“Take Me to the River; I Want to Go.”
Words by Ruby Van De Steeg | photos by Melrose River Club, Skybox Cabins & Hacienda del Rio
From lazy river floats to river boats and from luxury cabins to historic stays, these six riverside retreats offer the perfect escape—no passport required.
The Menger Hotel
Step into history and stay in elegance at this historic hotel. Near the infamous Alamo and a stroll from the riverwalk, The Menger Hotel features stunning Victorian architecture and the original working bar where Teddy Roosevelt recruited his Rough Riders. Stay where presidents, historical leaders, and celebrities relax – whether in its Spanish courtyard garden, one of the ornate rooms, or in the largest heated pool in San Antonio. 204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio | mengerhotel.com
Melrose River Club
Nestled on 12 acres along the spring‑fed San Marcos River, the Melrose River Club is a quick 30 minutes from Austin, giving you riverside access without sacrificing time spent traveling. A resort‑style pool, bar, fire pits, and scenic trails are surrounded by 40 unique cabins, including luxe riverfront and container casitas. Float along the river, go fishing, play lawn games, or gather around communal tables for rest and renewal. 70 Riverbend Dr., San Marcos | melroseriverclub.com
Lillian Farms
For those who love a good period piece and wish to escape to the countryside, this bed & breakfast was made for you, featuring a charming main facility with five suites, a 12-stall stable with ballroom/banquet hall, and several additional B&B cottages all on the estate’s bluebonnet-covered 230 acres.Visitors can fish, walk through the flower-filled fields, or lounge fireside. Stay close to Texas history and visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park, Star Museum, or Blue Bell Creameries. 12570 FM 1155 East, Washington | lillianfarms.com
SkyBox Cabins
Visitors can explore ancient dinosaur tracks from horseback, take a hands-on safari ride, or hike through the beautiful hill country, all just outside SkyBox Cabins. On 50 acres, six unique cabins each provide an individual experience, all while coming with the area’s breathtaking views. From stylish cabins to cliffside glamping, each stay offers an experience for everyone on this adult-only retreat. 1767 CR 1011, Glen Rose | skyboxcabins.com
Hacienda del Rio
Enjoy vibrant Southwestern style and riverside relaxation just minutes from Gruene’s live‑music scene. With a refreshing pool, a clubhouse bar, and 47 modern rooms, including river-view suites, Hacienda del Rio provides an exciting atmosphere. Guests can kayak, tube, and play beach volleyball or pickleball on the Guadalupe’s private frontage, then unwind around fire pits under star-filled skies. Sleek design, modern amenities, and riverside fun make it a fantastic summer retreat.
1273 River Terrace, New Braunfels |
hacienda-delrio.com
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines
On 400+ acres along the Colorado River, guests can float the lazy river that connects to water slides and pools, ride horses through McKinney Roughs, or unwind at the full-service spa. At Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, kids can meet ponies and alpacas, golfers can tee off on an 18-hole course, and river lovers can canoe the Colorado. End the day with s’mores by the fire or with dinner at any of their eight dining options, from top-notch restaurants with live music to quiet, in-room dining.
575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd., Cedar Creek |
hyatt.com/hyatt-regency
