History of Medina Oaks Motor Court

As travelers embrace road trips and authenticity outweighs a stay in an uninspired high-rise hotel, the River Oaks Courts in Medina is a welcome departure from the humdrum. This revamped, mom-and-pop style motor inn is a slice of Americana. From the buzzing vintage neon sign to the retro metal patio chairs, everything about the River Oaks Courts transports you back to a simpler time. It all started in the 1930s when B. H. Stokes opened a tourist camp next to his family’s home. The camp’s native stone cottages allowed visitors to Medina — aka the “Mecca of the Hills” — to turn in for the night in their own cottage and park several steps away from the front door. As a nod to the property’s rich and continuous history as a motor inn, River Oaks Courts is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.

While the exterior of the River Oaks Courts resembles early photos, the motor inn has been carefully preserved and fully restored. The nostalgic touches and old-fashioned hospitality remain in this beautifully maintained, guest-centric motel. Those hitting the open road will find this Hill Country gem even more inviting than its first guests did nearly 90 years ago. You can choose to stay in one of the property’s homes, native stone cottages, or in hotel-style suites. Each room tells a tale of days gone by and invites you to both unplug and recharge. Whether you’re looking for space with a full kitchen and beds to sleep five or a cozy cottage with room for two, you’ll find what you need at the River Oaks Courts.

Inside the thoroughly updated guest quarters the vintage charm blends seamlessly with modern amenities. Rustic Western bed frames cradle heavenly mattresses and plush bedding. The seating areas and living rooms feature beautifully restored mid-century furniture and vintage artwork, while the kitchenettes are home to retro-looking refrigerators and microwaves. The spacious and revamped bathrooms invite you to pamper yourself with a soak in the claw foot tub and lather up with locally made goats milk soap and shampoo. At day’s end, nature’s music will lull you to sleep rather than the drone of a TV. Truly, each room has been curated with your comfort and rest in mind.

The River Oaks Courts isn’t just a place to rest your head, though. The Stokes’ family home has been converted into the Art House Café and Gallery. It’s a casual breakfast and lunch eatery featuring fresh-brewed, locally roasted coffee, and homemade pastries. You can dine indoors amid masterpieces created by prominent Texas artists or head to the café’s patio to greet the day and admire the property’s native plant garden.

And speaking of the garden, River Oaks Courts hosts speakers on local wildlife and native plants, so you can learn about the flora and fauna you’ll see during your stay. This is but one of the activities in store at River Oaks Courts. If you’re curious about the night sky deep in the heart of Texas, attend a Stars and S-mores party.  If you’re a quilter, plan your stay around the Medina Quilt Guild’s show. If you’re musically inclined, join the Pickers Circle on the fourth Thursday of the month. No matter when you visit, you’ll find the River Oaks Courts is a Medina go-to for events, informative talks, holiday happenings, and live music on most weekends. If you have a particular interest, be sure to look at the River Oaks Courts event calendar when planning your stay.

No matter when you visit, head to the Social Club for an evening of fine dining and entertainment. This onsite supper club offers a full bar and restaurant with cozy indoor seating or al fresco dining on the patio. Whether you choose to sip craft cocktails and munch on Texican appetizers or opt for hearty comfort food, you’ll savor masterfully prepared dishes made with the freshest ingredients. Cap off your day on the patio where you’ll listen to live music performed by area artists as the sun makes way for the stars.