Most Romantic Texas Cities
Surely Cupid is Texan. Think about it: He goes big on love, never travels light, and knows a thing or two about grand gestures. And in Texas, his job’s practically done for him. All across our state, there are cozy romantic corners where it’s almost impossible not to fall in love, from moonlit river walks to fairy-tale rose gardens.
Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or a special anniversary, make it a full weekend of romance with a getaway to Texas’ most swoon-worthy locales.
Take a Moonlit Walk in San Antonio
The San Antonio River Walk feels like it was designed for romantic lingering: soft lights reflecting on the water, little fairy-tale-like stone bridges, and the gentle hum from riverside patios that keeps things lively without being too loud. Up the ambiance even more by booking a sunset boat cruise or reserving a table at one of the many restaurants for rooftop tapas. For quieter daytime activities, detour to the Japanese Tea Garden or the Botanical Garden.
Stop to Smell the Roses in Tyler
As the Rose Capital of America, Tyler’s romance is soft and sweet — less nightlife, more garden strolls. Forget bringing home a bouquet and step into a living one at the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, where fragrant paths and photo-worthy blooms do the heavy lifting. Peak season is spring or fall, but even in February, Tyler remains charming and unhurried. Pair your garden time with a cozy dinner, then take a simple sunset walk through downtown.
Book a B&B in Historic Jefferson
Founded in 1836, Jefferson is a historic small town where romance comes easily. Everything is walkable and unhurried, where you can wander hand in hand and let the day unfold without overplanning. The bed-and-breakfast scene is simply charming, with cozy cottages where slow mornings are the itinerary. Spend the day browsing antiques, visiting small museums, and strolling downtown without a plan. For a final stop of the night, catch the famous Howe Truss Train Trestle LED light show.
Two-Step into Someone’s Heart in Fort Worth
Fort Worth brings bold, Western romance. The Stockyards feel like an old movie set, with brick walkways, wooden corrals, and the famous cattle drive. Suggested itinerary: Spend the afternoon in the reimagined horse and mule barns of Mule Alley, explore the fountains of Sundance Square, and anchor the night with live country music and a two-step at a genuine honky-tonk (Note: There are a lot more than just Billy Bob’s!)
Stargaze in Marfa
Marfa, a self-proclaimed “oasis of culture in the West Texas’ Chihuahuan Desert” (and we’re not arguing), is romance for people who love quiet, beautiful weirdness. The dark desert sky makes the stars look unreal. If you’re lucky, the mysterious Marfa Lights appear as glowing orbs in the distance. Glamp at one of the artsy encampments near town, explore some galleries and installations (Prada Marfa is quintessential), then park a blanket outside to stargaze at night.
Wander Main Street in Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, famous for its strong German heritage and home to over 150 locally owned shops, is the “park once and stroll” kind of romantic. Main Street is lined with boutiques and galleries, so your day naturally slows into browsing, coffee, and little surprises. For Hill Country views, hike Enchanted Rock or keep it easy at Cross Mountain Park. Build in unstructured time, such as porch sitting, a picnic, or a long lunch, then wrap the day with a cozy dinner and a short walk under the lights.
Visit the Town Square in Georgetown
Twenty-seven miles north of Austin sits the self-proclaimed “most beautiful town square in Texas.” Georgetown is classic, low-stress romance: a pretty courthouse square, walkable shops, and water nearby. Spend the afternoon on the square, grab coffee, and pick a dinner spot you can walk to. For fresh air without a big hike, stop by Blue Hole Park along the San Gabriel River. If you want one last “wow,” catch sunset at Lake Georgetown’s overlook.
Win your honey’s heart with these oh-so-Texas Valentine’s Day date ideas.
