Love is in the air all year round in Bastrop, and that’s especially true around Valentine’s Day. Maybe we’re just romantics at heart, but this is one of our favorite holidays here in Texas’ most charming historic town. With so many different ways to explore, unwind and connect, Bastrop is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway. Lovebirds read on for our picks on the best way to spend your Valentine’s Day escape in Bastrop.
Romantic Stays
To set the right tone for your getaway, you need to make sure the place you are staying sees to your and your partner’s every need. Luckily, Bastrop has a wide variety of cozy, intimate lodging options that are perfect for your home away from home while you’re here.
For a truly glamorous experience, treat your honey to a stay at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa. This luxury resort offers visitors an elevated experience nestled in the scenic Texas wilderness. You can book their exclusive Forever Yours package, which provides you with accommodations for two, a $200 spa credit, daily breakfast and exclusive access to their private spa experiences. For the month of February only, this package also offers lovebirds special amenities and a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival. The Hyatt also has many romantic activities to make this Valentine’s Day your most perfect one yet. From private wine tasting experiences and dance classes to tarot card readings and private stargazing for two, you’re sure to find something that both of you will love. On Saturday, February 9th, you can also spend the evening dancing the night away to a live band at the Hyatt’s Dancin’ & Romancin’ party, which runs from 8 pm - 11 pm. Reservations are recommended, as this event is sure to be a must-attend.
If you prefer your stay to be a little more private and cozy, consider a B&B or a vacation rental. Pecan Street Inn, for instance, has everything you need for a comfortable stay spent snuggling up with your partner. Located just minutes from downtown, this elegant Victorian home has 12 stunning rooms to choose from and provides made-to-order breakfast each morning of your stay. Or, if you want the whole place to yourself, try booking your stay at one of Bastrop’s beautiful, private vacation rentals, and truly make yourself at home.
There’s nothing more romantic than appreciating Bastrop’s stunning natural environment from up close. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you might enjoy pitching your own tent, parking your RV or setting up shop in a cabin at one of Bastrop’s many available campsites. If you aren’t up for roughing it, we have you covered. Experience luxury right within the great outdoors at Serana, a 21+ glamping retreat focused on wellness and relaxation. Or, enjoy your own luxury yurt at The Reserve at Greenleaf. You can also spend your Valentine’s Day unwinding on the shores of Lake Bastrop at one of 3 safari cabins by GLAT Austin.
Table For Two
After you sleep in a bit — you are on vacation, after all — head out for a romantic brunch for two. Romance is practically in the name of Heartwood House, a gourmet-level breakfast buffet located at the Hyatt Lost Pines. Stop in and enjoy a locally-favored breakfast at Maxine’s Cafe, voted the best breakfast in Bastrop for ten years running. Anita’s Cafe is another fantastic option for brunch — here, you can try homemade Mexican-inspired breakfast paired with $2 mimosas. What better way to start your day? For a caffeine boost and a taste of homemade pastries, Coffee Dog Roastery is another Bastrop must-stop guaranteed to leave you with plenty of energy for the day ahead.
Everyone loves an excuse to dress up, especially on Valentine’s Day. Make your partner feel truly special with a meal at Piney Creek Chophouse, Bastrop’s finest steakhouse. You’ll feel right at home among the restaurant’s intimate, elegantly Southern ambiance, as you enjoy tender steaks that melt in your mouth. You can also head to Store House Market & Eatery, where on February 14th, they’ll be serving an exclusive pre-fixe menu as a part of their special Valentine’s Day event. For $125/person, you and your sweetheart can spend an evening enjoying the culinary excellence of Chef Sonya Cote, which allows the seasonal harvests of Eden East Farm to shine in every dish. Along with dinner, you’ll receive complimentary bubbles for two, the option to add on specialty cocktails and more. Reserve your seats now, as this stunning event is reservation-only.
No dinner date is complete without a stop for dessert at the end — and on Valentine’s Day, what’s more perfect than a cupcake for two or a box of chocolates? Simply Sweet is one of Bastrop’s favorite spots to grab a homemade cupcake, cookie or cheesecake at the end of a night out. For an authentic sweet shop experience, stop in at Sugar Shack, a locally owned candy store servicing guests’ sweet tooths for over twenty years. No matter what your tastes are, Bastrop has many amazing dining options sure to impress any date. Check out the full list of dining available to you on your visit here.
Indulge the Senses
If ever there is a time to treat yourself and your partner, this holiday dedicated to celebrating your love is it. Indulge in some of the finer things Bastrop has to offer, such as a small but rich viticultural scene. Kana Wine, a cozy tasting lounge in the heart of downtown, is a great spot to dive into the kind of unique wines that are created right here in Texas. A tasting flight for two takes you through five different wines as you sit back and relax in the lounge’s comfortable interior.
If you’re able to make a short trip just outside of Bastrop, Rising Sun Vineyard is definitely worth the drive. This vineyard sprawls out over five acres of gorgeous Texas wilderness, and the handcrafted wines offered there are something any wine lover will truly appreciate. Pro-tip: try to plan your visit close to sunset, so you can watch the sky become a brilliant painting over the vineyard. Rising Sun is also hosting a Valentine’s Date Night on Saturday, February 10th — your ticket of only $20/couple includes access to a charcuterie buffet as well as lawn games, firepits to cozy up next to and dancing accompanied by a live band.
Recharge and reconnect with each other with a visit to Cherry Blossoms Spa, a tranquil day spa that will leave you feeling like a new person. For Valentine’s Day, they are offering couples an exclusive couples massage package. The package includes full body massages, side by side with your honey. In addition to the oh-so-relaxing massage, you’ll each receive complimentary wine, tea and chocolates.
Soak In Nature
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And when in Bastrop, do as Texans do, and soak in as much natural bliss as you can. With its proximity to the Colorado River and acres of ancient forests to explore, Bastrop is a great place for lovers of nature to escape and experience the beauty the region has to offer. Spend a day hiking with your partner at Bastrop State Park, which is home to our famous loblolly pine trees. Make a game out of birdwatching, too — Bastrop is home to 277 different species of bird, and you’re sure to spot quite a few as you make your way through the park.
If a day on the water is more your pace, you’ll enjoy paddling or canoeing on the slow-moving El Camino Real Paddling Trail for a peaceful adventure with views of local wildlife. On this six-mile paddling trail, you’ll experience Bastrop’s scenery from a completely new angle.
Adventure-seeking couples will find that Bastrop has everything you need to scratch the itch for excitement on your trip. Make this Valentine’s Day a standout by visiting the longest dual zip line in Texas at Zip Lost Pines. Zip across the incredible views of the McKinney Roughs Nature Park and bond with your partner over a day of adrenaline-filled fun. For an extra special experience, you can even book a moonlight zipline tour.
Art For the Heart
While no work of art can compare to your sweetheart, Bastrop does have a wide range of beautiful works of art to explore that stand as pretty close seconds. Start your artful exploration at the Bastrop Museum & Visitor Center, where you can explore artifacts from Bastrop’s history spanning back more than 200 years. The Visitor’s Center provides insight into all you need to know about the area, so make sure to stop in and chat with any of the friendly, expert staff. From there, head to the Lost Pines Art Center for a completely free look at some of Bastrop’s most talented artists.
Find the perfect soundtrack to your Valentine’s Day at Astro Record Store, a stylish, vintage-inspired record store selling new and used records, CDs and music merchandise. Music-loving couples will also appreciate an evening at the Bastrop Opera House. This enchanting historic building has been hosting talented performers of all kinds since the late 1800s. On the evenings of February 14th and 15th, couples are invited to “A Valentine Cabaret,” a musical extravaganza showcasing the talents of six seasoned Opera House performers. You can also enjoy desserts and bottomless cocktails all evening long, making this a perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Day evening.
Every trip needs a souvenir. At R.A. Green Mercantile, you can browse the handmade work of artists from all over Bastrop, from delicate works of pottery to jewelry, and everything in between. Similarly, you can head to Bridges Emporium, a historic building right on Main Street housing seven unique art shops, where you can buy and browse all sorts of handcrafted pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Or, take a trip over to Found Fine Art to see stunning works of fine art collected from artists near and far. On February 10th, Found Fine Art will be displaying works of celebrated artist Faye Barber, a painter breathing life into colorful depictions of animals both real and fantastical. The weekend after Valentine’s Day, February 17th, you’ll be able to see the works of sculptor John Maisano, whose bronze sculptures uniquely capture the life found within his subjects. Community Gardens is also hosting a Valentine’s Pop-Up Market on February 10th — at this outdoor event, you can stroll through dozens of open-air booths run by local vendors and enjoy food, drinks, giveaways and more.
It’s All Right Here
We’d love to have you for this upcoming Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re seeking an intimate space to unwind, gourmet-level dining experiences, art and culture or outdoor adventures, it’s all right here in Bastrop. Don’t forget to sign up for our email list so you never miss an update. See you soon!