The calling of Schlitterbahn New Braunfels is its sense of adventure. The long standing water park has been a summer destination for many a group of people, whether families enjoying a break with their kids or adults looking for a fun getaway. The crew I went with? All adventure seekers with a little bit of relaxation in them. Hence, we took on Schlitterbahn with both of these ideals in mind. Nobody is ready for back to school and the mad dash for school supplies and worry about classes and grades. With summer almost over, we decided on a two-day adventure, because all of Schlitterbahn cannot be enjoyed in just one outing.

Our adventure started getting settled in our spacious cabana, one of nine on the property. Outfitted with shade, TVs, a small fridge filled with drinks and an attendant who was there to assist us with anything we may need, it felt like a makeshift resort had been established at one of Texas’ greatest water parks. The attendant could assist us with almost anything from food to desserts to even bar drinks. Soon we realized delicious chicken tenders, burgers and waffle fries were waiting for us. Not to be outdone, the dessert menu contained a delicious cookies and cream funnel cake, just to get our sugar rush going in the right direction.

The service at Schlitterbahn stood out more than anything. Feeling welcomed is always a positive, comforting amenity. Our cabana attendants went above and beyond to make us feel like a top priority to the park.

The first order of business after relaxing in the cabana was the Congo River Expedition. Similar to the classic lazy river concept, the Congo River Expedition features a bit more adventure as you go through dark tunnels, take sharp corners, take on river rapids and entertain small drops. There’s also a Blast Pass that Schlitterbahn offers, catering to the thrill seeker in all of us. The Blast Pass is a rental service that is super easy and super convenient for those who simply want to ride all the different attractions in the park. One can rent the Blast Pass daily and with it, endless fun awaits. How it works is, you place the pass on your wrist, almost similar to a watch. You can then reserve a spot in whatever ride of your desire by using the kiosk, located all over the park. How handy is this pass? it will save your spot in line, there’s a timer on it and once time the waiting time has run out you can go to the front of the line and ride the ride you’ve been waiting for.

We then checked into our Riverbend Cabin and instantly felt like we were back at home. From welcoming snacks to toiletries, it was a great way to settle down and get some much-needed rest. I know what you’re thinking, why rest at Schlitterbahn? Well, enjoying the park and all of its perks and entertainment will tire you out; hence the cabana and cabin experiences.

After getting settled, we made our way to Bavarian Halle where we had a spirited conversation with the management team and had a delicious dinner. We had a private tour of the waterpark and learn about some of its history, including about the park’s founder, Mr. Bob Henry. Henry started out as an accountant but established a legacy beyond mere numbers by bringing families together and giving them a memorable vacation. The house he used to live in is still on the property as he turned it into a vacation spot and one can actually rent it out. Well, not AirBNB style but you get the idea.

Henry’s house can accommodate 18 people and consists of 5 rooms. It is a great location for families ot get together for big events. We also learned that even though Schlitterbahn is German sounding, it is not an actual German word. Instead it’s a word pieced together by two other German words, slippery and rock. So if you want a fun bar fact or ice breaker, there you go. After our tour of the park, we settled back in our cabins to rest up for the day ahead.

Day 2 was the absolute best day of our experience: a private “Boogiebahn” experience if you will. Riding one of those things involves plenty of trial and error but even after falling off the third time, you can’t help but laugh at yourself and try again! Our instructor was more than patient as she showed us the ropes on the Bahn. After our lessons, we met up at another cabana (yes, Schlitterbahn absolutely loves cabanas) and enjoyed an amazing brunch. Right after, we wasted no time and went straight for all of the attractions. Like kids in a candy store, we tried everything we possibly could: The Master Blaster, which we probably did three times in an hour span, Dragon’s Revenge, Kristal River, The Torrent River and even Skycoaster.

Of all of the rides, Skycoaster took the cake and it is one of those rides that you have to experience at least once in your lifetime. Adrenaline building and then some, it is fun beyond anyone’s comfort and completely worth it. Plus, you get to relive your experience once you’re done as your ride is recorded and the entire free fall swing experience is captured. You go through all the emotions, from complete fear and terror to joy and relief but a good time is had by all, even the people laughing at your misfortune before you can do the same to them.

We closed out our second day with one final go of the Master Blaster, the Black Knight and Raging River. By then, it was evident that Schlitterbahn had evolved from just another water park into an all encompassing experience that everyone can enjoy. Adults can relax at the many cabins and cabanas, learn a little history of the park and also make complete fools of themselves reliving their childhoods. Kids can enjoy the park and test their limits of fun. Everyone wins.

The perfect way to spend a summer day or two? Schlitterbahn, and we’re not accepting any other answer as the right one.