Where to Stay

Houston is a well-traveled city, and you certainly won't have any difficulty finding accommodations that appeal to your tastes. Whether your style and budget demand luxurious, elaborate lodgings or something much more casual and simple, you are certain to find the perfect hotel to meet your needs. There are even some unique bed and breakfast establishments and a few rejuvenating spas mixed in with the traditional choices.

Downtown

The downtown area is home to many of Houston's eminent business leaders. With the smell of money floating in the air, it is no great surprise that many of the city's most prestigious—and expensive—hotels are located in this area. The luxurious Four Seasons Hotel was recently renovated to refresh its cutting-edge image. Besides glamorous accommodations, it has an on-site beauty salon and other impressive workout facilities. Sophisticated, elegant dining is available at Quattro without even leaving the hotel. The Lancaster first opened as the Auditorium Hotel in the 1920's. A combination of unabashed luxury, small size, gorgeous antiques and breathtaking artwork make guests feel like part of the elite. Dining in the hotel restaurant, Bistro Lancaster, is an equally elegant experience.

Galleria

The Galleria area is another prestigious section of the city, and most of the hotels in the area reflect its class and elegance. Doubletree Guest Suites offers 26 stories of elegant suites, most with a breathtaking view of the entire area. The Houstonian is an elite institution with its own private health club and beauty spa, acres and acres of gorgeous landscaping and a golf course. It is the only hotel that offers such elaborate amenities in such a bustling area. Don't be surprised if you actually forget that you are right in the middle of a thriving city. The Omni Hotel's scenic jogging trail also does an admirable job of making you forget where you are. If you do not jog, you can opt for a leisurely walk along the trail or hit the fitness center to get your daily dose of exercise. If you want to be surrounded by elegance and also have impressive shopping opportunities literally at your fingertips, stay in the Westin Galleria Houston. It is actually located inside a wing of the Galleria. How's that for convenience?

Montrose

If you have a taste for old-world elegance, try one of the city's historic hotels or a classic bed and breakfast. The Hotel ZaZa was built in 1927 and originally consisted of luxury apartments. It has since been renovated to showcase beautiful artwork and features accommodations that are designed to please the "hard-to-please". Robin's Nest Inn is a Victorian bed and breakfast that was built in 1895 as a personal residence. Only four rooms are available, so be sure and book well in advance. Angel Arbor Bed & Breakfast also offers only four rooms and should be booked well in advance. This 1923 Georgian-style home, with its soothing and scenic garden, is popular with couples seeking a romantic getaway. Availability at Lovett Inn is a little better since they offer eight rooms and one private cottage with its own whirlpool, but this 1918 Colonial bed and breakfast still books quickly. If you're looking to stay in this historic district but would like a more moderately priced hotel, try the Rodeway Inn Greenway Plaza for all your basic hotel amenities.

Clear Lake/Kemah

With plenty of outdoor activities to take part in near the lake, as well as the Space Center Houston for those who like to stay dry, you will not be spending much time in your hotel room in the Clear Lake/Kemah area. So why not consider a cheaper hotel compared to the fancy high-risers in Downtown and the Galleria? The Rodeway Inn is a convenient location as it offers close access to Hobby Airport. Those visiting to tour NASA's facilities will find the Super 8 to be an affordable hotel that still offers some luxurious benefits like private jacuzzis in their suites. Red Roof Inn Hobby is another reasonably priced hotel in proximity to the airport and lake.