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    Texas travel

    8 top Houston hotels offering cool deals for a quick winter getaway

    Steven Devadanam
    Dec 31, 2020 | 2:25 pm

    Dallasites can be forgiven for desperately needing a break this winter. Yet in a season when so many normally boarding planes to fly out of state, many of us have stayed home to protect our health.

     

    For Texans with wanderlust, Houston’s many hotels are offering myriad opportunities for mini getaways. Safety is no doubt a top concern when venturing out during COVID. To that end, numerous hotels have pledged to provide safe stays via contactless check-ins and checkouts, socially distanced activities, extra cleaning in rooms and communal areas, and more. Don’t be shy in calling ahead and asking questions before you book — and when you arrive.

     

    Savvy travelers should look for deals right now. Visit Houston is offering a buy-one, gift-one experience for guests to gift loved ones, healthcare workers, a teacher, or anyone in need of holiday cheer. Meanwhile, the AAA Four Diamond InterContinental Houston – Medical Center has teamed up with Rice Village to deliver 12 exclusive offers with the bustling shopping district’s boutiques, spas, and fast casual restaurants.

     

    With that in mind, we’ve rounded up eight Houston-area hotels (including north and island jaunts) that are just a road-trip away.

     

     Four Seasons
    Houston’s downtown site of one of America’s most iconic luxury hotel brands boasts a redesign of its rooms, courtesy of the award-winning Rottet Studio. Nearby entertainment comes courtesy of neighboring Toyota Center, House of Blues, and Discovery Green, while inside, families can enjoy the popular saltwater pool, which even offers movie time for kiddos. Couples can book his-and-her trips to the acclaimed spa.

     

    Nosh at Bayou & Bottle restaurant and bar, or go upscale Italian with Quattro, which is open for special event nights.

     

     Deals: Want to check in with friends or family who live in Houston? Look for 20-percent-off room rates and the Four Seasons Residents Retreat Package, which includes a discounted room, daily breakfast, valet, movies, and even a trip to the in-house Topgolf simulator.

     

     Insider tip: Watch for the visiting celebrity, as the hotel is a favorite of visiting A-listers. Also, the hotel is famous for accommodating the most outlandish asks, so don’t be modest with any special requests. (Guests have been known to request visits with wild animals on the grounds or have dinner with J.J. Watt, for starters.)

     

     The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
    Boasting 27 acres on Buffalo Bayou, history as home to President George H.W. Bush and wife, Barbara, and reputation as an abode for local elite, The Houstonian enjoys legendary status in Houston. The hotel also boasts a winter wonderland for families and kids.

     

     Deals: The resort is offering several deals this season, the most popular being the Unwind & Dine Package, which includes two complimentary cocktails, all-pool access, late check out, and a $50 credit toward dining and beverages (this is best served at in-house restaurant, TRIBUTE).

     

     Insider tip: When staying at the hotel, there is no resort fee for guests who partake in the offerings of the exclusive Houstonian Club. (Resort fees often run a minimum of $50 per day). No stay is complete without a visit to the iconic Trellis Spa, soon to be the largest spa in Texas.

     

     The Post Oak Hotel
    Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta built his palace for an opulent, over-the-top experience. The city’s only hotel to achieve the coveted AAA Five Diamond Rating offers helicopter service, a 20,000-square-foot spa, and even a $1 million package. (The package provides an opportunity to enjoy 43 vintages of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Magnums, “His & Hers” Bentleys, up to four gourmet dinners, along with overnight stays at the hotel.) Head to Uptown for eats, or dine in at The Post Oak’s four restaurants — Craft F&B, Bouchée Patisserie, Bloom & Bee, and H Bar.

     

     Deals: The “Linger Longer” discount is for extended stays. Also look for breakfast credits for a bed and breakfast experience, and even an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of the Johnson Space Center with access to private, select areas.

     

     Insider tip: Watch for celebs at the pool — especially Houston Rockets superstars — and snap a selfie under the $1 million crystal chandelier.

     

     Marriott Marquis
    For a full-on waterpark experience without leaving the city, venture to downtown’s Marriott Marquis and its massive Texas-shaped (and Texas-sized) lazy river pool. Since its opening, the hotel’s Parkview Terrace has become a social media favorite. For the winter, visiting DJs spin tunes while guests splash in the heated waters at night or sip cocktails at the outdoor bars.

     

    Daytime, catch a sporting event at Biggio’s or visit the Pure Spa for an array of Elemis Biotic beauty treatments or a relaxing massage before venturing out to next-door Discovery Green. Nearby dining destinations include the scenic Grove, buzzy Lucille’s, newcomer Acadian Coast, or the acclaimed Xin Chao. But visitors should be sure to feast at in-house Xochi, the brainchild of Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught and home to the city’s best Oaxacan-inspired dishes — especially the divine, mole-laden plates.

     

     Deals: Be sure to check out seasonal packages featuring terrace entertainment.

     

     Insider tip: Grab your partner or the kids and plan to arrive at the pool at or before 10 am, as it is jam-packed by mid-morning.

     

     Hotel Alessandra
    Gracefully appointed with European flair (the lobby makes for perfect selfies), the Alessandra brings a romantic, old-world charm to downtown. The hotel’s many packages (spa days, couples, etc.) make for an easy way to explore the Alessandra’s offerings. Food and drink is a draw here: the Bardot lounge is modeled after turn-of-the-century bars in London. Enjoy a sip there, then head to Lucienne for Mediterranean and French-inspired fare. Service shines at Spa by Alessandra, which offers a quiet, pampering atmosphere (whispering is a must).

     

     Deals: Rates start at $99 per night; packages include “Stay Another Night For Free”: reserve two nights, and receive a complimentary third night.

     

     Insider tip: Lounge at the pool, change, and hop in the hotel’s Maserati for a quick jaunt to a downtown destination.

     

     Hotel ZaZa Museum District
    If these walls could talk, what stories they’d tell. Since its opening in the Museum District in the early aughts, Hotel ZaZa has been home to racy rendezvouses in its scandalously seductive suites. Arrive early to dine at the open-air Monarch Bistro, sidle up to the bar, roam the romantic settings (even the hallways are eye-catching), and later, retreat to the room. Wake up late and join the scenesters at the pool; the cabanas here are always hoppin’ and often spark impromptu parties. When weather permits, a stroll down the Museum District walkways near the Sam Houston fountain is simply divine.

     

     Deals: One offer includes a $50 food and beverage credit per night — for use with room service, poolside, Monarch, or the minibar — plus valet parking for one vehicle per night.

     

     Insider tip: Party late into the night at Monarch (or at a stranger’s suite — it happens often), wake up late, and head to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s stunning new Nancy and Rich Kinder Building for some amazing art.

     

     Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwoods Village
    Woodlands locals and residents in points north can now enjoy a AAA Four-Diamond experience, thanks to the CityPlace Marriott. The hotel is strategically located near major shopping destinations, including The Woodlands Mall, The Market at Springwoods Village, and Old Town Spring.

     

     Deals: Seasonal rooms start at $99 per night.

     

     Insider tip: After a shopping trip, dine at the acclaimed in-house SwitcHouse Plates + Pours, then get into the holiday spirit with views of a life-size gingerbread village and floating, 35-foot tree along the walking trails.

     

     Hotel Galvez & Spa
    For some old-world charm, travelers can opt for the only historic beachfront hotel on the Gulf Coast, the Hotel Galvez. Take a Spa Room or a suite overlooking the water at the AAA Four-Diamond property. Enjoy pooltime, a cocktail on the deck, or a daily shrimp fry for a true island experience.

     

    The charming inn has hosted a cadre of the rich and famous since its opening in 1911, so expect to see a mix of well-heeled travelers, smart locals, and savvy adventurers. As Galveston is currently under COVID restrictions, call ahead as reservations may change daily.

     

     Deals: Check often as deals are changing based on occupancy and restrictions.

     

     Insider tip: The Galvez is regarded as one of the most haunted spots in Texas; look for a guided ghost tour, or watch for an elegant specter at the regal bar late at night.

    The famous Marriott Marquis lazy river pool.

    Marriott Marquis pool
      
    Marriott Marquis Houston/Facebook
    The famous Marriott Marquis lazy river pool.
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    Awards News

    Dallas hotels win big in 2025 World's Best Awards by Travel + Leisure

    Amber Heckler
    Jul 9, 2025 | 4:30 pm
    Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa​
    Photo courtesy of Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa
    Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa is the No. 2 best resort in Texas.

    Several renowned Dallas-Fort Worth hotels and resorts were just declared the best in the world by Travel + Leisure readers, according to the publication's annual World's Best Awards.

    Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa and Grapevine's Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center were honored among the top five best resorts in Texas, and six more distinguished Dallas-Fort Worth properties made the cut among T+L's list of the 15 best hotels in Texas and in the U.S.

    Every year, Travel + Leisure surveys its readers to determine the ultimate travel experiences around the world, which include the top hotels, resorts, travel destinations, and more. The 2025 survey had more than 180,000 responses from T+L readers with over 657,000 votes across 8,700 accommodations, cruise lines, and other properties.

    Omni PGA Frisco ranked as the No. 2 best resort in Texas, just one spot lower than its 2024 ranking. The resort is a relative newcomer in Dallas' rapidly expanding list of travel lodgings, as it's only been open for a little more than two years. The report said this golf-focused retreat is an impressive place to stay for visitors that have a "packed itinerary," regardless if that includes spending time on the green or not.

    "This resort has it all — golf, spa, dining options of all types and an amazing activity schedule," a T+L reader said.

    The Gaylord Texan Resort is a popular favorite among Dallas-area travelers, and it ranked as the 5th best Texas resort for 2025. In 2018, the resort debuted its $120 million Vineyard Tower, which added 303 deluxe guest rooms and 86,000 square feet of meeting space.

     Pool at Gaylord Texan resort The family-friendly pool at the Gaylord Texan has a lazy river and more than enough chaise lounges.  Photo courtesy of Gaylord Texan  

    The publication celebrated the five winners – the remaining three located in Texas' other major metros – for their lavish atmospheres that makes guests feel like they've escaped the hustle and bustle of their respective cities.

    "Our top five resorts in Texas are all scenic sanctuaries in or nearby the state’s biggest cities, offering an abundance of activities for visitors looking for relaxation and recreation," the report said.

    The full list of best Texas resorts, in order, are:

    • The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, Houston
    • Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, Frisco
    • JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, San Antonio
    • Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Austin
    • Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, Grapevine

    Best hotels in Dallas-Fort Worth
    The region's most opulent hotel, Hotel Drover in Fort Worth, was crowned the best hotel in the Metroplex for the second year in a row. It also earned the No. 1 title in 2022. The hotel has only been open for four years, but it has remained a clear reader favorite, as it previously booked a top-five spot in Travel + Leisure's best Dallas-Fort Worth hotel list in 2023.

    Hotel Drover succeeds at providing guests with a flawless level of service and accommodations, while its dining attractions add to the overall opulence of the property's amenities. The report goes on further to say that "no hotel attracted Dallas fans more" than this Western-themed getaway.

     Hotel Drover lobby library The lobby of the Hotel Drover contains a library and a Lucchese boot boutique.Photo courtesy of Hotel Drover

    "Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection, located in Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards, pulls in plenty of charm in its design, including across its rooms that resemble luxury ranch lodging with exposed beams, dark wood headboards, and colorful textile touches," the report said. "There's also a Lucchese boot boutique in the lobby, so every guest can snag a pair to bring home as the ultimate Texas souvenir."

    A reader said they would recommend this Fort Worth hotel over any other place in Texas, and declared it "the definition of Texas" thanks to its attentive staff, thoughtful Western decor, and its classic Southern food.

    In a press release, general manager Aaron Ide said the entire Hotel Drover team was honored to receive the worldwide recognition.

    "This recognition is a reflection of our passionate team and the authentic Western experiences we strive to create," Ide said. "It’s especially meaningful to receive this honor during the 30th anniversary of the World’s Best Awards, and we are proud to represent the vibrant spirit of Fort Worth."

    Dallas' iconic Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek ranked as DFW's second-best hotel for the second consecutive year, and it was the No. 1-winner in 2023. This legendary hotel has continued prospering and growing its reputation since it was acquired by a Dallas investor firm in 2022, and has since earned a prestigious One Key status in Michelin's inaugural Texas guide in 2024.

    Though Rosewood Mansion didn't nab the top spot on T+L's list, it did claim the No. 1 spot in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 rankings of the best resorts in Texas.

     Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek terrace Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek terrace  Photo courtesy of Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek  

    The full list of Dallas-Fort Worth winning hotels, in order, are:

    • Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection, Fort Worth
    • Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, Dallas
    • The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
    • The Adolphus, Dallas
    • Omni Dallas Hotel

    Best hotels in the U.S.
    Fort Worth's esteemed Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection was one of three Texas properties to earn acclaim on T+L's separate list of the "15 Best City Hotels in the U.S." Bowie House ranked as the 14th best hotel nationwide, and a T+L reader said it "set the standard for luxury hotels in Fort Worth."

    "Another Southern favorite, Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection (No. 14) was applauded for its culinary offerings, expertly curated art and decor, and 'professional' and 'friendly staff,'" the report said.

     Bowie House bar Bowie House boasts all of the Southern charm one would expect to find in a Texas hotel.Photo courtesy of Bowie House

    The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston and Hotel Emma in San Antonio were the only other two Texas hotels to earn spots on the list of the best hotels in the country.

    Other Texas awards
    San Antonio was deemed one of the best U.S. travel destinations in 2025, ranking 12th out of 15 total cities.

    In a release, Travel + Leisure editor in chief Jacqui Gifford said the 2025 World's Best Awards "reflect a travel landscape in motion."

    "From a high-desert city in the American Southwest to a quiet Greek island, our readers are seeking depth, character, and a strong sense of place," Gifford said. "We're thrilled to honor the hotels, destinations, and travel companies that are delivering those transformative experiences."

    The best hotels in Houston, in order are:

    • The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
    • Hotel ZaZa
    • Four Seasons Hotel Houston
    • JW Marriott Houston Downtown
    • Hilton Americas-Houston
    The best hotels in Austin, in order, are:
    • Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection
    • Austin Proper Hotel & Residences
    • Four Seasons Hotel Austin
    • Fairmont Austin
    • Archer Hotel Austin
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