The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed
The Historic Hidden Gem. A Historic Paradise Estate with Private Pool on 1.5 Gated Acres
Sleeps up to 16 Guests
Step into timeless charm at The Historic Hidden Gem, our 120+ year-old Greek Revival estate, rich in character and nestled on 1.5 privately gated acres. Though surrounded by nature, the property remains close to dining, shopping, and city conveniences—offering a serene escape without sacrificing location.
We reside on the property in a separate home and are happy to assist during your stay if needed.
> Before booking, please message us to confirm availability.
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✨ Events & Catering Services
We proudly host special occasions including weddings, quinceañeras, baby showers, pool parties, and more.
Any group over 20 people on the property is considered an event and will require prior approval and an additional fee.
We offer custom catering packages, including:
Taquizas
Snow cones
Cotton candy & popcorn
Snack and drink stations and much more.
📞 Please contact us for event and catering pricing before reserving.
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🏡 Property Features
Gated 1.5-acre historic estate
Private swimming pool (3–6.5 ft deep, unheated, no fence)
Outdoor BBQ gas grill and small charcoal grill
(Gas/charcoal not provided)
Spacious parking area
5 rectangular outdoor tables & 40 chairs
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🛏️ Bedroom Layout (Sleeps 16)
Bedroom 1 – Sleeps 2: 1 King Bed
Bedroom 2 – Sleeps 6: 1 King Bed + 2 Full Beds
Bedroom 3 – Sleeps 8: 4 Full Beds
Nugget Mats (6) available and can be moved to any room for additional child sleeping areas
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🏊 Pool Information
Depth: 3 to 6.5 feet (unheated)
No lifeguard or safety fence — children must be supervised at all times
Guests must bring their own floatation devices
Pool is professionally treated, though minor outdoor debris may be present due to weather
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🌿 Nature & Safety Guidelines
Our estate is surrounded by natural landscape. While we maintain routine pest control, it’s normal to encounter:
Light mosquitoes
Small spiders or insects, especially in outdoor areas at night
Do not feed wildlife or animals on the property
Keep doors closed at night to prevent bugs from entering
We recommend using insect repellent (we typically use OFF!, which works well)
Children under 12 must be supervised at all times, both inside and outdoors
We are not liable for insect bites, accidents, or injuries—guests stay at their own risk and should take proper precautions
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🚨 House Rules & Fees
1. Occupancy
Base rate includes 16 guests up to 20 guest after 20 guest event fee applies
$50 per extra guest (ages 2+) per night, even if not staying overnight
Unauthorized guests will be charged
2. Smoking/Vaping
Prohibited indoors — $250 cleaning fee applies
3. Grill Use
Grills available; guests must bring their own gas or charcoal
4. Pool Attire
Proper swimwear required — no cotton clothing, jeans, or streetwear in pool
5. No glass containers in the pool area
6. Towels
Bring your own pool towels
Indoor towels are for indoor use only
7. Pets
Not allowed on the property
8. Decorations & Trash
No confetti, glitter, fireworks, or balloon/party remnants
Do not nail, tape, or fasten anything to walls/ceilings
Fees may apply for cigarette butts, bottle caps, or excessive mess
9. Technology
Do not tamper with Wi-Fi or security cameras
10. Cleanliness
Grill/stove must be cleaned after use — $75 fee if left dirty
11. Check-Out
Standard check-out: 11:00 AM
Late check-out: $75 per hour
12. Damaged or Missing Items
$50 replacement fee per item (e.g., remotes, kitchen tools)
Additional cleaning fees may apply if excessive mess is left behind
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🔞 Age & Party Restrictions
At least one adult over the age of 24 must be present during the stay
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📩 Ready to Book?
Message us first to confirm availability, ask questions, or plan a customized event or catering package. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Historic Hidden Gem — your private paradise in the heart of history
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Must ask permission in advance for events. Events are anything over 20 people. We have an event fee. We do Pool, XV, Weddings, and catering
Don't sit on inside furniture wet
Turn off all lights when not in use
Important information
You need to know
Property # 3875342vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 99
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock
About the area
San Juan
San Juan is home to this holiday home. Topgolf and Cinemark Pharr Town Center are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Smitty's Juke Box Museum and Xtreme Lazer Tag. McAllen Performing Arts Center and Cooper Center for Performing Arts are also worth visiting. Swimming offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and ecotours nearby.
Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
Smitty's Juke Box Museum - 4 min drive - 2.7 km
La Plaza Mall - 8 min drive - 11.7 km
17th Street Entertainment District - 9 min drive - 12.4 km
McAllen Convention Center - 11 min drive - 14.7 km
Getting around
McAllen, TX (MFE-Miller Intl.) - 17 min drive
Restaurants
Snowball Express - 6 min walk
McDonald's - 4 min walk
Dutch Bros Coffee - 3 min drive
Speedy Stop - 5 min walk
Gw’s Bbq - 17 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Does The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed on 28 Jul 2026 start from £676, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Historic Hidden Gem Private Pool on 1.5 ac, gated, sleeps 16. Events allowed located?
Situated in San Juan, this holiday home is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle and within 3 miles (5 km) of Smitty's Juke Box Museum and Topgolf. Pharr Convention Center and Cinemark Pharr Town Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Hostess were amazing. Pool area could have been cleaner but overall the location was clean, beautiful house, very spacious, kids had lots of fun. Easy access to local areas. Just a great place to visit.
Nora M.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Apr 2024
Thanks so much Nora, we fixed up the pool area with the recent winds everything moved around with extra leaves. We look forward to hosting yall again.
This home is such a gorgeous piece of history, and extremely family friendly. I was worried about having my 3 and 6 year olds in this home, for fear of messing something up, but it truly is family friendly and a great experience for all ages. My 80 year old in laws stayed as well, and were so impressed/excited to see so many relics from their childhoods. The family that owns it is nothing but kind, accommodating, and easily accessible in case they need to be reached. 10/10, I hope I have a reason to come back down in order to stay here again.
Katie M.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 May 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly means the world to us that your whole family—from your little ones to your 80-year-old in-laws—felt at home and enjoyed the history and charm of our place. Your family was such a joy to host, and our boys absolutely loved making new friends during your stay. We would be thrilled to welcome you back anytime—you're always welcome at The Historic Hidden Gem!
Warmly,
Dianella & Family
About the host
Hosted by Dianella Cantu
I'm am Events Coordinator. Events I have done. RGVLS, Borderfest, Hidalgo Festival of Lights, Driscoll Children’s Hospital
Why they chose this property
On 1.5 acres in the middle of the city. We are a hidden gem with 8 foot white picket fence for privacy. Right on old 83 walking distance to Dairy Queen, Wing Stop, McDonald's, Little Ceasars Pizza, gyms, gas station, dollar tree, dollar general and San Juan City Park.
What makes this property unique
The house was a Show home for the 1904 Saint Louis World Fair and was brought down from Train and Boat.