Downtown and the Uptown/Galleria area have most of the city's luxury hotels. Both are great locations for getting to know the city, but don't make them your automatic choice without first giving some thought to where you'll be spending your time in Houston. See the "Neighborhoods in Brief" section above for more suggestions about where to stay.
The hotel listings that follow include "rack rates" (the base retail price for a room with no discount) for double occupancy. You should use this as a basis for comparison and not think of these prices as etched in stone. Always ask about promotional rates. Houston is a business town; you'll find deep discounts for weekend stays, especially at the luxury hotels, which often offer prices that are competitive with some moderate hotels. There is a 17% hotel tax, which is not included in the rates shown here and is rarely included in hotel price quotes.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Doubletree Guest Suites -- The two-bedroom suites here are a good value, and the full kitchens and dining areas give guests flexibility with such things as breakfast and snacks and buying take-out.
Omni Houston Hotel -- With its Omni Kids Program, this hotel makes a special effort to keep smaller children amused. Kids receive a packet of goodies at check in, and parents can even request a small, pretend suitcase that holds more games and such. As part of the program, the concierge can organize activities and trips for children to such places as the zoo.
