Unique Winter Getaways in Texas

By theadmin

Choosing the perfect winter getaway depends, to a large extent, on your mood — are you trying to escape winter or embrace it? Are you looking to swap chilly weather for a tropical beach? Or do you want to soak up the cozy mood of the season by retreating to a snowy forest or breathing in crisp mountain air?

While dreaming up winter destinations may cause your mind to wander far from Texas, many of these kinds of getaways are available in our own backyard. Texas’ diverse geography and wide-ranging climate mean that you can seek out beachy retreats and crisp mountain escapes all without ever leaving the state.

We scoured Texas for some of the most unique destinations. We hope they inspire your next adventure.

winter getaway in Texas

MOUNTAINTOP ESCAPE | Davis Mountains

Winter weather in far West Texas can range dramatically. When the wind blows from the south across the Chihuahuan Desert, it can be warm and temperate. But when the wind shifts and you catch the cold air coming down off the Rockies, you might catch a sprinkling of snow. Enjoy some of the freshest air in Texas, then huddle up in a cozy cabin.

Itinerary:

  • Davis Mountains Preserve: Tucked away amid West Texas’ deserts lies the Davis Mountains’ temperate forests, creating a sky island that protects wildlife that wouldn’t survive the surrounding harsh desert conditions.
  • Davis Mountains Scenic Loop: Starting at Fort Davis, an often-overlooked West Texas gem, this 75-mile loop is the highest public highway in Texas. It’s also one of the most scenic and least crowded.
  • Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens: Wander the mountains’ foothills and explore native gardens and stunning views.
  • McDonald Observatory: Look up at the stars at the world’s largest international Dark Sky Reserve.
  • Indian Lodge: Hide away in a cozy white adobe cabin nestled in the Davis Mountains.

Learn more about Davis Mountains access and activities at The Nature Conservancy.

winter getaway in Texas

LAKESIDE LUXURY | Spicewood

The small unincorporated community of Spicewood lies at the western end of Lake Travis in some of the prettiest Hill Country landscape. The area has become something of a hotspot for glamping, or glamorous camping, offering nature lovers an opportunity to immerse themselves in Texas’ beauty without giving up the comforts of civilization.

Itinerary:

  • Tents & Yurts: Check out Airbnb for options including tents perched on limestone bluffs and yurts pitched along riverbends. This is anything but roughing it; these glamorous camping sites come with indoor fireplaces, luxurious tubs, and decks overlooking views of deer sipping water in the mornings.
  • Krause Springs: If the weather is moderate, this swimming hole offers waterfalls, natural caves, and even a rope swing.
  • Pace Bend Park: Enjoy water adventures on Lake Travis’ shoreline.
  • Lakecliff Golf Club: Play a round of golf surrounded by waterfalls and human-made lakes.
  • Cypress Valley Canopy Tours: Take a nighttime zip line illuminated by twinkle lights and adorned with glow sticks for an unparalleled perspective of the beauty of the Hill Country.
winter getaway in Texas

HISTORIC COMFORT & CHARM | Jefferson

While you don’t often get big snowstorms in East Texas, the woods and chilly temperatures in this part of the state offer plenty of cold- weather charm for a wintry getaway. Historic Jefferson acts as a gateway to the beautiful and atmospheric Caddo Lake on the Texas-Louisiana border — and the town packs quaint Southern charm into its little streets. Take your pick of any number of bed-and-breakfasts to vacation in; Jefferson is known as the B&B capital of Texas.

Itinerary:

  • B&Bs: Jefferson is home to several historic B&Bs, where you can cozy up in 1920s beauty, antique libraries and parlors, or rustic charm.
  • Bayous: Join a riverboat tour through the stunning and spooky bayous rife with atmospheric Spanish moss, swamps, and wildlife.
  • Boo: Join a Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk as a local historian guides you through the town’s prewar homes and haunted history.
  • Historic Jefferson Railway: Winter is the perfect time to experience the Historic Jefferson Railway, an antique train that pulls passengers through East Texas forests and along Big Cypress Bayou. You won’t have to try too hard to imagine you’ve accidentally jumped on the Polar Express.

Best B&Bs in Jefferson:

winter getaway in Texas

BEACH PARTY | Galveston

The quintessential Texas summer holiday spot empties out in the winter months, and while it never gets too cold along the Gulf Coast, the off-season has its own special appeal, with cooler weather and quieter crowds. Escape to the sea and enjoy long strolls on the emptier beach.

Itinerary:

  • Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: Explore wild rides and amusement on the historic Pleasure Pier. Take the Pirate’s Plunge, ride the Sea Dragon, or take little ones on the Lil’ Captain Wheel for the full beachy party. Hot dogs, funnel cakes, and ICEEs complete the experience.
  • Mardi Gras! Galveston: If you make it a late- winter getaway, an escape to Galveston will land you at the beginning of Mardi Gras season. Galveston hosts wildly popular Mardi Gras celebrations, held Feb. 10-21 this year.
  • Rent a beach house: Take a walk along the beach to find the perfect spot to set up camp for the day.

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