As you might guess about the United States’ fourth-largest city, there’s a lot to do in Houston —much of it buzzing downtown. The city is known for its tunnel system: six miles of subterranean walkways, connecting 95 city blocks. It’s a diverse, lively city, with a sort of West coast feel. (No wonder superstar singer Beyoncé loves to represent her hometown!)
Looking for lodging in Space City? We’re here to help. Below are five budget-friendly options for travelers, which we’ve selected not only by price, but quality and proximity to downtown as well. Any of these hotels should plant you right in the middle of Houston’s action.
Holiday Inn Houston Downtown
From $75/ night
Guests seem to love this downtown property for not only its competent and friendly staff but its cleanliness and location. Nearby attractions include Minute Maid Park and the George R. Brown Convention Center. It’s also close to transit, such as Bell Station and Downtown Transit Center Station. Fancy reading a new book? The Houston Public Library is only a half-mile away! Have the munchies after walking around the city all day? Drop in to the on-site Burger Theory for a meal. Or, work up even more of a sweat at the fitness center.
Homewood Suites by Hilton
From $116/night
Past guests have gushed over this property, doling out high marks for its cleanliness, comfort, location, facilities and staff. It looks sparkling new, with modern furnishings, and even the breakfast buffet looks charming. (That breakfast is included with your booking only makes it more appetizing.) An outdoor pool is open all year and there’s a fitness center if you need to keep up on your workout regimen. Wifi is free throughout the hotel (on-site parking, however, is not). Bringing your pet to Houston? You won’t have a problem at this hotel.
Hampton Inn Houston Downtown
From $107 / night
Location is a major selling point of this property: it’s a mere 1,000 feet from Discovery Green Park and 1,300 feet from George R. Brown Convention Center and Minute Maid Park. Also appealing is its high rating from previous guests. There are plenty of amenities here to help make your stay cozy: a year-round outdoor pool, a gym, laundry and a lounge area. Breakfast is included, and past reviews suggest the morning java is more than suitable. “Breakfast was good and it was open till 10am which isn’t common” one guest wrote. Late risers rejoice!
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
From $89 / night
If you’re coming to see the Houston Rockets, this might be the place for you: the Toyota Center is only 2,300 feet away. Past guests have praised this Springhill’s location, as it offers close proximity to the throbbing life of downtown —and the public transport you might need to navigate the area, like the Main Street Square Station and Bell Station. Having opened in the past few years, it’s a clean and new looking space, boasting suites with a work desk, ironing supplies and a private bathroom. A mini market and fitness center offer further (if opposite) comforts.
The Lancaster Hotel
From $140 / night
Offering a nobler, upscale aesthetic is The Lancaster, part of Houston’s Theatre District. It’s not only a boutique hotel, correspondingly posh and bright, but a Texas Historical Landmark as well. Sip a hot coffee among the opulence in the lobby and read a free newspaper. Or, if you get up early enough for the continental breakfast (included with your room rate), you’ll find a bounty of morning goodies from fresh pastries and artisan jams to muesli, yogurt, smoked salmon, cold meats and seasonal items. Still hungry? There’s a mini-market on site, as well as The Bistro, a restaurant housed in the hotel’s lobby. An airport shuttle is available for an extra charge.