There’s no shortage of luxurious hotel accommodations across Texas, and a host of new options abound for summer travelers. If you’re planning a Lone Star vacation — or just want to get away for the weekend — consider booking a room (or two) at one of these fabulous new spots.
Dofflemyer Hotel, San Saba
This circa 1913 building in downtown San Saba — three hours southwest of Fort Worth — originally housed a bank on the ground floor and, on the second, a gentlemen’s social club. Today, the first floor contains Oliver and Co. gourmet food and sandwich shop and the lobby of the Dofflemyer Hotel. Its five rooms and one suite occupy the second floor, each individually decorated and featuring spacious bathrooms, high ceilings, and large windows. Walk to Wedding Oak Winery, San Saba Olive Oil Company, and Harry’s sprawling Western wear store.
Hotel Eleven, Austin
Mark Vornberg and Shelly Leibham created their stylish hotel based on personal world travels and inspiration from their favorite places and amenities. Some of the 14 rooms have city views, the bar serves great wines and local beers, outdoor patios invite hanging out, and the location in Austin’s trendy east side means convenient access to plenty of restaurants and bars as well as downtown, the Texas Capitol, and the University of Texas.
Hotel Emma, San Antonio
The building housing this 146-room hotel began life as a brewhouse designed in 1894 by August Maritzen, who created more than 80 colossal brewery buildings. Hotel Emma anchors the Pearl, San Antonio's former brewery complex turned vibrant culinary and cultural community. Choose from five unique room styles or seven top-floor suites, and enjoy a bar and club room, restaurant, and library. When you arrive, a margarita awaits in your room, along with seasonally sourced South Texas treats in the ice box and in-room pantry.
Hotel Van Zandt, Austin
Located in the lively Rainey Street district, this 319-room boutique hotel pays homage to Austin’s music scene with touches such as light fixtures made from brass instruments, themed artwork, and plenty of live band performances. Rooms enjoy views of Lady Bird Lake or downtown Austin; specialty suites feature oversized soaking tubs, kitchenettes, fully equipped poker tables, and a vintage piano in one. Plan a meal at Geraldine’s, the hotel’'s flagship restaurant that captures the essence of Austin dining.
Hotel Saint George, Marfa
The hotel was built on the site of the original 1886 Hotel Saint George, with the structure, bricks, and marble repurposed from the site’s 1929 construction. Spacious, pet-friendly rooms have 9.5-foot ceilings, original artwork, locally crafted furnishings, and views of the charming town. Two 1,300-square-foot corner suites with wet bars are perfect for entertaining. Also onsite are restaurant Laventure; Bar St. George; and Marfa Book Company, which sells books and retail goods and stages readings, performances, and exhibitions.
JW Marriott Houston Downtown, Houston
The 102-year-old Samuel F. Carter Building at the corner of Rusk and Main became a luxury hotel with 328 rooms, including spa suites, in 2014. It features a full-service restaurant, Main Kitchen, as well as the 806 Lounge. Rooms boast downtown views; the lobby connects to the underground tunnel system; and light rail connections access the George R. Brown Convention Center, Texas Medical Center, and NRG Stadium.
Rancho Pillow, Round Top
Book all or part of this 20-acre compound with an 18th-century Dutch barn that serves as a central gathering spot. The 2,300-square-foot Red House has a kitchen, living and dining areas, two king bedrooms, and a bunkroom. Other options include the Love Shack, a two-bedroom, two-bath casita, and the funky Tower House with one twin and two queen bedrooms and two porches. The property has a saltwater wading pool, tree house, fire pit, and plenty of wide open space.
South Congress Hotel, Austin
In the heart of the action on South Congress, this hotel has three king-bed room options with hardwood floors, custom-designed furniture, and large walk-in showers. River City rooms overlook the courtyard, Heights rooms have views of the Travis Heights neighborhood, and Bouldin rooms look onto the scene on South Congress. Six suite options, including the Bunkroom with four queen-sized bunks and poolside suites, feature private balconies and large soaking tubs. The hotel has four standout food options, including Paul Qui’s intimate 12-seat restaurant, Otoko.
St. Anthony Hotel, San Antonio
It is not new, but newly restored to a style befitting what was the first luxury hotel in San Antonio when it originally opened in 1909. The restoration included uncovering original Venetian-tile mosaics; restoring museum-quality sculptures, tapestries, and murals; and returning a 1927 Steinway piano to Peacock Alley. This designated national historic landmark overlooks Travis Park and sits three blocks from the Alamo and the River Walk.
Westin Dallas Downtown, Dallas
The Westin Dallas Downtown occupies historic One Main Place, the original address of the tony Neiman Marcus store. The hotel also has views of the Trinity River bridges, Victory Park, Reunion Tower, and historic West End. Have a meal at NOLA Brasserie; the restaurant evokes a historical connection with the site, which in the ’60s was home to the only Dallas branch of New Orleans restaurant Brennan’s. And check out the heated indoor pool on the 32nd floor — the highest indoor pool in Texas.
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Lower corner suite bedroom at Hotel Saint George in Marfa.
