21 Top Romantic Getaways in Texas

Couples looking for a romantic daytrip, weekend getaway or weeklong vacation should look no further than the many top destinations in Texas. The Lone Star State 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 pick the right destination for a romantic escape, U.S. News found some of the best big cities, quiet parks and luxurious hotels throughout Texas. Pack your bags and grab your honey; it’s time to take a much-needed break together.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Skybox Cabins offers an ideal retreat for you and your special someone, according to previous guests, who praised the cabins’ location and were awed by the 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 stays. 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 the 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.

Music-loving couples will have a hard time picking a place to stop for a concert in Austin. 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 a food tour or brewery tour for guidance from a local.

For accommodations, couples will have their pick of hotels. 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 site when you’re visiting Austin. The historic Hotel Ella houses several dozen cozy accommodations and is a popular site for weddings (which travelers warn can take over the whole property).

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 admitted that the suites can seem a little kitschy, they raved 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, pop by Monarch Restaurant & Lounge for a delicious dinner on its terrace or one of its intriguing cocktails like the cherry vanilla gin and tonic. 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 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 city’s food scene, sign up for a food tour to get acquainted with Houston’s best offerings. You’ll also want to save one day of your Houston itinerary for a daytrip south to Galveston, where beachfront strolls await.

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.

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.

According to couples, 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.

Romantic sunsets at this property do not disappoint, according to recent travelers. Multiple past guests said they could see colorful skies from their 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. However, a few recent guests noted that the rooms could use an upgrade or a more thorough clean in some cases. 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 receive a fresh meal.

Whether you’re seeking a cheap weekend getaway or a more extensive vacation, couples will 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.

San Antonio’s accommodations are much like its attractions: diverse and able to suit any taste. 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. It completed a renovation in spring 2020 that highlights some of the rooms’ unique features, including beam ceilings and exposed brick.

Located on the banks of San Antonio’s famous River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa is a great option for couples on the hunt for luxury and relaxation. 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.

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 could sample. To explore some of the surrounding area’s wineries without having to driving 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.

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.

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 agreed 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, lovebirds can 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.

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. 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 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).

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.

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. In 2020, the property revealed its extensive renovation that includes a remodeled lobby and redesigned guest rooms, complete with wood paneling and curated Texas photography.
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.

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 daytrip 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. Another pristine beach 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.

After spending time sightseeing and strolling the shore, a romantic seafood dinner is likely in order. The Yardarm Restaurant plates up fancier fare like oysters Rockefeller alongside beautiful views of Corpus Christi Bay – but note that, while most reviewers agree the food is tasty, a few report lackluster service. For something more low-key, Surfing Crab wins plaudits from patrons for its delicious food, spanning crab legs and mussels to burgers. When it’s time to bed down, you’ll find plush accommodations at traveler favorites like the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, as well as resorts and vacation rentals.

While you and your partner will likely want to relax on the island’s pristine beaches (try Isla Blanca Park), South Padre Island does call itself the “Sandcastle Capital of the World,” and the sands are perfect to build your own. Get some help from Sandcastle Lessons, which travelers say is a fun way to learn more about sandcastles and their construction. The city also has a Sandcastle Trail where you can view creations by professional artists.

After a day of playing on the beach, couples can take to the water on a fishing charter. The island offers both nearshore and offshore fishing. Plus, several area restaurants will prepare the fish you catch as your romantic dinner. But if you don’t want to work for your meal, never fear: Liam’s Steak House & Oyster Bar serves up plenty of seafood specialties such as red snapper Rockefeller. Visitors urge future travelers to make reservations at The Painted Marlin Grille for seaside views with dinner. As you watch the sunset together, you can enjoy wraps, sandwiches or seafood platters.

For accommodations, previous travelers recommend the beachfront Isla Grand Beach Resort. This top South Padre Island hotel boasts plenty of on-site activities like a nightclub, live music, pools and shuffleboard. You’ll also find numerous other hotels lining the island as well as vacation rentals. But be sure to plan your romantic getaway to South Padre Island carefully, unless you favor a party scene. The island, located at the tip of Texas near the Mexico border, is a popular spring break destination for college students, so avoid March and early April. You’ll enjoy a quieter atmosphere at other times of year, perfect for spending quality time together.

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. If you care to bed down here, travelers recommend the cozy Gruene Mansion Inn, which sits on the banks of the Guadalupe River, a stone’s throw from Gruene Hall.

Situated between San Antonio and Austin, Wimberley beckons to artsy couples. You’ll find not one, but two glass studios here: Wimberley Glassworks and Silo Gallery & Glass Studio. Wimberley Glassworks displays art installations and hosts glassblowing demonstrations; couples who want a hands-on experience can take a class at Silo Gallery before viewing work by different artisans in its gallery or perusing other galleries in town.

You’ll find a collection of restaurants and shops on The Square (Wimberley’s downtown area). Fan-favorite Wimberley Cafe dishes up American classics like burgers and Texas staples like breakfast tacos. Plus, pancakes and waffles are served all day. For a romantic dinner, head to Longleaf Craft Kitchen + Bar for elevated Southern fare. After your meal, you and your sweetie can find gift shops and specialty stores selling everything from candy to antiques.

Should you want to spend time outdoors, you’ll find several options. Jacob’s Well Natural Area and Blue Hole Regional Park are both particular highlights for travelers because of their secluded beauty, hiking trails and swimming holes. (Keep in mind that swimming is only accessible seasonally and with a reservation, when water conditions allow.) Cap off your romantic vacation by staying at Creekhaven Inn & Spa. Here you’ll find plush accommodations, a spa where all treatments come with a couples option, complimentary breakfasts, and free use of bicycles and kayaks, the latter of which can be used on the property’s private creek.

The friendly service, comfortable accommodations and great location in Galveston earn The Tremont House winning reviews. Though the hotel is currently undergoing a top to bottom renovation, several guests note they hardly noticed the construction and that it didn’t detract from their stays. Stay in a cozy guest room or suite here; some of the accommodations come with a Juliet balcony, and suites afford separate living areas and historic touches like exposed brick. You and your partner can save some coin by booking the “Tremont Sweet Escape” package, which includes one night’s stay for two, a bottle of sparkling wine and breakfast.

Start or end your day with bistro-style fare at the on-site cafe: Breakfasts span waffles to croissant sandwiches, while the dinner menu consists of wraps, flatbreads, pasta and more. The Tremont House’s rooftop bar provides sweeping views alongside cocktails, beer and wine. (Note: The rooftop bar was closed for renovation at the time of publication. It is expected to reopen in early 2023.)

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.

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.

When it’s time for a break, accommodation options abound. 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. 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.

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.