Windmills are so peaceful. Usually located on sprawling country farms, these timeless fixtures rotate in the gentle breeze and bring relaxation to all who listen. In the tiny, remote town of Tolar, there's a bed and breakfast surrounded by more than 40 old-fashioned mills. Check it out:
Over 40 old-fashioned windmills sit on 26 sprawling acres of rural Texas land. Each mill is original, restored to prime condition and fully functional.
Both smaller rooms, called "Dakota" and "Star" have separate living and sleeping areas. They accommodate two adults and two children plus your furry friends!
Imagine sipping your morning coffee in a rocking chair while listening to windmills gently turn in the breeze. It doesn't get much more relaxing than that.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Looking for the best bed and breakfasts in Texas? You've come to the right place! There's no better way to feel rejuvenated than by driving to a nearby small town and spending a weekend being pampered and taking it easy. Whether you want a romantic getaway with your special someone or family bonding time (or a solo vacation - we don't judge), we've got you covered. The following list of Texas bed and breakfasts will give you a sense of serenity that will prepare you to tackle whatever life throws at you. Whether you're staying for just one night or an entire week, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the art of the bed and breakfast. Keep reading to discover your next Texas getaway.
Our quest to find the best bed and breakfast in Texas starts in Kemah. Cast your worries into the bay at this quaint little bed and breakfast. Choose from numerous rooms with amenities such as claw-foot bathtubs, Egyptian cotton sheets, and porches overlooking the water while you let the gentle sound of the sea breeze send you into ultimate relaxation. Curious to learn more? Be sure to check out the Clipper House Inn online for additional information.
You'll get a true small-town bed and breakfast experience at this inn in the Texas wine country. The grounds are enormous with over 12 rooms with different accommodations to choose from, all overlooking the breathtaking Texas hill country. Rates include a full, 3-course breakfast, a wine tasting at the winery next door, and cookies/refreshments 24 hours a day. Ready to book your stay? Head on over to the Rose Hill Retreat website for more information, including rates and availability.
Lakehouse Bed and Breakfast is a Mediterranean-style inn located right on the shores of Canyon Lake. Enjoy one of four elegant guestrooms with lavish accommodations such as luxury bed linens, private baths, spa robes, and gourmet breakfast as well as natural amenities such as beautiful sunsets, deer, and a night sky illuminated only by stars. It is located near Gruene and Wimberley, two popular tourist destinations, so you'll have plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Learn more when you visit the Lakehouse Bed and Breakfast website.
There's nothing quite like spending a weekend in a log cabin. The simplicity of country life allows you to enjoy the company of your partner without any distractions. Rustic furniture adorns the rooms, but all the luxuries of a five-star hotel still remain. You'll want to take to the woods and build a house after vacationing here. Learn more about this impressive property when you visit Three Falls Cove online.
This historic home in Granbury will take you back in time. Many families have owned it over the centuries, all of whom are committed to giving people a relaxing stay they'll remember forever. Choose from rooms with private baths and stunning views of Lake Granbury as well as a full breakfast served in the common dining area, afternoon desserts, and complimentary coffee and tea. Depart from the kitchen table with new friends, a new outlook on life, and memories to share for years. Curious to learn more? Check out Blue Heron Bed & Breakfast on Lake Granbury online.
Bed and breakfast meets nature retreat at Star of Texas in Brownwood. Stay in one of 6 private cottages with unique decor, hot tubs with a view of the endless night sky, and porches to relax and get a glimpse of the native wildlife. For more details, check out Star of Texas online.
We can't think of a much better place to escape for a weekend getaway than the quiet peacefulness of East Texas. Enjoy the coziness of an inn with all the luxuries of a fine hotel including gourmet breakfast, private baths, and historically themed rooms with antique furniture and handmade quilts. Sip your morning coffee while sitting in a rocking chair on the porch and contemplate how good life is at the moment. This bed and breakfast is located just two blocks from the Historic Riverfront District of Jefferson, so take a leisurely stroll with your honey to do some antiquing, dining, and sightseeing. Learn more about the Carriage House Bed & Breakfast.
This bed and breakfast is your chance to stay on an actual ranch and experience the country lifestyle firsthand. Choose from a variety of houses, bungalows, and suites furnished with everything you need to feel right at home. Immerse yourself in the world of majestic animals like horses, peacocks, deer, and bison, have a picnic in the gazebo overlooking the Enchanted Lake, or take a midnight stroll through the gardens to do some stargazing with your honey. You can even learn horseback riding and archery while you're here! However you spend your stay, it's guaranteed to relax and rejuvenate your soul. For rates and availability, be sure to visit the BlissWood Bed & Breakfast website.
This 22 acre resort-style bed and breakfast has earned itself a top spot on several lists from very prestigious sources. With 12 country chic housing options to choose from all with top-of-the-line linens, fresh flowers, fine chocolates, and cozy robes, you're sure to find something that suits your needs. Allow yourself to be pampered with gourmet breakfasts, dessert delivered to your door every evening, and massages from expert therapists. If you're feeling inspired, you can enroll in one of America's top 10 cooking schools right on the hotel grounds and learn how to make magic in the kitchen. Rest assured this will be an unforgettable experience. For more information, including rates and availability, be sure to visit the Blair House Inn website.
The history behind this building is reason enough to stay here without even including how amazing of a bed and breakfast it is. Originally a cotton plantation, the Victorian mansion was the home of H.D. Gruene. All of the living accommodations are restored 20th century barns and homes with their rustic elegance still remaining. You'll find antique furniture, fine fabrics, and unique character in every room. Sit in a rocking chair and behold the peaceful Guadalupe River or walk around Gruene's Historic District and transport yourself to a different time. The property is a designated Texas Historic Landmark and has been featured in countless publications such as Texas Monthly, so you know your stay will be memorable. Want to learn more? Check out Gruene Mansion online for additional information.
We can't think of a more magical place to escape to for a weekend than the Riverwalk. This enormous house has 10 rooms to choose from, each individually crafted with antique furniture, original artwork and luxurious fabrics and wallpapers. Start your day with a full gourmet breakfast included with your room purchase, and then explore the extensive verandas and gazebos in the gardens of the property. In the evening, stay in for a night of relaxation and romance or stroll down the Riverwalk and do some sightseeing. For more details, be sure to visit the Oge House website.
Have you ever been to any of these unique places to stay in Texas? What other cozy inns in Texas are worth mentioning? Be sure to share your thoughts about the best bed and breakfast in Texas with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
Looking for even more inspiration for unique places to stay in Texas? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to accommodations In Texas. There's truly something for every kind of traveler on the list! And for some fun and quirky things to do during your stay, take a look at our list of roadside attractions in Texas.
