Located along the southeastern edge of the Texas Hill Country in Comal County, the City of Garden Ridge is “Naturally Home” to approximately 5,000 residents, a motto that reflects the community’s appreciation for its natural setting and hometown feel. The city derived its name from a series of ridges overlooking fields of wildflowers on the upslope of the famous Texas Hill Country on ranch and farmland owned and cultivated by immigrant and first-generation Germans. At about 7.1 square miles and incorporated in 1972, the city sits approximately 3 miles west of Interstate 35, 20 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio, and 12 miles west of downtown New Braunfels.

Garden Ridge is predominantly a bedroom community whose growth reflects one of the fastest-growing communities in South Texas. Residents enjoy native trees and rolling hills, along with the convenience of large-city amenities just a few miles down the road. As the region has grown, new residents are drawn to Garden Ridge’s natural beauty and small town charm. Today’s Garden Ridge is a mixture of long-time residents who stay for the country feel of the city and newcomers who want to raise their families in a safe, close-knit community.

While the city is predominately built out residentially, leaders are seeking quality upscale retail development along the FM 2252 corridor to create a destination for residents and visitors alike. They also hope to attract smaller, well-designed, residential developments to allow current residents to downsize without leaving the community they know and love.