Experience Luxury, Family Fun, and serenity in the Heart of Frisco – No Travel Required
By Natalie Embry
September is here, the school year has started, fall sports and activities are back in full swing, and those calendars just continue to fill with birthday parties, life events, sports tournaments, and all the things that come with this busy time of year. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the onset of a busy schedule after a relaxing summer, and sometimes a night away, out of the house, and in a different environment does the trick to hit that reset button. But, let’s be honest, often, the best getaways are the ones where you don’t have to go far at all.
Nestled right here in Frisco and minutes from some of Frisco’s most popular attractions, The Westin Stonebriar Resort and Spa offers a staycation experience that’s a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and family fun. This gorgeous Frisco staple was built in 2000 and underwent a $30 million revitalization project in 2020, securing its place as a premier luxury and wellness destination. The property’s upscale accommodations are masterfully blended with extensive gathering spaces, locally inspired dining experiences, and sophisticated amenities, all in an incredibly serene and spacious setting. Whether you’re a local looking to unwind or a family in need of a quick escape, this resort offers everything you need to feel like you’ve traveled to a serene paradise (yes, while still literally in the middle of Frisco)—without ever leaving town.
Though I’ve lived in Frisco my entire life, I’ve never gotten to experience The Westin Stonebriar as an overnight guest, so I’ve been looking for an opportunity to experience it for myself. My schedule has been packed, and recently, after a week full of back-to-back appointments, photoshoots, and all things life, I knew it was time for a little getaway.
From the moment you step into the Westin Stonebriar, you’re enveloped in a contemporary yet inviting space and greeted by a staff that truly seems to love what they do genuinely. It’s a small detail, but when the front desk staff is not only helpful but authentically warm and welcoming, it sets the tone for the entire stay, and each and every staff member I encountered during my stay was pleasant and genuinely helpful.
For those who might be mixing a little business with pleasure, the Westin Stonebriar is well-equipped to handle both, as they offer tons of workspace for traveling guests as well as a full café that serves Starbucks, which is a great spot to fuel up on your favorite brew while getting a little work done. There are plenty of workspaces throughout the hotel, so whether you need to hop on a quick Zoom call or finish up a report, you won’t have to do it from your room. And let’s be honest—working with a gorgeous, expansive view of the Stonebriar Country Club and Golf Course isn’t the worst way to spend a few hours. But if work isn’t on your agenda, the café is just as perfect for a leisurely morning coffee before diving into a day of relaxation.
Speaking of the golf course…Westin Stonebriar guests have the privilege of accessing the Fazio-designed course. Within walking distance from the hotel, the picturesque course offers an exciting challenge with a championship tees layout spanning 7,021 yards and an easily accessible driving range. Stonebriar’s course exudes a timeless quality with its captivating landforms, subtly contoured greens, native grassy areas, and meticulously crafted bunkers. The golf shop, conveniently located within the resort, features top-tier brands like Travis Matthew’s, so if you forget any gear or just want to splurge on something new, you’re covered. Even if you’re not planning to play, the views from the hotel are stunning, making it feel like you’re worlds away from the busyness of Frisco.
One of the Westin Stonebriar’s highlights is absolutely its pool area. It’s everything you’d want for a family-friendly staycation, as the pool itself is spacious, with plenty of room for the kids to splash around without feeling crowded. There’s even a water slide that’s sure to be a hit with the little ones (and probably the adults, too!). For those looking for a bit more space to relax, there are poolside cabanas available to rent; let me tell you, they’re a dream. They’re spacious and comfortable, still close enough to the pool and slide, and can be fully closed off for moments when you just need a bit of peace and quiet. The full bar by the pool is a bonus, offering everything from tropical cocktails to ice-cold beers, and the poolside menu has great variety. While I soaked up some sun during my stay, I opted for the chicken tenders, and they were fantastic.
After a day in the sun and exploring the property, I was happy to retreat to my room, which felt like an oasis itself. Give me a luxurious hotel room – I’m happy…give me a luxurious hotel room with a stunning view – I’m ecstatic. My room overlooked the Stonebriar Country Club and Golf Course, and waking up to that serene, green landscape each morning was a highlight of my stay. I loved the Juliette balcony in my room because, though it was too hot to enjoy a full balcony (thanks, Texas), I was able to get fresh air and enjoy the view with the door open in the mornings. The rooms at the Westin Stonebriar are cozy, well-appointed, and designed to make guests feel at home while still indulging in a bit of luxury. Guest rooms are equipped with everything needed to unwind—plush bedding, a spacious bathroom, and even a sitting area to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, a good book, or to get a little work done.
Along with spacious, upscale rooms with great views, the resort has great dining options. One of the dining gems at the Westin Stonebriar is Beans & Barrel, the on-site restaurant and bar. It’s a must-visit, even if you’re just staying for a night or two. The atmosphere is laid-back yet sophisticated, making it perfect for both a casual meal and a more special evening out.
While there, I had the brisket quesadillas, and they were an absolute standout. I’ve had my fair share of Tex-Mex in Frisco, but these might just be the best I’ve ever tasted. The balance of smoky, tender brisket with gooey cheese and crispy tortillas is something I’ll think about until I can get back to order them again! The rest of the menu doesn’t disappoint either, with a range of options that cater to both comfort food cravings and more refined palates.
Staycations are for relaxing, right? Well, they absolutely are in my mind, so I didn’t hesitate to book some time in The Westin Stonebriar’s Spa during my stay, too. It’s a wonderfully serene space, and as I walked in, I was enveloped into a sense of calm that’s hard to come by in daily life. The staff was incredible and attentive without being overbearing, and they knew exactly how to make my experience as relaxing as possible. I indulged in a full-body massage, and it was truly unforgettable. The therapist added a scalp massage—a first for me—and I could have fallen asleep right then and there. It was those little touches that elevated the experience from great to unforgettable. By the time I left, I felt like a whole new person, completely relaxed and ready to enjoy the rest of my stay.
The best part about a staycation at the Westin Stonebriar is that it doesn’t feel like you’re just a few miles from home. There’s something about the combination of luxurious amenities, friendly staff, and beautiful surroundings that transports you, even if just for a weekend or a night. This gorgeous property has so much to offer guests, including great meeting and event spaces, its TopGolf Swing Suite, the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, and a huge recreation lawn in addition to its other luxurious amenities.
It’s the perfect little escape, whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, a family-friendly adventure, or simply a place to unwind and recharge. In a city as vibrant and busy as Frisco, finding a place that offers both relaxation and entertainment can be a challenge. But the Westin Stonebriar Frisco Resort and Spa manages to do just that, making it the ideal spot for your next staycation. So next time you’re in need of a break but don’t want the hassle of travel, remember that quiet and serene paradise is just around the corner at the Westin Stonebriar.
Natalie Embry is a photographer at Frisco STYLE Magazine who is obsessed with her black Labrador furbaby Goose and traveling every chance she gets.
