Houston is a sprawling metropolis with an endless array of exciting things to see, do, and eat! As the largest city in Texas, there really is something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’re bound to be charmed by this unique Southern city.

Art buffs will love exploring the dozens of museums in the Museum District, including the famous Museum of Fine Arts. If you’re a sports fan, you can catch a Houston Texans game at NRG Stadium Stadium or a Houston Astros game at Minute Maid Park. And with over 400 stores, the Galleria is the largest mall in Texas, making Houston a shopper’s paradise! 

You can get tickets to world-class plays in the Theater District, party the night away at a rooftop bar in the CBD, or get into the Texas spirit at a local honky-tonk. Families will love all of the kid-friendly attractions including the Houston Zoo, the Space Center, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Plus, no trip to Houston is complete without sampling some Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex dishes.

Houston also has some truly historic hotels, charming B&Bs, and art-filled retreats. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Houston to help you plan your perfect getaway!

• Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!

1. The Post Oak Hotel
2. The Lancaster Hotel
3. Hotel Granduca

Don’t forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Houston, Texas

Where to Stay in Houston

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the US, so there are a variety of different places to base yourself. Wherever you decide to stay, you can easily drive to all of the city’s main attractions. But if you don’t have a car, Houston has a great public transportation system so you can hop on the Metro Light Rail to reach most of the city’s tourist hubs and unique neighborhoods. 

Some of the best hotels in Houston are clustered around the downtown area. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, this is a great place to base yourself. Most of the city’s most iconic sights will likely be located within walking distance or a short drive away from your hotel including Minute Maid Park, the Toyota Center, and the Downtown Aquarium.

The Houston Convention Center is also located in the heart of the city, so the Central Business District is a prime location for business travelers. 

Uptown is another popular place to stay in Houston. The Galleria is set right in the heart of Uptown, so you’ll have all sorts of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to choose from. The area is also known for its high-end boutiques, buzzing cafes, and vibrant nightlife so you’ll be endlessly entertained! 

The 12 Best Hotels in Houston, Texas

1. Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District

Houston is home to two one-of-a-kind ZaZa hotels, but the Hotel ZaZa Museum District is the perfect pick for art enthusiasts. Not only are you steps away from the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, but this boutique hotel is chock full of character… and art!

You’ll love the eccentric rooms that boast funky baroque-style furniture, bold color schemes, and luxurious ensuites. If you’re in town for a special celebration or a bachelorette party, you’ll definitely want to book one of the swanky themed rooms.

The “Casa Blanca” concept suite is the perfect pick for a dreamy romantic retreat. Just like you see in the movie, this Moroccan-style room features intricately carved wood furniture and doorways, a Moroccan-tiled bathroom, and a separate living room filled with exotic decor.  

If you want to party like a rock star on your vacation, the 2,160-square-foot “Rock Star Suite” is for you. The massive space features music-themed art, fancy chandeliers, and regal velvet furniture. You’ll also have a stainless steel kitchen, a beautiful 10-person dining table, and two bedrooms fit for a king.

You can lounge around the pool while savoring alcohol-infused popsicles, get pampered at ZaSpa, or do some fine dining at the hotel’s excellent bistro Monarch Restaurant and Terrace.

2. The Post Oak Hotel 

Set on 10 acres of land near the Galleria, The Post Oak Hotel in Uptown Houston is about as upscale as it gets. With its massive Swarovski crystal chandelier, extensive artwork collection, and ultra-modern lounge areas, even the lobby is dressed to impress. 

With unparalleled customer service, luxurious rooms and suites, and the finest of amenities, it’s no wonder why The Post Oak Hotel is Texas’ only Forbes Five-Star Hotel. This 38-story hotel even has a two-story Rolls Royce showroom and a helicopter pad! 

The sleek rooms boast plush beds, spa-like marble baths, and cool gray, beige, and white tones. If you want more space you can opt for a 1-bedroom suite, which features a lounge, a wet bar, and a kitchen. Be sure to ask for a room or suite with city views!

You can wine and dine at one of the hotel’s eight bars, restaurants, and cafes. Don’t miss out on a special dinner at Mastro’s, which is considered to be one of the top 10 steakhouses in the US! Cap off the evening with a creative cocktail at the hotel’s chic H bar.

You’ll love the pool area where you can soak up the Texas sun on the stylish chaise lounges, chill out in the private cabanas, or gather around the fire pit on crisp evenings – all with a cocktail in hand, of course! If you feel like getting pampered, the 20,000-square-foot spa offers every treatment imaginable.

3. The Lancaster Hotel 

Located in the Theater District, this historic boutique hotel first opened its doors in 1926 as the Auditorium Hotel. It was a popular spot among vaudeville performers, actors, and singers, who performed in the City Auditorium across the street. The hotel was later sold and reopened as The Lancaster in 1981.

The entire hotel was meticulously renovated in 2019 so expect to find historical elegance and modern amenities throughout. The lobby boasts over 200 works created by Texas-based artists such as Mark Flood, Terrell James, and Margo Sawyer.

You’ll also find the Cultivated F+B restaurant in the lobby, which serves up creative Texas-style concoctions like Braised Short Rib Tacos, Fernando’s Chilaquiles, and Cast Iron Seared Scallops.

You can choose from guestrooms and 1-bedroom suites. All feature classic furniture and luxurious ensuites with Carrara marble. You love the extra touches including the Frette linens, Bulgari bath amenities, and plush bathrobes. 

Fill up on the complimentary buffet breakfast before heading out for the day. The Lancaster is perfect for theater buffs because the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, the Wortham Theater, and the Houston Grand Opera are all nearby. Get ready to be entertained!

4.  Hotel ICON Houston

Hotel ICON is housed in one of the most historic buildings in the city. Dating back to 1911, this 12-story building was once home to the Union National Bank and was one of the first skyscrapers in the US! 

The hotel has been thoughtfully transformed into a luxurious hotel right in the heart of Houston. One of the many unique things about this hotel is that it retains some of the bank’s historic features – from the original 1911 bank vault to the brick facade and the Bedford limestone accents. 

Rooms are well-appointed with modern furniture, 42-inch flat-screens, luxury baths with rain showers, and high-end bath products. You can make your morning cup of joe with the Keurig coffeemaker. If you want to go all out for a special occasion, book the 3-level penthouse with a rooftop terrace and space for 40 of your closest friends and family members! 

After a long day on the town, unwind with craft cocktails at the hotel’s sophisticated L&L Bar. You can also enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Line & Lariat, which is known for its excellent modern Texas fare. Indulge in creative takes on Southern staples like Biscuits & Gravy, Chicken Fried Steak Sliders, and Bacon Wrapped Chicken & Waffles.

5. Aloft Houston Downtown

If you’re looking to base yourself right in the center of downtown, the Aloft is one of the coolest hotels in Houston. Plus, it’s just blocks away from the Galleria Mall so you’ll have endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options right outside your door! 

Rooms boast 9-foot ceilings, large picture windows, and city views. The ultra-comfy platform beds are perfect for getting a good night’s sleep after a long day exploring the city. There are also ergonomic workstations if you need to get some work done.

The amenities are perfect for digital nomads or travelers in town on business. Rooms have a connectivity station that will charge all of your electronics, so there’s no need to fret about forgetting to pack your chargers. And it connects your electronics to the 42-inch flat-screen so you can watch all your favorite TV shows. 

You can order drinks at W XYZ bar, play a game of pool in the chic lounge, or socialize around the outdoor fire pit on chilly evenings. If you want to keep up with your exercise routine, head to the state-of-the-art gym or do some laps in the indoor lap pool.

There’s also a 24-hour shop where you can grab mix-and-match meals, healthy snacks, or brew up a cappuccino to get recharged each morning. 

6. Hotel Granduca Houston

Uptown is just filled with luxurious places to stay, but this architectural gem might just be one of the best boutique hotels in Houston. One glimpse at the beautifully designed Hotel Granduca and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a villa in the Italian countryside. 

From the rustic yet lavish lobby to the homey, luxurious rooms, every inch of this boutique hotel just oozes charm. Each of the cozy rooms features either a kitchenette or a fully outfitted kitchen and a sitting area, so it’s a great option if you’re planning on a lengthy stay. If you are traveling as a group, there are even a few charming one and two-bedroom suites available. 

Head outside and you’ll find a lovely seasonal pool surrounded by Roman sculptures, luxurious cabanas, and lush gardens. At night, you can soak in the hot tub or mingle at the hotel’s happy hour with a signature cocktail or fine glass of wine in hand. 

It’s fitting that the hotel’s award-winning restaurant is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. Ristorante Cavour serves up mouthwatering Italian staples, seasonal specialties, and boasts over 600 vintage wines. You won’t regret splurging on a special meal here!

7. The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

Surrounded by towering trees, the historic Houstonian Hotel is set on 27 acres of wooded land and was once home to President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush! It may feel like you’re world’s away but Galleria Mall is just three miles away and Memorial Park is across the street. With so many cool amenities, this is hands down one of the best hotels in Houston.

You’ll have complete access to the exclusive Houstonian Club which features eight tennis courts, three swimming pools, a basketball court, a rock-climbing wall, indoor and outdoor jogging tracks, and a state-of-the-art fitness center! The property also boasts a 17,000-square-foot spa where you can get a range of body treatments and enjoy all sorts of relaxing amenities. 

Each well-appointed room features classic furniture, cozy sitting areas, plush beds, flat-screens, and floor-to-ceiling windows. You can enjoy alfresco drinks and dining at the stunning Arbor Grill or get a tipple in the rustic yet sophisticated Great Room Lobby Bar. The hotel has four eateries including the historic Manor House Estate Restaurant – the former residence of the Bush family.

8. Magnolia Hotel Houston

Whether you’re in town on business or for pleasure, Magnolia is renowned for its luxurious rooms and top-notch customer service. Plus, it’s located right the heart of the Central Business District and within walking distance to all sorts of shops, bars, and restaurants. 

Magnolia is located in a historic 1926 building and has been fully remodeled into a contemporary boutique hotel. Each of the guestrooms features velvet drapery, soft beds, and deluxe marble ensuites.

If you want to go big – this is Texas after all – you can opt for one of the spacious 1-bedroom suites with a fully-outfitted kitchen or the exclusive VIP Ross Sterling penthouse suite. 

Head up to the rooftop where you can take a dip in the pool, relax in the hot tub, and work out in the 24-hour gym. The rooftop offers sweeping views of the city, so it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax with your friends and family. 

After a long day at work or exploring the city, unwind over a cocktail or beer at the hotel’s happy hour. Pay a visit to The Lounge, which was named the “Best Hotel Bar” in Houston by the Houston Press. The bar and restaurant also serves up delicious contemporary American dishes in case you want to stay in for a casual meal.

9. Sara’s Inn on the Boulevard

If big brand hotels aren’t your thing, then Sara’s Inn might just be the perfect option for you. This whimsical family-run bed and breakfast is located in a boldly-painted Victorian home in Houston Heights. Not only is this one of the most unique hotels in Houston, but downtown is just four miles away!

The exterior has plenty of curb appeal and you’ll be stunned by the design of each and every room of this B&B. Each of the 11 rooms is completely unique. Most are Victorian-themed and boast chandeliers, antique furnishings, and intricately patterned Victorian damask wallpaper.

There are also rooms that feature more traditionally modern decor like the “Paradise Suite” and themed rooms such as the “Man Cave.” Whichever you choose, all rooms have modern amenities including flat-screens, mini-fridges, and 24/7 access to a touchscreen coffeemaker for instant hot chocolate, cappuccinos, and lattes!

You can sip your morning cup of coffee on the wrap-around porch, curl up with a good book on one of the colorful Victorian chaise lounges in the parlor room, or chat with fellow travelers in the covered garden pavilion. The friendly owners serve a yummy continental breakfast with waffles each morning. 

10. The Whitehall Houston

The Whitehall Houston opened its doors in 1963 and still stands proud as one of the best hotels in Houston. This mid-century modern building is located right in the heart of downtown, so the Theater District, Minute Maid Park, and the George R. Brown Convention Center are all close by.

The entire hotel is adorned with retro and mid-century modern decor. Each of the rooms features Beautyrest mattresses with luxury linens, flat-screens, and glass showers with eco-friendly Olive Branch Botanicals bath products. Upgraded rooms add extras such as cozy sitting areas, spacious living rooms, and relaxing soaking tubs.

Start your day with a Breakfast Quesadilla or Country Griddle Cakes at the hotel’s Mexi-South restaurant. After breakfast, you can hit the town or lounge around in one of the poolside cabanas. 

If you want to cap off your evening with live music, a glass of bourbon, and street tacos, head over to Part & Parcel in the garden. Or if you’re exhausted and feel like having a lazy movie night you can order room service from Edgar’s Hermanos and enjoy a chill movie night with a juicy burger or steak. 

11. Hotel Indigo Houston at the Galleria

If you’re looking for a hotel near Galleria, the Hotel Indigo is a great option. Not only is it within walking distance to the shopping mecca, but this place is about as stylish as they come. Just walk into the lobby and you’ll find modern furniture and splashes of color around every corner.

You’ll love the colorful rooms that boast hardwood floors, oversized beds, and cool photograph murals. Rooms also come with flat-screens, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers in case you need a jolt of caffeine. The hip patterned rugs and comforters add an extra flair to the decor. 

If you’re in town on business or want to prepare basic meals at home, the suites come with kitchenettes, separate living rooms with plush couches, and workstations. The wifi is lightning fast, which is a plus if you need to get some work done.  

Crossroads Bar & Bistro serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and boasts a seasonal menu of Tex-Mex cuisine and locally inspired cocktails. Or if you’re in a hurry, take advantage of their grab-and-go breakfast items and their freshly brewed local Dodd Coffee.

12. Hotel Ylem

If run-of-the-mill hotels aren’t your thing, Hotel Ylem might just be right up your alley. With its artsy decor and humanitarian philosophy, this is definitely one of the most unique hotels in Houston. Plus, the façade of the hotel features a giant hand-painted mural so you can’t miss it!

The entire hotel is dedicated and designed to promote non-profit organizations, philanthropic causes, and local artists. Walk around and you’ll find a rotating gallery of works by Houston-based creatives. If you see something you like you can even purchase the art, with all proceeds going to the hotel’s local “Y-Lanthropy” partners.

All rooms feature plush beds, workspaces with Kaypr tablets, and all sorts of funky artwork. In line with Ylem’s philosophy, rooms boast local and ethically produced products and brands, from the linens on the beds to the soap in the bathrooms. 

Fill up on the complimentary breakfast before exploring the area’s main attractions. You can catch a Houston Texan’s game at the nearby NRG Park, take a family trip to the Houston Zoo, or go museum hopping in the Museum District, which is just 10 minutes away!

That completes our list of the 12 best Houston hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Houston? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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