Romantic Weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas

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 that I think you’ll love for your next weekend adventure.

Sip award-winning wines and explore vineyard views on a romantic weekend escape.
Messina Hof

1. For peaceful vineyard views: Messina Hof - 1 hour 40 minutes from Houston, Texas

From Houston, it’s a 100-mile drive northwest to Bryan. Downtown Bryan is on the National Register of Historic Places, with century-old brick storefronts now housing art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants.

When I first visited Messina Hof in Bryan, Texas, I immediately felt the warmth and charm that makes this winery stand out. I loved walking through the vineyards and seeing the grapes that would soon become their award-winning wines. It felt personal and welcoming in a way that made me want to linger all day.

I explored the wine cellar, 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.

My room at the Manor Haus B&B was both cozy and elegant, giving me the chance to relax after a full day of exploring. I especially appreciated the small touches, like locally inspired decor and warm hospitality, which made the stay feel unique and memorable.

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 keeps drawing me back every time I need a meaningful getaway surrounded by good food, great wine, and genuine charm.

To book, check availability or prices for Messina Hof.

Admire historic elegance and savor oceanfront views during a couples retreat.
Grand Galvez, Galveston, TX

2. For ocean views: Grand Galvez, Galveston, TX

I drove about 50 miles southeast from Houston to Galveston. The Historic Strand District downtown is lined with 19th-century buildings that survived the Great Storm of 1900, now home to shops, cafés, and galleries. I toured the ornate Bishop’s Palace, strolled the Moody Mansion, and ended the day watching the Gulf sunset from the Seawall, a 10-mile-long barrier built after the hurricane that now doubles as a pedestrian promenade.

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.

I wandered through the beautifully restored lobby, 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.

My room 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 the afternoon 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.

For me, the Grand Galvez is more than a hotel—it’s a romantic and historic gem on the Texas coast that keeps inviting me back for unforgettable experiences.

To book, check availability or prices for Grand Galvez.

Relax by the pool and indulge in spa comforts on an easy trip.
The San Luis Resort, Spa and Conference Center

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 can see why—that level of elegance feels woven into every detail.

I love 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 vacation mode.

I love stepping onto my private balcony with a Gulf view—the guest rooms are 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 indulge in massages, facials, and hydrotherapy baths that melt away any stress.

I love how centrally located the resort is—it’s a short walk to the Pleasure Pier, Convention Center, and historic Strand district, making me feel perfectly placed to explore Galveston’s vibrant charm.

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.

I think The San Luis Resort is a gem for both serene beachfront relaxation and easy access to Galveston’s lively attractions—every visit feels like a perfect escape filled with seaside luxury.

To book, check availability or prices for San Luis Resort.

Enjoy lakefront beauty and explore stylish surroundings on an affordable weekend stay.
The Stella Hotel

4. For resort-style amenities: The Stella Hotel

We drove 95 miles northwest from Houston (about 1 hour 40 minutes) to College Station, home to Texas A&M University and nearly 125,000 residents.

I feel like I’ve discovered a secret gem in Bryan-College Station when I walk into The Stella Hotel—it truly feels like my favorite blend of boutique style and modern comfort right beside Lake Atlas.

I love how I’m greeted by thoughtful amenities—Frette linens, LATHER bath amenities, oversized windows with expansive views of Lake Atlas or Kyle Field, and sleek bathrooms with custom tile and glass walk-in showers—I can’t help but feel relaxed the moment I enter my room.

I’ve found that The Stella is a hidden standout with its two outdoor pools (cabanas available!), resort-style lounging by the water, and a lively live-music series at Hershel’s bar—it’s the perfect mix of chill and culture.

I love that I can start my day with coffee at POV, the cozy onsite cafe, then enjoy a Southern-inspired meal at Campfire, or a cocktail in a speakeasy-style vibe at Hershel’s—it’s one of the most inviting dining experiences I’ve known in Texas.

I think its location is romantic and smart—I’m just minutes from Texas A&M, downtown Bryan, Lake Walk trails, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking right from the doorstep.

I love the event spaces too—20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues, perfect for everything from weddings under the stars to summer concerts on the lawn.

I think The Stella Hotel is the best place to experience the charm of Aggieland while indulging in modern luxury—it’s stylish, soulful, and effortlessly welcoming every time I return.

To book, check availability or prices for The Stella Hotel.

Unwind in cozy luxury and explore a romantic setting perfect for couples.
The Sanford House

5. For a boutique experience: The Sanford House - 3 hours 40 minutes from Houston, Texas

I drove 20 miles west from Dallas (about 30 minutes on I-30) to Arlington.

I felt an immediate sense of charm when I arrived at The Sanford House in Arlington, just about 20 miles west of Dallas. I loved how intimate and inviting it felt, almost like stepping into a tranquil escape right in the middle of the city.

I loved that the inn blends elegant design with warm Texas hospitality—its stately architecture, beautiful gardens, and cozy corners made me want to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.

I stayed in one of their luxurious suites, and I thought the mix of plush linens, spacious layout, and spa-style bathrooms was 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 found the Sanford Spa to be another highlight—it gave me the chance to indulge in massages and treatments that melted away stress and made my stay feel even more restorative.

I think The Sanford House is a gem for those seeking a romantic getaway close to Dallas—it combines elegance, comfort, and peaceful surroundings in a way that keeps me wanting to return.

To book, check availability or prices for The Sanford House.

Savor homemade breakfasts and walk along scenic grounds on a peaceful spring escape.
Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast

6. For Victorian style: Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast

The drive from Austin (1 hour 45 minutes) took me to Washington, where the Brazos River curves through rolling farmland.

I felt like I had discovered a peaceful countryside retreat the moment I arrived at Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast in Washington, Texas. 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 enjoyed 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.

I think Lillian Farms is a gem for anyone seeking a romantic or family-friendly 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 photo of a scenic hiking trail near Houston in the fall
My photo of a scenic hiking trail near Houston in the fall
I took this sunset photo during one of our weekend trips around Houston
I took this sunset photo during one of our weekend trips around Houston

Conclusion

What I love most is those little moments that stand out, Fredericksburg’s lavender fields at dusk, Galveston’s oceanfront charm, Wimberley’s hidden swimming holes, or those underrated wineries tucked into the hills. Don’t miss the cozy inns, local eateries, and scenic drives—they’re the kind of experiences that make each getaway feel unique and become 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.

Ema Bio
Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to the best places to stay. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.
 

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