The history and personality of east Texas lends itself to romantic getaways of all kinds. Whether on the hunt for a honeymoon destination, a special bed and breakfast, a touch of history, a riverboat ride or a visit to a romantic winery, visitors can find it all in the vast expanse that is east Texas.
One of the most romantic places in east Texas, Jefferson is a small town with lots of character. Once a bustling riverfront town with a population of 30,000, today this quaint town has a population of just over 2,000. Much of the historic architecture and heritage still exists today in Jefferson, and it's known locally as the "Williamsburg of Texas." More than sixty bed and breakfasts make this small town perfect as a honeymoon destination, a place to celebrate a special anniversary ,or simply as a charming weekend getaway. The downtown streets are lined with antique stores and chock full of Texan historical landmarks. Horse drawn carriages and trolleys shuttle tourists around the downtown streets. Just a few blocks away, travelers can hop on a riverboat and take a tour of Big Cypress Bayou. After dark, the town has much to offer, including live theater and music and a vast array of dining options to suit every taste.
Though the whole state of Texas is dotted with wineries, some of the best and most romantic can be found in east Texas. Bluff Dale Vineyards, in Bluff Dale, Texas, not only offers their signature tasting room but also has a bar where patrons can sip wine and sample a menu of cheeses, salami, or tapas. An outside porch lends a stunning view of the Texas Northern Hill Country. The smaller Grayson Hills winery is surrounded by beautiful forests and is just a 45-minute drive from Dallas. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine inside or on the vineyard's tasting deck, eat a picnic in the gardens or relax in one of the hammock,sscattered around the picturesque grounds. In the heart of east Texas in a town called Plantersville, Bernhardt Winery aims to make its visitors experience both fun and romance. Billed as a "boutique" winery, Bernhardt creates unique, small batch wines. Its tasting room overlooks the rolling hills and valleys of the region. It's a perfect spot for a weekend getaway. It is just a quick eight miles from historic Montgomery and seventeen miles from Navasota, known for its great antiquing and jazz music scene.
Bluff Dale Vineyards
5222 County Road 148
Bluff Dale, TX 76433
254-728-3540
bluffdalevineyards.com
Grayson Hills Winery
2815 Ball Road
Whitewright, TX 75491
903-627-0832
graysonhillswinery.com
Bernhardt Winery
9043 County Road 204
Plantersville TX 77363
936-894-9829
bernhardtwinery.com
One of the biggest, most sophisticated cities in Texas also has a softer side. The Hotel St. Germain--a true escape from the big-box hotels that fill the city--has romance oozing from its very walls. A romantic champagne bar on-site offers the perfect lovers' escape, and sensual dishes like foie gras, oysters and canapes top off the experience. The rooms come complete with 24-hour concierge service and jacuzzi tubs. Looking to go out? The Grape Restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner in Dallas. The city's original neighborhood wine bar, it's been a city staple for more than 30 years and has elegant ambiance and romantic atmosphere to spare. Delicious food at affordable prices don't hurt, either. A must-do during a Dallas getaway is a ride on the McKinney Avenue Trolley, which wiggles through the Uptown district, an area chockablock with art galleries, antique stores, intimate eating and drinking spots and live music venues.
Hotel St. Germain
2516 Maple Ave.
Dallas, TX 75201
214-871-2516
hotelstgermain.com
The Grape Restaurant
2802 Greenville Ave
Dallas, TX 75206
214-828-1981
thegraperestaurant.com
McKinney Avenue Trolley: Office & Car Barn
3153 Oak Grove Avenue
Dallas, TX 75204-2427
214-855-0006
mata.org
