Arlington
The Greenhouse
Set inside a storied 42-year-old mansion, the Baby & Me and Expecting You programs offer an impressive roster of guest speakers, a wide range of fitness classes, and an over-the-top menu of beauty treatments—all in four surprisingly unhectic days. 1171 107th St., 817-640-4000, from $3,850 for a first-floor poolside private room.
Austin
Driskill Hotel
The former showplace of a nineteenth-century cattle baron, the Driskill Hotel offers historic luxury in the heart of downtown Austin. At check-in, children are "deputized" with a sheriff's badge and official sheriff's certificate signed by Colonel Jesse Driskill, the hotel's founder; other treats for kids include a Driskill Hotel coloring book and cookies and milk from the 1886 Café & Bakery, located in the hotel. 604 Brazos St., (512) 474-5911 or (800) 252-9367, from $239 for a double.
Four Seasons
Located on the green banks of Lady Bird Lake, near the Convention Center and the renowned entertainment district, Four Seasons Austin offers spacious rooms, pool and fitness center, and Texas hospitality. Children 18 and under can share their parents' room for no extra charge. 98 San Jacinto Blvd. (512) 478-4500 or (800) 332-3442, from $410 for a double.
Hotel San José
A unique, bungalow-style hotel located just south of where the Colorado River runs through downtown Austin. Distinctive services include room service breakfast delivered in Japanese bento boxes; stylish bikes for rent; a pool; Jo's coffee and sandwich shop; courtyard gardens; and CDs, a typewriter, and a Polaroid camera to borrow. 1316 S. Congress Ave., (512) 444-7322 or (800) 574-8897, from $235 for a double.
San Antonio
Hacienda de San Antonio
What it is: An 1890s coffee plantation set at the foot of an active volcano.
The rooms: Mexican arts and crafts decorate the spacious suites at the hacienda. Each room tells a different story through its unique spaces and decorations.
Amenities: There is a library stocked with reading materials and movies, and the Club Room is perfect for family gatherings or special events.
Activities: Play tennis, or take tennis lessons from a pro. Leisurely stroll through the property's formal gardens. Your family can also sign up for a cheese-factory tour or visit one of the local colonial towns.
Details: from $440 for a suite with a king-size or two double beds.
