Now that school has started again, most folks in Texas probably think that all the opportunities for that much-needed getaway will have to wait until the holidays. But with all the amazing places in and around the Houston area, there are always ways to take a “mini-vacation” without much planning. Here are a few of our picks for some of the beast places to head out to for a short getaway.

For Couples

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa – 10 minutes from Houston

111 North Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX 77024, Phone: 713-680-2626

www.houstonian.com

If you and your honey are looking for some quality couples time, take the short trip to this luxurious destination. One the finest resorts in the state, the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, located only 10 minutes from downtown, is the way to go if you could use some serious pampering.

Each ultra-elegant room features floor to ceiling windows that look out over the property’s 18 acres of serene woods and greenery. If you can swing it, book a room on the Concierge Floor for the ultimate in service. You’ll be treated to continental breakfast, as well as evening cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Trellis, the 17,000-square-foot Spa at the Houstonian, is recognized throughout the state for its high-end services. It features 20 treatment rooms, as well as multiple rooms for body treatments, as well as a couples room with private shower and tub.

For the Whole Family

Lone Star Jelly Stone Park 50 Miles from Downtown Houston

34843 Betka Rd, Waller, TX 77445 (800) 347-5106

www.lonestarjellystone.com

There are some many fantastic destinations for the whole family in the Houston area, but the one recommended by most parents is the Lonestar Jellystone Park in Waller TX.

This is the ultimate campground, with a variety of options for lodging, camping, and activities to keep the whole family smiling. Check out the “Boo Boo” cabins and the “Village Bear Cabins.” These cabins afford the rustic pleasures of camping without leaving behind many the comforts of home. They all come equipped with full bathrooms and fully stocked kitchens.

The park also has a dedicated activities director whose only job is to make sure that your kids have a fun and memorable experience at the park. It’s her role to organize all the parties and excursions that make Lonestar Houston’s top spot for family getaways.

Galveston

55min (52.6 mi) via I-45 S

www.galveston.com

No Houston getaway list would be complete without Galveston, our beach retreat on the Gulf a mere 52 miles away. There isn’t a kid from Houston who hasn’t made the short trip at least once, taking in all the great beaches, museums, and parks that Galveston Island has to offer.

Head to East Beach. All the island’s beaches are great, but this is one of our favorites. It’s not far from the Seawall, with a playground and all kinds of tasty concessions. The beach hosts plenty of concerts and festivals year round.

Other classic Galveston spots you’ll want to fit into your itinerary: Seawolf Park, and the Galveston Railroad Museum (www.galvestonrrmuseum.com)

So start planning your Houston area vacays! The way we see it, it’s never a bad time to get away from it all for some quality relaxation!