17 Romantic Getaways Near Austin, TX - Updated 2024

1. Georgetown (from USD 109)

Couples looking for the perfect blend of laid-back and adventure can have Georgetown as their next destination for unique getaways near Austin. The art galleries, breweries, and parks all offer easygoing diversions but the exciting hiking trails, caverns, Blue Hole, and Lake Georgetown feed a dose of adventure to thrill-seeking pairs. For dining and shopping galore, the historic downtown wouldn’t disappoint.

With plenty of things to do in Georgetown, you’ll need a relaxing place to stay after a day of immersion. Comfort Suites, as its name suggests, is a comfortable retreat that can indulge you and your partner with soothing soaks in its indoor pool and hot tub. With complimentary perks such as WiFi and parking included, it’s easy to stay connected and have a hassle-free road trip.

2. Bee Cave (from USD 173)

When else will you heed the buzz of Bee Cave? Located 17 miles (27.36 kilometers) west of Austin, this gem in Texas is an ideal destination for relaxation and entertainment. Creating memories with your beloved here is great at any time of the year, thanks to the year-round activities and attractions available for tourists.

An intimate and romantic weekend filled with buzzing recreation can be spent with a cruise at Lake Travis, a stroll at Bee Cave Sculpture Park, and some pampering in a luxurious accommodation. If you plan to soak up the sun, the outdoor pool of Sonesta Bee Cave Austin would be an indulging affair. This contemporary hotel also features a gym, restaurant, and parking within its 3.5-star premises.

3. Wimberley (from USD 211)

One of the sleepiest cities in Texas is Wimberley in Hays County. The drive from Austin will take around 45 minutes, so getting to Wimberley shouldn’t be a stretch. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway and just want to spend time with your partner without any other distractions, Wimberley’s your answer. There’s not much to see in town. You have all the time in the world to gush over your loved one and rekindle the fire in your romance. For a nice place to stay in the city, book a room at the modest Hotel Flora and Fauna.

4. New Braunfels (from USD 154)

If you’re looking for romantic getaways for couples away from the hustle of Austin and in a place that’s more peaceful but also has lively shenanigans, don’t bat your eye on New Braunfels. This historic city is one of the German settlements of the colonial attempt in 1845. Its best landmarks and attractions include Comal and Guadalupe rivers, as well as Gruene Historic District and Natural Bridge Caverns.

Should you decide to stay in this picturesque city, a nice and cozy hotel that you can book is Best Western Inn and Suites.

5. San Marcos (from USD 108)

Just less than 40 minutes of drive from Austin is the equally lively city of San Marcos. One of the quirkiest attractions in the city must be the Virtual Mermaid March, which is a public art project that features giant mermaids installed throughout San Marcos. To make your trip extra romantic, reserve a spot at Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours. When the sun sets, make your way to the city’s hottest brewery, AquaBrew, which is located within a short distance of the downtown square. If you decide to spend a few days, opt for the charming bed and breakfast. One such property in San Marcos is Crystal River Inn.

6. San Antonio (from USD 251)

If you’re after a romantic setting then you’re sure to find it in this busy city less than 2 hours (80 miles/129km) from Austin. The San Antonio River Walk, with its numerous restaurants, shops and hotels, will make for a charming location for a romantic evening stroll. And speaking of great locations for a romantic meal - why not stop over at the city’s iconic Tower of the Americas - a 750ft tall (229-metre) tower which is topped by a revolving restaurant offering fine panoramic views. The wider city’s rich colonial roots will also make for a charming setting during your visit - with the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park sitting within a UNESCO world heritage site that is home to four 18th Spanish religious missions and a host of trails. The city is also home to the iconic and world-famous Alamo fort.

7. Corpus Christi (from USD 109)

Located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico - roughly 200 miles/320km (3 hours 20 minutes by road) to the south, Corpus Christi’s bay setting has resulted in a number of sheltered beaches on which to unwind and listen to the sound of the surf. The Padre and Mustang Islands are also worth checking out. Padre Island is actually part of a national seashore park that is home to endangered sea turtles and a range of migratory bird. Mustang Island - an 18-mile long barrier island - is also home to a near 4000-acre (1600-hectare) state park as well as a host of beaches and even a paddling trail. The city’s north beach - with its trail, Ferris wheel, restaurant and large aquarium - will also make for a pleasant romantic stroll. Other noted landmarks include the USS Lexington, a preserved WW2 aircraft carrier which today functions as a museum. Emerald Beach Hotel, one of the most romantic hotels near Austin, is a nice place to spend your vacation.

8. Fredericksburg (from USD 249)

Wine lovers seeking a romantic tour of wineries will probably want to check out Fredricksburg during their trip, just 1 hour 30 minutes west of Austin (78 miles/126km). The area around the city is noted for its wine connections, so you’ll find plenty of tasty drops of aqua vita during your stay. And, while wandering between the wineries, the likes of the city’s Market Square is home to parkland in which to enjoy a pleasant picnic with your significant other. And those who enjoy a stroll around historic architecture will also find much to recommend - from the replica 19th-century German church at the Vereins Kirche Museum to the restored 19th-century army fort at Fort Martin Scott.

9. Dripping Springs (from USD 179)

Say hello to one of the wedding capitals of Texas and one of the best weekend getaways near Austin. The small town charms of Dripping Springs and its location at the ‘gateway’ to Texas Hill Country, has made it a popular spot. Indeed, those who enjoy their outdoor charms will no doubt be tempted to take on the trails within the sizeable Hill Country area - with rolling peaks that typically rise 4-500 feet (122 to 152 metres) on average. Those who don’t want to stray too far may also wish to check out the likes of Dripping Springs Ranch Park and its 110 acres (45 hectares) of woodland and hiking trails. And, as with the previous entry on the list, Dripping Springs is noted for the range of distilleries, wineries and breweries that can be found in the local area. What’s more, it’s only 30 minutes west of Austin - 23.4 miles/37.6km - making it a short hop from your Texas base.

10. Galveston (from USD 70)

If your idea of a romantic vacation is a fun-filled adventure that will lift the spirits of you and your partner, then you may wish to consider visiting the island city of Galveston, some 215 miles/346km (3 hours 20 minutes away) from Austin. It is home to all manner of amusement park rides at the likes of Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier - including a romantic Ferris Wheel. Moody Gardens, with its massive glass pyramids housing a menagerie of exotic animals, is another noted site worth checking out.

11. Waco (from USD 159)

Located just over 90 minutes northeast of Austin (around 102 miles/164km) this city that sits along the banks of the Brazos River is another excellent destination for weekend getaways from Austin. A popular 7-mile (11km) walk along both banks of the river would make for a relaxing way to spend time with your loved one.

What’s more, one end of the route finishes at the Cameron Park Zoo, with its mix of lions, meerkats, and otters to enchant onlookers. The zoo is part of a wider 416-acre (168-hectare) park which boasts picnic spots alongside disc golf and playgrounds. If you’d rather visit cultural sites, the city is home to the likes of the Waco Mammoth National Monument and its bones of two dozen mammoths. And if the city’s roasting summer temperatures get too much, a visit to the popular Hawaiian Falls water park should help you to cool off.

12. Seguin (from USD 110)

One of the oldest towns in the state, Seguin boasts Art Deco architectural gems and a number of artificial lakes and reservoirs. What’s more, it is just an hour to the south of Austin (52 miles/84km), making it a hassle-free destination for a day trip on your romantic break. You’ll find plenty to see. Indeed, a raft of building projects in the 1930s means that the city is home to some fine examples of Art Deco architecture at the city hall, courthouse and fountain, while Seguin’s age has seen its downtown area added to the country’s National Register of Historic Places. And if you time your visit right, your trip may just coincide with one of three large parades that take place in the city every year. Those who crave a bit of fun will also enjoy the likes of Lake Dunlap.

13. Dallas (from USD 259)

Dallas is home to all manner of attractions. If you prefer natural charms than the tree-lined paths of the Dallas Arboretum - a botanical garden set on the shores of the White Rock Lake reservoir (pictured) - will prove a pleasant diversion, as too would the 95-acre Dallas Zoo and its 2000 different animal species. Those looking to experience the cityscape, meanwhile, will likely want to head for the 171ft (52-metre) tall Reunion Tower, which enjoys great views of the skyscrapers of the downtown area. And culture fans will love the museums of the Cultural District. Throw in the myriad restaurants you’d expect in any large city and you will find plenty to keep you and your loved one occupied if you’re prepared to embark on the 3-hour (195 mile/314km) journey from Austin. Check out one of the romantic hotels near Austin, Magnolia Hotel Downtown Dallas, for a cozy place to stay.

14. Smithville (from USD 182)

Up to now, your romantic destinations have focused upon two of the state’s big cities, but if you prefer the charms of a small town, then you may wish to consider Smithville, just 45 miles (73km) or a 46-minute drive southeast of Austin. Although it is technically a ‘city’, its population is less than 4000, so you won’t be crammed in among huddled masses during your stay.

It is also home to a number of ‘Mom and Pop’ stores and eateries, for that authentic small-town American experience as you wander through the downtown area. Time your visit right and your trip may coincide with one of the town’s popular annual festivals - such as the Jamboree, which has been running for more than 60 years, or the Festival of Lights.

The rural setting of Smithville will also appeal to romantics who plan to enjoy the great outdoors for a weekend trip from Austin. Just outside the town lies the 1000-acre (405-hectare) Buescher State Park.

15. Stonewall (from USD 199)

One of the historic small towns in Texas is Stonewall, which is over an hour’s drive from the vibrant Austin. The town was named after Thomas J. Jackson, a confederate general who, in 1870, founded a staging post near the area. Stonewall is known for being the birthplace of Lyndon B. Johnson, who served as the 36th President of the United States. While there are not that many tourist attractions in this unincorporated community, it sure provides a picturesque backdrop for couples on the hunt for their next romantic getaway. Check-in at Rose Hill Manor and start cuddling up with your loved one.

16. Cedar Creek (from USD 475)

If getting away from all the stresses of the world is what you need with your loved one right now, Cedar Creek may be the answer to your problems. It may quite possibly be one of the idyllic towns in Texas. It is about a 30-minute drive from Austin and has no other major attractions than its own park, Cedar Creek County Park. If staying in without any interruptions sounds good to you, you really cannot go wrong with spending your romantic getaway here. One of our highly recommended places to stay in town is Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa.

17. Houston (from USD 395)

Another Texas city that is out of this world - almost literally in this case. Houston is the fourth largest city within the USA - so there’s naturally plenty to see and do. Those who love everything space-related will be in heaven, with the city’s close links to NASA on a show for all to see at the likes of Space Center Houston and the space agency’s astronaut training complex. Of course, the reason for your visit is romance rather than science, but in that regard, you are equally well catered for. The downtown area’s Theater District is the location of the famous Houston Grand Opera - perfect for a musical night on the town (pictured). What’s more, it’s only a 2-hour 30-minute drive away from Austin (165 miles/266km).

Romantic getaways in Texas

A state the size of Texas has plenty going for it when looking for a romantic getaway - be it the beaches of the gulf coast, the bustling cities of Houston and Dallas, or the walking and wineries of the smaller towns. Upon learning all these stirring stops, where will you head to enjoy a romantic weekend getaway near Austin?