quiet places to visit in texas

Quiet Weekend Getaways in Texas

Texas has numerous well-known tourist destinations filled with attractions, events and more. However, sometimes a quiet weekend getaway is more appealing than an action-packed vacation, and Texas has plenty of destinations for that type of trip as well. A good many small Texas towns and quaint villages dot the landscape of the Lone Star State, from West Texas to the Piney Woods, the Gulf Coast to the Hill Country, there are plenty of great locations for a quiet weekend getaway in Texas.

A visit to the quaint Texas Hill Country village of Wimberley provides a relaxing getaway any time of the year. Wimberley is located about an hour outside of Austin and is within close proximity to a variety of attractions in San Marcos and New Braunfels. Two of the more popular are Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Wonder World. However, as attractive as Wimberley’s centralized location to other attractions is, the village itself is the main reason tourists flock here. Wimberley is one of the most scenic communities in all of Texas, which makes for plenty of sightseeing opportunities for visitors. Additionally, despite its “village” status, Wimberley offers a variety of shops which would be hard to match anywhere.

Gruene's official slogan, "Gently resisting change since 1872," gives visitors a sense of its history from the outset. What started out as a small German settlement in the 1840s has blossomed into a mecca for antique hunters, diners, river sport enthusiasts and music lovers. Located right on the banks of the Guadalupe River, Gruene offers plenty of recreational and sight-seeing opportunities. Chief among Gruene's attractions is the Gruene Dance Hall, which is the oldest in Texas.

Whether you want a romantic getaway or a quiet weekend along, Salado is the perfect spot. Offering fine bed and breakfast inns, as well as quaint shops, dynamic water gardens, and carriage tours, Salado is sure to put your mind at ease. Founded in 1859 at the old Military Crossing of Salado Creek. During the same year, Salado College was founded, instantly transforming Salado into a viable community. With the Chisolm Trail running right through downtown, a viable college, dozens of stores and artisans, Salado was a thriving community throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. However, when the railroads bypassed Salado, the town began to decline. Then, in the 1940s, the village began a revitalization effort, transforming itself into a tourist-driven community.

Home to Caddo Lake and nearby Lake O' the Pines, Jefferson is located near the Texas/Louisiana border and is widely known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of East Texas." Caddo Lake and Big Cypress National Wildlife Refuge are among the most popular natural attractions in Texas. The Jefferson Historical Museum and several historical homes also draw plenty of visitors. Annual events such as the barbecue cookoff, Mardi Gras, and holiday light trail are popular among visitors as well

Home to the mysterious "Marfa Lights," the tiny West Texas town of Marfa plays host to thousands of visitors annually, who come to watch this unexplained nightly light show. Although the lights have been viewed practically every night since 1883, no one has yet been able to explain why they occur. Today there is actually a 'Marfa Lights Viewing Area' as well as a Marfa Lights Festival. In addition to the lights, Marfa boasts a good complement of museums, art galleries, a winery and the Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Rockport is known more for its "charm" than any other town along the Texas coast . Nestled in the heart of the Texas Coastal Bend region, Rockport has become a mecca for artists. This burgeoning art scene has spawned a unique tourist stream. Many of these same visitors also partake in Rockport's natural attractions and outdoor activities such as boating, birding and fishing. Rockport is also home to a number of festivals and celebrations such as the HummerBird Celebration, Rockport Seafair, and Rockport Film Festival. Additionally, Rockport boasts a variety of cozy restaurants and accommodations.

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17 Best Hidden Weekend Getaways and Secret Spots in Texas

Posted on June 27, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 18, 2023

Planning a weekend getaway in Texas ? Trying to get off-the-beaten path? In this Texas travel guide, discover some of Texas’ top hidden gems and secret places.

From desert towns and state parks to vineyards and swimming holes, escape the crowds in these incredible places few people know about . Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend at the beach, an adventurous camping trip, or anything in between, you will find the best hidden weekend getaway in Texas for you.

Related – Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in Texas

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Map of the best hidden weekend getaways in Texas

By Ketki from Enchanting Texas

Looking for one of the best hidden gems in Texas that make for an amazing weekend getaway? If so then head to Ennis, Texas. 

After all, it’s one of the best places in Texas to see Bluebonnets – a magical blue flower that is the state flower and that blooms annually between late March and mid-May, 

However, because Ennis is a bit further north, bluebonnets typically peak here around mid-April. 

Ennis also has the added benefit of being just 45 minutes away from Dallas and being home to upwards of 40 miles of mapped bluebonnet trails.

But, if you need a little guidance, you can head to the Ennis Garden Club and join a 2-hour guided tour of the area’s bluebonnets before celebrating the town’s Czech heritage by eating some kolaches. 

Next, meander through the historic downtown and check out local highlights like the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum , the National Polka Festival Hall of Fame and Museum , and the Ennis Public Theatre.  

Then, grab a book from the charming Ennis Public Library before shopping for delicious local food and goods at the Ennis Farmer’s Market , which is held every Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.  

Finally, sample some local vino at Sugar Ridge Winery and relax along the shores of Lake Bardwell before spending a comfortable night at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ennis .

Dripping Springs

By Lydia from Lost With Lydia

Dripping Springs is a small Texas Hill Country town known for its swimming holes, wineries, and charming downtown. The town is a romantic place to visit in the Texas Hill Country and is considered the “Wedding Capital of Texas” with several wedding venues within a small radius. 

One of the best things to do in Dripping Springs is to visit the Texas Hill Country Olive Oil Mill and Vineyard . Here you can take a tour of the olive orchard, try something new during an olive oil and balsamic tasting, or enjoy a bottle of wine under the shady oak trees. It’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

Also very close to Dripping Springs are West Cave and Hamilton Pool Preserve . Both spots include a grotto that overhangs a beautiful Texas spring. West Cave is known for its lush greenery and can only be visited by a guided tour, while Hamilton Pool Preserve can be reached via a short hike. Also near Dripping Springs, you can hike and explore Pedernales Falls State Park.  

In downtown Dripping Springs, you can enjoy local coffee at Mazama Coffee and a delicious breakfast from Rolling in Thyme and Dough . For a drink, visit Sidecar Tasting Room , tour the distillery at Treaty Oak or enjoy a wine tasting at Fall Creek Vineyards.  

For a unique accommodation, check out Havenwald , a magical storybook cottage. The cabin is themed as Robin Hood’s Hideout and includes stained glass windows, a spiral staircase, and many whimsical details that will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale. If it’s booked on your dates, there are plenty of cute cottages you can rent in the area.

Dripping Springs is an adorable small town that should be on your Texas Hill Country bucket list.

Caprock Canyons State Park

Caprock Canyons is a Texas state park known for its beautiful orange canyons, miles of rugged hiking trails, a free-roaming herd of bison, and a prairie dog town . This West Texas park has similar scenery to Palo Duro State Park, which is a more popular state park about 2 hours away.

However, at Caprock Canyons you will find a lot less people and more wildlife. Overall, the park feels very remote and is perfect for a unique outdoor adventure and a secluded vacation . 

When you explore Caprock Canyons, be sure to keep sufficient distance from the bison (at least 50 feet) and be prepared to navigate the park without cell reception.

Some of the best trails in Caprock Canyons are the Haynes Ridge Overlook trail, the Eagle Point trail, and the Canyon Rim Trail. The Haynes Ridge Overlook provides the best views in the park . It is very steep to reach the top of Haynes Ridge, so make sure you are prepared with proper hiking shoes and plenty of water.

The Eagle Point trail is 2 miles and takes you over a unique natural bridge. The Canyon Rim Trail is 3 miles each way and has some great views of a canyon along the way.

If you enjoy camping, Caprock Canyons is the perfect place to do it. There are multiple campground options inside the park . There are a variety of options, from full hookups for RVs to more remote camping sites for backpacking.

If you don’t want to camp, there are limited accommodation options right outside of the park. Some of the closest options include the Back to Basics Bed and Breakfast in Quitaque and Hotel Turkey in Turkey.

Whitecap Beach

By Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

Whitecap Beach was named after the white sand of Corpus Christi, one of the best beach towns in Texas . The wide and clear sea beach is the perfect beach getaway to spend a few days by the sea . Its picturesque beauty has been mesmerizing people for years.

From walking on the seashore in the morning and discovering the city to exploring local restaurants and stores in the evening, there are plenty of things to do in Whitecap Beach. You will find a lot of restaurants and food stalls where you will get mouthwatering dishes, like Hester’s Café and Coffee Shop, Andy’s Kitchen, Ginger Café & Grill, and others.

Visit Bob Hall Pier and soak your eyes into the mesmerizing beauty of nature. The azure and crystal clear sky give your eye peace. The best time to visit this place is in the early morning. The rising sun will take your breath away.

Don’t miss the local wine shops in Whitecap Beach. The nightlife of this region gets crowded and full of joy with all the wine shops opening at night. One of the best wines you can get is from The Barrel Wine & Tapas Bar . The Pelican Lounge is also a great place to enjoy the nightlife, with jazz and country music playing.

You can also visit Padre Island Art Gallery to know more about the art culture of Whitecap Beach.

If you are visiting with kids, you can spend a few hours in Treasure Island Golf & Games , where you will find plenty of fun activities for children and adults alike.

Here on this beautiful beach, you will find luxurious hotels as well as budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals to stay in. Just make sure to book your room in advance. Island Resort Corpus Christi-N Padre Island hotel is highly recommended if you are looking for a beachfront hotel with an outdoor pool and all the basic amenities.

Fredericksburg

By Chrissy from Destined Globe Trotter

Fredericksburg has a unique climate and soil, like the Mediterranean. Because of this, some grape varietals do very well there. In fact, there are over 100 wineries in the area. There are also several breweries and distilleries , including a Texas bourbon distillery that provides a great tour and a delicious slushie on hot summer days.

You can visit wineries on your own, or there is also the 290 Wine Shuttle that visits many wineries and is hop on and hop off . But to really have a magical experience, consider taking a private tour . Private tours usually include 2-3 wineries or 2 wineries and a distillery.

Be advised that it is extremely hard to find an Uber and you should plan alternative arrangements.

For history buffs, the National Museum of the Pacific War is not-to-be-missed. It’s just at the end of the main street and encompasses several buildings.

The city was first settled by Germans in 1846. The German influence is all over town from the sausage houses to the German Restaurants to Dir Küchen Laden, a kitchen supply store and coffee shop. In September, the annual Oktoberfest is centered in the city at the Marktplatz.

Many people choose to rent a house . There are beautiful historic limestone houses and other options that can accommodate small groups. If you have a large group, plan ahead because there are fewer options.

For a truly unique experience, consider the Hangar Hotel . Set straight out of the 1940s, they have oxblood-colored club chairs in the bar area, dark mood lighting, and Frank Sinatra playing in the hallway.

It sits adjacent to the local runway so you can sit on porches on the patio and watch the planes come in. For added fun, there’s a great diner next door where you can eat breakfast with pilots and weekend guests.

Port Aransas

By Nikki from Inspired Routes

If you’re looking for a secret gem in South Texas that’s perfect for a weekend getaway , you need to check out Port Aransas. Located near Corpus Christi on Mustang Island, you’ll get front-row access to the wonderful Texas beaches.

This charming town is an alternative weekend getaway destination to busy spots like Galveston or South Padre Island. This quaint downtown is a great spot for a little shopping and dining. When you’re ready for some sunshine, hit the beach! With miles of coast as far as the eye can see, it’s a great spot for swimming or building sandcastles with your little ones.

A popular spot for great views of the coast is to walk out to the Horace Caldwell Pier. It’s 1200+ feet long, and is a fun spot to watch the local surfers catching a wave.

Just south of town is the Mustang Island State Park . There you’ll find hiking trails, untouched shorelines, and recreational opportunities like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. 

To get to Port Aransas you have two options. The first is renting a car in Corpus Christi and driving south to enter Mustang Island, then back north to the tip which is where Port Aransas is located. Alternatively, you can take the ferry across the Corpus Christ Channel, which is free and can transport your car, too.

There are a variety of hotel options and vacation rentals in Port Aransas to fit your budget. Try the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Aransas , which is walkable to the beach. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, a bit south of Port Aransas on Mustang Island is the Lively Beach Resort Condominiums. 

Big Bend National Park

By Aaren from What Do You Sea

Big Bend National Park is an amazing weekend getaway to see one of the most beautiful and remote parts of Texas. With over 700,000 acres encompassing the Chihuahuan Desert, Chisos Mountains, and the Rio Grande River , there is no shortage of outdoor adventure here.

Hike the Lost Mine Trail to witness the first golden rays illuminate the park’s vibrant green mountains, take a dip in the Big Bend Hot Springs overlooking the Rio Grande River, or head to Santa Elena Canyon to see the historic natural land border between the United States and Mexico.

What surprises many visitors of Big Bend is the amount of dinosaur fossils that have been found in the park. This region used to resemble the swamp land of modern-day Florida millions of years ago and was home to the largest flying creature to exist, the Alamosaurus, giant crocodiles, and many more amazing creatures that you can read about at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit , an underrated favorite of many people who visit the park. 

Because Big Bend is mainly desert, this park makes a great spring or fall weekend trip when the weather is cooler and much more manageable in the daytime. In the summertime heat advisories are common and temperatures reach over 100 degrees by the afternoon. To avoid the heat, head out in the early morning and late afternoon.

Consider camping inside the park at the Chisos Basin Campground , or book an aesthetic stay at Summit Big Bend in the neighboring ghost town of Terlingua. 

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

The little-known Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge definitely is a hidden gem and will make a perfect weekend getaway in Texas. With over 400 bird species such as green jays, aplomado falcons, turkey pheasants, and cardinals, the refuge is home to more species of birds than any other National Wildlife Refuge in the US – a true paradise for birders and nature lovers.

Start the day at the visitor center to get a map of the 60 miles of hiking and biking trails available throughout the refuge. Near the visitor center, you’ll find feeding stations and water features.

If you like biking, don’t miss the 14.2-mile loop, Steve Thompson Wildlife Drive , or drive down Lakeside Dr. to Osprey Overlook where you’ll find the start of many trails.

You can spend the night in the nearby town of Los Frenos, Los Frenos Inn and Suites offer basic accommodations with everything needed for a pleasant stay. In town, Harley’s Beer Garden is a local hangout spot with live country music on weekends.

If you want something a bit busier, you can also stay in Brownsville (they have a cute flea market every week on the weekend) where you’ll find plenty of things to do. Residence Inn Brownsville and Quality Inn are both great options when staying in Brownsville.

Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake is one of the few naturally-formed lakes in Texas and offers unique scenery and opportunities to see wildlife such as gators, mink, wood storks, owls… With centuries-old cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, the place has a magical feel that will enchant everyone.

In Caddo Lake State Park , you should rent a kayak and paddle through a maze of bayous, sloughs, and ponds, go hiking one of the park’s many trails , and stay at a historic cabin or camp. You can also go on a guided boat tour to enjoy the scenery and try to spot birds.

If you don’t want to stay within the park, the nearby towns of Jefferson or Uncertain are good options. There, you’ll find more things to do and plenty of bars and restaurants. The Steamboat Inn in Jefferson is one of the top-rated hotels in the area and is perfect for a weekend stay.

The best time to visit the park is in Fall or Spring when the temperature is ideal. Summer can get pretty hot and humid. Make sure to bring plenty of bug repellent and sunscreen.

Known for the Marfa Lights, the small desert town of Marfa (2000 inhabitants) is a must-see in Texas whether you believe in UFOs or not. Since 1883, people have been seeing white, yellow, red, and orange spheres floating above the ground at all hours of the night , year-round. You can head to the official viewpoint at night and test your luck – make sure to ask locals about their theories on the lights’ origin.

The desert town is also known for its vibrant art scene with plenty of exhibits, events, and galleries . There, you can check out Ballroom Marfa , the Chinati Foundation founded by Donald Judd, and the Ayn Foundation.

There are also plenty of handicraft shops to shop at – make sure to stop by Freda for jewelry and vintage clothing, Cobra Rock for custom boots, Moonlight Gemstones for West Texas agates, Wrong Store , deemed the Most Beautiful Independent Store in Texas by Architectural Digest, and Marfa Brands for soaps.

At night, head to Planet Marfa for a drink or two or check out the Lost Horse Saloon which often has live music.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Marfa, this quirky town is probably one of the best hidden weekend getaways in Texas. The Hotel Saint George is a great option if you want something modern with an outdoor pool. Alternatively, you can book a vacation rental in town.

One of the most famous country music venues in Texas, Luckenbach is probably the smallest town in the state with only two buildings, one of which is a dance hall, and three residents ! If you’re a country fan then you should definitely drop by the small town.

Located in the Texas Hill Country, there are plenty of things to do in the area over a weekend. You’ll find a couple of bed and breakfasts and lodges nearby to stay at. Barons CreekSide Resort features cottages in a rustic setting, surrounded by nature, with a beautiful garden. There are also plenty of vacation rentals available in the nearby town of Fredericksburg.

Apart from visiting Luckenbach, you can head to Wildseed Farms where you’ll find over 200 acres of wildflowers and multiple walking trails, with wine tasting activities as well.

You can also walk the half-mile trail in Old Tunnel State Park for a chance to see bats and learn more about the area’s past. Fredericksburg is also nearby, there, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and activities.

For a unique experience and a weekend getaway you won’t forget, check out the ghost town of Terlingua . Formerly a miners’ town, people left little by little until the town became almost completely abandoned. The few locals who stayed saw an opportunity and turned the town into a fun tourist destination.

You can roam around town and explore the nearby wilderness during a weekend in Terlingua. Some of the top sights in Terlingua include the cemetery, St. Agnes Church, the jail, and Starlight Theatre and Saloon . You will also find plenty of art galleries and street art worth checking out.

Outside of town, you can plan a half-day trip to go kayaking on the Rio Grande River (SUP available too). On the river, you will also find the Boquillas Hot Spring where you can chill for a while after a day of adventures.

As Terlingua is so close to Big Bend Ranch State Park , there are plenty of day-hike options for all-level you can go on as well.

Accommodation options are limited within the town, but you will find plenty of cabins for rent in the area . You can also check out the Lajitas Golf Resort with an outdoor pool and rooms with stunning views.

Located an hour and a half north of Houston, Huntsville will definitely make up for a perfect weekend getaway in one of Texas’s best hidden gems. With plenty of activities and things to do nearby, there are plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path and discover some secret spots few people know about.

The Blue Lagoon is a must-see and is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day. It’s also ideal to learn diving and get certified. They organize a weekend certification program for beginners (you will need to do the online certification first) – certified divers can rent equipment and go on their own or join a tour. You can also go there as a non-diver but space is limited (to avoid overcrowding).

Hikers and outdoor lovers will love to spend a day at Huntsville State Park . There, you will find many hiking and biking trails as well as swimming and boating opportunities. You can also camp there.

Wine lovers can also drive along the Sam Houston Wine trail  to sample some of the tastiest wines in East Texas.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Huntsville is a top-rated place to stay in. They offer all basic amenities and a seasonal outdoor pool as well as family rooms. You’ll also find a couple of nice vacation rentals around town.

Hueco Tanks State Park

Not far from El Paso, Hueco Tanks State Park might be tiny but it packs in a lot of things to do, it’s perfect for an adventurous weekend getaway off-the-beaten-path . From hiking and rock climbing to bird watching and looking for pictographs or petroglyphs, the park will keep you busy for a few days.

You can either camp there or stay at a vacation rental or a hotel in El Paso if camping is not your thing. The Stanton House El Paso is a beautiful hotel featuring spacious rooms with great amenities and friendly staff.

The park features many trails and activities and is divided into two parts – the self-guided area and the area where you need a guide. If you want to go rock climbing you’ll need to have your own equipment. Many trails will take you to perfect spots to see some of the 200 bird species living around the park while others will take you to beautiful pictographs or petroglyphs carved on the rocks centuries ago.

Entrances to the self-guided area are limited so make sure to book your spot in advance if you don’t want to have to wait your turn. You can also go on a guided tour. but again, you’ll need to arrange it with the park well ahead. Check the park’s website for more details.

The midway point of the iconic Route 66, the small city of Amarillo holds many hidden spots and fun things to do for visitors . Spending 2 days there will be enough to see all of the area’s highlights and some.

The first stop on your trip to Amarillo should be at Cadillac Ranch where you can try your hand at graffiti and leave your mark on some of the cars.

In town, don’t miss the Sixth Street Historic District where you’ll find old buildings, shops, and restaurants. Braceros and the Golden Light Cafe are both popular spots among locals. Head to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum to learn more about Texas history or to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum – art lovers would also enjoy a visit at the Amarillo Museum of Art.

If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting the Grand Canyon without the crowds, know that only a 30-minute drive away from Amarillo, you’ll find the second largest canyon in the United States in Palo Duro State Park . A 16-mile round-trip drive  takes you from the canyon rim down to the canyon floor – with many trails and campsites along the way. Hike the lighthouse trail for stunning views of a towering rock pinnacle.

For a pleasant stay, book a room at the Drury Inn & Suites Amarillo , one of the city’s top-rated hotels, featuring an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast – or book a vacation rental in town.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Whether you want to spend the weekend hiking, relaxing by the river , or a blend of both, Pedernales Falls State Park got you covered. The Pedernales River flows over and around huge slabs of limestone creating a beautiful landscape. With plenty of campgrounds and hiking trails, you’re on for a fun weekend.

From easy to challenging, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. The easy and short Twin Falls Nature Trail will take you to a scenic viewpoint above the falls while the challenging six-mile Wolf Mountain Trail will reward you with stunning views and a stop at Arrowhead Pool where you can dip your toes in the cool water.

Cyclists can test their skills on the 10-mile technical Juniper Ridge Trail offering plenty of obstacles and challenges.

From the swimming area or the Trammell’s Crossing Trail, you can also do some kayaking or go river-tubing.

Make sure to book your spot at one of the campsites and get your permit beforehand. If camping is not your thing, you’ll find a couple of nice vacation rentals nearby.

Check out some of our other USA Travel Guides >>

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13 Best Places to Visit in Texas, According to a Local

Whether you want buzzing city life or solitude in a small town, you can find it in Texas.

Jacob Bryant/EyeEm/Getty Images

As the largest contiguous state in the U.S., Texas is home to vast desert grasslands, dense forests, miles of beaches , rolling plains, and rugged hills. With more than 268,000 square miles making up the Lone Star State, there’s lots of room to roam and plenty of places to explore. 

Whether you want a bustling city or quiet place to explore, you can find it in Texas, from the Panhandle Plains and Hill Country to the Gulf Coast and Piney Woods. Here, the best places to visit in Texas, according to a local.

Mariah Tyler ©

About 30 minutes west of the hustle and bustle that is Dallas lies Fort Worth, where world-class art museums and an excellent food and drink scene collide. And while Fort Worth is growing — it’s the 12th largest city in the U.S. — it still feels relaxed and approachable. Perhaps it’s that friendly Western hospitality and a range of dining options and activities that make it a win.

In the Cultural District , visitors can check out five museums dedicated to art, science, and local history. Of course, the Stockyards is a Fort Worth rite of passage, where the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive and year-round rodeo occurs. Downtown Fort Worth is another gem, with block after block of restaurants, Broadway shows at Bass Performance Hall , and nightlife in the form of pubs, bars, live music, comedy shows, and more. The Fort Worth Zoo remains one of the best in the U.S. today, too.

Mariah Tyler

Austin , the state's quirky capital, is home to nearly one million people. Locals love to take advantage of the city’s numerous parks and public spaces, including Zilker Metropolitan Park , a 351-acre oasis with gorgeous views of the skyline and plenty of four-legged friends roaming about, as well as Barton Springs Pool , a three-acre, spring-fed pool used year-round for swimming. There are also lots of hiking trails throughout the city, including the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake, the Barton Creek Greenbelt , and McKinney Falls State Park .

Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, too, and there are numerous places to catch a show , including the annual Austin City Limits festival. One of the best perks, though, is the city's location near Hill Country, which provides easy access to charming small towns , rivers for floating, and more.

San Antonio

Under two hours south of Austin lies San Antonio, another cultural treasure Texans love to visit and call home. Known for the Alamo, this city is home to four other beautiful missions, all part of the UNESCO-designated San Antonio Missions National Historical Park . Of course, there’s also the beautiful River Walk , full of shopping and dining, and Market Square , where more than 100 vendors sell Mexican wares and cuisine.

San Antonio also brims with incredible museums such as the Witte Museum , McNay Art Museum , Briscoe Western Art Museum , and San Antonio Museum of Art .

Located at the southern edge of Texas Hill Country, San Antonio is also full of outdoor pursuits, including Government Canyon State Natural Area , where 12,00 acres and more than 40 miles of trails offer plenty of room to roam. There’s also river access all around for fishing, swimming, and floating.

If you’re looking to explore the vast Big Bend area, Terlingua is a great base camp. Located in between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park , this former mining town became one of the country’s largest producers of quicksilver in the early 20th century, later transforming into a ghost town when the mine closed.

Terlingua is also home to two renowned chili cook-offs, which bring in thousands each fall. Hike through the state or national park, or rent a canoe and float down the Rio Grande along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Back in town, the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon is a must for dinner and live music, as it was known as the theater in town for miners back in its heyday. The Terlingua Cemetery, home to a few graves with quirky embellishments, is one of the most photographed in Texas.

There’s also lots of great art throughout town. Stop by a local gallery for mosaics, paintings, photography, and more, and don’t miss the Terlingua Trading Company for souvenirs, art, and gifts. Foodies will enjoy Taqueria El Milagro for its tacos and Tex-Mex plates, while Long Draw Pizza serves up delicious specialty pizzas like the Terlingua Spur (fajita chicken, onions, jalapeno, cheddar, mozzarella, barbecue sauce, and marinara).

Mustang Island

Courtesy of Visit Port Aransas

Named for the wild horses that inhabited the area for hundreds of years, Mustang Island, just south of Port Aransas, is a barrier island that’s ideal for those seeking a beach escape without the crowds found along the Texas coast. Visit Mustang Island State Park , where more than five miles of coastline offer swimming, fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing. The island is also a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, as 400-plus bird species have been identified here, plus sea turtles can be spotted nesting. Adventure lovers can parasail or try their hand at surfing, or cast a line during an offshore fishing excursion.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

In West Texas near the New Mexico state line, you’ll find Guadalupe Mountains National Park , which includes the four highest peaks in Texas. The park has more than 80 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to all-day endeavors that require a bit of planning. Trek to the "Top of Texas" (a.k.a. Guadalupe Peak), an 8.4-mile hike with views from the highest point in the state, at 8,751 feet. Here, surrounded by vast terrain, you can see the surrounding mountains and a seemingly never-ending expanse of the desert. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is part of the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef complex, Capitan Reef, and other activities include backpacking, camping, horseback riding, and birding.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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Texas is home to the second largest canyon in the U.S., and it’s found at Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the Panhandle. Here, the canyon sprawls for roughly 120 miles and is about 20 miles wide and up to 800 feet deep in some places. As you hike, you’ll notice four geologic layers that make up the canyon, which began forming a million years ago.

Aside from 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, the park has 1,500 acres dedicated to horseback riding. Catch the " Texas Outdoor Musical " show in the summertime at the amphitheater, and learn about the struggles and successes of early Texas settlers. Campsites and cabins are available, but new to the park are luxury glamping sites with covered porches with swings, air conditioning, fire pits, bicycles, and rustic decor.

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This iconic Texas town is a trek, but it’s worth the drive. Marfa is an artistic oasis, full of galleries, boutiques, museums, and stand-alone art pieces. The Chinati Foundation is a contemporary art museum with pieces inspired from the surrounding landscape; guided tours are available. There’s also Ballroom Marfa , another contemporary art museum that strives to give artists and musicians a platform in the Big Bend area.

Toast to a great day at Marfa Spirit Co. , where rum, sotol, vodka, and more are blended into signature cocktails, and grab a tasty burrito from Marfa Burrito. For a cool souvenir, stop by Marfa Book Co. , and when it comes to where to stay, there are loads of quirky-cool options such as Chinati Hot Springs cabins , El Cosmico , Hotel Paisano , and Hotel Saint George .

While here, don't miss the Marfa Lights, a mysterious dancing light phenomenon that occurs southeast of town. The lights appear in a few different colors, and the cause is still argued today.

Fredericksburg

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Located in Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a well-known destination for local and out-of-state tourists looking for an escape. Home to about 11,000 people, this small city is situated in the middle of Texas wine country , with more than 50 wineries, tasting rooms, and vineyards in the county.

There are also lots of shuttle options in Fredericksburg that take visitors to wineries outside of town, plus breweries and distilleries dotting the area. Nature lovers have an array of options as well, including rock climbing and hiking at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area , plus cycling and horseback riding through parks and backroads across town. For shopping and dining, head to Main Street, where you’ll find more than 150 boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and museums.

New Braunfels

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Between Austin and San Antonio lies New Braunfels, a charming Hill Country city founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. In the summer months, visitors flock here to float the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, both located in New Braunfels and a favorite way to spend a long, hot day.

Back in town, Texas-German architecture lines the downtown streets, where you’ll find boutique shopping, a developing bar and restaurant scene, museums, and art galleries. New Braunfels is also home to historic Gruene and Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas and a beloved live music venue today.

Courtesy of Visit Georgetown

A suburb of Austin, Georgetown has plenty of parks and outdoor space for adventure, including Lake Georgetown, where you can picnic, swim, and hike around the water on a 26.5-mile trail. In the downtown square, you’ll find everything from fine jewelry and boutique clothing to guitars and gourmet foods. Each year, Georgetown hosts the annual Red Poppy Festival , plus a summer concert series, and the Georgetown Wine and Music Festival. Whether you want room to roam or a great place for restaurants and shopping, this city delivers.

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Denton, north of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, is a college town with two universities: the University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University. The city has a fun, quirky vibe, but still holds onto a small-town feel with a cute downtown square and pocket after pocket of charming neighborhoods. The creative scene here is huge, too, from a thriving liberal arts program at UNT to community organizations showcasing and promoting local artwork and performing arts. Surrounding the 19th-century courthouse are lots of local restaurants and shops to explore, including a bookstore, an ice cream parlor, and bars serving cocktails. In the fall, catch a UNT football game at Apogee Stadium and cheer on the Mean Green in a sea of green and white.

Rockport-Fulton

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If a beach town is what you’re after, then Rockport-Fulton might be the ticket. It’s quieter and not as touristy as Galveston or South Padre Island, but it still offers plenty of fun in the form of outdoor exploration, coastal dining, and history. Rockport-Fulton has a booming arts scene, and the Rockport Center for the Arts holds classes and workshops and has rotating exhibitions.

Birders love the area, too, as hundreds of species migrate through the area or call it home. Adventurers love to explore the coastline via kayak or boat, or head to one of the piers for fishing. Geocaching, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, and windsurfing are popular pastimes as well. More than 30 locally owned restaurants provide an array of dining options, and the sunsets here are some of the best along the Gulf Coast.

Texas Capital Forum & Coalition

10 Remote Texas Destinations Offer Peace and Quiet, No Crowds

Ten texas places to get away from it all, padre island national seashore, guadalupe mountains national park, hill country state natural area wilderness primitive camp, big bend national park, matagorda island wildlife management area, lost maples state natural area, primitive campgrounds g and h, devils river state natural area, palo duro canyon state park, matagorda bay nature park and beach, devil’s sinkhole state natural area.

Remote places miles from nowhere offer stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, dark skies, and solitude. Here are ten relatively accessible and affordable getaways in Texas.

A state as big as Texas naturally has some undiscovered or hard to get to corners, places where those looking for a respite from cell phones and wi-fi can enjoy a little downtime.

This undeveloped shoreline, one of the nation’s longest, stretches some 60 miles, with those beyond mile marker 5 accessible only by boat, shank’s mare, or four-wheel-drive. Adventurers who venture farther will see little more than an occasional hard-core fisherman, wind, waves, sea birds, and, if they’re lucky, a sea turtle. The entire beach is a primitive campground, offering sunsets over grass-covered dunes, star-studded skies, and, occasionally, bioluminescent waves.

The rugged slopes of this park, miles from even small towns, are actually an ancient fossil reef, home to thousands of plant and animal species, many found nowhere else. Roads don’t go far here, which keeps down the crowds and noise. Eighty miles of trails include a steep one up Guadalupe Peak with an unsullied, 360-degree view.

The Wilderness Primitive Camp is some three miles from any trailhead in this undeveloped and remote park in the Hill Country. The route there covers rocky hills, grasslands, groves of oak and juniper, and swaths of sotol. Shaded picnic tables and fire rings are available at the campground, capacity 40, with a small, still pond nearby. First-come, first-served.

One of the largest parks in the country at more than 800,000 acres, Big Bend is also one of the least visited. The remotest areas of the park include 118 miles of the Rio Grande River, accessible only via canoe, kayak, or raft, and around 40 backcountry campsites that require a high-clearance vehicle. Campers must stash everything in bear-proof boxes before kicking back under a blue-black dome filled with a million sparkling pinpoints from one jagged horizon to the other.

This 38-mile-long barrier island across the bay from the fishing village of Port O’Connor can be reached only by boat, but local fishing guides provide shuttle service for a fee. On the unpopulated island, trails lead to a circa-1852 lighthouse, on the National Registry of Historic Landmarks. Miles of beach show barely a sign of human hands. Visitors must bring their own water, food, and other supplies, and arrange in advance for a return shuttle.

At 2,200 feet of elevation and more than five miles from the park entrance, which is already in a sparsely populated area, these primitive backcountry sites guarantee peace and quiet. Crowds swarm the first part of East Trail along the Sabinal River to see the maples in fall, but few of them even know the West Trail exists. It traverses steep limestone canyons, plateaus, woods, and creeks, and hikers may spot fox, bobcat, or some of the park’s rare species of birds, such as the Green Kingfisher.

South of Sonora and north of Del Rio is something of a blank spot on the Texas map, except for this park. It contains nearly 20,000 acres, but its crown jewel is a mile of shoreline on the Devils River, a pristine, mostly spring-fed channel. The river offers excellent fishing and wildlife watching, and there are ancient rock paintings in the park.

This 120-mile-long, 800-foot-deep canyon drops dramatically out of the high plains. Developed parts of the park are relatively popular, but much is remote. Where the road ends at the equestrian camp, a trail goes five miles through tall grasses, juniper, and cottonwoods to the park border. The Givens, Spicer & Lowry trail to the loop in Little Fox Canyon twists and turns past colorful walls representing a geologic history spanning 250 million years.

Thanks to the intracoastal waterway, Matagorda Peninsula is actually an island. Only the first three of the 22 miles of beach are maintained, so few people venture farther. Maximum remoteness happens around mile ten or 12, as the island’s far end is accessible by boat from Sargent Beach. Four-wheel-drive required.

This vertical cavern reminded an early discoverer of the entrance to hell. Day tours offered at the visitor’s center in Rocksprings allow pondering the 150-foot deep collapsed cave from a viewing platform cantilevered over the opening. From May to September, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats depart the cave every evening, attracting dozens of onlookers. But few people visit during the day.

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10 Secret Texas Getaways

by Shilo Urban

January 17, 2018

Fredericksburg Herb Farm

Fredericksburg, Texas

Vibe: Organic Spa & Garden Hideaway

Wander through gardens of lavender, rosemary, and basil. Bliss out with a thyme massage and cherry facial. Wake up to an almond waffle with whipped cream and a flight of mimosas.

Welcome to Fredericksburg Herb Farm, a comfy Hill Country getaway whose classic farmhouse charm belies its generous amenities - including a 5,000-square-foot destination spa. Situated just four blocks away from Main Street in Fredericksburg, the peaceful retreat is away from the hustle and bustle but still close enough to walk to shops and restaurants. But many guests find everything they need within the garden grounds.

Owners Richard and Rosemary Estenson began renovations on the property soon after they purchased it in 2008. Their fine attention to detail is evident at every turn, as is their commitment to preserving the heritage and character of the farm. The oldest part of the property is a rock house built in the 1890s, which now forms the core of the Farm Haus Bistro. It's a cozy restaurant with exposed stone walls, a fireplace, and windows overlooking the gardens. The fruits, vegetables and herbs grown here are used in the restaurant and in the products sold at Poet's Haus Gift Shop.

For sleeping, the farm's woodsy cottages are authentically styled after the Hill Country's historic Sunday houses. Bungalows like these were built by German settlers to use on weekends when they came into town to stock up on provisions and go to church. The 14 "Sunday Haus Cottages" at Fredericksburg Herb Farm are based on three of the most popular traditional designs. Each one is unique. Inside, the cabins feature modern creature comforts that the German farmers never knew, like king-sized beds and flat-screen TVs. White jasmine flowers bloom by the rocking chairs on the porch.

Guests can also get a taste of Germany at nearby Das Peach Haus, a retail store and wine room at the edge of a scenic peach orchard, founded by the Wieser family in 1928. Visitors can shop the jams, jellies and preserves in the on-site warehouse, sample wine while sitting on the edge of a pond, or take a class at the new cooking school.

Stroll to Fredericksburg's bustling Main Street to explore quaint boutiques and memorable restaurants, including Tubby's Ice House and Vaudeville. It's easy to spot Vaudeville's iconic three-story building, which is home to an art gallery, wine cellar, gourmet market, design showroom and event venue. Browse the boutiques and then stay for lunch or dinner at Vaudeville's bistro, where classic American comfort food is reimagined into something new and served with European flair. Crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced in the Hill Country, the menu features to-die-for French dip sandwiches, organic salads and wood-fired artisanal pizza.

Travel Tip: Spring and fall are the busiest times of the year at Fredericksburg Herb Farm; book well in advance, especially for weekend stays. Reservations are recommended for dinner at Farm Haus Bistro, which also serves walk-ins for breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch.

fredericksburgherbfarm.com , rates start at $159

Tres Lunas Resort

Mason, Texas

Vibe: Off-the-Beaten-Path With Magnificent Hilltop Views

Escape into the middle of somewhere. Relax high on a hill overlooking the rugged landscape and rejuvenate your soul. See miles and miles of Texas from the hot tub and the vanishing-edge swimming pool. By day, the views stretch over a timeless scene reminiscent of a Western movie; by night, eyes turn upward as the Milky Way flaunts its spectacular sparkles across the sky. Perched on a historical hilltop in the Loyal Valley, Tres Lunas Resort is halfway between Fredericksburg and Mason for easy access to Hill Country wilderness, wildflowers, and wineries.

"The property is located on Meusebach Mountain, which was the retiring homestead area for the founder of Fredericksburg," shares Kelly Kemp, who owns the property with her husband Brian. "It had been a working family cattle ranch for many years before being remodeled for the enjoyment of guests." Like the 112-acre ranch, the Kemps" roots in the area grow deep. "My husband and I were born and raised in Fredericksburg. My ancestors were one of the founding families that came with John Meusebach to settle Fredericksburg."

The old ranch home has been artfully remodeled into a boutique "Casita," with three bedrooms and special touches like hammocks and an outdoor fire pit. Two "Zen Suites" have been added on either side of the pool. Rounded archways, Spanish villa vibes, and southwestern décor give the suites the feel of a 19th-century Texas ranch house. Platform beds and free-standing, cast-iron slipper tubs enhance the luxury. Thoughtful details add big character, from the vintage chairs to the wooden Old-World shutters.

Altogether, it's an alluring place to decompress. Or elope. A mission-style stone chapel stands against the sunset, a striking setting for a wedding ceremony - and the ideal companion to the resort's Elopement Package. Packages with four-course dinners are also available, with specialties like wood-fired pork, "kitchen sink" pizzas, and signature Mexican bread pudding. Everyone gathers around the campfire on Saturday mornings for a big cowboy breakfast with homemade biscuits served from a chuckwagon.

If you can peel yourself away from the infinity pool, head to the Llano River to kayak or to Enchanted Rock for a quick hike up the pink granite. Pick up a bottle of wine in the Castell General Store and chat with the locals. Zip into Mason to find cool art galleries and into Fredericksburg for quirky history museums. Find fantastic restaurants all around.

Make your way back to Tres Lunas and embrace the true magic of peace and quiet.

T ravel Tip: Book reservations 30-60 days in advance in the busy season.

treslunasresort.com , rates start at $239/Zen Suites, $249/Casita

Wildcatter Ranch

Graham, Texas

Vibe: Rustic Luxury Retreat on the Open Range

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Wild West and channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl at this wide-open ranch resort. Listen to true stories about Texas outlaws around a crackling campfire. Wake up for a morning trail ride through the wildflowers and mosey along the Brazos River. Practice your lasso skills and feed the longhorns. Return from your adventures on the range and relax in the rock-rimmed infinity pool. Be pampered with a massage at the spa.

Stretching over 1,500 acres on a gentle plateau, Wildcatter Ranch is blessed with views of the Brazos River Valley that go on forever. You'll find the resort about 90 miles west-northwest of Fort Worth, just south of the city of Graham in Young County. It's about 20 miles from Fort Belknap and the famous Goodnight-Loving cattle trail (of "Lonesome Dove" fame).

A trip to Wildcatter Ranch is a true escape to a remote, rustic landscape known for its stunning physical beauty and colorful frontier history. Comanche and Kiowa, cowboys and covered wagons, bandits, bank robbers and cattle barons - all have contributed to this prairie land's storied past. Oil was discovered in Young County in 1917, creating overnight boomtowns and attracting industrialists who continue to shape local culture. The current owners of the petroleum company Echo Production are also the founders of Wildcatter Ranch.

Bringing the area's rowdy history to life is a priority at the resort. Salty staff members tell stories and lead hands-on activities, often right at the location where the drama occurred. Books, films and videos are available in the library to further illuminate the past.

The ranch's tasteful, Western-style accommodations are inspired by historical events that took place nearby. Décor includes buffalo heads, Native American headdresses, and beds made from logs and converted wagons. Back porches with wooden rocking chairs and sunset views make the cabin-suites highly desirable, but there are also hotel rooms and guest homesteads.

While you're at Wildcatter Ranch, you can try canoeing, kayaking, skeet shooting and archery. Hike along 25 miles of trails or hop in a Jeep for a historical off-road tour. For supper, head to Dinner Bell for a mesquite-grilled ribeye, chicken-fried steak, or chuckwagon chili with cornbread. The ranch's steakhouse has been named as one of the best in the state by Texas Monthly.

Travel Tip: Spring bluebonnet season and autumn are the most popular seasons at Wildcatter Ranch; book well in advance (especially for weekend stays) during this time.

wildcatterranch.com , rates start at $115

Sabor a Pasion Estate & Vineyard

Palestine, Texas

Vibe: Global Cuisine, East Texas Charm

Follow a narrow, winding road to a secluded hideaway of oak trees and easy hills just outside of Palestine in East Texas. Effortless Tuscan elegance blends with rugged Texas beauty at this B & B and winery, which is also home to the acclaimed Restaurant Aubergine.

It's all about personalized service at Sabor a Pasion. Owner and chef Simon Webster arranges wine tastings, hog hunting trips, and family-style pizza dinners from the outdoor oven. He even delivers desserts by plane.

"I live here, so you're getting personalized service from the minute you arrive," says Webster. "We can tailor anything to what people want."

Webster has an award-winning resume and more than four decades of experience in the culinary industry. Born in England and raised in New Zealand, he found his way to Texas via England, Virginia and California. He's worked for five-star restaurants, wine bars, pubs, and even an airline as a first-class chef. Webster brings unique international flair to Restaurant Aubergine, where the cuisine skews creative: Italian-New Zealand.

"I was told if I didn't do a chicken-fried steak, I wouldn't be here very long," he says. But Webster has been running Sabor a Pasion since 2004, attracting a steady stream of foodie fans from Houston, Austin and Dallas. The focus is on fresh. "We have nine raised vegetable plots where we grow vegetables in the spring and summer. As much as we can, we produce our own food. It's pretty close to farm-to-table. We also have probably the only outdoor wood-fired pizza in East Texas." Guests can arrange leg of lamb feasts, Italian-themed cooking classes, and even "Chopped"-style competitions (modeled after the TV show on the Food Network).

For dessert, Webster loves to serve New Zealand pavlova, a dreamy meringue cake topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. "No one gets it anywhere. Everyone when they've had it, they just crave for it. So, they're always calling me, and I'm baking pavlova and delivering it to people. I'm actually a pilot as well, so I deliver food by plane. It's kind of crazy. People have ranches around here, so I'll fly and drop off the food for them."

Sabor a Pasion's winery is still young, producing just 60 gallons per year. It's enough for an annual grape stomp every fall and for the brides who take their wedding pictures strolling through the vines. Besides wining and dining, guests can tee off nearby at Pine Dunes golf course, rated No.1 in Texas by Golfweek Magazine. Weekend warriors can also book hog-hunting and gar-fishing adventures. For an old-fashioned ride through the Piney Woods, board the Texas State Railroad for a four-hour journey between Palestine and Rusk in a refurbished vintage train car.

Back at Sabor a Pasion, sleep well in one of the cottage-style rooms or quaint cabins, complete with porches and rocking chairs. Customized packages are available, including a two-night romantic getaway for Valentine's Day with flowers, Champagne, and a couple's massage.

Travel Tip: Make reservations at least a month in advance during the busy season for the B & B and several weeks in advance for Restaurant Aubergine on the weekend.

saborapasion.com , rates start at $150

Escondida Resort

Medina, Texas

Vibe: Unplug at a Hidden Hill Country Hacienda

Hushed and secluded, the ambience at this intimate boutique hotel near Kerrville is one of total relaxation. Cradled in a quiet box canyon, the Hill Country retreat backs up to the wooded rise of Medina Mountain. Escondida means "hidden" in Spanish, and indeed it feels as if you've stumbled upon a secret treasure. Built as a private residence in 1969, the adults-only hacienda evokes an elegant hideaway in colonial Mexico. It almost seems like you've crossed the border. Springs bubble up among the limestone bluffs and rock formations, feeding the crystal-clear creek that runs through the property.

The hotel is built around a dramatic courtyard with colonnades, palm trees and a carved stone fountain. If you're looking to party – this isn't the place. While there's complimentary wine and beer at dinner (and you are also free to bring your own), the mood is romantic and serene. Put your smartphone away, because there's no cell service or Wi-Fi here. It's the perfect place to unplug and de-stress for those who dream about untethering themselves from today's 24/7 connection (a landline is available for emergencies).

The 125-acre property was purchased in 1999 by Bob Phillips, executive producer and host of the iconic Texas television show "Texas Country Reporter." Phillips originally intended to retire here, but plans changed. A spa was added, the hacienda was extended, and the estate was converted into a luxury hotel that opened in 2006.

Casual and unpretentious, the rooms feature warm colors and Saltillo tile floors. Their rustic-chic design skews masculine, with metallic tones and heavy wooden furniture. Bathrooms are beautifully customized with intricate, hand-painted Mexican tiles in the shower and bath. You can also rent out the Owner's Retreat, a private wing of the original hacienda with a full kitchen and Jacuzzi patio. Accommodations include daily breakfast, plus happy hour and supper on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

Follow a stone footbridge to find the outdoor swimming pool. Steep yourself in the hot tub or warm up by the crackles of the outdoor fire. Wander the property and watch for wild sheep, turkeys and white-tailed deer. Climb to an abandoned hilltop cabin for unbelievable views. Bliss out at The Spa at Escondida with a customized package of treatments, including sea salt body scrubs, fire-and-ice stone massages, and signature Pevonia caviar facials.

Once you're feeling rejuvenated, cruise out on the twists and turns of scenic Highway 16. Go kayaking or rafting on the Guadalupe River, just 14 miles away. Explore nearby Hill Country towns like Bandera, Comfort, and Boerne. Find bluebonnet trails in the spring and blazing red foliage at Lost Maples State Park in the fall.

Travel Tip: Reservations are a must at Escondida, which is a gated property that requires a code to enter. Book at least six weeks in advance during most of the year, especially during special events like the Murder Mystery Weekend in April.

escondidaresort.com , rates start at $199

The Antlers Inn

Kingsland, Texas

Vibe: Authentic Railroad Resort With Train Car Accommodations

Be transported to the heyday of the railroad era at The Antlers Inn in Kingsland, where you can sleep in a converted train car or caboose that once cruised the rails across the country.

The railroad has long defined this Hill Country town, which was put on the map in 1892 when the Austin and Northwestern Railroad connected through Kingsland to Llano. Boasting a beautiful location at the confluence of the Llano and Colorado rivers, Kingsland soon became a travel destination in its own right - and it needed a hotel. The Antlers Hotel was opened by the railroad in 1901 to accommodate the new tourists arriving by train. An icon of fashionable modernity, the elegant, Victorian-style resort offered conveniences like gas lights and even a telephone in the lobby.

By 1923, automobile vacations had eclipsed rail travel and The Antlers Hotel was shuttered for use as a private home. Austin couple Dennis and Barbara Thomas purchased the property in 1996 and resurrected it to its former glory after two and a half years of renovations. Today, The Antlers Inn is listed as a Texas Historic Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places.

Now a centerpiece of Kingsland's historic railway district, the resort is surrounded by contemporaneous railroad structures including a crew bunkhouse and the Section Master's House. Other genuine railroad elements have been brought to the property and restored, including a depot and four colorful train cars.

Guests can stay in antique suites with original wood flooring or in private cabins with screened-in porches - but the true attractions here are the train car accommodations. Three cabooses and one wooden train car have been refurbished into snug, modern retreats with air conditioning, TVs, private baths, and small kitchens. Each caboose is brightly painted and includes one queen bed, two child-size bunk beds, and the original cupola - a fun perch for watching the sunset. The McKinley Coach wooden rail car is larger and includes one king bed, two twin beds, and 1 1/2 baths.

The Antlers Inn rests on the waterfront of Lake LBJ, which was created by the construction of a dam at Granite Shoals in 1950. Shady woodlands, calm gardens and grassy lawns surround the vintage resort. Launch your fishing boat from the dock or borrow the property's row boat, paddle boat, or kayaks. Nearby, you can sunbathe with the locals where the Llano River runs over granite boulders on "The Slab," and explore the Hill Country's numerous wineries, golf courses and hiking trails.

Be sure to stop by the hotel's Grand Central Café, which is located in another Victorian home right by the train tracks with a spine-chilling past. It's the house where the 1974 movie "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" was filmed, which was brought to Kingsland from Round Rock and renovated into the restaurant.

Travel Tip: The train car accommodations tend to book up before the suites and cabins, so make reservations in advance, especially on summer weekends.

theantlers.com , rates start at $112

Elm Creek Manor

Muenster, Texas

Vibe: Old-World Farm-to-Table Getaway

Discover a fairytale slice of Bavaria at this true farm-to-table inn, where 100 percent of the cuisine is produced on-site by owners Brad and Marcia Scarborough.

Once upon a time, this romantic retreat was their private home. Towering pecan trees, two gurgling creeks, and 14 acres of gently rolling landscape made it the perfect escape. Inspired by Europe's old medieval inns, the couple created a secluded sanctuary for themselves just outside the German community of Muenster (about an hour north of Fort Worth). Then tragedy struck.

In December 2003, a fire destroyed half of the building. "We were going to tear the remaining structure down and just sell the property," Marcia Scarborough explains. "But then we had the idea to restore the remainder and build it back as an inn." The new inn opened in 2004.

Fourteen years later, Elm Creek Manor is a renowned spa and culinary getaway. A master Italian culinary chef with award-winning dishes, Marcia handcrafts every bite. In addition to extensive gardens and an aquaponic greenhouse, the estate is home to honeybees, dairy goats, chickens, rabbits, tilapia and cattle.

"I love to see people surprised by a wild greenbrier and dandelion salad with my curried pear vinaigrette," says Marcia. "I want people to eat things they have never tasted before."

European antiques and architectural rarities give the inn a distinct personality, including 16th-century Italian doors and 18th-century British stained glass. Each boutique-style suite and cottage features a unique regional flair: Tuscany, Alsace, Austria, Provence and the Scottish Highlands.

"Having lived in Europe as a child, I am a stickler for authentic buildings and not the faux look that often occurs," Marcia says. Great effort has been made to ensure all rooms are authentic to their region. The color on the plaster in the Tuscan cottage was created by mixing crushed rock and water (the way it was done 300 years ago).

Guests can arrange artisan cheese-making classes, gather vegetables for supper, or seek out one of the shady pocket gardens. You'll also find a swimming pool and outdoor amusements like the French ballgame pétanque.

The Scarboroughs still live on the property on the second and third floors. After discovering structural damage in November 2017, the couple took another leap of faith inspired by their honeymoon in Germany and Marcia's German heritage.

"We decided to jump "all in" and completely redo the exterior to an "authentic" Bavarian Haus. Brad says the authenticity is in the details. He hand-cut and chiseled the corbels. We used 100-year-old beams and posts and hand-carved German balusters. Brad and I did all the work ourselves in 26 days."

Travel Tip: Book early, especially on the weekends. Reservations are accepted two years in advance.

elmcreekmanor.com , rates start at $279

Sayles Landmark

Abilene, Texas

Vibe: Historic B & B with Chic, Postmodern Style

Forget the dusty doilies and fussy florals. Airy and inviting, this Abilene B & B is a design-driven getaway with impressive updates that enhance its original historical character. It's also absolutely gorgeous.

Every room of the Queen Anne Victorian has been meticulously reimagined. Vintage clawfoot tubs share space with modern subway tiles and Carrara marble vanities. Crystal chandeliers shimmer above creatively repurposed antiques. Each of the six guestrooms in this sophisticated boutique hotel features a private bath and a special theme that speaks to the history of the home. A stained-glass headboard adorns a bed crafted with church pews in the "Heavenly Rest" guestroom. The "Judge's Chambers" is a manly oasis of rich woods and supple leathers. A Civil War-era canopy soars 14 feet over a bed with ultra-high thread count sheets in the bridal suite "Luxe," which is billed as "the nicest hotel room between Fort Worth and El Paso." Contemporary comforts include keyless entry locks, USB ports, and flat-screen TVs.

Built in 1889 (just eight years after the town of Abilene was founded), this flashy Victorian was the prominent home of Judge Henry Sayles and his family. Even though electricity and indoor plumbing hadn't made it to Abilene yet, the luxurious home was hailed as a masterpiece and featured in several publications including the Dallas Morning News. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 3,500-square-foot house was thoroughly revamped in 2014 by its current owners, Terry and Laura Browder. The Browders also own the Sayles Ranch Guesthouses, an enclave of private cabins and upscale homes to rent in the Abilene area.

Sayles Landmark showcases the couple's love of West Texas and its history - and their dedication to aesthetics that speak to the soul. Discover cozy lounge spaces to chill out and chat with other guests, including a formal parlor in the front of the home and a gentlemen's parlor in the back. Introverts can relax, because there's no obligation to socialize with strangers over your morning coffee unless you want to. Opt for a private table at breakfast, which is served between 7:30-9 a.m. (instead of one set time for everyone like many B & Bs). Extroverts can make new friends at the larger communal table.

Steal away through gothic French gates to the heirloom rose garden, and sit for an easy swing under the pergola. Sip wine with a friend on the front porch, which overlooks Sayles Boulevard. Go for a swim or cool down on the shady patio of the 100-year-old, tin-roofed carriage house. With décor made of 18th-century jailhouse keys, book bindings, and an iron cemetery fence, Sayles Landmark is truly a unique Texas treasure.

Travel Tip: There's no front desk or check-in here; everything is handled prior to your arrival. With only six rooms, be sure to book in advance during the holidays and graduation season.

sayleslandmark.com , rates start at $195

Update: Shortly after this article was published Sayles Landmark closed and is now indefinitely closed under new ownership. However, Sayles Ranch Guesthouses are still in full operation.

The Cell Block

Clifton, Texas

Vibe: A Funky Clink in Clifton

Escape to a place that most previous guests have wanted to escape from. Send yourself to the slammer at The Cell Block in Clifton, a one-of-a-kind, one-bedroom hotel converted from a city jail. Built in the 1930s during the era of Bonnie and Clyde, the lockup was a holding tank for disorderly ruffians and town drunks. Now you can snooze in the space where they once slept it off, listening to the same lonesome rumble of trains rolling through in the night.

Revamped with high-end style in 2014, the mini-hotel oozes undeniable character between its original steel doors and heavy window bars. Two cells have been transformed into the bedroom and bath, connected by a cozy living area. There's also a cool "Prison Yard," a rooftop patio with lounge chairs, a gas fire pit, and twinkle lights above. The Cell Block's location adds to its hideaway feel; it's tucked away on a backstreet painted with colorful murals known as the Clifton Art Alley. Both The Cell Block and Clifton Art Alley were the brainchildren of local entrepreneur and former high school English teacher Kay Calloway. Some of her students have work featured in the Alley.

"Kay has always looked for creative ways to renovate her hometown. She came across the old jail cell and an idea blossomed, "The Jailer" Kristen McKinney explains.

Fun little touches bring the vintage jailhouse experience to life. Indulge your inner jailbird and play a round of 42 with the handmade wooden dominoes; you'll find them in the cigar box. Throw some vinyl on the retro record player from the collection of prison-inspired albums. Snap your mugshot on a Polaroid camera and pin it to the wall, then add your crimes to the comment book. Contain rowdy traveling partners with authentic police-issue handcuffs (just don't lose the key). And in case you forgot, the shower soap is branded as "Don't Drop."

No breakfast is included, but how about booze? Guests can imbibe complimentary alcoholic libations, including an unmarked flask of single malt whiskey from Waco's Balcones Distilling. If the hooch is too heavy for your taste, try the bottle of Tempranillo from nearby Red Caboose Winery.

Situated about 90 minutes south of Fort Worth, Clifton is a historic railroad town known as "The Norwegian Capital of Texas." It's also a vibrant artistic community with a quaint, nostalgic vibe. The Cell Block is situated in the heart of the downtown neighborhood for easy exploring. Catch a movie at the oldest continuously operating cinema in Texas, the restored 1916 Cliftex Theatre. Browse cute shops on Main Street and linger over a lazy brunch at Corner Drug Cafe, a former drugstore known for home-cooked comfort food like biscuits and beef stew. For dinner, enjoy modern steakhouse fare with a Nordic twist at the restaurant Sinclair, which is also owned by Johnson and housed in a former Sinclair gas station. She renovated the building and transformed it into a farm-to-table restaurant she co-owns with her husband and well-known Chef Sonya Cote - owner of Eden East and Hillside Pharmacy. Cote serves creations like chicken-fried quail legs and tenderloin, shrimp and jalapeño cheesecake.

Travel Tip: The Cell Block books three to four weeks in advance normally and even further in advance during Clifton's numerous cultural events, including the Norse Smorgasbord, Boots and Brew, and Clifton Swirl wine festival.

stayatthecellblock.com , rates start at $225

River Road Treehouses

New Braunfels, Texas

Vibe: Childhood Dreams in the Cypress Trees

Discover a Swiss Family Robinson-style escape above Jacob's Creek - a wet weather creek located just across from the Guadalupe River - complete with hammocks and elevated walkways. Six custom cabins are peacefully perched between New Braunfels and Canyon Lake, with towering cypress trees running through decks built 20 feet above a seasonal creek bed.

To be fair - the cabins are not complete treehouses; only one side is attached to the trees high above the ground. But this makes them accessible for all, and the mood of a quirky forest retreat is still there. Wild mustang grapevines, raised footbridges, and a leafy overhead canopy add to the quiet, hideaway feel. Deer wander by in the morning.

Soaring windows bring the outdoors into the treehouses, which are set up for family-style vacationing with open floor plans and full kitchens. Each cabin features a king bed in the master bedroom plus two queens in the loft, and most include a private outdoor deck with grill. Unlike the Swiss Family Robinson, guests here enjoy air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. While all six treehouses feature a similar design, "Mockingbird Lodge" offers the most secluded experience. "The Whippoorwill Haus" and "The Morning Dove Haus" share a deck and are best for small groups or families.

Just across the road is a grassy, 1-acre waterfront park with exclusive access to the Guadalupe River. Roast marshmallows by the fire pits and relax with a riverfront barbecue. Feel like a kid again on the rope swing. Borrow kayaks and tubes for river adventures; you'll find plenty of nearby outfitters to arrange trips. Don't forget the ice-cold Shiner Bock.

When you're ready to venture further afield, hit the scenic roadways to explore the charms of the hilly river region. Drive the twisting route to Gruene to eat at The Gristmill and the Gruene River Grill. Rent a boat on Canyon Lake and catch an outdoor blues jam at the River Road Icehouse.

Travel Tip: Staying in a treehouse for tubing on the Guadalupe River adds a new twist to an iconic Texas adventure - just be sure to make your reservations early. During the summer season, it's recommended that guests book as far ahead as possible.

riverroadcabins.com , rates start at $99

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9 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas

By Tommie Ethington

Everything you've heard is true. Texas has wide-open spaces, larger-than-life characters, and genuine Southern hospitality everywhere you go. It’s also the perfect place for a romantic sojourn in wine country, a quiet weekend on the coast, or a foodie adventure devoted entirely to barbecue. While it might seem like the horizon in the Lone Star State stretches forever, you don’t have to go quite that far to end up somewhere wonderful. Within just a few hours drive of Dallas , Austin , or Houston you'll find tiny towns and big cities with lots to offer. Here, the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Gone are the days when Abilene was simply a stop along the way to the wonders of West Texas . Cowboy culture still exists, but alongside craft cocktails (see The Green Room and Amendment 21 ). And at The Grace Museum , you may be surprised to learn how many modern masters—from Ansel Adams to Andy Warhol—have Texas connections. When you’re ready to call it a night, appreciate a different kind of art at Sayles Ranch Guesthouses , where themed accommodations draw inspiration from Downtown Abbey and Mad Men . (About a 3-hour drive from Dallas )  

Drop your bags at the oldest hotel in the state, The Excelsior House Hotel , then take to the red brick streets to hunt for antique treasures, admire antebellum architecture, and enjoy a five cent cup of coffee at the Jefferson General Store . Travel even further back in time with a visit to Caddo Lake State Park . The marshy maze, flanked by Cyprus trees and Spanish moss, feels almost prehistoric. (About a 2.5-hour drive from Dallas )

Typically, you’d want to avoid a night in the slammer, but here, it could very well be the key to a good time. The Cell Block , a 1930s jailhouse turned hip one-bedroom rental, comes with a rooftop patio, a record player (Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues” is very available to put on heavy rotation), and a bottle of The Cell Block Tempranillo from Red Caboose Winery . When not behind bars, check out the growing art scene or explore a starry sky at Meyer Observatory . (About a 1.5-hour drive from Dallas )

Fredericksburg

Wine tasting and World War II artifacts, Bavarian brews, and a president’s boyhood home—unlikely pairings, but in Fredericksburg, they go together perfectly. Sample full-bodied reds from a variety of Hill Country vineyards , soak in history at the National Museum of the Pacific War or Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , and get your fill of house-made wurst and duck schnitzel at Otto’s German Bistro . For a little R&R, squeeze in a stay at the charming Hoffman Haus . (About a 1.5-hour drive from Austin )

Laura Kiniry

Blane Bachelor

Stacey Lastoe

If you’re headed to Lockhart, a.k.a. barbecue capital of Texas, make sure to arrive hungry. A few pointers: The Original Black’s Barbecue is known for its dinosaur beef ribs (just one rib weighs a pound and a half), while the quality cuts at Kreuz Market are meant to be eaten sans sauce. Finally, swing by Smitty’s Market for its brisket and scoops of Blue Bell ice cream. Ellison House is a chic home base where you can strategize each meal. (40-minute drive from Austin )

San Antonio

The Alamo City has long been a steward of history and continues to impress by reimagining forgotten spaces. Spend a day at The Pearl , a former brewery now home to nationally recognized restaurants, a farmer’s market, the Roman and Williams-designed Hotel Emma , and a tranquil stretch of River Walk. South of town, a 15-mile bike path connects the Alamo’s four sister missions and Hot Wells Park , built around the ruins of a turn-of-the-century resort. Before you go, toast to second chances at The Friendly Spot , a converted gas station with more than 70 beers on tap. ( 1.5-hour drive from Austin )

In the late 1800s, Galveston was one of the country’s busiest ports, second only to New York City . Bishop’s Palace , a Victorian mansion, which has been recognized nationally for its architecture, serves as a monument to that prosperous time and is worth a look inside. Another stunner, the century-old Hotel Galvez & Spa , boasts a saltwater pool, swim-up bar, and easy access to 30-plus miles of sand. When it’s time for dinner, the shellfish tower at Gaido’s full of oysters, gulf shrimp and Texas blue crab, can’t be beat. (About a 1-hour drive from Houston )

The official population of Round Top is 90, but twice a year, Round Top Antique Days brings thousands to town, including the likes of Joanna Gaines and Matthew McConaughey. That said, you can search for one-of-a-kind finds year-round (a stop at Junk Gypsy is a must), and dreamy accommodations like Rancho Pillow are easier to nab once the crowds during Antique Days dissipate. (About a 1.5 hour drive from Houston )

Corpus Christi

Taking the scenic route to Corpus Christ from Houston along State Highway 35 adds half an hour to your travel time, but the coastal views are worth it. Upon arrival, check in to the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel and make a reservation for a surf-and-turf feast at the upstairs steakhouse overlooking the bay. Two blocks over in an old Greyhound station, BUS serves tropical tipples that taste even better after a day of sea kayaking with a rental from Wind & Wave Watersports . (About a 3.5-hour drive from Houston )

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• 11 Best Small Towns In Texas For A Weekend Escape

The US state of Texas is home to many wonderful small towns-set in the vicinity of big cities. Brimming with Southern hospitality, comfort food, and influences from Mexico, one will get an authentic Texan experience during a weekend getaway.

The "Cowboy Capital of the World" marks the place of the last cattle drives in the late 1800s in Texas. Today, people visit Bandera for the dude ranches to live like a cowboy for a day. The  Dixie Dude Ranch  is best for family-oriented fun, including riding lessons, hunting for fossils and arrowheads, as well as marshmallow-roasting by a campfire to a sing-along, and enjoying a cowboy breakfast on the range. The  Silver Spur Ranch  is great for stargazing, while the  Mayan Dude Ranch  offers animal interactions, trail rides, and dancing lessons. Aside from the art of cow-handling, one can explore over 5,000 acres of the Hill Country State Natural Area, as well as kayak along the Medina River. The thought-provoking Frontier Times Museum teaches about history through odd-curiosity tales and artifacts. The  11th Street CowboyBar , known as "the biggest little bar in Texas," brings everyone together for some good ol' foot-stompin', great grub, and drinks.

Dripping Springs

Just a quick drive from Austin, Dripping Springs is a wonderful weekend getaway from the hustle and fumes of the city into a calm natural world. Many also come to the known town-mecca of spirits, tastings, and distilleries for even more relaxation.  The Dripping Springs Vodka  produces small batches of vodka and gin, while the  Treaty Oak Distilling  is heaven for whiskey lovers. The  Frog Pond Distillery  comes with a porch to sip on a gin or vodka cocktail with a view of Hill County. The  Texas Hill Country Olive Co.  is a great place for a day worth of family-friendly fun, such as orchard and olive mill tours, souvenir shopping, and olive oil tastings. The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural wonder formed over thousands of years through water erosion, with a collapsed grotto, canyons, and a 50-foot waterfall. Back in town, one will find plenty of boutique shopping, live music entertainment, and eating establishments to suit any taste.

Fredericksburg

Established in 1846 by Baron Otfried Hans Freiherr von Meusebach from Germany and settled by German immigrants, Fredericksburg is a real treasure cove for the cultured. Among the 700-some historic structures lining the marvel-worthy streets, there are churches, the White Elephant Saloon landmark, and the grand Nimitz Hotel. Erected in 1852 by Charles Henry Nimitz to resemble a steamboat, it is now home to the National Museum of the Pacific War. The 3.5-acre Pioneer Museum houses artifacts from the first German settlers, while Fort Martin Scott is the first of its kind on the state's western frontier. After perusing the town full of shops, one can head to the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site on the outskirts or the town of Luckenbach from Willie Nelson song, 13 miles to the south. 

Set 40 miles south of Austin , Gruene , pronounced as "Green," is a state-designated historical town for a real weekend getaway into the past. Set in glorious history, the Gruene Mansion Inn was formerly resided by the town's founder, while the Gruene Hall is the state's oldest dance hall that hosted Willie Nelson and George Strait. Along with countless shops, boutiques, and eateries behind the old building facades, one is likely to run into vendors selling homemade crafts and antiques during the Gruene Market Days, every third weekend of each month from February to November. The Guadalupe River is great for tubing, while the nearby town of New Braunfels comes with Canyon Lake for more water fun. A trip to Gruene would not be complete without paying a visit to one of the many wineries and the wondrous Natural Bridge Caverns in the vicinity.

Jefferson comes brimming with cool antique treasures, including tons of shops and over 70 historic landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places. There are also allegedly-haunted buildings, including two hotels, with the  Excelsior House Hotel  inviting guests for a real eye-opening experience. While eye-feasting on the churches and other sites, one must check out the notable Jefferson Carnegie Library, funded by the American industrialist and steel magnate Andrew Carnegie. The gorgeous magnolia tree near the Jefferson Historical Society Museum was planted as a seedling by the former first lady, Lady Bird Johnson. She got it from a tree on the White House lawn, which was planted when President Andrew Jackson was in office. One can stock up on some old-fashioned candy or down a root beer float at the  Jefferson General Store  (the 1860s) before heading to paddle through the bayous at the Caddo Lake State Park, 20 minutes away. 

Set at the border with Mexico on the banks of the Rio Grande River , the town is steeped with traditions and culture from the neighboring country. Comprising a rich historical past, Laredo belonged to France , Spain , and Mexico, as well as existed independently for a few months under the Republic of the Rio Grande in 1840. Today Laredo is home to many people of two nationalities, offering peace and respite in the small-town atmosphere, along with an easy commute to work. Collaborations with local artists, restaurant owners, and community leaders highlight the rifle Mexican culture through interesting attractions and a great food scene. One must catch the CaminArte art walk first Friday of each month in the downtown core for the extraordinary presentations of Mexican history and present-day influence through visual and performance art.

Port Aransas

A dream come true for the beach-goers, the small town is home to 18 miles of sands bounding waters. Set on Mustang Island off the Gulf Coast , anglers flee to the locale for great game fishing ops from the surf and the fishing pier. There are also off-shore excursions for scenic catching, as well as a summertime fishing tournament. Aside from surfing, kayaking, and kite-boarding, one can partake in real boat construction with the Farley Boat Works. Nature lovers will rejoice in bird-watching for the hundreds of species in the area along the six sites of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Known for a thriving art scene, there are countless studios and galleries to see works and in-process creations, while the Port Aransas Art Center and the Port Aransas Community Theater offer a deeper look into the area's talent. The lively water-bound nightlife includes regular live performances at numerous bars and restaurants.

The tiny town is an antiquing paradise between Austin and Houston for a weekend getaway into a whole other atmosphere. People come to the Henkel Square Market in the historic district to mingle, and people watching while browsing for a unique household item or a souvenir. The marvelous historic buildings from the mid-1800s house various shops selling jewelry, clothing, and beautiful artwork. For a quick bite, the  Royers Pie Haven  serves some of the state's top pies, including the sinfully-good "Texas Trash." Rummel Square comes with more places to shop, dine, and see art, along with the  Round Top Area Historical Society . The Shakespeare at Winedale is a definite place "to be" for the regular Shakespearean plays during spring and summer, while the biannual epic antique fair is scheduled for the last week of October this year.

Shady Villa Hotel in Salado, Texas. Image Credit: Billy Hathorn via Wikimedia Commons

A definite must-stop on a road-trip north of Austin, Salado is a small town full of artists and artisans, countless boutiques, and galleries. Set as a rustic, quiet park at the north end of Main Street, the sculpture garden is great for relaxing and wandering among some 30 large sculptures by renowned artists. The picture-worthy stone remains of the once prominent Salado College are housed at the other end of the street, with a plethora of shops and cafés in-between. To stay, there's the wonderfully-renovated Shady Villa Hotel from 1861 and the historically-listed  Salado bed and breakfast , known for homemade brekky foods. To partake in the local culture, one can take a "Blow Your Own" class at the  Salado Glassworks  or visit the  Chupacabra Craft Beer  for the 60 Texas craft beers and live music. The town straddles Salado Creek to offer outdoors from the doorstep, while the Good Water Trail runs for 26 miles around the nearby Lake Georgetown.

Set less than an hour away from Austin and San Antonio; the water-bound college town is home to Texas State University and full of unique experiences. One can watch the Unicycle Football game during the season, where players balance on one-wheeled bikes or take the quintessential outdoor tour in a glowing, glass-bottomed kayak. The town is especially delightful to visit during summer for the long-ringing youthful vibe and student-geared attractions without the influx of the crowd. One can also kayak or inner-tube at their own pace down the lazy San Marcos river, go for a swim, or bask on the banks in the remaining rays of the summer's sun. Renowned for the huge and varied music scene, one will find many venues with nightly performances of everything from country to indie punk.

One of Texas's most scenic roads winding along the edge of Big Bend Ranch State Park leads into the Terlingua ghost town. The lack of connection in-town aids in seclusion to get away from everything and everyone for the weekend. Those who romanticize "nature in the raw" will find themselves in a weekend getaway like no other, with the complementing  Posada Milagro  guesthouses offering a unique stay. Located on a hillside, one will have un-obscured views of the Big Bend and Mexico mountains, while the premises come with large stone showers, an outdoor kitchen, and a great patio for stargazing. The on-site  Espresso Y Poco Mas  is frequented by the locals for Wi-Fi, as well as superb homemade breakfast and lunch. For dinner, there's the  Starlite Theatre Restaurant  from the 1930s, built for employees of the old Chisos Mining company, who eventually abandoned the town. One can order a prickly pear margarita and an antelope burger to the accompaniment of live music on the porch and breathtaking views of the hovering dark mountains upon sunset.

These small towns come with big-time attractions, authentic vibes, and unique experiences for one unforgettable weekend in Texas. With the great outdoors at the doorstep, one will be able to escape into the mountains, and national parks for recreation, in a heartbeat.

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42 Best Places to Visit in Texas Now

Welcome to our ultimate guide of the best places to visit in Texas!

From the Gulf Coast beaches in the east to the western desert region, Texas promises a bucket load of fun to its visitors.

The Lone Star State is simply huge – did you know it is the second largest in the country – and has a mind-numbing diversity of landscapes as well as attractions for visitors! 

Also Read: 18 Incredibly romantic Texas honeymoon ideas

Texas also has a rich and vivid history as well as many cultural attractions.

Beautiful waterfalls , spectacular city skylines, urban parks, stunning natural areas, as well as pretty beaches, Texas has it all!

Here are our top favorite places to visit in Texas, all worth adding to your bucket list!

Also Read: 20+ Best Spots to Watch 2024 Solar Eclipse in Texas

Best Places to Visit in Texas

From the cities of San Antonio and Houston to small towns of Fredericksburg and Rockport

…from historic attractions such as the Alamo and Texas State Capitol to beautiful natural areas such as Big Bend National Park and Padre Island on the Gulf Coast,

Here are some of the most amazing and incredible places to visit in Texas!

Also Read: Best Weekend Getaways in Texas for 2022

Best Places to Visit in Texas 2024

San Antonio

San Antonio is a must for everyone visiting the Lone Star State.

The city is home to some of the most visited attractions, including the historic Mission Alamo, the architectural marvel of San Antonio River Walk, and El Mercado or Historic Market Square.

The Alamo, a Spanish frontier mission, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was here that the iconic Battle of the Alamo which gave momentum to the Texas Revolution took place.

Another must-visit is the beautiful 15-mile long San Antonio Riverwalk and its many attractions .

It offers a relaxed and romantic atmosphere and an abundance of great restaurants, eateries, and shops.

It can be explored on foot or by bike. 

Vibrant and bustling Austin is amongst the best cities in Texas for a number of reasons.

It is the state capital and home to the Texas State Capitol building.

Austin is known for its food scene, beautiful parks and lakes, and world-class museums.

Austin is also known as the live music capital of the world and hosts a variety of music festivals, concerts and performances throughout the year.

The Texas Capitol Building in downtown Austin can be seen on guided tours and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

It has beautiful Italian Renaissance style architecture and is made from pink granite found in the Texas Hill Country.

Another popular Austin attraction is the Hamilton Pool Preserve.

Hamilton Pool Preserve features a 50-foot waterfall, and fern-covered cliff sides, as well as distinctive plants and birds.

Located in nearby Dripping Springs, this natural swimming hole is extremely popular during the hot summer months.

Austin’s Lady Bird lake is a great place to visit to admire the city skyline and enjoy kayaking or paddle boarding.

The famous bat flight from under the Richards Congress Avenue Bridge is also worth seeing in Austin.

Related: 5 Secret Camping Spots near Austin to see Total Solar Eclipse 2024

Big Bend National Park

Located right on the border with Mexico, Big Bend National Park is a unique spot for nature lovers.

This is one of our favorite national parks to visit in Texas.

The park has beautiful vistas of the Chisos mountains and the Chihuahua desert.

There are plenty of attractions in Big Bend National Park for visitors.

Stop by the visitor center to get more information regarding the hiking trails, purchase souvenirs, and get a park map.

Hike along the famous Rio Grande river and observe beautiful landscapes within the park from the scenic drive.

Big Bend National Park features diverse fauna and flora and is home to around 450 species of birds, as well as hares, roadrunners, mountain cougars, and bears. 

Other popular activities in the Big Bend National Park include camping, horseback riding, and kayaking the Santa Elena Canyon.

H-Town is, undoubtedly, one of the best cities to visit in Texas!

It is the largest city in Texas and home to famous attractions like the Space Center Houston and the Museum District.

H-Town prides itself for having some of the best barbecue in the state and a laid-back vibe that keeps visitors coming for more.

The Museum District in Downtown Houston is a hit with families and culture lovers.

It features several premier museums including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Contemporary Art, Children’s Museum, and more. 

The nearby Hermann Park is home to the Houston Zoo, the children’s train, Japanese garden, and green spaces.

The Johnson Space Center Houston is one of Texas’s top attractions and receives millions of visitors every year.

On a visit, you can walk inside a replica of America’s first space station, Skylab, or touch a rock from the moon.

It is great for those interested in space exploration and meeting astronauts.

San Jacinto Monument

The San Jacinto Monument in Texas stands as a towering symbol of Texan pride and a testament to a pivotal moment in history.

At 567 feet, it’s taller than the Washington Monument and offers panoramic views of Houston and the surrounding area.

The monument commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, where Texan forces, led by General Sam Houston, secured victory over Mexican forces, ultimately leading to Texas’ independence.

Inside the monument, the San Jacinto Museum of History showcases artifacts and exhibits, preserving the legacy of this critical event in Texas history and celebrating the state’s vibrant culture.

Padre Island National Seashore

Located a short drive from Corpus Christi, this beautiful undeveloped barrier island separates the Laguna Madre from the Gulf of Mexico.

The island is 70 miles long and the longest barrier island in the world. 

It is home to the National Park site of Padre Island National Seashore.

The park is a great place to experience the natural beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Enjoy clean sandy beaches or go for a swim in the ocean.

Camping on the beach, kayaking, fishing, windsurfing and biking on the sand are other popular activities in the park.

The park is a famous nesting site for Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles and on a visit during summer, you can participate in their famous rare sea turtles hatchling release program.

Galveston , located on the Texas coast near Houston, is the perfect family vacation destination.

There are plenty of things to do in Galveston for visitors.

Get an adrenaline rush at the Pleasure Pier, a beachfront amusement park at any time of the year.

Visit the Moody Gardens, a tourist complex with a botanical garden, huge glass pyramids, an aquarium and various species of animals.

Spend an afternoon at The Strand, a National Historic District packed with antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and wonderful architecture.

For those looking to catch some sun, Galveston offers 32 miles of beaches.

Galveston is also popular for water activities such as fishing, dolphin cruises, and kayaking.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg, located in the Texas Hill Country, is one of the best small towns in Texas.

It is charming and romantic and features a Main Street filled with historic buildings, boutiques, and restaurants.

Fredericksburg has a rich German heritage and was founded by German settlers in the 19th century.

Fredericksburg is home to several museums including the national museum of Pacific War, historic sites, and other attractions.

The nearby Enchanted Rock Natural State Area is popular for hiking, wildflowers, and bouldering.

Palo Duro Canyon

Looking for an amazing state park to visit in Texas? Head to Palo Duro!

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located near Amarillo in the Panhandle, is a beautiful place to visit in Texas.

Did you know – Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the US and famously known as the Grand Canyon of Texas.

The canyon is 120 miles long, up to 20 miles wide, and between 600 and 800-feet deep.

Visitors love the streaked bright red and brown rocky mountains and fascinating geological shapes such as the lighthouse formation.

The State Park Visitor Center has lots of interesting exhibits about the geology and the cultural history of the canyon as well as amazing views from the rim.

Visitors can explore the canyon in depth by hiking within the canyon or on the scenic drive that goes to the foot of the canyon.

The park offers a wide range of activities for outdoor lovers including wildlife watching, birding, nature photography, camping, stargazing, and mountain biking.

South Padre Island

The resort town of South Padre Island Is located on the southern Texas coast.

This is one of the best beach towns in Texas and offers a variety of attractions from dolphin cruises and sandcastle building lessons to amusement parks and beautiful beaches.

The city also has several fun things to do including short Boardwalk trails, souvenir shopping, sunset sails, horseback riding, and paragliding.

Because of its mild climate, South Padre Island is one of the best places in Texas to visit in winter.

Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District to experience the true spirit of Old Texas.

The Stockyards area features several buildings and streets built in the style of the Wild West.

You will find honky tonk halls with live music, rodeos on Fridays and Saturdays, barbecue, and stores selling western apparel.

However the highlight of the visit is the daily cattle drive.

Real cowboys with boots and hats lead the cattle drive in front of the Fort Worth Livestock Exchange Building.

The cattle drive is often followed by mock shootouts which are fun to watch for the whole family.

Mustang Island

Mustang Island State Park, located south of Port Aransas between San Jose Island and Padre Island, is one of the most visited state parks in Texas.

The park has over 5 miles of beautiful coastline and white sandy beaches.

It is an ideal location for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Simply relax on the sand with a book or go beach combing for shells and sand dollars.

Enjoy sunbathing, fishing, paddling, hiking, kayaking or bird watching – the opportunities at Mustang island are numerous.

Those interested in paddling can check out the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail.

Located 70 miles northwest of Houston, Brenham is a small German town that makes the perfect Texas getaway.

Every year, it attracts visitors for beautiful Texas bluebonnet displays as well as for Maifest, the annual festival that celebrates the German heritage of Brenham.

Other Brenham attractions include Blue Bell Creameries, historic Main Street, Fire Museum, and the Antique Rose Emporium. 

The Washington-on-the-Brazos National Historical Park is also located near Brenham.

It was here that the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed – hence the park is famously known as the birthplace of Texas.

The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is one of the best places to visit in north Texas.

Downtown Dallas is home to a variety of museums, parks, restaurants, and historic buildings.

The Sixth Floor Museum in Dealey Plaza is a must visit while in Dallas.

This museum is located in the Dallas County Administration Building and was formerly the site of the Texas School Book Depository.

It was from here that Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President John F Kennedy in 1963.

The museum is dedicated to events surrounding JFK’s death and his legacy.

Visitors can see detailed exhibits about the assassination as well as see the window from where he was shot. The museum also includes excellent information about JFK’s political contribution, his family, and news footage.

Some of the other popular tourist attractions in Dallas include the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Dallas Zoo, Reunion Tower, Dallas World Aquarium, The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, etc.

Texas Hill Country Wineries

The picturesque Texas Hill Country is a popular tourist destination in Texas.

It is a well known grape growing region in Texas and renowned for its wineries.

Several wineries and vineyards color the Hill Country landscape, and most produce high-quality wines that every wine lover can appreciate.

Many of the Texas Hill Country wineries are located in and around Fredericksburg.

Located between Fredericksburg and Stonewall, Becker Vineyards organizes events, tastings, and tours within the walls of its impressive stone reception hall.

Grape Creek Vineyards is one of the oldest producing vineyards in Texas.

Fall Creek Winery located near Driftwood is another great option to sample the Texas whites and reds.

The main street of Fredericksburg also has several tasting rooms; Wine Tours are also available from the city.

Garner State Park

Located in the Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park is a stunning natural oasis around the crystal clear Frio River.

Covering over 1,700 acres, this pristine park offers an array of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in the spring-fed waters.

The park’s highlight is the iconic Garner Dance Pavilion, hosting summer evening dances that have become a tradition for generations.

With abundant wildlife, stunning limestone cliffs, and opportunities for camping, garner State Park is the perfect escape for Texas families.

Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a charming island community.

It has an interesting variety of unique restaurants, shops, and hotels that cater to visitors.

One of the highlights of visiting Port Aransas is its pristine beaches.

Other activities available include kayaking, windsurfing, and fishing. You can easily find gear rentals here.

Some of the best beaches in Texas are located here including the IB Magee Beach Park.

Interested in history? Visit the Port Aransas Museum to learn about the past of this little beach town.  

Marfa is one of the most unique small cities in Texas.

The city has a number of historical attractions as well as art galleries and public art work.

The Marfa Prada, a unique art installation, makes a great road trip stop on the way to Big Bend.

One of the most iconic attractions in Marfa is the Marfa lights.

The cause of these lights appearing on the desert landscape is still unknown and numerous legends including Paranormal Activity is associated with them.

Head to the Marfa Lights observation area just outside the city to see the view for yourself.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a good combination of the sun, the beach, and the city.

It is full of activities for different types of travelers.

Observe the marine world at the Texas State Aquarium or visit the Selena Memorial and listen to iconic songs by the famous musician.

Go to the Selena Museum if you want to learn more about this important figure and her role in Texan culture. 

Head to the North Beach near the Harbor Bridge to catch some sun or swim in the water on a hot summer day.

Or, take a tour at the USS Lexington museum ship that was operational in World War II.

This former aircraft carrier ship is a National Historic Landmark and has been converted into a naval museum.

On a self-guided tour, you can see various military artifacts, aircrafts, exhibits, or even try the flight simulator. 

Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake is a beautiful Lake located on the Texas Louisiana border in the Piney Woods Region.

It is one of our favorite places to visit in East Texas.

Here you will find several acres of cypress swamps.

The bald cypress trees are draped in Spanish moss while Lotus, lily pads, and reeds grow in the lake.

The Caddo Lake State Park, located on the lakeshore, is great for hiking, camping, and kayaking.

Visitors especially enjoy observing wildlife watching, birding, and spectacular fall colors at Caddo Lake state park.

Read our post on Best Things to do in Caddo Lake State Park for more details.

San Jose Island

Come to San Jose Island if you are looking for something more remote and wild.

A great place to escape the noise of the city and wind down, read a book, collect seashells, and take in the scenery – it is recommended for those looking to have a quiet afternoon!

Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock, located in the Enchanted Rock State Park north of Crabapple, is one of the largest natural rock formations in the whole country, rising 425 feet above the ground.

Climb the rock for spectacular views and rocky outcrops, just don’t forget to bring water.

The climb is a little challenging, but definitely worth it!

Within the park, there are various other trails and places to rock climb.

Other activities include camping, picnics, observing wildlife, geocaching, stargazing and taking photos of the beautiful landscape.

The park also offers ranger programs, which is great if you want to understand more about the creation of formations and wildlife.

Being a border town in the Wild West, El Paso combines Mexican flavors with historic architecture and a unique Texas atmosphere.

Visit the iconic Plaza Theater in the Downtown Historic District or venture on the El Paso Mission Trail to admire the colonial buildings.

Soak in some culture at the Museum of Art, roam through the Mexican Markets, and enjoy the cuisine in El Paso.

Explore El Segundo Barrio, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.

Here you will find beautiful street murals revealing the town’s Hispanic heritage. 

El Paso has a number of tourist attractions and makes a perfect stop on the west Texas road trip.

Boca Chica State Park

Boca Chica State Park near Brownsville encompasses the Boca Chica beach as well as the SpaceX launch site, 22 miles east of Brownsville.

The facility is pretty impressive that all the spacecraft lovers will appreciate.

The Boca Chica beach is relatively remote and less crowded than the South Padre Beach.

This means fewer services being offered, but it is perfect for things like fishing, birdwatching, strolling along the beach, and building sandcastles, or kiting.

There aren’t many amenities, so prepare well if you do decide to spend an afternoon here by bringing enough water and snacks.

Although not very popular among campers, there is an opportunity to camp here if you wish.

The city of Waco is located on the banks of the Brazos River in Central Texas.

Waco has plenty of attractions for families and makes a great spring break destination in Texas.

At the Waco Mammoth National Monument , visitors can see the fossilized remains of Ice Age Columbian mammoths.

Cameron Park Zoo is great to see a variety of animals while the Waco River walk mix what a pleasant stroll.

The well-known Magnolia Market Waco Silos of HGTV’s Fixer Upper fame is also located here.

The Dr. Pepper Museum in downtown is a great place to learn about Texas’ iconic soda.

Visit art galleries, boutiques, or restaurants in Waco Downtown Cultural District or spend a day on the water at Lake Waco.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located around 35 miles west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is where travelers can find some of the best natural views in the area.

Swim in the river, hike Twins Fall Nature Trail, or the more challenging Wolf Mountain Trail.

There are options for kayaking and tubing the river too.

Campsites with the necessary amenities are great for those who want to spend more time here.

Ranger Programs are available.

Between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington, a loud and lively city that attracts many adventure seekers for the variety of exciting activities it has to offer.

Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor water park, the home of the Dallas Cowboys, Arlington Stadium, and Theatre Arlington are some of the best things to do in Arlington .

After a hectic day, head to lake Arlington or River Legacy Park to wind down before continuing your trip.

If you are looking to have some fun, Arlington is not the one to skip!

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a prime example of what a Permian-era fossil reef is.

It is famous for great hiking and backpack possibilities and for being one of the most unspoiled wilderness locations in the United States.

Around 80 miles of trails, winding through the desert-like areas, displaying some beautiful plants, the mountains, and riverside oases won’t disappoint any type of hiker.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in Pine Springs, northern Culberson County, is also home to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak.

Gorman Falls

Amazed by the falls and would love to see some more?

Visit Gorman Falls in Colorado Bend State Park, one of the most beautiful and popular state parks in Texas.

You can explore the 65 feet falls on a 1.4-mile guided walk, or choose the 2.6-mile hike to reach the same destination.

In the nearby lake you can go boating, kayaking and swimming.

Campsites are available in the park and dogs are welcome too.

Groups can book tours of the falls to learn more about them.  

Jacob’s Well

Jacob’s well is located in an 81-acre natural area near Wimberley.

Surrounded by limestone cliffs, this artesian spring always remains the same temperature at 68°F.

It is about 140 feet deep, which just adds to its mysterious vibe and look.

People are welcome to take a dip inside this natural wonder, just keep in mind that the swimming season is between May 1 and September 30.

The bravest visitors can go diving and cliff jumping.

The water is crystal clear, so you may want to bring a snorkel or water-proof camera for some underwater views. 

Natural Bridge Caverns

The largest known caverns that are open for visitors!

Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered by four college students and since then have become one of the most important tourist attractions in Texas.

On a tour of the caverns, visitors can see stunning geological rock formations including stalactites and stalagmites.

Gruene Historic District

Gruene , located about an hour away from Austin in New Braunfels by the Guadalupe River is a legacy of the first German settlers in the area

They relied on cotton production which fueled the growth of the region and brought it to life.

It is a sweet little place to visit, wander through various boutiques, antique stores, and bars in some old buildings that still preserve that old Texas charm.

Gruene Hall, the oldest working dance hall in Texas, is a must visit.

This authentic venue has contributed a great deal to Texas’ music scene and continues to do so, featuring some of the best live shows in the country.

Located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo attracts visitors for its art deco buildings together with hints of Old Texas throughout the town, amazing beer, and great food scene.

For those brave enough, the Big Texan Steak Ranch offers the famous 72-ounce Steak Challenge, which has been around for almost 60 years.

After filling that tummy, drive the historic Route 66 and visit the famous Cadillac Ranch .

This art installation is situated along the south of I-40 between exits 60 and 62.

Visitors are welcome to spray graffiti paint on one of the half-buried Cadillacs in the middle of farmland.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

A short drive northwest of Glen Rose , you will find the Dinosaur Valley State Park.

This park features million-year-old dinosaur footprints at the bottom of the Paluxy River.

Other popular activities include various hiking and biking trails, as well as an area for horseback riding surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

There are campsites and also picnic areas available.

Lake Travis

The 4.5 miles wide Lake Travis, one of the lakes on the Colorado River in central Texas is a piece of paradise for travelers of all ages.

The lake spans over 18,929 acres and attracts many visitors throughout the year.

There is more to do here than you can think of: parks, lodging, boat rentals, zip lining, waterparks, live music events, breweries, and even vineyards, all located around this beautiful lake.

Abilene 

Abilene is a small city 185 miles west of Dallas which was designated as the official Storybook Capital of Texas in 2015.

As well as having the biggest collection of storybook sculptures in the country, Abilene hosts various literary events, including the West Texas Book Festival and the Children’s Art & Literacy Festival.

For those who are not fans of conventional museums, we recommend visiting Frontier Texas – an interactive exhibition that teaches visitors about the history of Texas in a modern way. 

Abilene also has excellent restaurants , boutique stores, and other attractions for visitors.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

The beuatiful Monahans Sandhills State Park covers an area of over 3,840 acres in the West Texas desert.

It is covered with sand dunes and allows visitors to explore the unique landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Sand surf, observe the unique flora and fauna that can only be seen here, take photos, and finally, watch as the sun disappears in the horizon.

Chances are you will want to do it again!

There is a campsite in the park, so visitors are welcome to stay overnight.

It is also a great opportunity for stargazing.

Terlingua Ghost Town

Looking for some mystery?

The ghost town of Terlingua will give you just that.

Once a bustling community, now it is just a few buildings and ruins that echo the village’s history in the Chihuahuan Desert.

See the ruins of the Chisos Mining Company, visit the St. Agnes Church, as well as the cemetery dating from the early 1900s.  

Port Isabel

Port Isabel , located at the southern tip of Texas, is a small coastal town.

It is best known for the Port Isabel Lighthouse – the only lighthouse open for the public in Texas.

Climb the stairs for a great view of South Padre Island.

Take in some history at the Port Isabel Historical Museum or go fishing at the Pirates Landing Fishing Pier.

Participate in Texas International Fishing Tournament, go on a dolphin cruise, or explore the sea on the Black Dragon ship surrounded by the pirates who love making jokes!

Rusk Palestine Railroad

Take a break from driving in a car and explore the East Texas forests on the Texas State Railroad.

Live a moment in history as you ride a 1896 steam train from Rusk to Palestine via the Piney Woods Route.

The round-trip journey is about 3 hours, 25 miles each way.

Rusk and Palestine are quiet historic towns featuring Victorian architecture, unique boutiques and shopping, as well as cafes!

Each town has a depot featuring information about the locomotives and the history of the town, as well as gift shops.

During the holiday season, you can also ride the Christmas train in Palestine .

Adrian 

Adrian is located at 1139 miles of Route 66

It marks the midpoint of this historic route, meaning there are 1,139 miles left to go to reach Santa Monica, California!

Like the Cadillac Ranch, the Midpoint is also a great place to take photos.

There is also a Midpoint Cafe, a small decorated café, where you can grab a snack before continuing the trip.

A lot of Route 66-themed merchandise and postcards are available in a store near the café.

Bolivar Peninsula

Bolivar Peninsula, located northeast of Galveston, stretches 27 miles along the Gulf of Mexico.

As a result, it attracts a large number of visitors to its huge sandy beaches and many beach activities.

Bolivar Peninsula also has many attractions available for the whole family.

It encompasses a number of communities including Gilchrist, Port Bolivar, Crystal Beach, and High Island.

Some of the most popular activities to do on the beach are swimming, surfing, birdwatching, kiting, and also fishing.

Other attractions include Fort Travis, the Bolivar Lighthouse, shops and restaurants, live music, and other events. 

We hope you liked our post on the best places to visit in Texas. Did we miss out on any popular Texas attractions? Let us know in the comments.

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4 thoughts on “42 Best Places to Visit in Texas Now”

Love you Texas…( Miss you too ).

You missed Hico TX a beautiful historic town

Rockport, TX. The only Blue Wave Beach in TX n the best birding place. The BIG tree, great fishing, the aquarium and a cute little artsy town. Not far is the Aransas Wildlife Refuge.

Great content! Keep up the good work!

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20 most romantic getaways in texas.

From city to spa, find the perfect couples retreat in the Lone Star State.

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Courtesy of Skybox Cabins

Skybox Cabins' unique treehouse residences are just one idyllic option for a romantic getaway in Texas.

Texas offers something for every duo, whether you want to reconnect over dinner in a chic city restaurant or disconnect from the rest of the world in a remote cabin. To help you and your partner choose a romantic getaway in Texas, we've highlighted some of the best big cities, quiet locales and luxurious hotels throughout the Lone Star State. Pack your bags and grab your honey; it's time to take a much-needed break together.

The Most Romantic Getaways in Texas

• Sinya at Lone Man Creek
• Skybox Cabins
• Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District
• BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch
• Sage Hill Inn & Spa

San Antonio

• Mokara Hotel & Spa

Fredericksburg

• The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge

Dripping Springs

• Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Corpus christi, new braunfels.

• The Tremont House

Marble Falls

Sinya at lone man creek: wimberley.

Courtesy of Sinya on Lone Man Creek

It doesn't get much more romantic than Sinya at Lone Man Creek. One of the best places for glamping in Texas , this secluded property accommodates just one duo at a time. Inside the glamping accommodations, couples will find luxurious amenities including a king-sized bed with a goose-down comforter and pillows, a clawfoot tub, Turkish cotton towels, spa bathrobes, and a kitchenette with a Nespresso coffee maker. Outside, you can sway in a hammock, traverse a rock path to a waterfall, soak in a hot tub beneath the stars and more.

For the ultimate romantic escape, book the all-inclusive Sinya Exclusive Couples Retreat, which includes two nights' accommodations; a 90-minute massage for you and your partner; a 90-minute bonding session with a therapist; and three farm-to-table meals.

Sinya at Lone Man Creek is located in Texas Hill Country, which means that when (or if) you decide to leave your lodging, you can visit local wineries , breweries and distilleries among more stunning scenery. The Square in Wimberley is also worth a visit, with two glass studios, art galleries, restaurants and shops.

Address: 428 Deer Lake Estates, Wimberley, TX 78676

Skybox Cabins: Glen Rose

Skybox Cabins offers an ideal retreat for you and your special someone, and previous guests praise the cabins' location and views. The cabins are nestled in a forest within a 50-acre property in Glen Rose, which sits about 55 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Along with the enchanting setting, Skybox Cabins does not permit guests younger than 18 in an effort to preserve a relaxing environment for its lodgers.

Couples can select one of five residences for their stay. Four of the accommodations are cabins, each with their own unique design and theme. No matter which you choose, you'll find comfortable beds, interior and exterior seating, and kitchenettes. The other option, a glamping experience, provides slightly more rustic amenities in a bell tent; you'll still enjoy modern conveniences like air conditioning, heat and electricity, with showers and a kitchenette provided in a detached building.

From Skybox, you can drive less than 10 miles to Glen Rose's town center and walk its streets to see historic buildings and a few museums, such as Barnard's Mill and Art Museum. For a special treat, arrange for a private tour of the museum on a weekday. Looking to stay more active? Head to Dinosaur Valley State Park to literally walk in a dinosaur's footsteps, take a hike or attend a ranger event like a "Star Party." If you and your partner would rather spend a day on the water, visit Wheeler Branch Reservoir and its neighboring park for fishing or kayaking.

Address: 1767 County Road 1011, Glen Rose, TX 76043

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The self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World" has more than 250 venues that offer every kind of music, from country to blues to jazz. After spending your evenings listening to music and dancing the night away, stroll hand in hand through Zilker Metropolitan Park's botanical garden or take a swim in the 3-acre Barton Springs Pool. Partners who wish to learn more about Texas history will enjoy perusing the exhibits at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Austin is also a dream for foodies. For a special evening, try Lenoir, which sources its food from local producers and has an ever-changing seasonal menu; Olamaie, a Southern-inspired restaurant; or Jeffrey's, which serves a number of seafood and steak options. Take time to peruse the city's craft beer scene by sampling a pint or two from Lazarus Brewing Company or taking a short drive out to Vista Brewing for a side of ranch views with your draught. If you're short on time, take advantage of an Austin food tour or brewery tour with expertise from a local.

Where to stay: One of the best hotels in Austin , The Driskill is a longtime favorite thanks to its incomparable service and luxurious accommodations. It's also an architecturally beautiful and historic property, so even if you don't stay here, it's a must-see in Austin.

Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District: Houston

Courtesy of Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District

While Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District offers traditional guest rooms with crisp white linens and dark furnishings, the main draw to this hotel, especially for couples, is its suites. The Magnificent Seven Suites are massive – they range from roughly 900 to 2,200 square feet – and each is decorated in its own style, such as the Italy-inspired Bella Vita. Then there are the unique Concept Suites, each of which has a different offbeat theme. Take to the stars by staying in the space-themed Houston We Have a Problem suite, or revisit Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant's romance in the An Affair to Remember suite. Though previous visitors admit the suites can seem a little kitschy, they rave about the well-appointed, comfortable rooms.

Outside your digs, you'll find even more of the hotel's signature style. The ZaSpa seeks to give transformative treatments that will leave you and your partner feeling rejuvenated. Its Romance Ritual includes a foot soak, a salt scrub, a body wrap, and scalp and body massages for both you and your honey. After you've been pampered, relax by the pool before dining on the terrace at Monarch Restaurant & Lounge. Be sure to wander the hotel before checkout to peruse its unique collection of art sourced from creators all over the world.

What's more, there are a bevy of local attractions for you and your partner to explore just outside the hotel's door. Houston's hip Museum District surrounds the property, and Hermann Park is situated across the street. When you're ready to explore the local food scene, sign up for a Houston food tour to get acquainted with the city's best offerings. You'll also want to save one day of your Houston itinerary for a day trip south to Galveston , where beachfront strolls await.

Address: 5701 Main St., Houston, TX 77005

Big Bend is every outdoors-loving couple's dream. Located in West Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, the area boasts more than 1 million acres of protected land across both Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park. No matter which park you explore, you'll be treated to magnificent scenery at every turn. Mountains and cliffs rise above the Chihuahuan Desert landscape, while the Rio Grande winds through numerous canyons.

At the state park, there are nearly 250 miles of trails where you and your partner can hike, bike and see who can spot the most wildlife. More than 300 different species of birds frequent the park, and a variety of other animals like kangaroo rats, coyotes and bats (16 species!) reside here. At the national park, fill up your gas tank and hop on the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which passes the park's famed geologic features, including Tuff Canyon and Santa Elena Canyon. If you'd rather see the rock formations up close, schedule a tour via kayak or raft on the Rio Grande. Meanwhile, nature lovers will enjoy the Dagger Flat Auto Trail, a dirt road that winds through a forest of giant dagger yucca plants.

Be sure to stick around Big Bend after the sun sets. Both parks are International Dark Sky Parks , meaning there is little light pollution to interfere with your stargazing. Each night of your stay can involve you and your better half relaxing beneath the blanket of stars. Additionally, you'll want to make time to visit Terlingua. Once a town that the Chisos Mining Company called home, Terlingua is now a ghost town where you can explore the gravesites of miners and find a few spots for refreshments, if you so require.

Where to stay: You and your sweetie will have plenty of lodging options. Both parks offer primitive campsites, ideal for enjoying your getaway basking in the glow of a campfire outside your tent. If you'd rather not rough it, you can find numerous vacation rentals in the area or head to Lajitas Golf Resort. Nestled at the base of Big Bend Ranch State Park, Lajitas offers cozy Western-inspired accommodations, as well as a golf course and zip line tours.

BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch: Cat Spring

Courtesy of Jumping Rocks

BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch offers impeccable amenities and service that make it easy to connect or celebrate an anniversary. The property is located on Lehmann Legacy Ranch and sprawls across 350 acres. You're welcome to enjoy all the ranch has to offer, including trails for walking, hiking and biking; beautiful lakes; and abundant wildlife spanning horses and cattle to deer and bison. This tranquility can be found approximately 65 miles west of Houston.

Each lodging option is a private cabin or home with features to make your stay extra special. The Mystic Woods Cabin is just big enough for two and includes romantic touches like an electric fireplace, a jetted bathtub and a private outdoor hot tub. The Sunset Pond Cabin comes equipped with a fully stocked kitchen in case you want to cook for your sweetheart; it also offers a private fire pit, a hot tub and its own fishing pond – where you can cast a line for free.

If you can manage to pull yourselves away from your cozy accommodations, a plethora of activities await adventurous twosomes   on the ranch. Try your hand at knife or ax throwing, fishing, archery, or trapshooting. As you may expect, the ranch also has horses available for leisurely guided rides. (Note: Activities may require an additional fee.) BlissWood can also create a picnic for you and your partner to enjoy at your cabin or in the ranch's gazebo. For an indulgent experience, spring for one of the property's romance packages: Options include everything from guided horseback rides to couples massages to photography sessions.

Address: 13597 Frantz Road, Cat Spring, TX 78933

Sage Hill Inn & Spa: Kyle

Courtesy of Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Romantic sunsets at this property do not disappoint, with pretty views from rooms as well as the Sage Hill Inn & Spa's main porch. After watching the sunset, linger outside for a bit longer to stargaze.

The property sits atop 88 acres of land along Onion Creek in Kyle, about 25 miles southwest of Austin. You and your sweetheart can explore the area along the miles of hiking and biking trails. You'll see plenty of flora and fauna along your walks, including bluebonnets, lilies, blackbuck antelopes, birds and armadillos. One of the trails leads to an overlook from which you'll discover stunning views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Sage Hill provides guests with access to a pool and a hot tub, spa services like couples massages, corn hole, and a bocce court. If you and your sweetie are pickleball enthusiasts, try one of the many events or packages centered around the game at this property.

Accommodations are a mix of individual rooms, suites and stand-alone cottages, all equipped with amenities such as a fireplace and sitting area. When mealtime rolls around, there's little need to leave the property: Room rates include daily continental breakfast and a three-course dinner every night. Sage Hill sources its ingredients from local purveyors as much as possible – it even gets vegetables from its own garden – so you and your partner are guaranteed to enjoy a fresh meal.

Address: 4444 FM150 W., Kyle, TX 78640

Whether you're seeking a cheap weekend getaway or a more extensive vacation, you'll have plenty of options for daytime outings and date nights in San Antonio; the trouble will be narrowing down the list of things to do . Nature enthusiasts can enjoy an early lunch (or weekend brunch) at Jardín, the restaurant inside the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Once you've both satiated your appetites, spend the rest of the day below ground in the enchanting Natural Bridge Caverns or strolling through beloved Brackenridge Park. Food-loving duos should swing by the Pearl district, which has a burgeoning dining scene, as well as several bars and shops to check out. Those who arrive on a weekend morning should also save time for exploring the district's farmers and artisan markets.

No matter how you and your partner pass the time during the day, you should reserve at least one night for walking through downtown. San Antonio's famous River Walk, the Alamo and the San Fernando Cathedral are aglow each evening, making for a truly memorable romantic stroll.

Where to stay: San Antonio's accommodations are much like its attractions: diverse and able to suit any taste. The award-winning Hotel Emma houses cozy rooms with dark wood furniture, Frette linens, and windows overlooking the cityscape or the river. If you want something with a bit more Texan flair, consider the Omni La Mansión del Rio . This hotel on the banks of the River Walk sits within a historic Spanish colonial building.

Mokara Hotel & Spa: San Antonio

Courtesy of Mokara Hotel & Spa

Located on the banks of San Antonio's famous River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa demands its own visit to the city. Rooms feature romantic touches like large windows and four-poster beds made of wrought iron. In every bathroom, you'll discover a tub big enough for both you and your partner, as well as luxurious Gilchrist & Soames bath products. Upgrade to a room with a balcony for a private place to enjoy the bustle of the River Walk without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

Though the River Walk has bountiful dining options, enjoy at least one of your meals at the on-site Ostra, a AAA Four Diamond restaurant. Sip on a glass of fine wine while you savor a scrumptious seafood dinner. Alternatively, try Four Brothers for Southern foods with Latin and French flair; it also serves breakfast. If you opt to have dinner away from the hotel, stop by Mokara's Rooftop Café for pre-dinner cocktails and appetizers.

The property's Mokara Spa offers "Together" massages for couples, tailored to your individual needs, as well as host of other treatments (including facials, nail treatments and body treatments) so you and your honey can feel your best. Complement your stay at Mokara with a guided tour of San Antonio 's historical attractions or its neighboring wine country. Alternatively, get your adrenaline pumping on the rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas .

Address: 212 W. Crockett St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Located roughly 70 miles northwest of San Antonio and about 80 miles west of Austin, Fredericksburg is a gem in the Texas Hill Country. More than 50 wineries can be found within the city itself and in the surrounding county. You and your honey can start your trip downtown: You'll find several wineries and tasting rooms spread along Main Street. Tempranillos, merlots, viogniers and roses are just a few of the tantalizing varietals you can sample.

To explore some of the surrounding area's wineries without having to drive yourself, try a guided wine tour to spend the day with a knowledgeable local or purchase a pass for the 290 Wine Shuttle. The shuttle ferries visitors to local Texas wineries, including Fat Ass Ranch & Winery, Grape Creek Vineyards (which has a downtown location as well) and Messina Hof Hill Country Winery. Travelers also recommend visiting William Chris Vineyards for its delicious wines and beautiful scenery.

Save room in your itinerary for Fredericksburg's other pursuits. History-loving twosomes will enjoy visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War or the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which is located in nearby Stonewall. There's also the dreamy Enchanted Rock State Natural Area just north of Fredericksburg. Tonkawa tribe legends tell of the pink granite dome's power and warn of spirits that haunt the rock. Hikers say the journey to the top of this magical place is difficult but worth the effort.

Where to stay: When you're ready to turn in, you'll have plenty of inns, hotels, vacation rentals and bed-and-breakfast accommodations to choose from. Hoffman Haus wins rave reviews for its comfortable rooms, suites and stand-alone houses, as well as its delicious breakfasts. For an adults-only escape, consider the Swiss Log Cabins at Barons CreekSide, which feature fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs big enough for two.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge: Granbury

B Family Films | Courtesy of The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge

Situated about 40 miles southwest of Fort Worth, The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge provides a secluded location perfect for couples who want to avoid the distractions of the modern age. The property's accommodations do not offer Wi-Fi access or cable TV, contributing to the cabins' off-the-grid atmosphere, which previous guests agree makes the cabins an ideal place to unwind and relax with your partner.

Each of the property's three cabins is tucked away into the surrounding forest, offering the utmost privacy and seclusion for guests. The cabins – ranging from 450 to 800 square feet – also come equipped with antique furniture, private hot tubs, fire pits, and kitchens or kitchenettes stocked with equipment. Whether you book the Hideaway, Dilly Dally or Farmhouse cabin, you'll be able to experience this rustic retreat from the comfort of a front porch or other outdoor spaces.

Outside your cabin, you'll have the property's 10 acres to explore; there's a trail to help guide you on your hike. Start a competition with your partner or battle against other guests at the communal game space. The property provides complimentary equipment to play cornhole and other lawn games.

If you can pull yourselves away from your comfortable digs, you and your sweetie will find a variety of things to do in downtown Granbury, which sits about 10 miles west of the cabins. Rent a kayak from one of Lake Granbury's marinas and spend the day paddling on the water. Then, walk through the Historic Granbury Square, where you and your better half can enjoy dinner, peruse local boutiques, explore museums or go wine tasting.

Address: 6350 Windy Ridge Court, Granbury, TX 76049

Dripping Springs is an ideal locale for a romantic Texas getaway. It is called the "Wedding Capital of Texas," after all. This area in the Texas Hill Country about 25 miles southwest of Austin hosts more than 1,000 weddings annually and boasts numerous dreamy venues, from barns to mansions to wineries. It's also LGBTQ+ friendly.

If you and your partner have already tied the knot, there's still plenty to do together. Visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, where after a short and steep hike you'll arrive at a limestone box canyon. A 50-foot-tall waterfall spills into the park's namesake pool. If you're lucky, you and your honey may be able to take a dip together (swimming is not always guaranteed due to the water's bacteria levels and falling rocks). In town, browse the shops and historic buildings of Mercer Street and see the real dripping springs for which the town was named.

A trip to Dripping Springs wouldn't be complete without sampling its local goods. For wine, travel south to Driftwood, where you'll find Driftwood Estate Winery, Duchman Family Winery and Fall Creek Vineyards, all within about a 15-mile radius. For spirits in Dripping Springs, try Treaty Oak Distilling, and when hunger strikes, stop by a local eatery like Rolling in Thyme and Dough.

Where to stay: Lodging options in town are limited to a few budget hotels and motels, but outside the downtown area, you'll find a smattering of charming B&Bs, plus various vacation rentals and inns. Lucky Arrow Retreat offers accommodation selections such as cabins and two-person yurts, and Camp Lucy makes for a perfectly luxurious wedding venue or romantic retreat.

If your idea of the perfect couples vacation involves endless sampling of the local dining scene, you're in for a treat in Dallas . Tex-Mex, the Lone Star State's staple cuisine, is big here, and you'll find plenty of restaurants dishing up enchiladas, tacos and flautas for you and your partner to share. Favorite spots include Taqueria La Ventana, Pepe's & Mito's and E Bar Tex-Mex. Alternatively, sign up for a Dallas food tour to sample some of the city's top eats with a knowledgeable local. End your night sharing a few margaritas from bars along Dallas' famed Margarita Mile (after all, Dallas is   the birthplace of the frozen margarita).

In between food stops, take time to soak in some of the area's history. Presidential history buffs can visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for an in-depth look at the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Alternatively, visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to learn more about the nation's 43rd president and his administration.

Where to stay: Hotels in Dallas are everything you'd expect from a metropolitan area: elegant and relaxing. Hotel Crescent Court offers neutral-toned rooms with gold accents. On top of amenities like in-room Nespresso makers, guests will have access to a complimentary car service and the on-site spa. Culture-loving duos may want to consider bedding down at HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton . Not only is the hotel within walking distance of performance venues and museums, but it also displays a curated art collection throughout its rooms and public spaces.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek: Dallas

Courtesy of Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Following a day of browsing museums, viewing wildlife and touring the city, duos visiting Dallas will need a refuge to relax and spend some quality time together. The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek offers just the place. The historic property earns excellent reviews from travelers – many of whom have visited more than once – for its comfortable rooms.

The current structure was built in the 1920s as a 10,000-square-foot residence for Sheppard W. King, a wealthy merchant, and his family. To inspire the building's architectural and interior design, the family traveled throughout Europe with their architect to select materials and furnishings, including a stone fireplace from Germany, carved wooden doors from a Spanish cathedral, marble columns from Italy and a stained glass window from England. The mansion was converted into a Rosewood hotel in 1979.

Today, lodgers seeking an upscale couples retreat will find elegantly appointed rooms here, some outfitted with outdoor sitting areas or soaking tubs. For a romantic dinner or special brunch, head to the on-site Mansion Restaurant, which serves up American favorites with a French twist. Alternatively, you and your beau can stop by The Mansion Bar for a nightcap. Its dark, coffered ceilings and candlelight set a cozy atmosphere. Should you and your partner need a bit of care after stomping around DFW, take a swim in the hotel's heated outdoor pool (it's open year-round), relax in the sauna or steam rooms, or indulge in a massage.

Address: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas, TX 75219

Overnight visits to Guadalupe Mountains National Park will have you and your partner cozying up in a tent beneath the stars. The park is located along the Texas-New Mexico border and has no options for traditional lodging. Within the park, you'll find two campgrounds that accommodate both tents and recreational vehicles; a third has horse corrals alongside campsites. To ensure some one-on-one time with your sweetie, backpack to one of the remote backcountry sites and curl up in a double sleeping bag. If camping isn't your style, you can find a few lodging options and restaurants in nearby Dell City, about 45 miles west of the park. Alternatively, the park is a great day trip option from El Paso , as it's about 115 miles east of the city.

Planning a fall getaway here with your sweetie will provide not only comfortable high temperatures that span the low 80s to the low 60s, but also incredible autumn foliage . According to the National Park Service, colors begin to pop in mid-October and generally continue until mid-November. For optimal viewing, try hiking to the Grotto along the McKittrick Canyon trail, a moderate 7-mile hike round trip, or the Smith Spring Loop trail, which is around 2 miles.

As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birds and other wildlife. Depending on where you trek, you could see warblers, mockingbirds, roadrunners, lizards, rabbits and coyotes. At night, if the sky is clear, be sure to spend some time stargazing. Thanks to its remote location, the park experiences little light pollution, meaning lovebirds can easily spot constellations and the Milky Way.

Travel less than 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi to find some of the most beautiful shores along the Texas coast. Padre Island National Seashore (not to be confused with South Padre Island) provides lovebirds with a quiet and scenic beach getaway. If you and your partner are nature lovers, you're in luck: Bird-watching is a popular pursuit in the Corpus Christi area. A summertime visit also gives you two the chance to witness the release of sea turtle hatchlings on Malaquite Beach. One of the best beaches in Texas can be found at Mustang Island State Park, a barrier island just east of the city and north of Padre Island. Rent a tandem kayak from a nearby shop, then spend the day gliding along the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail.

For beach days in the city, head to North Beach or McGee Beach. North Beach not only offers more than a mile of sandy shores, but it's also where you'll find two of Corpus' best attractions : the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium. At McGee Beach, enjoy calm ocean waters and plentiful fishing opportunities; however, know that you may be sharing the beach with families if you visit at peak times, which are typically in March and April during spring break, as well as the summer months. Following your days in the sun, take time to visit the city's other unique attractions, such as the Selena Museum or the Texas Surf Museum.

Where to stay: When it's time to bed down, you'll find plush accommodations at Corpus Christi hotels like the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel , as well as resorts and vacation rentals.

Couples who love the water will relish a trip to New Braunfels, located about 30 miles northwest of San Antonio. You can take a tubing trip down either the Comal or Guadalupe rivers or go boating on nearby Canyon Lake (where you'll also find hiking trails). Or, if you and your sweetheart want some thrills, Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort features everything from waterslides and tube rides to lazy rivers and heated pools.

New Braunfels also has a rich German history. While couples can trace the city's past at the Sophienburg Museum and Archives, a more interactive way to celebrate the history is by attending Wurstfest. The annual celebration of German sausage takes place in early November and features 10 days full of food, drink, music, dancing and other entertainment. Can't make it to the festival? Lovers can get a heaping helping of German food and German draft beer at Krause's, which travelers agree is all delicious. The Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre and Dry Comal Creek Vineyards are two additional visitor-favorite attractions in the city.

Hold your partner close at Gruene Dance Hall, which sits a few miles from downtown. Since 1878, the hall has been welcoming dancers and music lovers with nightly concerts and events. The hall – as its name suggests – sits in Gruene (pronounced "green"), a small town in New Braunfels featuring historic buildings, unique shops and restaurants.

Where to stay: Travelers recommend the cozy Gruene Mansion Inn, which sits on the banks of the Guadalupe River, a stone's throw from Gruene Hall.

The Tremont House: Galveston

Robert Mihovil | Courtesy of The Tremont House

One of the best hotels in Galveston , The Tremont House completed extensive renovations in 2022, blending past with present in a redesign of its accommodations, lobby, public spaces and food and beverage establishments. Fully refreshed rooms and suites feature hardwood floors, exposed brick, 14- to 16-foot ceilings, and luxury amenities like NEST bath products.

Start or end your day with bistro-style fare at Blum & Co. or enjoy a local brew or cocktail at the trendy Toujouse Bar. In fall 2023, you'll also have the option to sit at the newly renovated rooftop bar, which affords sweeping city views. When booking your stay, be sure to check out the hotel's packages, which include a Pride-inspired Out & About package (available year-round), and a dining package that includes breakfast for two daily, a $100 daily food and beverage credit and valet parking.

The Tremont House is located on The Strand, a historic district lined with boutiques, shops and restaurants in Galveston. As you stroll down the street hand in hand, make sure to stop and snap pictures of the gorgeous buildings. With all this opulence, it's easy to forget Galveston is a beach town. Laze on Stewart Beach or East Beach, letting Texas Gulf Coast waters lap at your ankles, or take in the ocean vistas from one of the rides at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Address: 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St., Galveston, TX 77550

The Wild West comes alive at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Spending the day here will give you and your darling insights into more of Texas' history by exploring one of several museums, taking a walking tour of the area or watching a real cattle drive (held twice daily). Plus, a visit here will allow you to nosh on a favorite Texas cuisine: barbecue.

But if you and your partner aren't too much into Texas' cowboy history, Fort Worth has plenty of other attractions to ignite romance. Couples continually rate the Kimbell Art Museum as a top activity, thanks to its lovely art and intriguing rotating exhibits. Have your date nights at Sundance Square, where a selection of restaurants (try Branch & Bird for cocktails followed by dinner at Reata Fort Worth) and entertainment venues await you. Travelers generally enjoy the live music performances that Sundance Square Plaza hosts each weekend. About half a mile away you'll find the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a quiet outdoor area featuring architecturally beautiful fountains.

Where to stay: The Omni Fort Worth Hotel generally receives praise from reviewers for stellar service and location, though a few note some rooms could use updating. The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel has comfortable beds, according to recent travelers, and a bar where you and your love can have a nightcap before turning in.

If long walks are your idea of romance, the pedestrian-friendly Marble Falls may be a great place to start. The city prides itself on its downtown area being walkable with plenty of shops and activities to boot. Lakeside Park not only provides access to Lake Marble Falls for water activities like kayaking, but also boasts barbecue pits and picnic tables so you can prepare and enjoy a romantic lunch.

When it's time for refreshments, share a pint or two downtown at either Bear King Brewing Co. or Double Horn Brewing Co., which both earn winning reviews from guests for tasty beers and food. Be sure to save room for pie at Blue Bonnet Cafe, a must-try according to recent visitors.

When you're ready to get out and explore more of Texas Hill Country, you and your sweetheart will have plenty of state parks and recreation areas at your disposal. About 15 miles from Marble Falls, Krause Springs is home to 32 springs as well as both an artificial and natural pool for swimming. This camping and swimming site is especially busy during the summer, so know you'll likely be rubbing elbows with other travelers. At Inks Lake State Park, you two can hike nearly 10 miles of trails before taking a dip in the water.

Where to stay: Accommodations in and around Marble Falls, meanwhile, are varied enough to suit any couple. You'll find traditional hotels, glamping resorts, inns, treehouses , vacation rentals and even a castle. Hidden Falls Inn at Lake Marble Falls wows guests with incredible lake views from rooms plus friendly service.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Romantic Getaways in the U.S.
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Options

Tags: Travel , Couples Vacations , Texas Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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15 Secluded Cabins in Texas For the Perfect Remote Getaway

Are you planning a trip or weekend getaway and looking for the best secluded cabins in Texas? Well, you’ve come to the right place, as I’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect cozy Texas cabin rental for a secluded adventure that you’ll love.

Are your cravings for traveling getting bigger and bigger? Feed your wanderlust and “Let’s Texas.” Go on a road trip and explore the outdoors, sample Texas-style cuisine, and swim the beautiful beaches. Here you can travel back to the past, learn about the history and rich cultural legacy, and connect with the community. In Texas, you can expect the unexpected.

Reconnect with nature when you visit Texas. If you’re looking for a change of scenery or a few secluded cabin rentals, Texas has plenty to offer. Below, I have listed 15 cabins in Texas with hotel amenities and standards that I recommend you check out.

Be sure to read my guides on romantic Texas cabins with hot tubs  for epic accommodation options in the area.

The Moonshiner Cabin | Secluded with Hot Tub

Location: Wimberly, Texas

Price: $155+ per night

https://www.vrbo.com/4219110ha

For your next vacation, you can rent this cabin with a view of the hills and streams of the Hill Country. This charming retreat’s interior lets you experience The Prohibition Era  with a little twist of Steampunk.

The secluded cabin features a queen bed with an award-winning Casper mattress, a clawfoot tub, a wood-burning stove, and a fire pit. And while the decor may seem vintage, don’t worry. You will also enjoy modern luxuries like wifi, cable tv, and an outdoor hot tub.

The beautiful details of the cabin, plus the calm and peace of the surrounding, is just perfect. Add that to the joy of being here with your special someone, and the experience is heaven. This is the ideal spot to enjoy love

View Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability

Small Rustic Cabin in the Woods 

Location: Kaufman, Texas

Price: $118+ per night

https://www.vrbo.com/1624877

Escape the city and spend a fun weekend at this rustic cabin in the woods. This charming loft cabin may be small, but it offers visitors a taste of free and peaceful life.  And, of course, it doesn’t skimp on all the appreciated comforts and conveniences either.

You don’t have to leave the property to have some fun, given the activities offered to guests. Guests can enjoy fishing, paddle boarding, and bonfires. But if you want to explore more, Dallas is just a 40-minute drive.

Beaver Run — Incredible Secluded Cabin with Hot Tub

Where : Wills Point, Texas

Price: $229 + USD per night

https://www.vrbo.com/4201930ha

This stunning cabin is nestled on 130 secluded acres in Wills Point, just a few miles from the scenic Lake Tawakoni. What’s unique about this cabin is that it’s made of pine and cedar trees from the local forest.

It has beautiful wooden floors, wood furnishings, and enchanting vaulted ceilings that make the space feel light and breezy. Don’t forget to hear the birds sing while enjoying your morning coffee on the wooden balcony just outside the main bedroom.

There are tons to explore in the area, and guests absolutely rave about their stay here. With a near-perfect t 5-Star rating from over 158 guests, this secluded cabin rental is a must-stay for Texas travelers.

Robert Wood Art Cottage

Location: Grey Forest, Texas

Price: $125+ per night

https://www.vrbo.com/1197678

Robert Wood Art Cottage is a beautiful, rustic rock cottage with modern amenities on the inside. It brings you back to the past with its preserved historic character. The place has a surprisingly homey and inviting living space.

Read a book by the waterfall fountain, explore the country lanes of Grey Forest using the cruiser bikes, or visit attractions like SeaWorld and Six Flags.

Fun fact: the bedroom is the actual room of the famous British landscape painter, Robert Wood , used as his art studio.

The Nest by Skybox Cabins

Location: Glen Rose, Texas

Price: $238+ per night

https://www.skyboxcabins.com/

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33810135  

Disconnect and find a peaceful refuge at The Nest. Located on a hill of 50-acre land, this cabin allows guests to unplug and enjoy the natural surroundings. The Nest features a treehouse and a bohemian bungalow with amenities like air conditioning and heating, a refrigerator, a coffee maker, an induction cooktop, and a microwave. Guests are also served complimentary snacks and drinks upon check-in.

Even without an internet connection and TV, The Nest guarantees a memorable experience with the wonders of the Texas cedar observatory. This “Pinterest perfect” cabin is so beautiful and a talk-of-the-town that it was featured on SouthernLiving.com.

“Dub’s Barn”

Location: Waco, Texas

Price: $ 101 + per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29778941  

Enjoy both farm life and the city while staying at Dub’s Barn. This guest cabin offers a place for a small family of four to escape the hustle and bustle.

It features an open floor plan with shiplap walls and barn wood accents. It’s a rustic concept with comfortable and stylish luxuries like a memory foam mattress, a kitchenette with a coffee maker and dishwasher, a washer and dryer, and a fantastic rainfall shower.

At Dub’s Barn, you can take a quiet walk, ride a bike down the road, or go stargazing. This is perfect for guests looking for a peaceful, comfortable, stylish, and relaxing retreat.

Sweet Paradise

Location: Fredericksburg, Texas

Price: $193+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/51473987

This beautiful cabin is on a ranch outside the Fredericksburg area. It was built and thoughtfully decorated to provide couples with a sweet and intimate escape. Here, you can celebrate a honeymoon, a proposal, or a couple’s trip.

Spend a night or two in this cabin with a full kitchen, king bed, ambiance fireplace, outdoor shower, and outdoor fire pit. Soak in your private hot tub with your special someone. If you want to see and explore more of the town, Fredericksburg is a 15-minute drive.

NATURALIST BOUDOIR on POINT

Location: Lumberton, Texas

Price: $322+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/46916238

Naturalist Boudoir on Point will take your breath away. It’s one of the newest cabins in the 300-acre ranch in Lumberton, boasting splendid views of the waterway and sunrise. It features high ceilings, huge windows, a floating dock, and an outdoor shower.

This cabin also highlights a one-of-a-kind rock tub with an infinity edge you can enjoy with your special someone and a floating bed. There is nothing quite like a romantic getaway where there’s no one else around, just you and your someone special being one with nature.

The Lazy Squirrel

Location: Tyler, Texas

Price: $100+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/26102211

If you’re looking for secluded cabins in east texas, few can beat this retreat in the middle of East Texas Pines– The Lazy Squirrel. Stay in the warm, charming cabin in one of the many places in Cora’s Cabin complex. It is equipped with a full kitchen, a bedroom with an indoor fireplace,  and a front porch with a seating area.

Other amenities include a washer and dryer, an outdoor grill, WiFi, and a TV. Guests can stroll or drive to The Flyin H Ranch and fish in the lake. Or, enjoy the many varied local attractions like The Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary, Canton First Monday Trade Days, and many more.

The Half Lady

Location: Sulphur Springs, Texas

Price: $77+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/21975085

Experience the splendor mother nature has to offer while staying at Half Lady. Located on 18 acres of meadows and wooded trails, guests can enjoy fishing, hiking, seeing wildlife, or stargazing. Half Lady offers a comfortable and homely place for a family or group of friends of up to eight guests that keeps you close to nature throughout your stay.

The cabin features queen-sized beds, a full kitchen, a private patio with a picnic table, a fire pit, and a parking space. Other amenities include a washer & dryer, WiFi, cable, and air conditioning. They also welcome pets, how nice is that?

Hidden Rustic Cabin

Location: Nocona, Texas

Price: $153+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52442131

Treat your family to a well-deserved vacation on Lake Nocona. This idyllic cabin is settled in a lakefront lot, taking full advantage of the beautiful lake views. It features large windows that bring the outdoors indoors, giving guests breathtaking scenery no matter the time of the day.

Guests can spend their day lounging on the deck, kayaking, swimming, or fishing. While children can play in the yard or the treehouse. Guests can gather around the fire pit at night, sharing fun stories and making smores.

Credit: Airbnb

Secluded Sky Cabin

Location: Austin, Texas

Price: $182+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43777229

This beautiful white cottage is secluded enough to feel isolated but close enough to nearby attractions to take a quick trip into Downtown Austin. Nestled in the hills of the Hill Country, guests can take in the beautiful views of Barton Creek Valley.

The 2-loft style cabin provides plenty of space to accommodate four guests (complete with two beds, a full kitchen, and a spacious living space). Get a glimpse of what country living is while staying in Sky Cabin.

Southwestern Cabin

Price: $106+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/46532093

New Southwestern Rural Cabin is filled with home comforts. Situated on a wooded lot near the end of a quiet dead-end street in North Waco, it’s secluded yet close to downtown attractions. This cabin offers a peaceful escape for a small family who wants to explore this part of Texas.

The property features a large outdoor area with a firepit where guests can enjoy bonfires while sipping hot chocolate and sharing wonderful life stories. The playground offers a fun environment for the kids to enjoy while at the property.

Secluded Log Cabin on Smith Creek with Hot Tub

Price:  $204+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/407683

Just looking at the photos of Three Graces Cabin in the woods is enough to send you to a relaxing place. The cabin sits on a beautiful piece of the Hill Country surrounded by woods, yet only 5 minutes away from downtown Wimberly.

It is comfortably furnished to make sure that you have a pleasant holiday. The cabin features a studio-type layout with an indoor wood-burning fireplace, central heating, air conditioning, an entertainment system (HDTV with Roku, Bluetooth speaker sound system), and a full kitchen.

Guests can stroll along the creek, enjoy an afternoon nap at the hammock, or enjoy a warm bath in the outdoor tub while stargazing.

Off-Grid Tiny Home Cabin in the Hill Country

Location: Blanco, Texas

Price: $138+ per night

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33532013

This off-the-grid accommodation is one of the best-secluded cabins in Texas Hill Country. It is ideal for a romantic trip away, or just a cozy cabin stay with the kids or friends. It can host up to four guests at a time and has everything you’ll need, from a kitchenette and bathroom to a front porch and balcony overlooking the greenery and waters.

This secluded getaway in Texas is entirely eco-friendly, working on solar power and using filtered water. The entire interior is covered in wood paneling to give that extra rustic and cozy feeling. While there is no wifi on the property, you’ll only be 6 miles away from Blanco Town, where you’ll find antique shops, restaurants, and bars.

Which of These Extremely Secluded Cabins in Texas are You Visiting?

If you’re looking for private cabin rentals in Texas, you’ve come to the right place. The state has more than enough cozy cabins with nearby hiking trails and an outdoor fireplace to really soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Each charming cabin has its own drawing card. Some secluded cabins boast private hot tubs, while others have a covered porch overlooking the surrounding woods and lakes nearby. What they all have in common is a serene ambiance in a peaceful setting you can only find in the Lone Star State.

Are you planning a romantic getaway to the state right over? Check out this list of romantic cabins in New Mexico .

2 thoughts on “15 Secluded Cabins in Texas For the Perfect Remote Getaway”

Can I simply just say what a relief to discover somebody that truly knows what they’re discussing on the web. Thanks for this guide on secluded cabins for rent in Texas!

PLanning a road trip through Texas and these look awesome! Will be sure to stay at one of these awesome cabins

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9 Best Small Towns Near Dallas | Quaint Texas Getaways

• Destinations
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

As one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States, there is no denying that Dallas–Fort Worth is a bustling community. When you need a break from all of the hustle and bustle of the city, it is nice to know that there are numerous quaint small towns to visit near Dallas. These small towns are big on charm, and they have just the right mix of tranquility and modern conveniences to give you the perfect break from the city.

I have lived in the Dallas–Fort Worth area my entire life, so I fully understand the need to escape every once in a while. When I don’t have time for a full-blown vacation, I take the day (or weekend) to explore the small towns in the area instead.

A typical Texas small town offers a charming blend of Southern hospitality and Western flair. With wide streets and quaint storefronts, locals often gather in the town square or at family-owned diners or BBQ joints. Football games are community events, and the pace of life is relaxed, emphasizing close-knit relationships and a strong sense of community.

Years of touring the small towns near Dallas have allowed me to compile this list that I am happy to share with you today.

All of the suggestions in this article are within a 3-hour drive of Dallas, making them quick and easy to explore. So pack your bags, and let’s set out exploring some of the most charming towns in and around the Dallas–Fort Worth area. 

9 Best Small Towns Near Dallas – Meet Rural Texas Getaways

1. canton, texas, 1 hour from dallas.

Head about an hour east of Dallas into East Texas to find the charming small town of Canton, Texas. 

Home to Canton Trade Days, one of the largest flea markets in the United States, Canton draws thousands of visitors to its doorstep each month. To visit the Canton Trade Days, plan your visit on the weekend before the first Monday of the month. 

In addition to Trade Days, Canton has several other unique activities to keep visitors busy during their time in the city.

One of the unique things to do in Canton is to stay in a covered wagon at Silver Spur Resort . History lovers will want to check out the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial and the Blackwell House Museum. For those of you wanting to shop, there are several fun shops and restaurants located in Downtown Canton.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Canton, Texas

2. Waxahachie, Texas

30 minutes from dallas.

Waxahachie , Texas, is an impressive small town filled with Victorian homes and loads of fun boutique shops. 

Founded in 1850, Waxahachie was instantly a wealthy town thanks to its involvement in the cotton industry. This wealth is evident still today as you make your way down the tree-lined streets filled with prominent Victorian-style homes, many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The history doesn’t stop at the homes, though. Make your way to the downtown area to see the historic buildings that have been transformed into boutique shops and restaurants. 

Known as the “Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas,” a visit to Waxahachie during the summer months allows you to see the city abloom with the flower. Not only that, but they even host a Crape Myrtle Festival every summer in July. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Waxahachie, Texas

3. Ennis, Texas

When the Houston and Texas Central Railway came to the Dallas area in 1872, the small town of Ennis, Texas, was born. 

The biggest draw for Ennis is the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails and Festival . Every spring, the town of Ennis welcomes thousands of visitors to see the fields of beautiful bluebonnets across the town . After shopping at the festival, visitors can drive over 40 miles of mapped bluebonnet trails to take in the most photographed flower in Texas. 

11 Peaceful Bed & Breakfasts In Texas To Book Now

If you find yourself visiting Ennis at other times of the year, be sure to see the artifacts at the Ennis Railroad & Cultural Heritage Museum or enjoy a performance at the Ennis Public Theatre. For a nostalgic night out, you can also visit Ennis  Galaxy Drive-In ! Visitors also enjoy the recreational activities offered at Bardwell Lake or the car races at the Texas Motorplex. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Ennis, Texas

4. Granbury, Texas

1 hour and 30 minutes from dallas.

Just over an hour southwest of Dallas is the fun lakeside town of Granbury, Texas . Voted “Best Historic Small Town in America” by USA Today readers in 2021, Granbury is loaded with Southern charm. 

The Historic Granbury Square attracts visitors year round thanks to the 40+ boutique stores housed in the historic buildings surrounding the square. This small area is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, artwork, and home furnishings. When you have finished shopping, you can enjoy taking a break at the restaurants, wineries, and breweries that also call the square home. 

The main attraction in Granbury is the lake. Lake Granbury encompasses 103 miles of shoreline and is perfect for fishing, riding jet skis, or skiing. Visitors and locals love visiting Granbury’s City Beach Park, which is located within walking distance of the town square. City Beach Park offers a protected swimming area along with a sandy beach so everyone can enjoy a day on the lake. The park is open year round and provides amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. 

Pro Tip: Granbury is full of fun wineries, breweries, and distilleries. If you enjoy visiting these, be sure to add them to your Granbury itinerary.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Granbury, Texas

5. Jefferson, Texas

2 hours and 30 minutes from dallas.

You will find the town of Jefferson, Texas about 2.5 hours east of Dallas. People love to visit Jefferson because of its historic homes, museums, vintage railroad, and the Big Cypress Bayou. 

After checking in at one of Jefferson’s many bed and breakfast accommodations, consider taking a ride on the Jefferson Historic Railway to explore the area on a vintage gas-powered train. This ride is especially fun during the holiday season when they offer the Christmas Express, a ride that includes Christmas decorations along the track as you listen to the Story of Christmas.

In addition to the antique shopping and small town Texas charm , people also come to Jefferson to experience the Big Cypress Bayou. The Big Cypress Bayou is a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake . This region is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river system in Texas. 

Pro Tip: The Big Cypress Bayou and Caddo Lake areas are beautifully photogenic, so plan a guided tour of the river to ensure you get out on the water during your visit to Jefferson.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Jefferson, Texas

6. Glen Rose, Texas

The small Texas town of Glen Rose is famous for its unique history that includes a fun state park, Dinosaur Valley State Park , that draws visitors from all over the United States. 

You would be doing yourself a disservice if you only visited the state park, though. Glen Rose also offers a great drive-thru wildlife safari, charming boutique hotels, and a historic town square area for visitors to explore. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park helped to give Glen Rose its claim to fame as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas.” While it is well known that dinosaurs once roamed this area millions of years ago, it is the evidence that they left behind that makes this park so special. When you visit Dinosaur Valley, you can see this evidence for yourself. Dinosaur tracks are permanently cemented in the mud of the Paluxy River inside of the state park. Not only can you see them, but you can also get into the river and stand in them! It’s definitely a experience you need to see ! Once you’ve had your fill of the tracks, you can further explore the park by swimming in the river, camping, geocaching, or riding horses on their miles of equestrian trails.

Another huge attraction in Glen Rose is the drive-thru wildlife center, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center . Fossil Rim rescues, rehabilitates, and houses numerous animal species, including several endangered species. Visitors have the option of doing a self-guided tour in their personal vehicle or taking a guided tour on one of the safari’s vehicles. During the tour, you will encounter numerous animals from all over the world and even have the opportunity to feed them if you would like.

Pro Tip: Be sure and visit Big Rocks Park in Glen Rose, a beautiful little park located on the banks of the river. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Glen Rose, Texas

7. Salado, Texas

2 hours from dallas.

The charming town of Salado, Texas, is situated about 2 hours south of Dallas. Located on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is the perfect escape for art and antique lovers. 

The 1.5-mile stretch of Salado’s Main Street is the perfect place to kick off your trip to the city. Here you will find numerous boutique shops selling everything from custom artwork to clothing. I personally love visiting Salado’s art galleries, as the majority of the works here are from local artists. 

A few blocks from Main Street, you will find the Salado Sculpture Garden. A dirt path leads you through the garden, which houses sculptures and art installations from numerous artists. Be sure to be on the lookout for the giant sock monkey and the cute rust-colored moose. During your time in Salado, you might also want to see a performance at the Tablerock Amphitheatre before spending a night in the historic Shady Village Hotel and having a nice meal at the Stagecoach Hotel, both of which have been a Salado staple for over 150 years! 

Pro Tip: Salado is an extremely small town, but it is well worth spending a couple of nights in. You can enjoy the peace and quiet, do some shopping, and visit the local wineries for a nice, relaxing weekend. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Salado, Texas

8. Pilot Point, Texas

This quaint little ranch town with its charming historic district is a perfectly situated gateway town. The area is best known for its gentle, rolling hills, nearby state parks, and serene Lake Ray Roberts recreation activities.

Take a walking tour of the Historic Town Square and learn the stories behind the old buildings. But not before you stop for a fried pie and a cup of coffee at the Pilot Point Coffee House .

Pilot Point is also about a one-hour drive from Dallas, and easily reachable by heading north on the Dallas North Tollway.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Pilot Point, Texas

9. Little Elm, Texas

35 minutes from dallas.

Located on the shores of Lake Lewisville, Little Elm is only 35 miles from Dallas. Its most popular attraction is the Lakefront , a sandy beach that will make you forget Little Elm is in North Texas. 

Grab a cocktail from Margarita To-Go or dine in at Hula Hut on your way home. Embark on hiking and biking trails at Johnny Broyles Nature Trail, or have a picnic at Cottonwood Park.  If you plan to visit Little Elm for your next family vacation, couples getaway, solo trip, or any other visit, Elm by Wyndham Boutique Hotel is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with easy access to all attractions in Little Elm.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Little Elm, Texas

Why Visit Dallas Rural Towns?

Rural towns in Dallas, Texas offer a unique small-town experience while staying close to the DFW Metroplex Area. Rural towns near Dallas boast authentic country lifestyles, gorgeous scenery, historical landmarks, and attractions like Dinosaur Valley State Park and Texas Motor Speedway.

What to Expect from Small-Town Culture Near Dallas, Texas?

Small rural towns in Texas are known for cowboys, cacti, and a wide range of cultural experiences like live music venues and dance halls, country boutiques and modern art installations, barbecue, wineries, and Tex-Mex. 

Is There More to Dallas’ Topography Than Just Land?

Yes, there are more than a dozen lakes and reservoirs in North Texas. The most popular are Lake Ray Roberts and Lake Lewisville. There are also numerous streams, creeks, and lakes across the North Texas landscape.

Is It Better to Stay In Downtown Dallas or Fort Worth?

First-time visitors should stay in historic Downtown Dallas for a more central location within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Dallas North Tollway, George Bush Tollway, and other routes offer a perfect getaway to charming rural towns nearby.

What Rural Towns Are Farther Away From Dallas?

Being a 2-hour drive from Downtown Dallas, Jefferson, and Salado are some of the farther drives away from Dallas. Other similarly remote quaint rural towns are Lake Texoma, Fort Worth, and Canton, all about an hour away from Dallas.

This love of travel has allowed her to visit numerous countries and to fall in love with Italy. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

21 Romantic Getaways in Texas That You Will Love

If you and your significant other dreams of one of the romantic getaways in Texas, then you are in the right place!

Most people don’t consider Texas romantic, but it totally is!

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a sandy beach, a state park, a bustling city, or a quiet cabin in the woods; Texas has you covered. 

When choosing your Texas romantic getaway, consider the experience you want to achieve.

Do you want romantic dinners out on the town? Or romantic getaways near me?

Maybe you are looking for anniversary trip ideas? Or one of the best hidden weekend getaways in Texas?

No matter your preference, we have a Texas romantic destination that will cover it!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Romantic Getaways in Texas For Couples

1. fredericksburg, texas.

Fredericksburg is one of the best romantic getaways in the Texas hill country and has to be on any list of romantic weekend getaways thanks to its German charm.  

Known as a Texas winery haven, Fredericksburg has loads of charm and, of course, Fredericksburg, TX wineries , which are perfect for enjoying some wine tastings!

Be sure to stroll with a glass of wine as you shop the Fredericksburg Main Street shops before heading out to the hiking trails of Enchanted Rock State Park or Lyndon B. Johnson National Park.

A visit to the National Museum of the Pacific War or the many lavender fields in the area are also fun ideas!

This charming Texas small town has several cozy and romantic private cabins and romantic bed and breakfasts (some with hot tubs) for rent, ensuring you have the perfect romantic getaway in the Texas Hill Country!

Read Next : 30 Fun Things To Do In Roswell, NM

2. San Antonio, Texas

You can’t make a list of romantic getaways in Texas without including San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country!

While on this romantic getaway, visit the Alamo, the San Antonio Missions National Park, and the San Antonio River Walk!

San Antonio’s River Walk is the perfect area to stay in. It is lined with wonderful romantic hotels and restaurants, making it easily walkable for your San Antonio, Texas vacation. 

The river walk and downtown San Antonio at Christmas are quite a treat, so be sure to visit during the holiday season!

San Antonio is definitely one of the best romantic getaways in Texas (or anniversary trips in Texas)!

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

3. Galveston Island, Texas

Galveston is a beach lover’s paradise and one of the best romantic couples’ getaways.

Located about one hour south of Houston, this charming Gulf Coast city is full of things couples can do and experience together.

To make this one of the most romantic getaways in Texas, we love spending the day at Galveston Island State Park and visiting the Strand in the evenings for fun shopping and nightlife. 

Galveston hosts multiple yearly festivals, including their annual Mardi Gras celebration, sandcastle competition, shrimp festival, and the famous Dickens on the Square, a fun Texas Christmas event.

Visit their website for more details and to plan your couple’s getaway in Texas.

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to Do in Marble Falls

4. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

Believe it or not, Dallas-Ft. Worth should definitely make the list of romantic weekend getaways. 

I mean, there are so many  things to do in Dallas-Ft. Worth  it that you are bound to find something you both will love.

You and your honey can spend the day visiting one of the many fabulous city art museums or outdoor areas, such as the Dallas Arboretum, Cedar Hill State Park, or the Ft. Worth Botanical Gardens. 

Be sure to add this to your list of romantic getaways in Texas.

Read Next : 30 Awesome Facts About Texas (Know Before You Go)

5. Austin, Texas

Sometimes, a  weekend in Austin , the capital of Texas, is just what you need! 

Austin, Texas, is a bustling city with just the right charm and amenities to help you feel like you’re just getting away from it all.

For an evening experience, why not head down to the trendy Rainey Street for some bar hopping before dinner at one of the many fabulous restaurants in Austin?

Outdoor lovers will want to check out the local zip line or spend some time on Lake Travis.

And Austin has many fabulous spas, perfect for a couples massage!

If you’re in the mood for nightlife, Austin is not short on live music venues either. 

Honestly, a  visit to Austin  isn’t complete without including live music! 

Finding the best places to stay in Austin for your romantic getaway is easy. 

There are many romantic hotels and city rental properties with fabulous amenities. 

Read Next: 16 Fun Things to Do in Georgetown, Texas

6. Granbury, Texas

Granbury is a quiet little lake town located about 45 minutes outside of Fort Worth, making it one of the easy day trips from Dallas and one of the relaxing getaways in Texas. 

Known to have one of the best squares in Texas, this charming community will be a fun getaway, as there are many  things to do in Granbury, TX .

In the summer, you can spend your days lounging at the lake with its lakeside beach or riding jet skis before grabbing a nice meal at one of the fabulous restaurants in Granbury.

Of course, you can also shop at the boutique shops, catch a ghost tour, or a live performance during your time in town.

There are many charming bed and breakfasts and private lake cabins with loads of amenities; you will find the perfect place to stay here!

7. South Padre Island, Texas

If long stretches of sand with crashing waves are your idea of a romantic weekend, then you definitely need to add South Padre Island to your trip plans.

Not only is South Padre Island a fantastic beach, but Padre Island Seashore is also a National Park!

Beach lovers are bound to find the perfect stretch of sand to spend their day lounging or walking on the beach.

Sports enthusiasts can participate in deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, or jet skiing in South Padre. 

If you want to score some serious brownie points while visiting South Padre, take your loved one on a sunset dinner cruise or whale-watching excursion!

Take note that South Padre Island is a popular spring break destination , so you might want to avoid this area during spring break if you want this to be one of the perfect romantic Texas getaways.

8. Wimberley, Texas

I could not make a list of romantic getaways in the Lone Star State and not include Wimberley, one of the easy day trips from Austin . 

It is one of the small Texas towns worth visiting and a welcome escape from city life, and enjoy some Texas Hill country views!

Find a little cabin in the woods with a hot tub surrounded by rolling hills, and don’t come out until you have to!  A cabin in the woods of Wimberley is a fabulous escape in Texas for couples.

You can visit the vineyards and distilleries surrounding this cute community, swim in Jacob’s Well, or shop in Wimberley Square. 

Wimberly truly is one of the most romantic getaways in Texas!

9. Boerne, Texas

Another wonderful Texas Hill Country city on our list is  Boerne . 

Located about 40 minutes outside San Antonio, it is an easy day trip from San Antonio or Austin . 

Couples visiting Boerne will love shopping along its main street, visiting the local museums, or hiking some of the area’s trails.

You can also check out the Guadalupe River State Park, wineries, breweries, and distilleries in the area.

Read Next : 15 Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas

10. Salado, Texas

The cute little village of Salado makes for the perfect romantic weekend getaway in Texas. 

You will find eclectic shops, wineries, boutiques, and fun eateries to keep you entertained here. 

This artisan community is not short on style either. 

Salado hosts events throughout the year to celebrate the rich heritage of their city.

Visitors will immerse themselves in a small artistic community that loves its antique shops. 

Spend the day shopping and watching a glass-blowing demonstration before visiting the wine bars and breweries that call Salado home. 

11. Bandera, Texas

For couples looking for a cowboy experience (especially a dude ranch) on their romantic Texas getaway, Bandera is exactly where you want to be on your trip! 

Known as the ‘ Cowboy Capital of the World ,’ Bandera will have you putting on your boots and saying y’all in no time!

This Lone Star State in the hill country escape is famous for the dude ranch experience!

Bandera is all about enjoying the great outdoors, and there is no better place to do this than on a dude ranch! 

Here, you can live the cowboy lifestyle while still having the modern comforts to make this an enjoyable and romantic getaway. 

Spend the day riding horses on the ranch and the nights in a local honky-tonk dancing the night away. 

Bandera should definitely be on your short list of romantic getaways in Texas!

12. Dripping Springs, Texas

Dripping Springs is a cute and romantic trip, perfect for couples seeking a romantic outing. 

The popular Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the town’s most prized attractions and a great addition to your list of romantic getaways in Texas. 

People come from all over the Lone Star State to escape the hot Texas sun by swimming in this little oasis with a natural waterfall, one of the waterfalls we love in Texas !

Dripping Springs is home to numerous wineries, distilleries, and breweries , including Bella Springs Winery and Deep Eddy’s Vodka.

Dripping Springs also has a wide variety of cocktails and spirits as well. 

Couples can tour the Texas Olive Industry Orchard, visit Westcave Preserve, or visit the LBJ Historical Park.

13. Rockport, Texas

Another of the romantic getaways in Texas on the Gulf Coast for couples to consider is Rockport . 

There are numerous opportunities for water activities while in Rockport! 

During your trip, you can kayak, fish, paddleboard, walk the beach, and even bird-watch around this fabulous coastal escape.

Ensure you have the right gear when setting out on your water adventures.

You know, things like sunscreen, some of the best water shoes , sunglasses, etc.

Of course, Rockport also has plenty of beaches to take a romantic stroll with your honey. 

Consider going to one of our favorite beaches in Texas , Rockport Beach. 

You can also visit the Texas Maritime Museum or tour the art galleries in Rockport if you are looking for a more cultural experience. 

The close location to Austin and San Antonio makes this a fun getaway from those cities.

14. Gruene, Texas

Home to the historic Gruene Hall, the town of Gruene makes for a great romantic getaway in Texas.

A visit to Gruene will not disappoint.

Visitors to Gruene can catch a live performance in the historic Gruene Hall, do a wine tasting, and eat at the famous Gristmill Restaurant!

After spending the day escaping the Texas heat by floating the Guadalupe River, you can catch an evening performance at Gruene Hal, the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. 

Whatever you decide, Gruene will not disappoint and is a great addition to your list of romantic getaways in Texas

15. Burnet and Burnet County, Texas

Burnet County is home to the Highland Lakes , so there are plenty of choices in this area of the Lone Star State. 

Couples who enjoy spending time in nature will love adding Burnet to their list of romantic getaways in Texas.

Couples can tour Longhorn Caverns to see the intricately formed rock formations or spend the day hiking and picnicking at Inks Lake State Park and LBJ Lake.  

Inks Lake State Park is also perfect for a day out on the lake. It offers fun aquatic activities, fire pits, campsites, and more.

Of course, numerous romantic wineries and distilleries are nearby to sample some delicious Texas-made spirits.

16. Big Bend National Park

Yes, a trip to Big Bend National Park can be one of the most romantic getaways in Texas!

Imagine sitting in a hot tub or by the fire pit under a blanket of stars in the Texas countryside.

You can do that In Big Bend because the park is a certified Dark Skies location.

Big Bend is the perfect place to hike, kayak on the Rio Grande, find the perfect picnic spot, or take a romantic drive.

Spending good quality time with your significant other in Big Bend is perfect.

Check out Lucky Sun Jeep Rentals for guided adventures while visiting Big Bend.

Lucky Sun offers great park tours and half and full-day Jeep rentals.

We rented a Jeep from Lucky Sun for two days.

The Jeep was in perfect condition, and Adam was awesome to work with!

Big Bend National Park is one of the perfect couple’s getaways when you want to get away!

Make it a weekend getaway, as Big Bend is in a remote location, so it is a bit of a journey.

During your time in Big Bend, consider staying in the luxury glamping cabins at Camp Elena .

We spent a romantic weekend at Camp Elena and loved our time there.

Camp Elena offers luxurious amenities and incredible views of the mountains.

Their location in Terlingua also means you are close to the national park!

While in this area, check out the small towns in West Texas.

These include Terlingua, Alpine , and Marfa, to name a few.

17. Canyon Lake

A visit to Canyon Lake in the Texas Hill Country can easily become one of your favorite romantic getaways in Texas.

Home to numerous wineries and an incredible Texas lake, this is the perfect romantic getaway for people who want to relax and enjoy lake life for a while.

The natural beauty of this lake is truly amazing!

Check out all the things to do in Canyon Lake , and add this one to your list!

18. Port Aransas

The beaches of Port Aransas are easily a romantic getaway in Texas!

Get a beach cabin and grab your sweetie to explore this small beach community for a romantic weekend. Here, you will find great restaurants and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

There are also numerous state and national parks nearby to explore.

The proximity to Corpus Christi means you can easily see multiple towns in the area.

19. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is the perfect place to try out glamping in Texas .

This small community is centered around the river, which means people flock here in the summer to go tubing in Texas.

Even if you aren’t tubing, there are still plenty of things to do in New Braunfels, making it one of the great romantic getaways in Texas.

Treat your sweetie to a drive-in movie for a fun date night, or enjoy a wine tasting at the local vineyards; the choice is yours!

Of course, the close location to San Antonio makes it easy to explore other nearby towns.

20. Marble Falls

The Texas Hill Country town of Marble Falls is one of Texas’s most fun romantic getaways!

Before enjoying a romantic dinner with your loved one, you can explore the many local craft breweries and wineries.

Marble Falls is also home to a fun lake with sandy beaches and a fabulous Main Street lined with fun art installations and many boutique shops.

With numerous lakeside properties, finding the perfect place to stay is easy.

The nearby town of Spicewood, TX , is also worth exploring. Don’t miss it while in this area!

21. Palo Duro Canyon

It’s easy to create a romantic getaway when you head to Palo Duro Canyon State Park for a romantic getaway.

You and your significant other can sleep under the stars, make a fire in the fire pit, go horseback riding, do some bird watching, hiking, and more in this fabulous state park in West Texas.

Palo Duro Canyon is so full of beautiful scenery that you might never want to leave!

Final Thoughts on Romantic Getaways in Texas For Couples

We have only scratched the surface regarding all of the romantic getaways in Texas. 

Texas is full of fabulous big cities and charming small towns, meaning you will find the perfect getaway for you and your sweetie. 

Come back often, as we will add to this list of getaways as we continue to explore the romantic side of the great state of Texas.

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Sunday 3rd of October 2021

Never wanted to go to Mexico more than I do now and now I'm hankering for some Mexican food too. This is such a helpful and insightful post, thank you, I am bookmarking it for future reference.

thattexascouple

Tuesday 5th of October 2021

This is so great, thank you!!

You always make me want to visit Texas! Romantic getaways are my favorite - I'll have to book one for my husband and I to one of these spots.

You are too nice, thank you so much!!

Saturday 2nd of October 2021

Love Texas! Great post and detail. Thank you for sharing!

Thank you for reading!

Michelle Shainess

Sunday 25th of July 2021

Great post!

Monday 26th of July 2021

Thanks so much!

This post was so timely! I visited Texas with my dad when I was in high school, but I've been dying to take my husband to explore. This list of romantic getaways is perfect. Thanks for sharing!

I am so happy to hear this. I hope you find exactly what you need. If not, shoot us an email. We are happy to help!

THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Texas Gulf Coast

Quiet Resorts in Texas Gulf Coast

Property types, distance from, neighborhoods, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. The San Luis Resort, Spa and Conference Center

2. Hilton Galveston Island Resort

3. La Copa Inn Beach Hotel

4. Best Western Corpus Christi

5. Isla Grand Beach Resort

6. Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites

7. Sand Rose Beach Resort

8. Grand Galvez

9. The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

10. Quality Inn & Suites Galveston - Beachfront

11. hilton garden inn south padre island beachfront, 12. the lighthouse inn at aransas bay, 13. doubletree by hilton hotel galveston beach, 14. south shore harbour resort & conference center, 15. the galvestonian, 16. emerald beach hotel, 17. pelican bay resort, 18. peninsula island resort & spa, 19. doubletree by hilton corpus christi beachfront, 20. days inn & suites by wyndham galveston west/seawall, 21. clarion pointe galveston seawall, 22. comfort suites, 23. ocean village hotel, 24. holiday inn club vacations galveston seaside resort, 25. hampton inn & suites lake jackson-clute, 26. my sapphire south padre, 27. columbia lakes resort and country club, 28. the inn at south padre, popular destinations for quiet resorts.

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The Lancaster

Best western port aransas, quiet resorts information.

12 Secret Spots In Texas Where Nature Will Completely Relax You

Kristen Lawrence

Texas staff writer for Only in Your State, blogger for Power of Positivity, and freelance health, wellness, and travel writer. I spend any chance I get traveling, enjoying nature, trying out new recipes, and meditating. I love sharing smiles, good food, and great conversation :)

More by this Author

Have you ever felt that life can get overwhelming sometimes? The best way to clear your mind and rejuvenate your soul is with nature getaways in Texas. Everyone needs to escape reality from time to time, so we’ve created this little list of secret spots in nature where you can forget the real world for a while and immerse yourself in pure tranquility. We hope you enjoy visiting these secret nature spots in Texas!

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What secret nature spots in Texas do you like to go to in order to escape the real world and unwind from your workday? Share your favorite nature getaways in Texas with us in the comments! If hiking is your go-to path to zen, try out AllTrails+ for all the latest info on hiking trails near you.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Secret nature spots in texas.

What are some hidden gems in Texas?

Some hidden gems in Texas include:

• National Butterfly Center
• Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
• Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Texas is one of the largest states in the nation so of course, we should expect to find hidden gems tucked away in every corner. Among some little-known locales is the National Butterfly Center in Mission, an outdoor conservatory that protects native butterfly species of the Rio Grande Valley. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in Buena Vista protects an area of 98,000 acres and is one of the best places for birding and viewing wildlife in the state. Learn about these locations and more on our Texas Hidden Gem Road Trip . 

What are some of the best natural attractions in Texas?

Some of the best natural attractions in Texas include:

• The Enchanted Rock
• Dripping Springs
• Caprock Escarpment

The Enchanted Rock of Fredericksburg is, in a word, enchanting and filled with hundreds of archaeological sites. There is also a lot of folklore and mystique about this rock. Head to Dripping Springs to see Hamilton Pool , a swimming hole that features a waterfall and an overhang that makes for an enchanting place to swim. 

What are some of the most unique places to visit in Texas?

Some of the most unique places to visit in Texas include:

• Beer Can House
• VW Beetle Graveyard
• Hobbit's Nest Treehouse

The Lone Star State has some of the most strange and unique places to visit in the country. From the Beer Can House in Houston to Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, you can spend months exploring one-of-a-kind attractions that can only be found in Texas.

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21 Charming Texas Coastal Towns You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

White sand, seafood restaurants, wildlife spots, and salty breezes. It’s true what they say – everything is bigger and better in Texas. While the Lone Star State might not be the first place that pops into your mind when you think of beach vacation, this guide will prove to you why it should be.

Texas is full of fantastic coastal towns to sit back, relax, and have a sip of some sweet ice tea. Whether you’re planning a warm winter vacation, a road trip, or a water-centric summer holiday, these Texas coastal towns are incredible. These coastal towns should absolutely be on your must-see landmarks and vacation list.

This list has 21 of the best coastal towns in beautiful Texas and has everything you need for a perfect beach vacation.

• 21 Charming Texas Coastal Towns

Table of Contents

1. Galveston

2. south padre island, 4. rockport, 5. port aransas, 6. san jose island, 7. corpus christi, 8. freeport, 9. crystal beach, 10. boca chica, 11. matagorda, 12. port o’connor, 13. port lavaca, 14. seabrook, 15. bolivar peninsula, 16. port arthur, 17. north padre island, 18. jamaica beach, 19. mustang island, 20. la porte, 21. san leon, final thoughts on best coastal towns in texas.

This island city is full of Southern charm. If you’re looking to get away from the noise of the city, Galveston is the best place to relax.

In the past, it was the largest city in Texas and one of the largest ports in the United States. But the Galveston Hurricane of the 1900s ended their reign. Now, it is filled with restaurants, decorated Victorian houses and a colourful boardwalk. Galveston is a vibrant slice of paradise.

Be sure to head over to the Galveston Island State Park, and enjoy the scenic hiking trails or have a dip in one of the many swimming spots.

In the evenings, you can head to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for carnival rides, fried food, and gorgeous sunset views.

South Padre Island is known as the “Spring Break Island”. It’s a party in the USA for sure on this island. However, South Padre Island is a year-round destination with warm waters and sunny skies. So, if you’re not up for a college flashback on vacation, you can still enjoy the perks of the island in late August and early September and avoid the crowds.

SPI is located at the southern tip of Texas, along the Gulf of Mexico and you are sure to have a vacation full of adventure. Go horseback riding on the beach, join a dolphin watching tour or learn how to kitesurf here.

The crown jewel of South Padre Island is Isla Blanca Park, located along the southern edge of South Padre. This park is filled with white-sand beaches, boating facilities, picnicking pavilions, and fishing spots.

Kemah is located near Houston and this small Texan beach town is unlike any small town you know.

Kemah is a mecca of fun, family-friendly activities. Famous for its boardwalk, you and your family can enjoy a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, arcade games and shopping.

This beach town is also great for indulging in a variety of water sports and swimming. Visit the Kemah Clear Lake Park and you will find a children’s play area, local flora and fauna, picnic tables and an excellent fishing spot or two.

Kemah is also home to many museums including the Bay Area Museum, Old Railroad Station Museum, and the Lone Star Flight Museum.

If you’re coming from Houston or Austin, take a road trip to the beach town of Rockport, Texas . This lovely beach town has a unique culture, excellent weather and great restaurants that might make you want to buy a house and settle down there.

Rockport Beach is Texas’ first 1.6 km (one-mile) long Blue Wave Beach. This means it is clean, managed responsibly, and focuses on protecting human health and the environment. And, the beach is accessible to people with decreased mobility. Unfortunately, Rockport does not allow pets on the beach.

If you love standing by the grill, Rockport also has a few BBQ grill spots for beachgoers who want to have a Texas-style beach vacation.

Port Aransas is one of Texas’ most popular beach destinations. It has everything you want on vacation. With a wide range of incredible outdoor activities to cultural activities, this spot on the Gulf Coast is a must-visit.

The beaches are incredibly unique, and you can get the most of the Texas coast here. So, why not indulge in all the outdoor activities the town has to offer? Like parasailing, kayaking, or windsurfing. But don’t worry, if all you want to do on your vacation is take things slow, you can rent a bike and cruise down the town and soak up the Port Aransas sun.

Port Aransas also hosts the annual Sand Fest . This is where sculptors create impressive lifesize sandcastles. Thousands of people head over to Port Aransas to see them. The bonus to the event is that the profits earned from the festival go to local schools and the community.

San Jose Island is the perfect place for nature lovers. Besides the amazing beaches here, there are tons of tropical birds that love to serenade their guests. Talk about southern hospitality.

On this island, you can enjoy some downtime because the beaches offer 33 km (12 miles) of pristine coastline and are not very crowded. So, take the opportunity to enjoy the salty breeze and the sunshine, uninterrupted.

The beaches offer plenty to do, though. Popular activities include birding, shelling and fishing. While swimming or fishing from the island’s jetties, keep an eye out for sea turtles; these marine animals are commonly spotted in the area.

You might have heard of Corpus Christi but if not, this is the largest coastal city in Texas.

It is home to 300,000 people and it’s a beach town that has something for everyone. In Corpus Christi, you’ll have easy accessibility to the big city and its long, beautiful coastline.

The beaches here are great for swimming and other water activities. Corpus Christi has a lot of history and culture to learn about, so visit some of their biggest attractions like the USS Lexington . This is a large aircraft carrier from the Second World War.

Corpus Christi also has a great art scene. One of the best museums in this beach town is the Art Museum of South Texas. You will mainly find great contemporary art from local artists. Not to mention, Corpus Christi is famous for its walking ghost tours , so if you love scary ghost stories, this is the place you need to see.

You might enjoy reading my article on top attractions in downtown San Antonio and San Antonio for couples.

Freeport is another small coastal town. But dynamite comes in small packages so don’t rule this town out.

If you consider yourself an outdoorsy person, Freeport is an excellent destination for all things nature. You can go camping at Brazoria County Beach Park or enjoy the beaches at Quintana or Bryan Beach. You can also go jet skiing in the nearby Old Brazos River.

Love to go birdwatching? Freeport also offers multiple tours to see migrating birds and songbirds. You can also explore the historic downtown of Freeport and the history museum to see the shrimping history of the beach town. Don’t forget to stop by the Freeport Municipal Golf Course for a few rounds on the green.

In Freeport Beach, dining options include the Red Snapper Inn for fresh seafood and Kitty’s Purple Cow Cafe for family-friendly dining.

The Ocean Village Hotel is located right on the sand in Surfside Beach, so you won’t have to walk far to get your feet wet.

Crystal Beach, located on the Bolivar Peninsula, is a fan favourite along the Texas coastline. This great beach town is an easy ferry ride away from Galveston. This Texas beach getaway is home to wide sandy beaches, excellent fishing, and amazing bird watching. Crystal Beach also has a fun boho beach vibe, plus, there is plenty to do here.

The beach makes for the perfect base for exploring other attractions on the Bolivar Peninsula, including the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge and the Point Bolivar Lighthouse.

Make sure you soak up the sun and add ‘rent a golf cart’ to cruise up and down the beach, onto your itinerary. Crystal Beach is also an excellent place to listen to live music, especially in the genres Country and Rock n Roll.

You might enjoy reading my article on the Cowboy Capital of the world, Bandera Texas .

Boca Chica, located near South Padre Island, is a hidden gem around Texas. This extremely small, quaint coastal beachside community is home to the Boca Chica State Park on the Gulf Coast.

However, due to the nature of this laid-back Texas beach town, there aren’t a lot of amenities readily available to their guests. So, you will need to bring all your equipment for fishing, bodyboarding, and whatever other beach activity you may want to do here.

While remaining off the grid for years, recently, Boca Chica has become famous as the launch site of SpaceX, the private space exploration company founded by Elon Musk of Tesla.

Boca Chica is home to a 12km (8 miles) stretch of sandy beach located north of the mouth of the Rio Grande river. This Texan beach is only a 30-minute drive from the Mexican border.

Boca Chica needs to be at the top of your beach destinations in Texas

Matagorda is the third oldest town in Texas and has many historical buildings and markers in its downtown area. It is a small beach town located near the mouth of the Colorado River on the upper Gulf Coast of Texas. This town’s motto is “ the hidden treasure of the Texas Gulf Coast ,” and it’s known for its excellent fishing opportunities.

Here, you will find over 37km (23 miles) of beach area that is easily accessible for camping, swimming, and relaxing. The Matagorda Bay Nature Park is also an excellent place for birding and wildlife.

If you have a kayak or a personal watercraft, then you have access to another 56km (35 miles) of the beachfront area south of the Colorado River.

The city of Port Lavaca is located southeast of Houston and is also one of the most underrated Texan coastal towns in this guide. Why? Well, Port Lavaca and the nearby town of Port O’Connor are coastal towns that are rich in cultural activities. Port O’Connor is also excellent for swimming, kayaking, paddling, and other water activities.

The coastal city Port Lavaca includes the Main Street Theater and the Calhoun County Museum. It is also home to the coastal city’s top attraction, the Half Moon Reef Lighthouse, which was built in 1858.

But besides the abundant cultural scene, its outdoor activities are scenic and heaps of fun too. Golf lovers will enjoy playing a round at the beautiful Hatch Bend Country Club. Port Lavaca is also home to two fabulous beaches, Magnolia Beach and Lighthouse Beach.

While Magnolia Beach is excellent for fishing, launching boats, and playing volleyball, Lighthouse Beach is also wonderful for birding. It even has a birding tower and a family-friendly hiking trail.

Port Lavaca has managed to fly under the radar when travellers are looking for a Texas beach destination. Port Lavaca is known for its incredible fishing culture, and more and more people are starting to flock here for their summer holidays.

This city sits on the Gulf Coast and is home to 12,000 people and only a 2-hour drive from Houston, making it the perfect place to spend a weekend.

The park also has a locally owned bird sanctuary, where you can explore the Alcoa Birding Tower and the Formosa Wetlands Walkway. Also spend a day at LightHouse Beach Park, for its shallow warm water and sandy dunes. This park makes for a relaxing day in nature.

Made out of recycled material, the 670m (2,200-foot) Port Lavaca boardwalk will guide you directly from the beach to the birding tower. It’s the perfect place to reel in a big catch at Marina Bay.

Seabrook is a wonderful Texas coastal town vacation destination. You can find Seabrook in Harris County, which is close to the city of Houston. To reach Seabrook from Houston you have to drive about 30 minutes. The distance between the two places is about 56 kilometres (35 miles).

There are lots of great things to do in Seabrook. Making it one of the most fun beach towns in Texas to visit. For example, Seabrook is famous for the large and diverse number of birds that live here.

You could easily spend the whole day bird watching. This is due to the location of the coastal town. Seabrook lies on a very large path for bird migration in North America.

Not only is nature here phenomenal, but you can also find lots of activities at these parks. For example, there is a skate park and a swimming pool in a few of the parks in Seabrook. You can also find some scenic hiking trails connecting the 18 amazing parks in Seabrook, which you can also bike along.

Bolivar Peninsula is a 43 km (27 miles) stretch between Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with some small communities, such as Crystal Beach and Port Bolivar.

Because it’s a short drive there, it makes for the perfect weekend getaway from Houston.

In the Bolivar Peninsula, you are sure to find clean beaches, soft sand, and a lot of fun.

This thriving port town has an alluring combination of Texas coastal charm and Cajun flair.

Port Arthur is an idyllic location that offers lots of delicious fresh seafood, breezy coastal walks, and natural beaches.

If you are looking for something more and want to venture out to partake in adrenaline-pumping activities, you’ll be well served here. Port Arthur is the perfect backdrop for dozens of outdoor adventures, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.

Take a stroll along North Padre Island’s soft sandy beaches and watch the crashing waves. Not only is North Padre a picturesque setting for some time alone or with a plus one, but it’s also home to the sea turtle. Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre and is one of a few hypersaline lagoons in the world.

North Padre draws a huge crowd to Kemp’s Ridley to see the sea turtles every year. These turtles nest on the shores of North Padre Island and are very well protected by the state park system. People come from all over to watch the baby sea turtles being released into the ocean for the first time.

If you’re looking for one of the more rustic and off-the-beaten-path beaches in Texas, North Padre Island is for you. With over 112km (70 miles) of protected land, this national seashore is the longest undeveloped stretch of coastline on a barrier island in the entire world.

The Padre Island National Seashore is a great place to learn and uncover different wildlife and plants. It’s also a great nook to set up for a beach day with family and friends.

Jamaica Beach is another place you should see when you’re looking for beach towns. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a small vacation spot in Texas.

Jamaica Beach City Park is one of the best places to see while you’re in the South. It’s a relaxing place to go to and there are several things to do – especially for large families.

Plan a day at the local basketball court and picnic area for the whole family to enjoy. This is also a great place to go for the kids, as there’s a playground with swings as well.

And of course, we can’t forget about the beautiful beaches here. The sand is wonderfully soft and white with crystal blue waters – it’s the perfect place to relax.

The closest large city in Texas near Jamaica Beach is Houston. You can reach this lovely town from there within 1.5 hours.

This barrier island is located just east of Corpus Christi, Mustang Island is a favourite beach destination for families and active travellers.

Surfing and camping are popular things to do at this beach, however, the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail also offers opportunities to kayak, canoe and paddleboard. The Paddling Trail is a 32km (20 miles) series of shallow-water canals.

If you’re not keen on breaking a sweat during your visit, you can stretch out and watch for turtles, dolphins and birds on the island’s 28-plus kilometres (18 miles) of beautiful sands.

La Porte is a great place on the coast of Texas, close to the city of Houston. To reach La Porte from Houston it’s a short 30-minute drive.

You’ll find lots of great sights in La Porte. One of those sights is the San Jacinto Museum of History. This is a museum where you can learn about the history of Texas.

Be sure to check out La Porte Pecan Park too. People gather here to watch baseball, take leisurely hikes along the designated trails, let their kids have fun at the playground, and so much more.

Also, when you are in La Porte, don’t miss an opportunity to go to Sylvan Beach Park. This is a lovely waterfront park with a pier that stretches into the sea.

La Porte is close to many other beach towns on this list, such as Kemah and Galveston. You could make a day of it and opt to visit all three beach destinations. You’ll be sure to have limitless amounts of fun in the sun at all three places.

San Leon is a  lovely beach town in Texas. One of the best things to do in San Leon is to visit Bayshore Park. This is a lovely park next to the San Leon waterfront.

San Leon has an amazing variety of restaurants and bars to choose from along the beach. After spending a day in the sun, head over to San Leon’s most loved bar- the Sunset Lounge. Besides, the people of San Leon call it the Sunset Lounge for nothing. It is truly the perfect place to see the sunset.

As the second-largest state in the USA, Texas has over 563 km (350 miles) of sandy coastline calling your name. Hopefully, this guide made you curious to explore the many different landscapes Texas has to offer.

The Texas coastline, right on the Gulf of Mexico is a haven for every type of traveller. The coastal cities have consistently warm weather and a variety of charm and appeal. So, are you ready and rarin’ to go yet? The Texas coast is awaiting.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this Texas coastal towns post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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12 Unique Places To Visit In Texas

From historic landmarks to sweeping canyons, these unique Texas towns and spots are quite a sight to see.

Read update

More unique towns in Texas to visit

• Unique towns in Texas offer special attractions beyond well-known cities, from canyons to ghost towns.
• Some unique Texan towns boast cowboy culture, German heritage, or desolate ghost towns - such as Bandera, Fredericksburg, or Terlingua.
• Many of these locations are considered some of the most unique landmarks in Texas, holding small but distinct characters and features (or even strange characteristics, like Earth, known for its peculiar name).

Texas has much more going for it than being America's second-largest state - both by land (after Alaska) and population (after California). The Lone Star State is also big on its history, heritage, and city life — from San Antonio and its scenic River Walk to the rugged outdoor beauty of El Paso, Texas has some of the most beautiful towns in America, and many of them exist off the tourist radar (some places even have unique names, like the town of Earth, Texas ).

However, beyond some of the state's more well-known cities, some of the most unique places to visit in Texas offer a completely different experience. From historic landmarks, small towns, and sweeping canyons to deep caverns and even island adventures — these truly unique, off-the-beaten-path places in Texas feature something a bit more special for a treasured trip of a lifetime.

UPDATE: 2024/03/07 14:32 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Texas is full of unique towns. As these towns are special, each has something different that makes them worth visiting. Some towns offer breathtaking landscapes while others offer the best of Texas' cowboy heritage. This list has been updated and expanded with more unique towns to visit in Texas.

10 Small Towns In West Texas You'll Love Visiting

12 marfa, texas, population: 1,788.

The Prada Marfa sculptural art installation is one thing that makes this West Texas town unique.

Of course, there are many reasons to visit Marfa, Texas , that go beyond its artsy prowess, including the mysterious Marfa Lights — an unexplained light phenomenon that certainly tops the list.

• Unique for: Mysterious glowing lights and the Prada Marfa art installation
• Things to do: Prada Marfa, the Chinati Foundation, Building 98, and Marfa Holocaust & Model Ship Museum

The Marfa Lights Viewing Area is located about nine miles outside of town. The annual Marfa Lights Festival also draws in crowds and features food vendors, live music, and other performances.

7 Gorgeous Desert Towns In Texas

11 new braunfels, texas, population: 90,403.

New Braunfels is another one of the unique Texas towns to visit, as it's a water world like no other. Located a little over 30 miles northeast of San Antonio, the city is a popular summer destination for its winding river and is brimming with fun water activities.

Visitors can kayak, paddleboard, or float down either the Comal River or the Guadalupe River; the options are wet and endless.

• Unique for: Its winding river
• Things to do: Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Landa Falls, Landa Park, Panther Canyon Nature Trail, Master Blaster Water Park, and McKenna Children's Museum

For another unique attraction, visit the Natural Bridge Caverns , which are located about 15 miles outside of town.

These Are The 10 Most Adorable Small Towns In Texas For Your Bucket List

10 terlingua, texas, population: 110.

It doesn't get more unique than a deserted city, so head out and explore the Wild West at Terlingua Ghost Town .

Situated close to the Rio Grande and the Mexican border, tourists can see the remnants of an old mining town in Terlingua.

• Unique for: Its desolate ghost town
• Things to do: Terlingua Trading Company, Terlingua Ghost Town Sign, and Starlight Theatre

Terlingua is also nestled in between Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park , making it the perfect side trip for those keen on exploring the great Texas outdoors.

9 Fredericksburg, Texas

Population: 10,530.

Fredericksburg's National Historic District features more than 80 points of historical interest , making it one of the many unique destinations in Texas for history buffs.

The second German Town in Texas , the city's German heritage is also a major draw for tourists.

• Unique for: German heritage
• Things to do: Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, National Museum of the Pacific War, Marktplatz von Fredericksburg, Gillespie County Historical, Pioneer Museum,

Looking for a cozy place to stay? Some of the most charming bed and breakfasts can be found in Fredericksburg, Texas , including the Full Moon Inn Bed and Breakfast , Walnut Canyon Cabins , and Peach Tree Inn & Suites .

8 Granbury, Texas

Population: 10,958.

Founded in 1866, Granbury is among the many unique places in Texas to visit, and its historical roots run deep.

Although a variety of historic landmarks can be found sprinkled throughout the city, the town's pride and glory is undoubtedly the Historic Granbury Square , where tourists can visit the Hood County Courthouse and Museum.

• Unique for: The historic town square
• Things to do: Hood County Courthouse and Museum, Granbury Opera House, Hood County Jail Museum, The Bridge Street History Center, Yeats - Dukes 1858 Working Museum, and the Granbury Doll House

The historic square isn't the only unique thing about Granbury. Head just outside of town to Glen Rose to see the footprints of prehistoric creatures at Dinosaur Valley State Park .

7 Jefferson, Texas

Population: 1,875.

The exact founding date of Jefferson, Texas, remains a mystery. However, this quaint and unique Texan town has Fredericksburg beat when it comes to its history.

Jefferson is home to nearly 100 historical landmarks , from its Federal Building to its Plantation House.

• Unique for: Almost 100 historic landmarks
• Things to do: The Grove, Historic Jefferson Railway, Gone With the Wind Museum, Jefferson General Store, and Jefferson Historical Museum

Care for a good scare? Jefferson has also been dubbed the most haunted town in Texas .

9 U.S. Towns That Were Just Named Top Places To Visit In 2024

6 pal duro canyon, texas, population: none.

As its name suggests, this unique Texas city is famed for its sweeping canyons, which can be found just outside of town.

Plus, there are many things to do in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas , from hiking to the iconic Lighthouse rock formation to embarking on a scenic drive.

• Unique for: Sweeping canyons
• Things to do: Palo Duro Canyon State Park , Canyon Aqua Park, Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, and Texas Outdoor Musical

5 Sonora, Texas

Population: 3,027.

Nestled on the western edge of Texas Hill Country about 2.5 hours northwest of San Antonio, Sonora is one of the many unique towns in Texas to visit boasting small-town charm. Home to plenty of attractions, Sonora is a fun spot to check out, with interesting museums, a picturesque courthouse, and a large nature center, along with unique dining and shopping.

However, Sonora is perhaps best known for being home to stunning caverns. The Caverns of Sonora are subterranean networks located about 15 miles southwest of the city and are quite a sight to see.

• Unique for: Sonora Caverns
• Things to do: Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve, Old Sonora Ice House Ranch Museum, and Sutton County Historical Society

4 Dripping Springs, Texas

Population: 4,650.

Known as the "Gateway to Hill Country," Dripping Springs is another one of the most unique destinations to visit in Texas, as it's famed for its wineries and natural wonders. The town also boasts a unique downtown with boutiques, quaint coffee shops, and brew pubs.

However, one of the most famous natural wonders in Dripping Springs is the stunning emerald-green waters of the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Visitors can also enjoy climbing the limestone cliffs at Reimers Ranch.

• Unique for: Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole
• Things to do: Hamilton Pool Preserve, Milton Reimers Ranch Park, and Hudson's On Mercer Street

Tourists should check Hamilton Pool Preserve's webpage for updates on any closures of the pool due to high bacteria levels or recent rainfall, among others.

13 Charming, Small Texas Towns You Should Definitely Visit

3 south padre island, texas, population: 2,816.

Life's a beach on South Padre Island, which is easily one of the most unique islands in Texas to visit, thanks to its location and resort town status.

The barrier island, which is located off the southernmost tip of Texas, is a popular resort destination for its local dining options, beach views, nightlife scene, and much more.

• Unique for: Beaches
• Things to do: South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Andy Bowie County Park, Gravity Park, and Isla Blanca Park

2 Bandera, Texas

Population: 867.

Bandera is one of the world's self-claimed "Cowboy Capital of the Worlds" and is located on the historic Great Western Cattle Trail.

Bandera is located around an hour's drive out of San Antonio and prides itself on all things Western and cowboy. There are an endless number of events to attend in this little town, from paint nights in the saloon to steak nights and rodeos. Naturally, no one should visit Bandera without going to one of its rodeos - notable rodeos include:

• Ridin' The River Cowboy Fellowship Rodeos
• Riding On Faith Rodeo & Cowboy Capital Bull Bash
• Bandera Pro rodeo
• Memorial Weekend Day Stampede

The Memorial Weekend Day Stampede is scheduled to be held 24-26th May and entry is $12 per adult.

• Unique for: Cowboy culture
• Things to do: rodeos, dude ranches, saloons, etc.

Is Texas' Bandera Really The Cowboy Capital Of The World?

1 earth, texas, population: 1,065.

Earth is one of the places in the US with weird names ; it's worth visiting if only for its unique name and making friends' eyes roll with puns (e.g. "Earth is the best place on Earth") "What's the population of Earth?" "9 billion" comes the answer. "Oh wow, it was only 1,065 in 2010."

Earth is located around 90 miles southwest of Amarillo and 40 miles east of the New Mexico state line. The town was established in 1924 and is in the remote northwestern corner of Texas. Admittedly, there isn't a lot to see in Earth, Texas - it seems Earth just isn't a very popular place. It is merely unique for its name.

• Unique for: Its name
• Things to do: Take a photo with the town's sign

24/7 Wall St.

Best Places to Retire in Texas

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

When you think of states within the U.S. that are great for retirement, Texas undoubtedly comes to mind. Popular for so many reasons, Texas remains one of the greatest places to live for people of all ages. It is famous for its country music, barbecues, oil fields, cowboys, rodeos, and state fairs. In other words, Texas has it all.

If you're looking to retire in the near future, making Texas one of your choices should be top of mind. Along with everything mentioned above, you have great weather, plenty of large cities, a diverse landscape, and all the land you could ever want.

Using data compiled from expert sites like Niche , let's take a look at the best cities you can find in Texas for retirement in descending order.

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17. Olmos Park

Home to many dog-friendly parks and the ARS Entertainment Hub, Olmos Park is filled with things to do. Located outside of San Antonio, Olmos Park has a population of 2,286 people. Residents have a wonderful selection of dining and drink options while enjoying a low cost of living. This is good news for the 19% of residents who are already at retirement age.

16. Hudson Bend

With a population of 3,672 people, Hudson Bend is a quaint town located near Austin. Home to many outdoor activities, Hudson Bend is famous for its ziplining adventures and the Lakeway Resort & Spa. Plus, you have Canyonland Trails for mountain biking as beautiful weather is enjoyed all year long. This is good news for the town's residents as 22% of them are aged 65 and over.

15. Palm Valley

A smaller town area-wise, all of Palm Valley's 1,876 residents live within a 0.6 square mile area. However, small doesn't mean bad as Palm Valley earns an A- score from Niche for retirees. Almost 31% of residents are over retirement age and enjoy the Harlington Country Club for golf or South Padre Island for saltwater fishing.

14. Highland Park

Located outside of the Dallas area, Highland Park is a well-known Texas city great for retirement. A well-to-do area, the median home value is right around $1.6 million for the town's 8,840 residents. Right around 19% of residents are of retirement age and take advantage of Highland Park's many things to do. You have the Frontiers of Flight Museum, Klyde Warren Park, and Lakeside Park along with quick access to many of Dallas' attractions and dining options.

13. Woodway

A suburb of Waco, Woodway is a somewhat larger area on this list with a population of 9,339 residents. The good news is the larger population means more to do. Woodway is home to the famous Dr. Pepper Museum, Carleen Bright Arboretum, and the Cameron Park Zoo. Rated A+ by Niche, over 23% of Woodway's residents say they are of retirement age and over.

12. Horseshoe Bay

With multiple golf courses nearby, Horseshoe Bay is a great place to call home and play 18 holes daily. A population of 4,601 people is regularly found on the golf course or the many trails surrounding Horseshoe Bay. Multiple natural parks are within town limits, including Longhorn Cavern State Park famous for its natural rock formations. Over 50% of the town's residents are at retirement age and above.

Any retirees looking for a great place to fish regularly should strongly consider Fulton, Texas. While only 1,241 people live in town limits, many of them love to use Fulton's fishing pier or Harbor Park to find a big catch. The median home value is right around $90,000, which makes Fulton a very inexpensive place to call home. At the end of 2023, 39% of the population was 65 and over.

10. Shenandoah

Located outside of Houston, Shenandoah is a highly-rated location for retirees. Over 44% of the 3,481 population is at retirement age and already taking advantage of things to do in the area. The Shenandoah Park is family-friendly and includes a splash pad and tennis courts. Northshore Park is a great place for picnics and frequent outdoor concerts.

9. Weston Lakes

A 1,600-acre planned community, Weston Lakes is a terrific place to enjoy some quiet time. Only 3,907 people call Weston Lakes home, though a small town doesn't mean there is little to do. You have numerous hiking trails in the area along with a golf course and a country club for nicer meals. Lots of retirees already call Weston Lakes home with 24% of the population over 65.

8. Piney Point Village

Earning an A+ rating for retirees from Niche, Piney Point Village is a great place to live. Located near Houston, you get excellent weather, a strong nightlife, and plenty of ways to stay active. Plus, a population of only 3,114 people ensures you keep the small-town feeling you've been after. Just over 22% of residents are aged 65 and over.

7. Emerald Bay

Anyone looking for a truly small town in Texas to live out the rest of their days should turn to Emerald Bay. A population of just 969 people fills up town limits, so you get both a rural setting and not-so-noisy neighbors. What's striking about Emerald Bay is that over 57% of the town's residents are 65 and over. This is great news for making friends and having dinner at the Emerald Bay Club.

6. The Hills

An Austin suburb, The Hills is a great place to live if you love quiet living. A population of only 2,505 residents keeps The Hills feeling very rural. With 33% of the population over 65%, The Hills is well known for being a retirement hotspot. If nothing else, you can spend time looking at rocks at The Hills, which is known to be home to the oldest rocks in the state.

5. Barton Creek

Home to a small population of only 3,234 people, the town of Barton Creek is the 5th best place to retire in the state. Great for jobs and health & fitness, Barton offers a host of natural attractions, parks, and a variety of nature trails. Of course, there's plenty of food and drinks in the city limits as well. A sizable 33% of the town's population identifies as 65 and over.

4. Lago Vista

A lakeside community located 20 miles from Austin, Lago Vista is set on a peninsula with the Colorado River running through next to the city. Within the city limits of Lago Vista, over 9,000 residents call it home. In total, 27% of those residents are aged 65 and over. The area around Lago Vista is growing fast as it's home to numerous tech companies who are making the move to Texas.

3. West Lake Hills

Located close to Austin, West Lake Hills is another A+ rated town according to Niche. With only 3,360 residents, you get a small-town feel with a whole lot of fun. It's an affluent community as the medium home value is $1.4 million with 88% of residents owning their home. Toward the end of 2023, 25% of the town identified as 65 and over.

2. DeCordova

Rated A by Niche, DeCordova is the single best place in the state to buy a home. Of the 2023 population of 3,035 people, 30% are aged 65 and over. What's notable about this city is that the entire town lives within one gated community. With the great weather, you can take full advantage of a golf course that has 27 holes, a clubhouse with a swimming pool, tennis, and a fitness center.

1. Hollywood Park

A suburb of San Antonio, Hollywood Park is the best place in Texas you can pick to retire. With a small population of just 3,123 people, it's home to plenty of places to eat, drink, and be merry. Rated A+ as a place to live by Niche, it's great for jobs, nightlife, health & fitness, and just about everything else. At the end of 2023, over 22% of the population was aged 65 and over.

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Best places to live in texas.

An ideal town or neighborhood looks different for everyone.

Those who can't get enough of the outdoors may prioritize proximity to trails, lakes, and beaches, while parents are looking for places with top-ranked schools for their children. Culture lovers might want to live in a city with museums and art walks, whereas sports fans look for professional or college sports teams nearby.

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Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Texas using data from Niche . Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums.

Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

#30. North University, Texas

- Overall Rank: 597 - Population: 4,519 - Median household income: $49,713 - Median home value: $724,071 (17% own) - Median rent: $1,419 (83% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#29. Old West Austin, Texas

- Overall Rank: 587 - Population: 4,488 - Median household income: $86,031 - Median home value: $1,126,550 (40% own) - Median rent: $1,806 (60% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#28. Northeast Inner Loop, Texas

- Overall Rank: 581 - Population: 17,671 - Median household income: $104,640 - Median home value: $413,134 (61% own) - Median rent: $1,308 (39% rent) - Top public schools: BASIS San Antonio - Shavano Campus (grade A+), International School of the Americas (grade A+), BASIS San Antonio- Northeast Campus (grade A+) - Top private schools: Keystone School (grade A+), Saint Mary's Hall (grade A+), San Antonio Christian School (grade A+)

#27. Creekdale, Texas

- Overall Rank: 564 - Population: 5,591 - Median household income: $126,459 - Median home value: $323,988 (75% own) - Median rent: $2,372 (25% rent) - Top public schools: Lawler Middle School (grade A+), Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Imagine International Academy of North Texas (grade A+) - Top private schools: Akiba Yavneh Academy (grade A+), John Paul II High School (grade A+), Prince of Peace Christian School (grade A+)

#26. Dallas North Estates, Texas

- Overall Rank: 546 - Population: 3,931 - Median household income: $115,266 - Median home value: $330,271 (91% own) - Median rent: $1,766 (9% rent) - Top public schools: Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Universal Academy - Coppell Campus (grade A+), Richland Collegiate High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), Alcuin School (grade A+)

#25. Meyerland Area, Texas

- Overall Rank: 522 - Population: 22,460 - Median household income: $141,232 - Median home value: $489,647 (65% own) - Median rent: $1,982 (35% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Kinkaid School (grade A+)

#24. Clear Lake, Texas

- Overall Rank: 520 - Population: 78,076 - Median household income: $110,599 - Median home value: $280,008 (56% own) - Median rent: $1,546 (44% rent) - Top public schools: Clear Horizons Early College High School (grade A+), Clear Lake High School (grade A+), Westbrook Intermediate School (grade A) - Top private schools: First Baptist Christian Academy (grade A), Grace Christian Academy (grade A), Lutheran South Academy (grade A)

#23. Upper Boggy Creek, Texas

- Overall Rank: 476 - Population: 5,875 - Median household income: $97,899 - Median home value: $627,778 (48% own) - Median rent: $1,812 (52% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#22. Caruth Terrace, Texas

- Overall Rank: 473 - Population: 12,334 - Median household income: $107,552 - Median home value: $381,293 (44% own) - Median rent: $1,774 (56% rent) - Top public schools: School for the Talented & Gifted (grade A+), School of Science & Engineering (grade A+), Highland Park High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#21. Hancock, Texas

- Overall Rank: 449 - Population: 5,428 - Median household income: $79,438 - Median home value: $629,911 (20% own) - Median rent: $1,598 (80% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#20. Astrodome Area, Texas

- Overall Rank: 433 - Population: 18,595 - Median household income: $59,595 - Median home value: $172,002 (17% own) - Median rent: $1,408 (83% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), Strake Jesuit College Preparatory (grade A+)

#19. Midtown, Texas

- Overall Rank: 403 - Population: 12,639 - Median household income: $103,541 - Median home value: $393,155 (22% own) - Median rent: $1,773 (78% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Kinkaid School (grade A+)

#18. Heights Park, Texas

- Overall Rank: 397 - Population: 2,806 - Median household income: $114,635 - Median home value: $387,282 (72% own) - Median rent: $1,924 (28% rent) - Top public schools: Uplift North Hills Preparatory - High School (grade A+), Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Richland Collegiate High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#17. Museum Park, Texas

- Overall Rank: 384 - Population: 7,113 - Median household income: $124,984 - Median home value: $571,022 (29% own) - Median rent: $1,892 (71% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), Strake Jesuit College Preparatory (grade A+)

#16. North Burnet, Texas

- Overall Rank: 378 - Population: 8,978 - Median household income: $93,684 - Median home value: $199,986 (1% own) - Median rent: $1,718 (99% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#15. University Place, Texas

- Overall Rank: 354 - Population: 19,030 - Median household income: $177,746 - Median home value: $960,769 (59% own) - Median rent: $1,824 (41% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Kinkaid School (grade A+)

#14. Canyon Creek North, Texas

- Overall Rank: 333 - Population: 4,675 - Median household income: $121,713 - Median home value: $418,302 (87% own) - Median rent: $1,678 (13% rent) - Top public schools: Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Universal Academy - Coppell Campus (grade A+), Talley Elementary (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#13. Fulshear, Texas

- Overall Rank: 299 - Population: 21,552 - Median household income: $170,602 - Median home value: $483,200 (94% own) - Median rent: $1,745 (6% rent) - Top public schools: Seven Lakes High School (grade A+), Obra D. Tompkins High School (grade A+), Adams J.H. (grade A+) - Top private schools: British International School of Houston (grade A+), St. John XXIII College Preparatory (grade A+), Iman Academy - Southwest Campus (grade A)

#12. Gateway, Texas

- Overall Rank: 273 - Population: 1,521 - Median household income: $87,663 - Median home value: $490,200 (1% own) - Median rent: $1,683 (99% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#11. Canyon Creek South, Texas

- Overall Rank: 263 - Population: 3,788 - Median household income: $187,059 - Median home value: $618,263 (97% own) - Median rent: $2,250 (3% rent) - Top public schools: Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Universal Academy - Coppell Campus (grade A+), Richland Collegiate High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#10. Hyde Park, Texas

- Overall Rank: 255 - Population: 6,430 - Median household income: $73,821 - Median home value: $696,133 (26% own) - Median rent: $1,442 (74% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#9. Prestonwood, Texas

- Overall Rank: 254 - Population: 20,259 - Median household income: $131,792 - Median home value: $522,049 (74% own) - Median rent: $1,379 (26% rent) - Top public schools: School for the Talented & Gifted (grade A+), School of Science & Engineering (grade A+), Uplift North Hills Preparatory - High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#8. Memorial, Texas

- Overall Rank: 163 - Population: 54,334 - Median household income: $138,196 - Median home value: $639,443 (55% own) - Median rent: $1,856 (45% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Village School (grade A+)

#7. Sherrill Park North/Foxboro Addition, Texas

- Overall Rank: 162 - Population: 1,448 - Median household income: $147,053 - Median home value: $442,900 (96% own) - Median rent: $2,239 (4% rent) - Top public schools: Plano East Senior High School (grade A+), Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Richland Collegiate High School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#6. Neartown - Montrose, Texas

- Overall Rank: 123 - Population: 32,763 - Median household income: $120,951 - Median home value: $621,879 (39% own) - Median rent: $1,693 (61% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Kinkaid School (grade A+)

#5. Preston Highlands, Texas

- Overall Rank: 109 - Population: 5,869 - Median household income: $103,579 - Median home value: $426,462 (45% own) - Median rent: $1,613 (55% rent) - Top public schools: Uplift North Hills Preparatory - High School (grade A+), Lawler Middle School (grade A+), Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Mark's School of Texas (grade A+), Greenhill School (grade A+), The Hockaday School (grade A+)

#4. Washington Avenue Coalition / Memorial Park, Texas

- Overall Rank: 104 - Population: 38,293 - Median household income: $153,502 - Median home value: $506,293 (50% own) - Median rent: $2,032 (50% rent) - Top public schools: Carnegie Vanguard High School (grade A+), Debakey H.S. for Health Prof (grade A+), Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. John's School (grade A+), The Awty International School (grade A+), The Kinkaid School (grade A+)

#3. Downtown, Texas

- Overall Rank: 102 - Population: 14,081 - Median household income: $151,719 - Median home value: $714,540 (41% own) - Median rent: $2,662 (59% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

#2. Timberbrook, Texas

- Overall Rank: 42 - Population: 6,467 - Median household income: $141,128 - Median home value: $450,241 (71% own) - Median rent: $2,259 (29% rent) - Top public schools: Plano East Senior High School (grade A+), Jenny Preston Elementary School (grade A+), Imagine International Academy of North Texas (grade A+) - Top private schools: Alcuin School (grade A+), The Cambridge School of Dallas (grade A+), Akiba Yavneh Academy (grade A+)

#1. Triangle State, Texas

- Overall Rank: 40 - Population: 3,276 - Median household income: $81,176 - Median home value: $773,400 (4% own) - Median rent: $1,926 (96% rent) - Top public schools: Liberal Arts & Science Academy (grade A+), Richards School for Young Women Leaders (grade A+), Chaparral Star Academy (grade A+) - Top private schools: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (grade A+), Austin Peace Academy (grade A+), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (grade A+)

This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 42 states.

© Stacker 2024. All rights reserved.

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