Houston, Texas is surrounded by numerous scenic cities and towns perfect for couples craving a short romantic getaway. Spend a weekend exploring the Texas Hill Country in Fredericksburg, or immerse yourselves in the historic city of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Get some one-on-one time sipping on wine in Johnson City, Texas, or make a splash in the rivers at New Braunfels. Most Houston vacation rentals offer easy access to adventurous attractions and lovely nature-themed parks and trails in the city, as well as in neighboring areas. Consider these cities when making your weekend getaway itinerary for an unforgettable trip with the love of your life.
1. Port Aransas, Texas
Drive three and a half hours to Port Aransas from Houston to enjoy some beachside adventures with that special someone. A vacation rental in Port Aransas puts you in close proximity to Mustang Island State Park where you can lay on the beach together, take a dip, or fish on a Saturday afternoon. If you are both into nature attractions, stop in at the Port Aransas Nature Preserve at Charlie’s Pasture or birdwatch at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. Explore the beachfront at a faster rate when renting bikes from Island Motor Bikes before retiring to your vacation rental.
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2. Lake Charles, Louisiana
Cross the state border into Louisiana to spend your romantic weekend exploring the Cajun city of Lake Charles. Couples who love strolling along hand-in-hand to see rich history enjoy the Charpentier Historic District walking tour that passes by the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu. Wildlife is also in plain view when you hike the Creole Nature Trail to spot alligators or shellfish in the water while more than 400 types of birds make their way in and out of town overhead. Top off your romantic weekend by trying your luck at the Golden Nugget Casino before sharing an intimate dinner for two at La Truffe Sauvage or Harlequin Steaks and Seafood.
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3. New Braunfels, Texas
Get wet and wild with that special someone when tubing, swimming, or kayaking down the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels, located two and a half hours from Houston. Home to the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, New Braunfels is a trendy hotspot for couples seeking adventure, but with a small-town feel. Rent your equipment from Texas Tubes before cooling off in the water with your sweetheart, or opt for a day of fishing with guidance from experts at Braunfels Bass Guide. Soak up the sun and see exotic animals with a trip to the Snake Farm Zoo and Animal World, or get up close and personal with each other and nature when taking a romantic stroll on the trails of Fischer Park.
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4. Johnson City, Texas
Make Johnson City your vacation destination for the weekend and find yourselves amid limestone rocks and the beauty of the Pedernales River. This Texas city, located approximately three hours from Houston, is home to Pedernales Falls State Park which features captivating waterfalls and romantic trails perfect for a stroll with that special someone. Wind down when on board the Arc de Texas, Wine and Views tour for the day or indulge your equestrian interest with a horseback ride hosted by Texas Trail Rides.
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5. Fredericksburg, Texas
Just three hours of drive country puts you in the heart of Texas Hill Country where you and your mate can spend your days sipping on wine at Four Point Cellars or Hilmy Cellars. Toast to your relationship before hiking to the Enchanted Rock for a surprise proposal or sweet kiss. The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers multiple trails for a romantic stroll or an invigorating jog on a Saturday morning after picking up fresh produce at Fischer and Wieser’s Das Peach Haus to take back to your cozy vacation rental. Soak up the history of Fredericksburg with a tour of the Texas Rangers Heritage Center or the National Museum of the Pacific War before heading out of town.
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6. Galveston Island, Texas
Feel as if you’re on your very own romantic island when booking a vacation rental in Galveston Island, located an hour from Houston. Take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico or sink your feet into the sand with your significant other with more than 30 miles of island beaches. Get ready to explore when making Galveston Island your vacation destination for the weekend with access to the specialty shops on the Seawall Boulevard and fine dining establishments such as the Gaidos Seafood Restaurant. Make a splash with your mate when signing up for a dolphin tour with Galveston Water Adventures or reel in your own meal to take back to your vacation rental with a guided excursion with Reel Men Fishing Charters.
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7. Brenham, Texas
When you need some peace and quiet, travel an hour to Brenham, a Texas city famous for its bluebonnet fields. Tour the outdoor trails at Toubin and Hohlt parks or browse the artifacts together at the Brenham Heritage Museum. The local vineyards are a draw for wine enthusiasts, and you can sip on some sweet wine with a stunning view of the city at Pleasant Hill Winery or Windy Winery. Stop in to treat your sweetie to something sweet when touring the Blue Bell Creamery Museum during your weekend getaway.
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