In Texas, romance isn’t measured by the cost of the hotel room but by the richness of the experience—a shared sunset over the Gulf, a quiet hike through the Hill Country, or a glass of wine under a canopy of stars. This is your guide to finding those unforgettable moments without breaking the bank.
Forget the idea that a memorable escape has to be an expensive one. From the sun-drenched coast to charming small towns steeped in history, Texas offers a diverse tapestry of destinations perfect for couples on a budget. We’ve done the research to uncover the best romantic getaways in Texas on a budget. That will help you plan a romantic getaway that feels luxurious, intimate, and, most importantly, affordable.
Quick Planning Tips for an Affordable Escape
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind to maximize romance and minimize spending.
- Time Your Trip Wisely: The cheapest times to travel in Texas are typically the “shoulder seasons.” According to travel experts, mid-to-late September and the winter months of January and February often see the lowest prices for flights and lodging. Avoid spring break and major holiday weekends when prices surge.
- Embrace Midweek Magic: Many destinations, especially popular spots like Fredericksburg, offer significant discounts and fewer crowds for midweek stays (Sunday through Thursday). This simple switch can often save you 20-40% on accommodations.
- Master the Art of the Deal: Before booking, check websites like Groupon for local deals on activities or dining. Use travel apps like Hopper to track prices for flights and hotels, and book when they’re at their lowest.
- Drive and Discover: Texas is a driver’s state. A road trip not only saves on airfare but also gives you the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and pack your own supplies (like a cooler for picnics!).
Top 10 Budget-Friendly Romantic Getaways in Texas
Ready to explore? Here are ten destinations across Texas that deliver romance on a reasonable budget.
1. Fredericksburg: Hill Country Wine & Charm
With its German heritage, boutique shops, and status as the epicenter of Texas Wine Country, Fredericksburg is a classic romantic escape. The rolling hills and vineyard views provide a stunning backdrop for a couple’s trip focused on relaxation and indulgence.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $350–$650
- Low-Cost Lodging: Fredericksburg is the “unique lodging capital of Texas.” Look for a cozy Bed & Breakfast slightly outside the main drag for better prices. Booking a private guesthouse or cabin through sites like VRBO or Airbnb can also be cost-effective, especially if it includes a small kitchen.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Stroll hand-in-hand down historic Main Street, browsing the 150+ shops and art galleries. You can even grab a glass of wine from a tasting room and enjoy it while you walk.
- Modestly Priced: Take a hop-on, hop-off wine shuttle. The 290 Wine Shuttle offers day passes for around $39.99, allowing you to visit multiple wineries without the hassle of driving.
- Dining Suggestion: Pack a picnic with local cheeses, bread, and a bottle of wine from a vineyard you visited. For a casual but beloved meal, grab a table at the Bluebonnet Cafe in nearby Marble Falls for classic Texas comfort food.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Spring (March-May) for wildflowers, but it’s busy. Fall (October-November) offers pleasant weather and the harvest season. Pack layers and comfortable walking shoes.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Visit midweek. You’ll find better lodging rates, less crowded wineries, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
2. Wimberley: Artsy Retreat with Natural Springs
Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, Wimberley is an artsy village known for its crystal-clear swimming holes, quirky shops, and serene Hill Country setting. It’s the perfect place for couples who love nature, art, and a laid-back vibe.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $300–$550
- Low-Cost Lodging: Wimberley excels in unique stays. Look for private cabins, cozy glamping tents, or a room at a boutique hotel like the Wimberley Inn + Bar. Expedia lists romantic hotels starting from $105.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Stroll through the downtown square, exploring art galleries and unique shops. The cost is free, with expenses only for what you choose to buy.
- Modestly Priced: Take a dip in a natural swimming hole. Jacob’s Well or Blue Hole Regional Park require reservations and a small entry fee, offering a refreshingly romantic experience on a hot day.
- Dining Suggestion: Grab a delicious pizza from a local spot and enjoy it at a picnic table at a local park. This combines a casual meal with the beautiful outdoor scenery Wimberley is known for.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Summer is prime time for swimming holes, but book well in advance. Spring and fall offer milder weather for hiking and exploring. Pack swimwear, water shoes, and insect repellent.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Many cabins and rentals have kitchenettes. Plan to cook one or two meals (like breakfast) to save significantly on dining out.
Related: The 10 Best Weekend Trips for Seniors Over 60 in Texas
3. Port Aransas: Laid-Back Coastal Escape
If your idea of romance is salty air, sandy toes, and the sound of waves, “Port A” is your spot. This unpretentious beach town on Mustang Island offers a relaxing and incredibly affordable coastal getaway, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $250–$450
- Low-Cost Lodging: Skip the pricey resorts and book a condo through Aransas Princess or other local rental agencies. A fully equipped kitchen allows you to save big on food. Budget-friendly motels are also available.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Spend the day on the beach—swimming, building sandcastles, and beachcombing are all free. Visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center to walk the boardwalks and spot local wildlife.
- Modestly Priced: Rent a golf cart for a day. It’s the preferred mode of transport and a fun way to explore the island’s nooks and crannies. Splitting the rental with another couple can make it even cheaper.
- Dining Suggestion: Grab fresh seafood from a local market and grill it at your condo for a romantic dinner in. Alternatively, find a casual beachfront grill for dinner with a view that doesn’t cost a fortune.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Fall has fewer crowds and warm water. Spring is pleasant before the summer rush. Pack sunscreen, hats, a beach towel, and a cooler.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: The South Jetty is a fantastic free spot to fish, watch ships pass, and spot dolphins playing in the channel, especially around sunset.
4. Galveston: Historic Charm Meets Beach Fun
Galveston offers a unique blend of historic Victorian architecture, a lively arts scene, and 32 miles of coastline. It’s a destination that can be as relaxing or as active as you want, with plenty of budget-friendly options for couples.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $275–$500
- Low-Cost Lodging: Look for deals on hotels just off the Seawall or consider a cozy vacation rental in the historic East End. Expedia lists romantic hotels from $79, and Baymont by Wyndham is noted as a good budget-friendly option.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Watch the sunrise at East Beach, then take a long walk along the Seawall. In the evening, take the free Galveston Island Ferry for a chance to see dolphins.
- Modestly Priced: Rent bikes and explore the historic districts and tree-lined streets. Or, for a bit of fun, spend an evening playing games at the Historic Pleasure Pier.
- Dining Suggestion: Grab coffee and pastries from a local spot like MOD Coffeehouse and enjoy them on the beach. For dinner, find a casual eatery in the Strand Historic District away from the main tourist traps.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Fall and spring offer the most pleasant weather. The “off-season” from October to February provides the best deals. Pack for the beach, but also bring comfortable shoes for walking.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Many of Galveston’s best attractions are free, including exploring the historic architecture, visiting art galleries, and riding the ferry. Focus your itinerary on these to keep costs down.
5. Austin: Quirky Urban Romance
While known for its vibrant music scene and tech boom, Austin is also filled with romantic potential, especially for active, outdoorsy couples. From lush greenbelts to funky food trucks, the city offers endless opportunities for fun, affordable dates.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $300–$600 (lodging can be pricey)
- Low-Cost Lodging: Hotel prices can be high, so look for boutique hotels or Airbnbs in neighborhoods just outside of downtown, like South Congress or East Austin. Booking well in advance is key.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Watch the famous bat colony emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk (spring to fall). Or, pack a picnic and enjoy the people-watching at Zilker Park.
- Modestly Priced: Rent a kayak or a retro-style electric boat to cruise Lady Bird Lake. It offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
- Dining Suggestion: Create your own food truck tour. Austin’s food truck scene is legendary and affordable. You can sample everything from gourmet tacos to delicious desserts for a fraction of the cost of a sit-down restaurant.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Spring and fall have the best weather for outdoor activities. Pack casual clothes, good walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Many of Austin’s museums, like the Blanton Museum of Art, offer free admission on certain days (Tuesdays for the Blanton). Check their websites before you go.
Related: 20 Best Weekend Trips for Seniors in the US
6. Granbury: Historic Square on the Lake
Just a short drive from Dallas-Fort Worth, Granbury boasts the first town square in Texas to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With a beautiful lake, a historic opera house, and a drive-in movie theater, it’s a step back in time with plenty of small-town romance.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $250–$475
- Low-Cost Lodging: Granbury offers a great selection of affordable B&Bs, inns, and hotels. The Inn on Lake Granbury is a top-rated splurge, but many charming and less expensive options are available right off the square. Expedia shows options from $117.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Spend an afternoon at Granbury City Beach, a unique sandy beach on the lake just a short walk from the square. Or, walk the Granbury Hike & Bike Trail.
- Modestly Priced: Catch a double feature at the Brazos Drive-In Theater. It’s a nostalgic and incredibly romantic date night that’s also easy on the wallet.
- Dining Suggestion: Have a romantic dinner at Christina’s on the square, or for a more casual vibe, grab a bite at a pub with live music like Warren’s Backyard.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Late spring and early fall are perfect for enjoying both the lake and the town square without the intense summer heat.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Hop on the free Granbury Trolley on weekends to get a tour of the town and save on gas and parking.
7. Glen Rose: Dinosaurs and Rustic Charm
For the couple that loves history, nature, and a touch of the prehistoric, Glen Rose is a quirky and affordable choice. Home to Dinosaur Valley State Park, this small town offers rustic cabins, scenic drives, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $225–$450
- Low-Cost Lodging: This area is perfect for cabin rentals. SkyBox Cabins offers stunning views, while other B&Bs and inns like Inn on the River provide riverside charm. Hotwire.com shows last-minute deals as low as $90.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Explore the historic downtown square of Glen Rose. While there, visit the Somervell County Museum to learn about the area’s history.
- Modestly Priced: Spend a day at Dinosaur Valley State Park. For a small park entry fee, you can hike, picnic, and search for real dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed.
- Dining Suggestion: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic areas in Dinosaur Valley State Park. For dinner, find a local cafe serving up homestyle Texas cooking.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Late spring or fall when the river is lower, making the dinosaur tracks easier to see. Pack sturdy hiking shoes and water shoes if you plan to walk in the river.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: A short drive away is Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a drive-through safari. While it has an entrance fee, it’s an all-day activity that provides great value for an unforgettable experience.
8. San Antonio: Historic Romance on the River
While the River Walk can feel touristy, San Antonio is steeped in a deep, authentic romance that’s accessible on a budget. From its historic missions to its vibrant culture, there are countless ways to experience the city’s charm without overspending.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $280–$550
- Low-Cost Lodging: For the best value, stay at a hotel slightly off the main River Walk drag, like the Menger Hotel, which is historic and often reasonably priced. Or consider a rental in the charming King William Historic District.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Explore the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can bike or walk the Mission Reach trail connecting the beautiful, historic churches.
- Modestly Priced: Take a riverboat tour. While it’s a classic tourist activity, it’s a beautiful and relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Dining Suggestion: Head to The Pearl district. While it has high-end restaurants, you can also grab delicious and affordable food from the Bottling Department Food Hall and enjoy it in the beautifully landscaped outdoor space.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Spring and fall offer beautiful weather. The holiday season is magical with the River Walk lights, but also more crowded and expensive.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: The main part of the River Walk is free to stroll. Walk south along the Mission Reach portion for a quieter, more natural, and equally romantic experience away from the crowds.
Related: the 15 best things to do in San Antonio, Texas
9. Salado: A Village of Art and History
This charming village on the banks of Salado Creek is one of the oldest in Texas and a haven for artists and history buffs. Its Main Street is lined with art galleries, antique shops, and historic inns, making it a perfect destination for a quiet, contemplative romantic weekend.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $250–$500
- Low-Cost Lodging: Salado is known for its historic inns and B&Bs. The Stagecoach Inn is Texas’s second oldest hotel and offers a historic stay. Airbnb also has unique rentals, with some starting as low as $20/night.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Spend the day gallery-hopping along Main Street. Many local glass blowers, potters, and painters have studios open to the public.
- Modestly Priced: Enjoy a wine tasting at Salado Winery Company or a beer at Barrow Brewing Company, which has a lovely creekside beer garden.
- Dining Suggestion: Enjoy a classic Texas meal at Johnny’s Steaks & BBQ, a local institution. For something lighter, pack a picnic to enjoy by the creek.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Spring and fall are ideal for strolling through the village. Pack comfortable shoes and leave room in your car for any art or antiques you might buy.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Many of the art galleries and studios are free to enter. It’s a culturally rich activity that costs nothing but your time.
10. Big Bend Area (Marathon): Desert Vistas and Stargazing
For the adventurous couple, the vast, rugged beauty of the Big Bend region is profoundly romantic. Marathon, the gateway to Big Bend National Park, offers a quirky, artistic vibe and serves as a perfect base for exploring the desert and enjoying some of the darkest skies in the country.
- Approximate Weekend Budget: $375–$700 (more remote, so lodging and gas add up)
- Low-Cost Lodging: While luxury options exist, you can find more affordable and unique stays. Consider the pet-friendly hotels in Marathon or look for a unique yurt or casita rental for a memorable experience.
- Romantic Activities:
- Free/Low-Cost: Stargazing. This area is an International Dark Sky Park, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way. Simply drive a few miles out of town, pull over, and look up.
- Modestly Priced: Spend a day driving the scenic routes in Big Bend National Park (park entry fee required). The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers incredible vistas and access to short, romantic hikes.
- Dining Suggestion: The Gage Hotel’s White Buffalo Bar offers a surprisingly affordable menu in a classic western setting. Or, pack a cooler with everything you need for a sunset picnic at an overlook in the park.
- Best Seasons & Packing: Fall through spring is the best time to visit to avoid extreme summer heat. Pack layers (desert nights are cold), sunscreen, a hat, hiking boots, and plenty of water.
- Insider Money-Saving Tip: Fill up on gas and groceries in a larger town like Alpine or Fort Stockton before heading to Marathon, as prices are significantly higher in the remote park area.
Sample 2-Day Budget Itinerary: Fredericksburg
Here’s how you could spend a romantic and affordable weekend in the heart of Texas Wine Country.
Day 1: Arrival and Main Street Magic
- 2:00 PM: Arrive in Fredericksburg and check into your pre-booked B&B or guesthouse. Choose one that offers a complimentary breakfast to save money.
- 3:00 PM: Begin a leisurely stroll down Main Street. Pop into the unique shops, from German imports to cowboy boots, and browse the art galleries.
- 5:00 PM: Stop at a local tasting room on Main Street for a glass of Texas wine.
- 7:00 PM: For dinner, head to a casual spot with a patio for some German fare or Texas BBQ. Or, grab supplies from a local market for a picnic dinner back at your cozy rental.
- 9:00 PM: If you have the energy, head to the historic dance hall in nearby Luckenbach for some live music and two-stepping under the stars.
Day 2: Hikes, Wine, and Departure
- 8:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at your B&B. Then, drive to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (make reservations in advance!). Hike the Summit Trail for breathtaking 360-degree views.
- 11:00 AM: Head back towards town and hop on the 290 Wine Shuttle. Spend the next few hours visiting 2-3 wineries along the route.
- 1:00 PM: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the wineries. Many have beautiful grounds and welcome guests to bring their own food.
- 3:00 PM: After your last tasting, head back to your car and begin the scenic drive home, filled with memories of your romantic Hill Country escape.
Romantic Getaway Quick Checklist
Before you hit the road, run through this final checklist.
Booking & Planning
- Timeline: Book lodging 1-3 months in advance, especially for popular destinations or seasons like spring. Last-minute deals can be found, but choices will be limited.
- Apps & Websites to Use:
- For Deals: Hopper, Skyscanner, Travelocity.
- For Lodging: Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and local B&B association websites.
- For Activities: Groupon, and the official tourism site for your destination (e.g., VisitFredericksburgTX.com).
Packing Essentials
- The Basics: Comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing (Texas weather is unpredictable), and any personal medications.
- For Romance: A portable speaker for music, a nice outfit for a special dinner, and maybe a deck of cards or a book to enjoy together.
- For Savings: A reusable water bottle, a cooler for drinks and picnic supplies, and your own coffee/tea to make in your room.
- Outdoor Gear: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat are non-negotiable in Texas.
Texas is a state built for exploration, and its romantic side is waiting to be discovered—no matter your budget. With a bit of savvy planning, you can craft a getaway filled with connection, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime. So pick a destination, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love all over again in the heart of Texas.