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4 fun and relaxing places to get away in Texas for couples

Nancy Wilson

Couples therapy & marriage counseling in Texas can be a great way to strengthen and grow your relationship. However, sometimes you need to get away from it all. Life can be stressful and we can all use a break. The stresses of work, childcare, bills, and interpersonal drama can put a strain on your relationship. You will get big dividends back if you invest in having quality time away with your partner. Texas has a lot of great places for couples to escape and reconnect. In this blog post, we will explore 5 of the best places for couples to get away in Texas. Here are some suggestions for places you can go. We included recommendations for activities to do, restaurants to eat at, and accommodations to stay in Texas for couples.

Things for couples to do in Fredericksburg, TX

Fredericksburg, TX will give you a charming and romantic experience in this small town nestled in the Texas Hill Country. The town's German heritage is evident in its architecture, food, and culture. It's a charming and cozy atmosphere for couples to enjoy. One of the town's main attractions is its numerous wineries and vineyards. You can go on tastings, tours, and picturesque views of the surrounding hills. You can also explore the town's historic Main Street, which is lined with boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. Fredericksburg is also home to several historic sites. These sites include the National Museum of the Pacific War, the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site, and the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the town's history and natural beauty, Fredericksburg is a romantic getaway destination.

Fredericksburg Activities:

  • Visit the wineries: Fredericksburg is known for its wineries, so take advantage of the many tastings and tours available.

  • Walk around the historic downtown: The downtown area is full of shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore.

  • Relax at a spa: Fredericksburg has many spas and wellness centers where you and your partner can indulge in massages, facials, and more.

Fredricksburg Restaurants:

  • Vaudeville: This restaurant and wine bar has a romantic and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a special evening out.

  • Otto's: Known for its farm-to-table cuisine and local ingredients, Otto's is a great choice for a cozy and delicious dinner.

  • Cabernet Grill: This upscale restaurant features a menu of fine Texas Hill Country cuisine and an extensive wine list.

Fredricksburg Accommodations:

  • Hoffman Haus: This romantic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Fredericksburg and has beautiful rooms and suites.

  • Cotton Gin Village: This rustic retreat offers cozy cabins and cottages with modern amenities and easy access to the wineries and downtown. It has an old-world charm.

  • The Lodge Above Town Creek: This boutique hotel has spacious and luxurious accommodations with a scenic view of Town Creek. It is very laid back and well decorated in the hill country style.

Things for couples to do in Marfa, TX

When visiting Marfa, TX, you can look forward to a unique and romantic getaway in this charming desert town. Marfa offers a mix of modern art, small-town hospitality, and natural beauty that makes it an ideal destination for couples looking to relax and explore. The town is known for its striking sunsets and stunning huge starry nights, which can be enjoyed from various vantage points in and around the town.

You can also take a stroll around town and admire the many art galleries, antique shops, and boutique stores. Or if that is not your thing, you can head out into the desert to hike and explore the stunning landscapes. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in Marfa where couples can enjoy a delicious meal or a craft cocktail while taking in the town's laid-back and eclectic vibe. Note that not everything is open all the time. Always call ahead to see what is open.

Marfa is one of the most unique cities in the country. You will feel like you have been transported in time. You might even believe you are living in the set of an old Western. Everything runs a little bit slower in Marfa.

Marfa Activities:

  • Visit the Chinati Foundation: This contemporary art museum features works by Donald Judd and other famous artists. Judd bought an old defunct military base and turned it into a modern art complex. He is often credited with making Marfa the art enclave it is today. You can get some great pics for Instagram with the cool setting and the huge Texas skies.

  • Take a ghost tour: Marfa is rumored to be haunted, so take a spooky tour to learn more about the town's history and legends.

  • Visit the Marfa lights: These mysterious lights have been seen in the desert outside of Marfa for years, and nobody knows for sure what causes them. You are not guaranteed a sighting every night, but it is really fun when the flowing orbs do come out and dance mysteriously in the sky.

  • Stargaze: Marfa is known for its clear skies and lack of light pollution, making it a great spot for stargazing. The skies are huge and beautiful in Marfa and you can see some gorgeous sunsets before dark. There is also the McDonald Observatory which has incredible, huge telescopes to see the moon and planets and they have star parties. I HIGHLY recommend visiting the observatory and attending one of these star parties.

  • Prada Marfa is a unique and iconic art installation located in the middle of the West Texas desert, approximately 37 miles northwest of Marfa. Created by artists Elmgreen and Dragset, the installation is a life-size replica of a Prada store, complete with designer handbags and shoes displayed in the windows. However, the store is not functional and the products are not for sale. Instead, the installation is meant to be a commentary on consumerism and the power of advertising. Prada Marfa has become a popular destination for art lovers and photographers, and it has even been featured in movies and TV shows. Beyonce famously posted some really iconic pictures at the Prada Marfa.

Marfa Restaurants:

  • Cochineal: This restaurant offers creative and delicious New American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

  • Convenience West: A popular spot for breakfast and lunch, Convenience West has a funky and laid-back atmosphere and tasty food.

  • Marfa Burrito: If you are looking for something more casual and budget friendly, I recommend Marfa Burrito. It has one of the best burritos I ever had. Celebrities seem to have found out about this place and you can see some of their pictures on the walls.

Marfa Accommodations:

  • Hotel Saint George: This trendy hotel features modern and stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and an art gallery. They also have a great happy hour in the restaurant/bar.

  • El Cosmico: This unique and quirky hotel offers a range of accommodations, from tepees to yurts to vintage trailers, for a truly memorable stay. Even if you are not staying here, it’s worth a visit to sit and have a drink while you listen to live music. If you like a more bohemian scene, you will find kindred spirits here. It oozes character.

  • The Lincoln Marfa: This boutique hotel features thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, a restaurant and bar, and a courtyard with a fire pit.

Things for couples to do in Galveston, TX

If you are visiting Galveston Island, TX you can enjoy a romantic and laid-back getaway on this picturesque island on the Gulf of Mexico. The island offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the city. It is just one short hour away from Houston. One of the main attractions on the island is the historic Strand District, which is home to Victorian-era buildings housing boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Galveston has one of the largest collections of Victorian homes in the country.

You can also take a stroll along the beach or rent a bike to explore the island's many parks and nature preserves. The island offers a range of activities, such as fishing, boating, and water sports, which are perfect for adventurous couples. At night, couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the island's many seafood restaurants or catch a show at the historic Grand 1894 Opera House. The Opera House does not just showcase opera, but also Texas artists like Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett. It’s a beautiful and historic place to catch a show of any kind.

Galveston Activities:

  • Visit the beach: Galveston Island has many miles of beautiful beaches for you and your partner to enjoy.

  • Take a dolphin tour: Book a tour to see the playful dolphins that live in the waters around the island.

  • Visit the Moody Gardens: This family-friendly attraction features an aquarium, a rainforest exhibit, and more. Even if you don’t have kids, this is a fun place.

  • Explore the historic district: Galveston's historic district features Victorian-era architecture, museums, and charming boutiques.

Galveston Restaurants:

Galveston Accommodations:

Things for couples to do in Austin, TX

Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant live music scene, outdoor activities, and diverse culture, making it a great destination for couples. Here are some of the best activities, restaurants, and accommodations in Austin for couples:

Austin Activities:

  • Mount Bonnell: Take a hike up Mount Bonnell, one of the highest points in Austin, and enjoy the stunning views of the city at sunset.

  • Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake, a scenic reservoir located in the heart of downtown Austin.

  • Barton Springs Pool: Cool off from the Texas heat and take a dip in the refreshing waters of Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool located in Zilker Park. This is a must-do while in Austin. It's a great way to spend the day lounging and reading a book, especially on the warmer days.

  • South Congress Avenue: Take a stroll down South Congress Avenue and explore the boutique shops, street performers, and live music venues. If you don’t see live music while in town, can you even say you have been to the live music capital of the United States? Besides Austin City Limits and South By Southwest, there are live music shows going on pretty much every day.

Austin Restaurants:

  • Uchi: Enjoy some of the best sushi in town at Uchi, a high-end Japanese restaurant with a romantic and intimate atmosphere. This is not your typical California roll situation but is really creative Japanese fare. It’s a little spendy, but the food is delicious and would probably impress your date.

  • Olamaie: Indulge in some southern comfort food with a modern twist at Olamaie, a cozy and elegant restaurant that's perfect for date night.

  • Emmer & Rye: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its rotating menu of small plates and dim sum-style carts.

Austin Accommodations:

  • Hotel Saint Cecilia: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of South Austin and offers luxurious and stylish accommodations, a private pool, and a cozy courtyard.

  • The Driskill: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Austin and features elegant and romantic rooms, a rooftop bar, and a world-class spa.

  • Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt: This chic and modern hotel is located in the trendy Rainey Street district and offers stylish and comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a live music venue.

Getting away with your partner is a great way to reconnect and strengthen your relationship. Whether you prefer small towns or big cities, beaches or mountains, Texas has something for every couple. Take some time to explore these 5 great places to get away in Texas and create some unforgettable memories with your partner.

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Feeling like you are having challenges in your relationship or you are finding it hard to accept your differences? Our Houston Therapists can help you. We offer Couples Counseling and Marriage Counseling. Feel free to contact us to get a free consultation or schedule an appointment.