The Vibe at Billy’s Ice

Billy’s Ice in New Braunfels is one of those neighborhood gems that feels legendary even if it’s your first visit. Nestled at Hanz and 337 this watering hole is the kind of place that draws you in by day and keeps you coming back after dark.

Spread across an eclectic space with vintage tables, low hung Edison bulbs, Billy’s is part icehouse and part living room. The type of bar where casual meets cool without even trying.

You’ll find Billy’s just a stone’s throw from the Guadalupe River, alongside larger, newer and more gentrified storefronts…but easy to spot if you know where to look. There’s something comforting about slipping out of the bustle that is now New Braunfels peak season traffic and finding yoursel here. A place that feels like an insider secret but welcomes outsiders like kin. From the shaded patio to the no-frills bar, there’s a local charm in every inch of the place.

The team behind the bar feel like longtime friends. It’s a natural Norm-Cheers experience. They remember your go-to drink and they genuinely want to make sure you have a good time. Whether you’re a regular or a first time tourist, they’ll make you feel at home.

New Braunfels is known for its laid back river culture, and Billy’s mirrors that in just about every aspect. Walk in on any night and you’ll find a diverse mix of folks. College kids and bikers. Businessmen and hippies. It’s a modern twist of the famous Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin. People from opposite walks of life connecting over cold beer and live music.

Billy’s does community in a way that feels unforced. Nearby the welcoming patio, you’ll usually find rows of bikes or trucks loaded with tubes, signaling that everyone’s welcome. River rats, live music lovers, and folks just in search of a good time.

That’s just what we aim to do next Saturday night July 12 with Thieving Birds and Nyles. Last time in the Birds sold out the joint. It’s headed that way this time too. Don’t miss out. Not to speak of Nyles set that will feature some special guests you don’t want to miss.

Grab your tickets HERE!

The cherry on top of it all is the music. Live music is the lifeblood of Billy’s. You can find live music here just about 7 nights a week. It provides a stage for those not yet at or taking a break from the Gruene Hall and Whitewater level of bands. It shares a mission with places like Galleywinter sponsor Happy Cow, Riley’s and Freheit. It supports songwriters on the way up, the way down and sometimes in between. The crowds that come are there for a good time and familiar tunes.

If you’re aiming for a place that brings out the best of New Braunfels…easygoing, inclusive, and utterly Texan, well then Billy’s Ice is the spot. It’s the kind of place you discover, then quietly celebrate whenever you need a drink with character and atmosphere.