Texas Vacation Rentals
Explore 4700+ rental homes and villas in Texas for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay with locations in Port Aransas, Austin and Galveston. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $43 per night with homes containing as many as 15 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in Texas
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Texas Overview
Immerse yourself in the heart of Texas, where the spirit of the Lone Star State comes alive through its famous attractions and the comfort of a private home rental. Imagine waking up in your own space, perhaps with a refreshing dip in a private pool, a common amenity in many Texas homes, especially in the warmer southern regions. The privacy and convenience of a home all to yourself, with pet-friendly options available, make for an unparalleled travel experience, allowing you to live like a local and create unforgettable memories.
In San Antonio, the historic Alamo stands as a testament to Texas' fierce independence, beckoning history buffs and casual visitors alike. Just a stone's throw away, the San Antonio River Walk offers a charming backdrop for dining al fresco or meandering through the heart of the city. Picture yourself in a serene riverside home, where the buzz of the city is balanced by your own tranquil retreat.
Austin, the state's capital, pulses with the rhythm of live music and is the epicenter of festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits. Secure a private residence in the midst of this vibrant scene, and you'll have the perfect base to explore the city's eclectic venues and cultural offerings.
Houston invites space enthusiasts to the Space Center, where the cosmos is within reach. After a day of exploration, retreat to a luxurious rental home, perhaps one with a view of the city's impressive skyline. The Museum District's treasures, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts, are just a short drive away.
For those drawn to the call of the ocean, Texas' Gulf Coast is a paradise of sandy shores and warm waters. Beachfront homes provide direct access to the waterfront, where days are spent sunbathing, swimming, or engaging in water sports. Galveston Island, with its historic charm and seaside pleasures, is a particularly enticing coastal destination.
The state's culinary scene is as vast as its geography, with delectable barbecue, authentic Tex-Mex, and innovative dining experiences. Opt for a home with a gourmet kitchen, and you can even try your hand at recreating these local flavors.
Experience the allure of cowboy culture with a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards, or take a horseback ride through the sprawling countryside. A ranch-style home rental can serve as your personal gateway to the Old West, complete with modern comforts.
For shopping aficionados, Texas offers an array of options from the upscale Galleria in Houston to the charming boutiques of Plano. A centrally located home gives you the freedom to shop at your leisure and store your finds with ease.
Texas is more than a destination; it's a mosaic of experiences waiting to be discovered from the comfort of a home that's yours, if only for a while. Whether you're drawn to urban excitement, historical depth, natural beauty, or culinary delights, Texas invites you to come and stay awhile.
Cultural Attractions in Texas
Texas, a vast and culturally rich state, offers a myriad of experiences for those who revel in the arts, history, and local customs. From the bustling metropolises of Houston and Dallas to the historic charm of San Antonio, Texas is a canvas painted with diverse cultural strokes.
In the heart of Texas, Austin stands as the live music capital of the world. The city's Sixth Street is lined with venues where one can catch performances ranging from indie rock to country. Austin's South by Southwest (SXSW) festival is an annual convergence of film, interactive media, and music festivals that draws crowds from all over the globe.
For museum enthusiasts, Houston's Museum District is a cultural haven. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, boasts an impressive collection that spans the ages, from antiquity to modern day. Nearby, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston offers cutting-edge exhibitions. The Menil Collection, housed in a serene neighborhood, is a free-admission art museum that features a diverse array of works from Byzantine antiquities to modern art.
History buffs will find San Antonio's Alamo to be a poignant reminder of Texas' storied past. The city's River Walk, a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, is lined with historic missions, shops, and restaurants, offering a picturesque stroll through the heart of Texan history.
Dallas, with its Arts District, is home to the Dallas Museum of Art, which houses a vast collection that includes everything from ancient Mediterranean art to contemporary pieces. The Nasher Sculpture Center, with its tranquil outdoor garden, showcases a stunning collection of modern and contemporary sculpture.
Fort Worth, known as the city "Where the West Begins," offers a unique blend of cowboy culture and fine arts. The Kimbell Art Museum is renowned for its architecture and a small, yet exquisite collection of European masterpieces. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District provides a glimpse into the cowboy life with live rodeo performances, cattle drives, and Western-themed shops.
For a truly Texan experience, visitors can explore the state's many festivals that celebrate local customs, such as the Texas Renaissance Festival, one of the nation's largest and most acclaimed renaissance theme parks, or the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the world's largest livestock show and rodeo.
Texas' culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, with Tex-Mex cuisine offering a flavorful blend of Mexican and Texan flavors. Barbecue, a Texas staple, is an art form in itself, with each region boasting its own style and specialty.
In Texas, cultural connoisseurs can indulge in a rich tapestry of experiences that fuse the state's historic legacy with its vibrant contemporary arts scene, all set against a backdrop of legendary hospitality and diverse landscapes.
Family friendly activities in Texas
Texas, United States, is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures, offering a diverse range of activities that will captivate children and provide endless entertainment. From interactive museums to thrilling theme parks, the Lone Star State is a playground for young minds and hearts.
Begin your Texas journey in San Antonio, where the historic Alamo provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, and the city's famed River Walk offers boat tours that will enchant the whole family. Nearby, SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas promise a day of thrills with roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.
In Houston, space enthusiasts can blast off to the Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center. Here, kids can touch a real moon rock, see astronauts train, and even take a behind-the-scenes tour of NASA. The Houston Zoo and the Children's Museum of Houston are also top picks, with interactive exhibits and wildlife encounters that are both educational and fun.
Dallas is home to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, where children can experience an earthquake, program robots, and explore the wonders of the universe. The Dallas World Aquarium offers an underwater adventure, showcasing an array of sea creatures from around the world.
For outdoor fun, the Texas Hill Country is perfect for family hikes, horseback riding, and exploring natural wonders like the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. In Austin, the Thinkery museum combines science and technology with hands-on learning, and Zilker Metropolitan Park is a great spot for a picnic and a ride on the Zilker Zephyr miniature train.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, where kids can walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs along the Paluxy River. The park's life-size dinosaur models add to the prehistoric adventure.
For a taste of cowboy culture, head to Fort Worth, where the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District offers daily cattle drives, rodeos, and the chance to learn about the Old West. The Fort Worth Zoo is another family favorite, with engaging exhibits and a splash park to cool off in the Texas heat.
Texas is a state that truly has it all for families traveling with children. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and wide-open spaces, it's a destination that promises memorable experiences for kids and parents alike.
Outdoor activities in Texas
Texas, a vast and diverse state in the United States, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and outdoor activities that cater to the adventurous spirit of nature lovers. From the arid deserts of the west to the lush pine forests of the east, Texas offers a wide range of landscapes to explore.
Big Bend National Park, located in the Chihuahuan Desert, is a standout destination for those seeking solitude and stunning scenery. The park features dramatic canyons, vast desert expanses, and the meandering Rio Grande. Hiking trails abound, ranging from the challenging South Rim Trail to the family-friendly Window View Trail. For a unique experience, take a dip in the natural hot springs near the Rio Grande.
The Texas Hill Country, with its rolling hills and clear flowing rivers, is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a favorite among climbers and hikers, with its massive pink granite dome rising above the landscape. The area's rivers, including the Guadalupe and the Frio, offer excellent opportunities for tubing and swimming in the refreshing waters.
For those who love the coast, Padre Island National Seashore is a must-visit. It's the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, offering miles of pristine beaches. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, fishing, and beachcombing, as well as the chance to see the Kemp's Ridley sea turtle, the rarest sea turtle species.
The Piney Woods region of East Texas is a complete contrast to the state's arid regions, with lush forests and tranquil lakes. Caddo Lake State Park is a magical place, with its cypress swamps and Spanish moss-draped trees. Paddling through the maze of bayous and sloughs is a serene experience, and the area is also rich in wildlife, including alligators and beavers.
For a breathtaking view, head to the Davis Mountains in West Texas. The region offers clear skies perfect for stargazing, and the McDonald Observatory hosts star parties for an unforgettable celestial experience. Hiking and bird watching are also popular in the Davis Mountains State Park, where the scenic Skyline Drive Trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
Lastly, the Palo Duro Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," is a hidden gem in the Texas Panhandle. The second-largest canyon in the United States, it offers a dramatic landscape for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
Texas' natural wonders and outdoor activities are as vast and varied as the state itself, offering endless opportunities for nature lovers to connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking rugged adventure or peaceful communion with nature, Texas has something to offer for every outdoor enthusiast.
Weather in Texas
Texas, the second-largest state in the United States, offers a diverse climate that varies significantly across its vast expanse. From the arid deserts of the west to the humid Gulf Coast in the east, travelers can expect a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year.
In general, Texas summers are hot, with temperatures often soaring into the high 90s and even 100s Fahrenheit, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. The heat is typically accompanied by high humidity in the eastern regions, which can make the temperatures feel even more intense. However, the western part of Texas, including areas like El Paso, experiences a drier heat. Summer thunderstorms are common, particularly in the Panhandle and along the Gulf Coast, bringing much-needed relief but sometimes severe weather.
Winters in Texas are relatively mild compared to northern states, but temperatures can vary widely. In the Panhandle and northern Texas, it's not uncommon to experience snow and freezing temperatures, while the southern and coastal regions enjoy milder weather, with temperatures often remaining in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. Central Texas experiences cool to mild temperatures, with occasional cold snaps.
Spring and fall are considered the most pleasant times to visit Texas. Spring, from March to May, brings wildflowers, including the famous Texas bluebonnets, and more moderate temperatures. The weather is generally warm and can be wet, with late spring being prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the state.
Fall, from September to November, is also a popular time to visit due to the comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. The weather is typically warm during the day and cool at night, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the state's many festivals.
The Gulf Coast can be affected by hurricanes and tropical storms, primarily from June to November, with September being the peak month. Travelers planning to visit during this time should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for possible itinerary changes.
Overall, the most popular weather conditions are prevalent in the spring and fall when the temperatures are moderate, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Whether you're looking to explore the bustling cities, enjoy the great outdoors, or attend one of the many cultural events, these seasons offer an ideal climate for experiencing the best of Texas.
Transportation in Texas
Texas, the second-largest state in the United States, offers a variety of transportation options for travelers looking to explore its vast and diverse landscapes. From bustling metropolitan areas to serene countryside, Texas provides several ways for visitors to arrive, depart, and traverse its expansive territory.
Most travelers arrive in Texas by air, with major airports located in Dallas (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport), Houston (George Bush Intercontinental Airport), Austin (Austin-Bergstrom International Airport), and San Antonio (San Antonio International Airport). These airports serve as major hubs, offering flights to and from destinations worldwide.
For those who prefer ground transportation, Texas is well-served by a network of interstate highways and is accessible by car from all corners of the country. Long-distance bus services, such as Greyhound, provide routes to and from major Texas cities. Additionally, Amtrak's Texas Eagle train service connects cities like San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas to Chicago and other destinations.
Once in Texas, getting around can vary greatly depending on your location. In large cities like Houston and Dallas, public transportation systems include buses and light rail services, such as DART in Dallas and METRORail in Houston, which connect key areas of the cities. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available and convenient for short trips within the city.
Car rentals are a popular choice for those looking to explore beyond the city limits or for traveling between cities, as Texas is known for its long distances between destinations. The state's size and the spread-out nature of many of its attractions make having a car often the most practical option for getting around.
Cycling is growing in popularity in urban areas, with cities like Austin offering bike-sharing programs and dedicated bike lanes. However, cycling as a primary mode of transportation is more suitable for inner-city travel rather than intercity.
As for walkability, Texas cities vary. Downtown areas in cities like Austin and San Antonio are quite walkable, with attractions, restaurants, and shops clustered together. San Antonio's River Walk is a prime example of a pedestrian-friendly area. However, many other parts of Texas cities and rural areas are not as conducive to walking, and having access to a car or using public transportation is necessary.
In conclusion, Texas offers a range of transportation options suitable for different types of travel within the state. While public transportation is available in major cities, a car is often essential for exploring the wider state and reaching its many diverse attractions.