Romantic Getaways in Texas

With stunning sunsets and star-spangled skies that seem to go on forever, Texas rolls out a landscape ripe for romance. Some of the state's best love nests aren't priced for a cheap budget, but are well worth the cost for an unforgettable experience. Take a night or two away from the kids to gorge yourself on music and ambiance in the Lone Star State, guaranteed to kindle romance at these five surefire getaways.

If music is the language of love, the Live Music Capital of the World is the place to be. W Hotel (200 Lavaca St., Austin, TX) rolls out a romantic backdrop less than 500 feet from Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater. For an extra-special time, book W's Extreme Wow Suite. It covers every detail down to a McIntosh McAire integrated audio system that lets you stream a romantic playlist. Check out views of the Colorado River and the city lights from the oversized tub or kick back on a curved contemporary sofa while enjoying selections from the snack and wet bar. Order in and dine beneath a glass chandelier while watching the city lights come up. Ticket packages to Austin City Limits are available through W if you stay when a taping is scheduled.

Get back to nature without ever leaving the city at the Houstonian Hotel, Club and Spa (111 N. Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX). Gaze out at the hotel's 18 wooded acres with parks and city views beyond. Book a suite on the concierge level and receive specialized attention to create the ideal ambiance for romance. Enjoy free breakfast, hors d'oeuvres and desserts throughout the day. Pamper yourself from head to toe at the Trellis Spa where over 100 treatments await. Take a walk, run along a cushioned jogging trail or work out at the Houstonian Club's fitness facilities.

San Antonio's Riverwalk sets the stage for romance with Old World architecture, gracefully arched bridges and charming waterside cafes. Find plenty to do here from exploring modern museums to centuries-old missions. Stay at river's edge at the Mokara Hotel & Spa (212 W. Crockett St., San Antonio, TX). Relax at the rooftop pool while sipping mango lemonade or a cranberry mint margarita. Grab a light bite at the Rooftop Cafe while gazing out at the cityscape or share a Seafood Plateau for two at Ostra's four-star restaurant. Get a couple's massage in your room or head to the spa for pampering.

If savoring views of artwork is among the romantic things you like to do, you won't have to leave your accommodations at Hotel ZaZa (2332 Leonard St., Dallas, TX). Discover stunning artistic treasures from local and national artists right in the hotel. Indulge in a massage in one of the hotel's couples-only treatment rooms or travel to a romantic time and place in your mind when you rent one of the hotel's themed suites. Red velvet, mahogany furniture and marble appointments deck out the Dangerous Beauty, one of the themed suites that roll out more than 1,300 square feet of sumptuous decor. The concept suite is a favorite among couples, with an oversized whirlpool tub, balcony and tactile fabrics like velvet and fur.

Transport yourself back in time more than 100 years when you book your romantic getaway at Antlers Inn (1001 King St., Kingsland, TX). The historic two-story hotel, cottages and train cars hearken back to simpler times, but provide modern amenities like climate control. The hotel itself is adults-only, and you can enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows, claw-foot tubs and old-fashioned decor. Fish in Lake LBJ from the dock or a kayak, pedal or row one of the hotel's boats. Head out to wineries within 20 minutes of the inn and bring back a bottle to enjoy in your room.