If you’re searching for the perfect romantic escape in Texas, the Hill Country is home to some of the most charming destinations that offer breathtaking scenery, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s our round up of the top five romantic getaways in the Lone Star State.
1. Fredericksburg
German Heritage Meets Hill Country Charm
Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a popular destination for romantic getaways, offering couples the perfect mix of activities to share. Whether savoring wines, exploring museums, or strolling through its charming Main Street, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Things to do:
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Enjoy a Wine Tasting: visit one of the 75 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms that the area has to offer.
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See the Enchanted Rock: visit the Enchanted Rock State Natural area to admire the 425ft tall pink granite rock that draws visitors year-round and explore the area’s many hiking trails.
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Visit the Pioneer Museum: history buffs will enjoy displays of homesteads and artefacts from early German settlement.
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Stroll down main street: explore more than 150 shops, boutiques and art galleries.
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Take a drive along the Willow City Loop: just outside of Fredericksburg is a scenic 13 mile drive where you will find flower-filled meadows and valleys.
Discover on: Hill Country Harvest
2. Marfa
Texas’ Coolest Art Town
Marfa has earned a reputation as one of the most unique romantic destinations, famously described by Vogue as the country’s “coolest art town”. Its vibrant art scene, with an array of galleries and museums featuring contemporary works, provides couples with endless opportunities for inspiration and discovery. Adding to its mystique are the famous Marfa Lights, a natural phenomenon that draws visitors from around the globe.
Things to do:
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Visit the Chinati Foundation: art lovers will enjoy exploring this world-renowned contemporary art museum founded by artist Donald Judd, which spans over 340 acres of desert landscape.
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See the Marfa Lights: these unexplained orbs of light that appear in the desert near Marfa have captivated visitors for generations.
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Book a Stay at El Cosmico: this quirky and unique boutique hotel offers an unforgettable stay in vintage trailers, yurts, and safari tents.
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Catch a Film at the Crowley Theatre: enjoy a cozy movie night at Marfa’s local theater, which often hosts indie films and live performances.
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See the Prada Marfa Installation: created by artists Elmgreen and Dragset, this standalone sculpture features real Prada handbags and shoes from the 2005 collection.
3. Dripping Springs
The Gateway to the Hill Country
Often called the “Gateway to the Hill Country”, Dripping Springs offers couples the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The area is home to numerous award-winning wineries, breweries, and distilleries as well as several beautiful hiking trails and natural wonders. With its charming small-town feel and stunning sunsets, it’s an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Things to do:
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Visit Dripping Springs Distillery: known for its award-winning vodka, gin, and bourbon, this distillery provides guided tours where you can learn about the small-batch distillation process.
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Go Bird Watching at Charro Ranch Park: this 64-acre former ranch, now a public park, has designated bird observation areas for couples looking to connect with nature.
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Explore Historic Mercer Street: lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, this downtown district is home to unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and live music venues.
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Take a Hike to Hamilton Pool Reserve: one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Texas, this stunning limestone grotto features a jade-green swimming hole beneath a 50-foot waterfall.
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Tour the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum: built in the mid-1800s, this preserved homestead was once the residence of Dr. Joseph Pound, one of the area’s earliest settlers and a beloved physician.
4. Marble Falls
Scenic Lakeside with Small-Town Charm
Situated along the shores of Lake Marble Falls, this historic lake town is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Couples can explore the surrounding hill country, enjoy water activities, or simply relax while taking in the breathtaking views. With its picturesque landscape and welcoming atmosphere, Marble Falls provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories.
Things to do:
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Visit Longhorn Cavern State Park: located just outside of Marble Falls, this stunning park is home to a series of dramatic limestone caverns, shaped over millions of years, where visitors can embark on guided tours to explore these awe-inspiring formations.
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Stroll Along Historic Main Street: Lined with beautifully restored buildings from the early 1900s, Main Street is a hub for various events and festivals throughout the year and is home to many unique restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.
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Embark on a Lakeside Adventure: couples who enjoy outdoor activities like camping, swimming, scuba diving, and fishing should visit the Highland Lakes area, which is part of a chain of six lakes in the area.
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Enjoy a Wine tasting at Flat Creek Estate: savor the estate’s award-winning wines while taking in stunning vineyard views, and indulge in farm-to-table dishes at the on-site bistro for a truly memorable experience.
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Take a Scenic Drive on Highway 71: this iconic route winds through expansive ranchlands, tranquil creeks, and charming towns, offering breathtaking views of Texas Hill Country.
5. Wimberley
Where Nature and Art Collide
Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio and among the banks of the crystal-clear Blanco River, Wimberley offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and swimming. The town also features a vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries, shops, and artisan markets showcasing local talent.
Things to do:
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Go Swimming at the Blue Hole Natural Spring: this crystal clear, spring-fed swimming hole is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The surrounding park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic spots for relaxation.
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Watch a Show at the Wimberley Players Theater: this beloved community theatre hosts classic plays, musicals, and other contemporary works.
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Jump Into Jacob’s Well: this stunning artisan spring boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and a deep underwater cave system.
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Take in the Views at Old Baldy: this 221 ft scenic overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of Texas Hill Country, making it worth the 218 stone steps you have to take to get there.
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Take a Scenic Drive Along Devil’s Backbone: this ridge-top highway (Ranch Road 32) offers gorgeous views of rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and sprawling highways; it’s also steeped in legend, with tales of ghost sightings and eerie encounters.
Discover on: Cowboy Country Crawl
Whether you’re drawn to the charm of historic towns, the beauty of natural landscapes, or the allure of local culture, Texas offers the perfect escape for every couple.
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