The Wander Edit began a couple of years ago with the purchase of a cowhide and leather travel bag, and the idea of celebrating the art of the weekend getaway by curating a destination road trip within a comfortable driving distance to share with our readers. I’ve chosen accommodations in all different price ranges, but sometimes it’s fun to budget a little extra to staycation at extraordinary properties all the while being immersed in the history and local color of places not too far from home. The focus has been on shorter trips, living more intentionally and in the moment, and enjoying the journey! People often ask which is my favorite. How could I ever choose a favorite when each of these twelve properties are quite exceptional in their own right? I do a lot of research ahead of time to ensure that I feature the best in uniqueness, comfort, cleanliness, decor, management or ownership, property grounds, hospitality, and amenities. Each one of these experiences…the sights, scents, flavors, and especially the rich conversations with the people I have met, have become a part of my travel-loving soul. Planning a few getaways or staycations for this year? Keep a bag packed (still loving mine!) and consider choosing from The Wander Edit’s list of featured properties…I have not been disappointed and I’m so grateful for the invitations to be their guest!
Hotel Lucy (Granbury, TX)
Within walking distance from the vibrant Granbury square, you’ll find a magnificent boutique hotel. Hotel Lucy, in all of her opulent grandeur, sprawls gracefully over three meticulously developed acres on Pearl Street, directly across from Granbury City Beach Park. The hotel grounds include a grouping of several well-designed and visually cohesive buildings with various names, but all have surprisingly different interiors and rooms with incredible individual style and themes. “Hey Sugar” was my very plush/very pink suite with its high-end finishes, tactile fabrics and textures, a luxurious bathroom, and glamour in every detail. There is an impressive common area dream kitchen with an adjacent elegant bar, an outdoor fireplace, an event center, and a beautiful pool. Hotel Lucy has a luxe boutique right next door called The Pearl. With so many shops and restaurants, Granbury is bustling on the weekends. Don’t miss the Granbury Wine Walk in late April. Get your tickets online ahead of time and indulge yourself with a room at hotel-lucy.com.
Texican Court (Las Colinas, TX)
The Valencia Hotel Group has perfected the resurgence of the motor court. Historically, the motor court was typically a one-off motel with an interesting name, a fun theme, “parking lot to room” access, and built around a pool. Think Route 66 charm. The Texican Court is warm and inviting with its Spanish mission-style architecture, pink doors and minimalistic southwest landscaping, combined with the nostalgic ambiance of a 152-room, three-story motor court. The rooms are cleverly retro inside…relaxed luxury and also fairly affordable and fun for either a family adventure or a romantic getaway. It’s located in Las Colinas across from the Irving Convention Center and Toyota Music Factory. Two Mules Cantina’s menu boasts fresh flavors and chef-prepared cuisine. Nestle into the cozy area across from the bar – perfect for conversations and enjoying live entertainment on the weekends. There is a mission-style chapel and area for special events and a boardroom for corporate meetings. Relax by the circular pool, outdoor fireplaces, cowboy cauldrons (pick up your s’mores supplies at the front desk), plenty of picnic tables and lounging chairs. Explore authentic Americana at texicancourt.com.
The Frenchie (Round Top, TX)
Ooh la la…the bold Parisienne style of each uniquely decorated room, the array of colors, the swanky pool area, the professionalism of the staff, and the easy-going tranquility will have you saying “Oui oui” to staying at The Frenchie! This property is pure eye candy! The buildings range from 1800’s farmhouse to mid-century modern, to highly contemporary. I was able to see all of the rooms in person and was on “inspiration overload” after viewing dozens of gorgeous chandeliers, vintage mirrors, plush furnishings, decorative tiles and all types of tubs and showers. The atmosphere is a mix and mingling of eclectic excitement. I chose Room 11, one of the poolside bungalows with the coolest oversized round bathtub. I highly recommend visiting Round Top when the internationally attended antique shows aren’t going on so you can relax and experience the quaintness of this community. It’s a decorator’s dream looking online at all the various rooms and common areas around The Frenchie Boutique Hotel at roundtoptx.com.
The White House on the Hill (Burton, TX)
Sunsets chase you at The White House on the Hill! This hidden country gem is a 19-acre property about halfway between Austin and Houston, and just minutes from Round Top and Burton. Fields of wildflowers flourish in the spring all over the compound which consists of a main house, a white chapel guest house, an event barn with guest rooms, a catering kitchen, an art barn, a pond and a 400-vine vineyard. Linda O’Neal and her husband, Rob Rosenbaum are the dynamic duo whose dream became a reality in developing this special piece of property in Washington County. All of the architectural elements, elegant vintage furnishings and lighting, and luxe linens were hand-picked by the couple in designing this peaceful, romantic haven. The concept which drew me to the property originally was their art barn. On Tuesday mornings, locals and overnight guests are welcome to stop by to create, collaborate, and learn alongside others or bring their own specific project to work on. The spacious barn has large glass roll-up doors and a view of the property’s tranquil pond. The art barn is where art is made and friendships are formed! It’s “business as usual” until the right buyer comes along, but this treasure has just been listed. Want to be the new discerning owner? Search 5025 Wickel Road on roundtoprealestate.com. Refresh, relax, renew or book your next special event at thewhitehouseonthehill.com.
The George (College Station, TX)
Nestled in the heart of College Station and in the center of Century Square, you’ll find The George™; a luxury four-star boutique hotel. Contemporary hipness is well-blended with Texas history throughout the 162-room property. Ordinary found objects have made their way into fascinating art exhibits. One amazing example is the Texas Flag Book Wall, installed in the entry to the lobby as a powerfully dramatic display. Century Square is full of shopping and dining opportunities. Downtown Bryan is just minutes away, and the First Friday monthly activities fill the streets with live music and fun! By George, book a getaway at thegeorgetexas.com!
Poplar Place Tx (Fredericksburg, TX)
It’s difficult to choose a rental on this corner property in Fredericksburg because they’re all so tricked out with different themes. I’ve now stayed in the “Mod” house twice because I love the decor and design details! You’ll need at least a couple of days to hit all of the local shops, wineries, and restaurants. Watch online for wine and wildflower festivals! If you’re looking to be about eight blocks from Main Street, try poplarplacetx.com.
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (Dallas, TX)
You’ll be welcomed by an impeccable staff and surrounded by pure luxury at this century old Texas mansion. Sitting majestically on a hill in a neighborhood in Dallas, Rosewood Mansion not only has pristine accommodations, but also one of the finest restaurants and most iconic bars in North Texas. Before your stay, speak with the hotel concierge and inquire about the most current and suggested excursions. Feeling fancy? Relax in style at rosewoodhotels.com.
Q&C Hotel (New Orleans, LA)
Oh how I fell unexpectedly in love with New Orleans! My five days at the centrally located Q&C included home tours, shopping, fresh seafood, cajun flavors, and a lot of jazz! New Orleans is an example of where you will want to immerse yourself in the history and local color. Q&C Hotel & Bar is positioned in the heart of the city, and proves to be a convenient launch pad for sightseeing. Ready to explore all that The Crescent City has to offer? Start your journey from qandc.com.
Hall Arts Hotel (Dallas, TX)
The Dallas Arts District is a playground for all things creative! The Hall Arts Hotel is the first hotel in the district and is masterfully designed with show-stopping contemporary art collections and high-tech accommodations. Dine at Ellie’s or have them pack a picnic and be dropped off by their driver at Klyde Warren Park. Craving culture? Get artsy at hallartshotel.com.
High Hill Farm (Arp, TX)
Ahhhh…the peace and quiet of the piney woods in East Texas. I recommend that you go all out and book (or buy!) one of the exquisite homes with a private pool in the ever-evolving High Hill Resort community. “Just bring your toothbrush and your wardrobe. It will have everything you need.” They are designed to perfection in a fresh, coastal style. Experience the great exhale and a touch of all the beautiful towns along scenic Highway 30A right here in Texas at highhillfarm.com.
Hotel Drover (Fort Worth, TX)
Hotel Drover is well-branded, no pun intended, down to the last detail with their actual brand appearing throughout the property and their unequivocal western style. Forever a cowgirl at heart, I feel right at home in the Fort Worth Stockyards. I’ve returned several times over the past few months, but Hotel Drover remains my favorite place to stay, and dining at 97 West Kitchen & Bar is always a treat. Indoors or out, contemporary features are beautifully blended with the timeless culture of the West. Ready to experience cowboy luxe? Mosey online to hoteldrover.com.
La Palmilla Tx (Nemo, TX)
Luxurious casitas and villas have a contactless check-in and combine a boutique hotel and vacation home experience along the Brazos River. Casa del Rey Chapel is the focal point and crown jewel of the property. Having a chapel, along with the Cantina Palmilla event center, and plenty of accommodations, La Palmilla can be your relaxation staycation or a dream wedding destination. Discover peace and tranquility at lapalmillatx.com.
Live intentionally and in the moment! Refresh, relax, renew. Keep a bag packed and your heart full of gratitude! -Melissa
