Hanging out around a hotel pool with a frosty adult beverage is a treasured Texas summer pastime, but which deck to choose once the mercury starts rising? The hotels in the Valencia Group have got a lock on tasty summer fun, with room specials and innovative cocktails ready all across the state.
Whether you're looking to hit the road or stay close to home, keep these Lone Star State hotels in mind when it's time to cool off.
Austin
Lone Star Court is an old-school motor lodge for the modern age. This retro-inspired hotel feels like a blast from the past, but updated with all the contemporary comforts needed for a relaxing retreat. Take a dip in the pool that calls to mind country swimming holes, enjoy the outdoor fire pits, or go for a ride on Lone Star Court's complimentary signature bicycles.
During the Summer of Poptails (cocktails topped with alcohol-infused popsicles), you can book a package that includes accommodations for two, a nightly $10 credit toward the mini bar, two summer poptails, and complimentary self-parking, WiFi, 2 pm check-out, and Texas-style continental breakfast each morning in the Water Trough. Kick off summer in style with a special Poptail Party on May 24 from 9-11 pm, while also enjoying Lone Star Court's Friday Nite Flix, played on a big screen in the courtyard.
Houston
Hotel Alessandra recently nabbed the No. 2 spot on Interior Design magazine's list of "cool and captivating lobbies," thanks to its dramatic staircase and the Reinhard Görner photograph that holds court behind the custom-made brass and marble desk. But out by the pool you can indulge in Strawberry Greyhound, Beach Blast, and Watermelon Mojito poptails, and it gets even better if you book the package. That'll get you luxury accommodations for two, a pair of poptails served poolside, and 3 pm late check-out on the weekends.
The Sweet Summer Poptail package at Hotel Sorella CityCentre is similar, with a continental breakfast served daily in the main lobby, WiFi, and self-garage parking all tacked on for free. This swanky CityCentre hotel recently placed high on Conde Nast Traveler's 2018 reader's choice awards for top hotels in Texas, thanks to its modern feel and buzzy bar.
Irving
Located next to the bustling Toyota Music Factory, Texican Court has Western charm with modern elements. The boutique hotel's summer poptails package once again checks all the boxes, with two signature poptails from Two Mules Cantina, $10 per night mini bar credit, Texas-style continental breakfast each morning in Two Mules, and 2 pm late check-out so you can linger even longer around the courtyard's circular swimming pool.
College Station
The "court" in Cavalry Court's name isn't just for show — there, you'll find a unique outdoor courtyard with poolside cabanas, lawn games, fire pits, and live music. All made better, of course, with the poptail package that's similar to those listed above.
The area's newest luxury boutique hotel, The George, is also on board with the summer of poptails, offering its own package to be enjoyed either poolside or inside the hip 1791 Whiskey Bar.
San Antonio
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk blends Spanish Colonial and modern Mediterranean design with contemporary ideals for a hotel that's steeped in history and charm. Things get extra charming after a poptail or two, especially on June 6, from 5:30-7:30 pm at Dorrego's Bar. That's when summer officially begins for this Alamo City gem, and you won't want to miss it.
Come to Dorrego's Bar at Hotel Valencia Riverwalk on June 6 for a poptail party.
There'll be adults-only pools and family-friendly pools.Rendering courtesy of WorldSprings
A spa will offer massages and body treatments.Rendering courtesy of WorldSprings