, especially on holidays, or risk being locked out. Consider weekdays or evenings for a more relaxed experience. Bring water shoes and a life jacket for safety and comfort. InstagramReddit

Parking & Access

Parking can be pricey ($25+), but it's free after 7 PM on weekdays and weekends in summer. Be aware that exits might not be near returns, requiring a walk. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays before 7 PM
Why
Avoid weekend crowds & parking fees
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings after 7 PM (Summer)
Why
Free parking & less strict rules
Crowd
Low
When
Winter (off-season)
Why
Peaceful, no crowds, free parking
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

JUDGES FAVORITE 🏆 at yesterday’s Thru The Chute Boat Race at the New Braunfels City Tube Chute! Congrats kids yall did an awesome job!! #nbtx #comalriver #newbraunfelstexas #fyp #up
@hausofnbtx
3M likes • 21.4M views

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for navigating the riverbed and protecting your feet. Reddit

🛟 Bring a Life Jacket

Recommended for safety, especially if you're not a strong swimmer. Reddit

Summer Views on the Comal River ☀️🌊🛟 Comal River 🌊 📍New Braunfels, Texas #comalriver #tubechute #fyp #newbraunfelstexas
@inandaroundnbtx
108.9K likes • 3.9M views
Community members arrived early Saturday morning to watch representatives from their favorite businesses and organizations navigate homemade cardboard boats through the New Braunfels city tube chute. 🌊🛶
nbmonthly
0 likes • 1.8K views

⏰ Arrive Early on Weekends

Gates can lock by 7 PM in summer due to overcrowding. Instagram

💰 Parking Fees

Expect to pay for parking on weekends; it's free after 7 PM. Reddit

Every Year the city of New Braunfels hosts Thru the Chute where people make cardboard floats and try to make it through the tube chute on the Comal River @playinnewbraunfels @cityofnbtx
thetxmemes
2K likes • 73.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Essential for navigating the riverbed and protecting your feet. Reddit

🛟 Bring a Life Jacket

Recommended for safety, especially if you're not a strong swimmer. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early on Weekends

Gates can lock by 7 PM in summer due to overcrowding. Instagram

💰 Parking Fees

Expect to pay for parking on weekends; it's free after 7 PM. Reddit

🛶 Tube Rentals Available

Rentals are offered, but bringing your own is also an option. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(193 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The City Tube Chute offers a unique river experience, with the annual 'Thru the Chute' cardboard boat race being a highlight for many. While the natural beauty and fun of tubing are appreciated, some visitors have raised concerns about safety, congestion, and lifeguard vigilance, particularly during peak times. InstagramReddit+1

"Such an interesting spot. I did not end up tubing nor would I have gone through the tube shoot because I don’t like adrenaline rushes. It was closed whenever I walked through the park as it was late at night. Night is a great time to visit, when no one is around you can really take in the sound of nature against the beautiful sky."

Misty B

"I had a challenging experience at the tube chute, and I feel it's important to share my concerns for the sake of safety and improvement. My group of three entered the chute separately, but I noticed many people were tied together, which I believe contributed to some safety issues. Unfortunately, I lost track of my partner while navigating the chute, and we became stuck against the wall alongside a group of seven people tied together.

As we exited, I fell out of my tube, became separated from my son, and struggled to get back above water amidst the heavy congestion of tubers. It was a frightening experience, and when I finally managed to surface, I found myself without my family, my rented tubes, and my belongings.

I sought assistance from the lifeguards on duty, but I felt they were not as vigilant as needed. They appeared to be more focused on enjoying their time rather than actively monitoring the situation and providing help. I genuinely believe that with a little more attention and communication, they could have made a significant difference.

Fortunately, the parks and recreation rangers in the area were incredibly helpful. They provided me with water and assisted in helping me retrieve my lost items and reconnect with my family. As a retired lifeguard myself, I understand the importance of effective supervision and response in these environments. I hope that sharing my experience can encourage enhanced training and awareness for lifeguards in the future to ensure the safety of all visitors."

Alyssa Wilson

"Nice place to have a pleasant time. We visited on winter so there are no tube activities, Anyway we sat at the edge if the river and had a good afternoon.

No cover on this season and parking was free.

The water is so clean and the place as well.

Of course we'll get back in summer, I'm prettysure it's a place with lots of fun.

I didn't give 5 stars cause I wanna try on other season."

ever vargas

What People Like

Unique river feature
Thru the Chute event
Natural beauty

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Crowded conditions
Lifeguard attentiveness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The City Tube Chute is located on the Comal River in New Braunfels, Texas. You can access it via various points along the river, with the main park entrance often cited as being near 462 E. Mill Street. Instagram Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends, with fees often around $25. Reddit

Parking can be expensive, often around $25. Some visitors suggest arriving early on weekends or visiting after 7 PM when parking might be free. InstagramReddit Be aware that some exits may not be conveniently located near return points. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation to the City Tube Chute is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services. TikTok+1

Yes, you can visit the park and enjoy the river views without tubing. Some visitors have enjoyed sitting by the river in the off-season. Reddit

To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays, especially before 7 PM, or visit during the off-season like winter. TikTokReddit Weekends and holidays can get extremely busy, with gates sometimes locking by 7 PM. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While attending events like the Thru the Chute race is free, tubing activities may involve parking fees and rental costs. Parking can be around $25, and tube rentals are approximately $30. InstagramReddit

During summer, the park can get busy and gates may lock by 7 PM on weekends and holidays. Instagram Off-season visits are generally more relaxed. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for tubing, but it's advisable to check for specific event details or peak season recommendations. TikTok

Specific restrictions are not widely published, but it's recommended to use caution and consider life jackets for children or non-swimmers. Reddit

Yes, you can typically bring your own tubes, coolers, food, and drinks for your river float. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

It's a unique section of the Comal River designed for tubing, offering an exhilarating ride. Some visitors find it thrilling, while others prefer to avoid the adrenaline rush. TikTokReddit

Safety can be a concern, especially during peak times. Visitors have reported issues with congestion, losing track of family members, and needing assistance from lifeguards or park rangers. Reddit Wearing water shoes and life jackets is highly recommended. Reddit

Amenities can vary, but nearby outfitters like Float'nTX offer tube rentals, cabanas, a restaurant, bar, and lawn games. Instagram Lifeguards are typically on duty during busy periods. Reddit

This is an annual cardboard boat race where participants build homemade boats to navigate the City Tube Chute on the Comal River. It's a popular, free community event. TikTokInstagram+6

Yes, the park surrounding the Tube Chute is accessible for walking and enjoying the natural scenery, especially during quieter times. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, nearby outfitters like Float'nTX have a riverside restaurant and bar. You can also bring your own food and drinks to enjoy by the river. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Bringing your own coolers with food and drinks is generally permitted and encouraged for a full day of river fun. TikTok

Food options during the event might be limited to vendors or nearby establishments. It's best to check event details closer to the date or plan to bring your own provisions. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Tube Chute itself offers dynamic shots of tubers navigating the water. The surrounding riverbanks and the park provide scenic backdrops, especially during events like the boat race. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the race is a very photogenic event with creative boats and excited participants. Capturing the action from the riverbanks is ideal. Instagram+2

Visiting at night can offer a unique, peaceful atmosphere for photography, with fewer crowds and the natural sounds of the river. Reddit

A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended if you plan to be near the water. For events, a zoom lens can be useful for capturing action from a distance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The City Tube Chute can be a fun outing for families, but it requires careful planning. While the 'Thru the Chute' cardboard boat race is a free and entertaining event for all ages, actual tubing might be more suitable for older children or those who are strong swimmers. Instagram+2 Consider bringing life jackets for younger children and ensuring everyone wears water shoes for safety on the riverbed. Reddit Visiting during weekdays or early mornings can help avoid the most intense crowds, making the experience more manageable with kids. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the City Tube Chute offers opportunities to save money. Parking fees can be avoided by visiting after 7 PM on summer weekends, or by opting for weekday visits. InstagramReddit Bringing your own tubes, food, and drinks is also a great way to cut down on expenses, as rentals and on-site purchases can add up. TikTok Attending the 'Thru the Chute' cardboard boat race is a completely free activity that provides entertainment without any cost. Instagram+1

💑 Couples

For a more relaxed and romantic experience, consider visiting the City Tube Chute during the off-season or on weekdays. Winter visits offer a peaceful atmosphere with no crowds and free parking, allowing couples to enjoy the natural beauty of the Comal River. Reddit Even during summer, an evening visit after 7 PM can provide a quieter setting to enjoy the river sounds and scenery. InstagramReddit Pack a picnic and enjoy a serene afternoon or evening by the water. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Comal River

The Comal River is a popular destination for tubing in New Braunfels, Texas, and the City Tube Chute is a key feature. This natural waterway offers a refreshing escape, especially during the hot Texas summers. TikTok+1 While the river is generally accessible, it's important to be aware of its flow and potential hazards, particularly around the chute itself. Many visitors opt for tube rentals from local outfitters, which often include shuttle services and access points. Instagram

When planning your float, consider the different access points and rental companies. Some offer longer floats, while others focus on shorter, more accessible sections. Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks. The river can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so planning your visit during off-peak hours or weekdays can significantly enhance your experience. TikTokReddit

Safety is paramount when enjoying the Comal River. Always wear appropriate footwear, such as water shoes, to protect your feet from the riverbed. A life jacket is also highly recommended, especially for children or those who are not strong swimmers. Be mindful of other tubers and potential congestion, particularly near the Tube Chute. Reddit

The 'Thru the Chute' Cardboard Boat Race

The 'Thru the Chute' event is a beloved annual tradition in New Braunfels, transforming the City Tube Chute into a spectacle of creativity and engineering. Participants design and build boats entirely out of cardboard, then race them down the Comal River, aiming to survive the challenging chute. TikTokInstagram+6

This free, family-friendly event draws large crowds who come to cheer on the inventive teams. It's a testament to the community spirit and a fun way to experience the river. The race typically takes place in late April, making it a great spring activity. Instagram+3 Spectators can line the riverbanks to watch the often humorous and sometimes disastrous attempts to conquer the chute. Instagram+1

If you're interested in participating in future 'Thru the Chute' races, start planning your cardboard vessel early! It's a fantastic opportunity to get creative and join in on a unique local tradition. Even if you're not competing, attending as a spectator offers a memorable and entertaining day out. TikTokInstagram

Safety and Visitor Experiences

While the City Tube Chute offers a fun river experience, visitor reviews highlight some safety concerns that are important to address. One reviewer shared a frightening experience where they lost track of family members due to congestion and the number of people tied together in tubes. Reddit This led to separation and difficulty resurfacing, emphasizing the need for vigilant supervision. Reddit

The effectiveness of lifeguards has also been questioned, with one retired lifeguard noting that they seemed more focused on enjoying themselves than actively monitoring the situation. Reddit Fortunately, park rangers were praised for their helpfulness in assisting with lost items and reuniting families. Reddit This underscores the importance of having well-trained and attentive staff to ensure visitor safety. Reddit

To mitigate risks, visitors are strongly advised to wear water shoes and life jackets, and to avoid tying tubes together in large groups. Reddit Planning your visit during less crowded times, like weekdays or evenings, can also contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience. InstagramReddit

You may also like