After months of staying home to flatten the curve, Texans are itching to leave the house. Travel is limited due to the uncertainty of the ongoing pandemic, so it looks like the old-fashioned road trip will be making its return. Hit the road this Summer and discover all that Texas has to offer.
Hotels in Texas are beginning to open up under Governor Abbot’s orders, and are adhering to the guidelines put in place by the CDC. This list includes my favorite regions to visit, as well as recommended hotels and resorts. You will find on the property itself, as well as the current status for reopening dates and updated policies. The best source for up-to-date info remains the hotel & resort websites linked here.
The Coast of Texas:
For a luxurious beach getaway, look no further than Cinnamon Shores in Port Aransas. Rent a home with boardwalk access directly to the beach, or enjoy the day by one of their two community pools. Homes in Cinnamon Shores typically sleep anywhere from 8-14 guests, so bring the entire family or your quarantine crew.
*Beaches in Port Aransas reopened in early May, and restaurants and businesses in town are beginning to reopen too*
Galveston is just a short drive away, and there are so many cute Airbnb options. The one I am linking here is owned by my friend’s Mom- it has the most fun & colorful decor. Galveston is known as a top tourist destination in Texas. It has something for everyone, a rich cultural heritage, sandy beaches, and fishing spots.
Central Texas:
Round Top is such a special town! It is truly a small Texas town with a population of only 90 people, but still so much to do. The town really comes to life during the antique fair, which attracts tens of thousands of people and normally happens three times a year in the Spring, Fall, and Winter. The Vintage Round Top is the perfect place to stay located next to all of the shops with plenty of space to spread out and watch the stars at night. The business is family owned and they are actually in the process of launching their own home goods line, which can be found on their site. I highly recommend The Vintage for your next girl’s trip, bachelorette party, or family retreat!
Miraval was actually my last destination before the pandemic reached the US in early March. I cannot say enough nice things about this resort! From the amazing schedule of activities for guests to the fresh food served at every meal, Miraval is truly a life-changing experience. The resort reopens on June 25th, 2020 to guests and will be taking extra precautions to make sure that everyone who visits feels extra safe. You can read more about their cleanliness and flexible cancellation policies here.
The Austin Proper Hotel opened in January of 2020, and just recently reopened after closing during the peak of COVID-19. The property features stunning architecture, several eateries by the McGuire Moorman Group, and a rooftop pool overlooking Downtown Austin.
The Omni Barton Creek Hotel & Spa reopened in late March and is offering a flexible cancellation policy through June 30th. The hotel has always been a stunner, located in the hillside of Barton Creek, and it recently underwent a $150 million renovation. At the Omni Barton Creek, you will experience 4,000 acres of entertainment from nationally recognized golf courses to resorts style pools and spas. Spa appointments must be made in advance due to the ongoing health concerns.
Auberge Resort, Commodore Perry Estate, is hosting its grand opening on June 22nd. The highly anticipated property took over a treasured Austin landmark off of Red River Street. It sits on 10 acres and includes 54 guest rooms, lush English gardens, and an organic farm. Other amenities include a pool, chapel for events, and an on-site restaurant called Lutie’s Garden Restaurant.
West Texas:
JL Bar Luxury Ranch Resort and Spa
Located in Sonora, Texas, JL Bar Luxury Ranch Resort and Spa is a serene escape for those looking to enjoy a 5-star luxury experience. The resort sits on 13,000 acres and hosts 32 luxe accommodations. Activities include guided hunts with professionally trained dogs, horseback riding, yoga, ATV adventures, archery, cooking, and painting classes. Rooms typically start at $599, but they are currently offering seasonal rates for $399 for the rest of 2020.
This small desert city is an unlikely art oasis sparked by Donald Judd who landed in Marfa in 1971. The unassuming town now hosts a collection of small hole-in-the-wall bars and restaurants and a few higher-end establishments, including the Hotel Saint George. This hotel designed by Liz Lambert feels like the epitome of luxury when in the middle of nowhere Texas. Hotel Saint George opened back up to guests May 15th with added precautions including hand sanitizer stations and staff in masks.
Rocking H Lavender Farm and Casitas opened to guests this past Summer in Santa Anna, Texas. This property sits on 280 acres and is owned and operated by the sweetest couple, Rick and Leslie Heard. They have both Spanish Lavender and Grosso Lavender plants that bloom each Spring from April to June. There are currently two casitas on the property with plans for a third and fourth.
The restaurant here has been called the “French Laundry” of Texas, which in my opinion warrants a visit in itself. They’ve brought modern architecture and design to West Texas with their boutique hotel experience. Queen rooms start at $200/night and King rooms at $250/night. The highly acclaimed restaurant is BYOB with a $10 corkage fee, and tasting menus range from $65-95/person.
