If you're a parent, more than likely your summer vacations will be limited to kid-friendly locales like beaches, theme parks, and the occasional zoo. If you are not a parent, more than likely you don't want to spend your summer vacation with other people's kids. Maybe you're looking for a romantic spot in which to cozy up with your love, or a relaxing vineyard to enliven your wine palette, or you could just need some peace and quiet. Italy and France are both fine and good for those purposes, but it's not always feasible to jump across the pond. Money, family, and vacation time all prohibit big trips. So when you need to get away, just for a weekend, it's easy to do so by just jumping in your car. Better yet, rent a Prius and save on gas (even more relaxing!). There are great spots all over Texas where one can wine, dine, and chill.


The Hill Country: Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast
Nestled in Fredericksburg, the Magnolia House is in close proximity to tons of shopping- antiques are a big part of the city. The Hill Country is also a great place to visit if you enjoy wine- there are several vineyards to visit and taste at. The B&B itself is charming and quiet and serves a MEAN breakfast. I promise you won't be disappointed!


West Texas: Thunderbird Motel
You may or may not be familiar with Marfa, TX, it's great art scene, or the Mystery Lights. When driving up to El Paso, you won't find a lot on the way. I know this as I've made countless road trips there to visit grandparents. If only, as a kid, I had enough sway with my parents to make a quick detour off of I-10 to explore Marfa. We could have stayed at the design lovers paradise, Thunderbird Motel. The minimalist space is nonetheless luxurious and perfect for a desert getaway.


The Gulf Coast: Hoopes House
If water and sun is what you crave, drive down to Rockport. You can lay on the beach, catch up on your reading, and sip on something fruity. Then, when the sun has wreaked havoc on your energy level and skin, head back to Hoopes House for some much deserved R&R indoors. The restored 1890's home offers casual, spacious rooms that don't evoke feeling of staying in a museum, but a beachy summer villa.



South Texas Plains: Inn on the Riverwalk
Enjoying a nightlife somewhere doesn't require you to stay at a Holiday Inn. You can enjoy a quiet stay in the middle of downtown if you know where to look. If exploring the Riverwalk in San Antonio is your thing, try Inn on the Riverwalk. You'll be close to all of the action of the Riverwalk- the clubs, shopping, dining, etc- but instead of coming back to a generic hotel room, you get a sweeter place to rest your head.




The Big City: Modern B&B
For an anniversary or birthday, it's nice to get out of the house and try someplace new without even leaving town. I know where I'm heading: Modern B&B. Just to be clear, this isn't your mama's B&B. This place is sleek, modern, cool. You'll still be close to all of the hip things going on in the city. You'll come back to an amazingly designed room, a view of the city, and a good night's sleep.