Romantic Weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas
I found that romantic weekend getaways from Houston are the perfect mix of coastal charm, countryside escapes, and cozy retreats, making them ideal for couples looking to relax and reconnect. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can trade the busy city for beaches, lakes, or rolling hills, each offering its own unique blend of beauty and intimacy.
Choosing where to stay is part of the excitement, whether it’s a charming bed and breakfast in wine country, a lakeside cabin with sunset views, or a boutique hotel by the Gulf. Here are some of the most unique Houston-area romantic getaways I came across as a Texas local that I think you’ll love for your next weekend adventure.
1. For peaceful vineyard views: Messina Hof - 1 hour 40 minutes from Houston, Texas
I thought that Messina Hof was one of the best romantic weekend getaways from Houston when I moved to Texas. When I first visited, I immediately felt the warmth and charm that makes this winery stand out. It felt personal and welcoming in a way that made me want to linger all day.
From Houston, it’s a 100-mile drive northwest to Bryan but the time going quickly. Downtown Bryan is on the National Register of Historic Places, with century-old brick storefronts now housing art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants.
I explored the wine cellar at Messina Hof, and I was fascinated by the history and stories behind the bottles. I could sense the dedication to family tradition and craftsmanship everywhere I turned. For me, sipping a glass of their Riesling while overlooking the vines was one of my favorite experiences in Texas wine country.
I also really enjoyed dining at the onsite Vintage House Restaurant. I thought the pairing menus highlighted the wines perfectly, and it was one of the best meals I’ve had in a winery setting. I loved that I didn’t just taste wine—I truly experienced it alongside carefully prepared dishes.
Our room at the Manor Haus B&B for two days was both cozy and elegant, giving me the chance to relax after a full day of exploring.
I think Messina Hof is not only a working vineyard but also a destination where I can celebrate, unwind, and connect with the story of Texas wine. It’s an amazing place that I plan to visit again for a meaningful getaway surrounded by good food, great wine, and genuine charm.
To book, check availability or prices for Messina Hof.
I especially appreciated the small touches, like locally inspired decor and warm hospitality, which made the stay feel unique and memorable.
My personal highlight was walking through the vineyards and seeing the grapes that would soon become their award-winning wines.
2. For ocean views: Grand Galvez, Galveston, TX
When I stayed at the Grand Galvez in Galveston, Texas, I felt like I had stepped into a piece of history blended with modern elegance. I loved the way the hotel’s grand architecture and coastal charm immediately set the stage for a memorable escape by the Gulf.
Just an hour by car from Houston, The Historic Strand District downtown in Galveston (I usually start my visit here) is lined with 19th-century buildings that survived the Great Storm of 1900, now home to shops, cafés, and galleries. We toured the ornate Bishop’s Palace (one of my favorite castles in Texas), and ended the day watching the Gulf sunset from the Seawall, my favorite pedestrian promenade in Texas that I adore seeing again and again.
I wandered through the beautifully restored lobby at Grand Galvez, and I thought it was one of the most impressive spaces I’ve seen in a Texas hotel. The chandeliers, ornate details, and sweeping views made me feel like I was part of something timeless yet refreshed for today’s traveler.
Our room for three nights had a gorgeous view of the water, and I couldn’t get enough of waking up to the sunrise over the Gulf. The decor was modern yet classic, and I loved how comfortable and welcoming it felt after a day of exploring Galveston’s beaches and historic district.
I spent two hours by the pool, and it was one of my favorite spots at the Grand Galvez. I enjoyed lounging with a cocktail in hand while taking in the sea breeze—it was the perfect mix of relaxation and coastal energy.
Dining at the Galvez Bar & Grill was another highlight for me. The menu combined fresh Gulf seafood with inventive flavors, and every dish paired beautifully with the lively atmosphere. I thought it was the best way to end the evening, followed by a stroll along the seawall just steps away.
You can trust that this hotel is special because it holds a AAA 4-Diamond rating and is a Registered Texas Historic Landmark.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star Grand Galvez.
For me, the Grand Galvez is a romantic and historic gem on the Texas coast that keeps inviting me back for unforgettable experiences.
3. For a luxury beach escape: The San Luis Resort
The San Luis Resort made it easy to forget everything but each other. With palm trees swaying outside and the sound of waves in the distance, we slipped into that sweet vacation rhythm. Poolside cocktails, long naps, and ocean breezes became our entire itinerary.
I feel instantly transported to a coastal haven when I think about The San Luis Resort in Galveston. It’s quite simply my favorite getaway on the Texas Gulf Coast.
I love that the resort spans 32 acres of prime beachfront property, offering panoramic Gulf views and a sense of expansive luxury. It’s earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 1999, and I could see why, it had that level of elegance feels woven into every detail.
I loved relaxing by The Cove, the resort’s refreshing swim-up bar and pool setup. It’s the ideal spot to sip a cocktail and sink into a romantic vacation mode.
I loved stepping onto my private balcony with a Gulf view. My room for two nights was designed for relaxation and comfort, complete with plush amenities and a tranquil ambiance.
I think the Spa San Luis is simply the best place to unwind. I indulged in a massage but they also offer facials, and hydrotherapy baths that melt away any stress.
I love how centrally located the resort is, just a short walk to the Pleasure Pier and historic Strand district, making me feel perfectly placed to explore the area.
I love knowing that there are ten on-site restaurants, a fitness center, and two outdoor pools, giving me everything I need right at my fingertips.
To book, check availability or prices for San Luis Resort.
I think The San Luis Resort is a gem for both serene beachfront relaxation and easy access to Galveston’s lively attractions.
Between Grand Galvez and The San Luis Resort, which one do I think is best for a romantic weekend getaway from Houston? It's a tough choice. They are both right across from the beach but The San Luis Resort is larger which means more amenities but your room may be farther from the beach or pool.
If you prioritize intimacy, character, charm, and a quieter, more secluded feel, Grand Galvez is likely to feel more romantic. However, if you value luxury, variety, full resort amenities, multiple dining options, and the ability to stay on-site for most of your experience, San Luis Resort may be more appealing. Whichever you choose, I'm confident you will love your romantic getaway here! Be sure to check out my favorite things to do in Galveston while you're there.
4. For resort-style amenities: The Stella Hotel
I thought The Stella Hotel was one of the best romantic weekend getaways from Houston when I discovered it. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of calm and sophistication that made the experience special. It was modern and stylish, yet warm in a way that immediately put me at ease.
The drive from Houston is about 95 miles northwest, making it an easy escape. Nestled in Bryan–College Station, The Stella feels like a retreat that blends the charm of Texas hospitality with the comfort of a luxury hotel that completely won me over.
One of my favorite parts of staying here was spending time by the resort-style pool. Floating under the Texas sun with a cocktail in hand felt indulgent, yet relaxed. In the evenings, I loved sitting by the fire pits, watching the sky change colors while listening to live music—moments that felt both vibrant and intimate.
Dining was another highlight. I really enjoyed the onsite restaurant, Campfire, where the dishes celebrated local flavors with a refined twist. Whether it was a hearty breakfast or a romantic dinner, the food and wine pairings made every meal memorable.
Our room for three days was sleek and spacious, with thoughtful touches like soft linens, locally inspired decor, and big windows that filled the space with light. It was the kind of place where I could truly unwind, whether that meant sleeping in late or sipping coffee while overlooking the pool and lake.
Beyond the hotel, I explored the nearby Lake Walk, where trails and open spaces made it easy to enjoy the outdoors. It was peaceful but just steps from the lively energy of College Station.
For me, The Stella was more than just a hotel stay—it was a destination where I could relax, connect, and savor both quiet moments and little luxuries. It’s a place I know I’ll return to when I want a romantic getaway that feels effortless yet unforgettable.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star The Stella Hotel.
My personal highlight was stargazing from the hotel’s rooftop terrace—an experience that perfectly captured the balance of romance, serenity, and Texas charm that The Stella is all about.
5. For a boutique experience: The Sanford House - 3 hours 40 minutes from Houston, Texas
I felt an immediate sense of calm when I arrived at The Sanford House in Arlington, just about 4 hours drive from Houston.
I thought that The Sanford House was one of the best weekend getaways in Texas when I moved here. Why? I loved how intimate and inviting it felt, almost like stepping into a tranquil escape right in the middle of the city. The time seemed to slow as you enter the two-acre oasis in downtown Arlington.
From the moment I stepped through the gates, I felt as if I had been transported into a lush, quiet world of southern elegance and personal charm. The wraparound porches, manicured gardens, and stately mansion architecture whisper stories of another era, yet the comforts inside speak to a present-day desire for beauty, calm, and connection.
Our luxury suite for two days had a spacious layout, and a spa-style bathroom that offered the best way to unwind after a busy day exploring the area.
I love how the property offers private villas as well, perfect for guests looking for a romantic setting or just more space to themselves...it felt like a hidden retreat without ever leaving Arlington.
I also enjoyed dining at Restaurant506, their onsite fine-dining experience. I loved the carefully crafted dishes and thought it was one of my favorite meals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, made even more special by the intimate ambiance.
I think The Sanford House is a gem for those seeking a romantic getaway close to Dallas because it combines elegance, comfort, and peaceful surroundings in a way that keeps me wanting to return.
We enjoyed having so much to see and do in the area. Arlington, TX is known for AT&T Stadium (home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys), Globe Life Field (home of the MLB's Texas Rangers), and Six Flags Over Texas theme park. You can also visit Six Flags Hurricane Harbor water park, Arlington Museum of Art, and the UTA Planetarium. The city offers a lively downtown and is home to The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA).
To book, check availability or prices for the 2-star The Sanford House.
I found the Sanford Spa to be my personal highlight because it gave me the chance to indulge in a massage that melted away day-to-day stress.
6. For Romantic Victorian style: Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast
I felt like I had discovered a peaceful countryside retreat the moment I arrived at Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast in Washington, Texas about 1 hour 45 minutes inland from Houston.
I loved how the property stretched across rolling pastures, with horses grazing nearby and a calming sense of space that immediately slowed me down.
I loved the stately Victorian-style mansion at the heart of the estate, where each room was thoughtfully decorated with antique touches and cozy details. It felt warm, personal, and inviting, as if I were staying in a cherished family home.
I stayed in one of the cottages, and I thought it was the best choice for privacy and comfort. I loved having a porch to sip my morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the fields—it was one of my favorite moments of the trip.
I also loved the country-style breakfast, which was hearty, homemade, and served with genuine hospitality. The meals made me feel cared for, and they set the tone for slow, relaxed days in the Texas countryside.
I think Lillian Farms is a gem for anyone seeking a romantic weekend getaway. Between the peaceful surroundings, the welcoming atmosphere, and the thoughtful touches, it’s the kind of place that makes me want to return again and again.
To book, check availability or prices for Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast.
My highlight was exploring the walking trails and open spaces around the property...it was a hidden slice of Texas where I could simply wander, reflect, and recharge.
Conclusion
What I love most is those little moments that stand out, whether it's Galveston’s oceanfront charm, or those underrated wineries tucked into the hills. They’re the kind of experiences that make each getaway feel unique and became some of my favorite romantic memories.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
