With inflation affecting the travel industry and less COVID restrictions triggering a rise in summer flight bookings, you may be considering local vacation options that don’t require air travel.
Need some quick vacation ideas that are right in your backyard or less than an hour and a half away? Here’s our roundup of the best places to staycation in the Greater Houston area.
1. The Woodlands Resort
Photo credit: The Woodlands Resort
With just over 2,000 glowing Google reviews, this 4-star family-friendly hotel is truly a fan favorite in the Greater Houston area. Sprawled across 350 acres of lush green land, this local gem is the place for rest, recreation and relaxation. From the Forest Oasis Water Park to two championship golf courses and the cutest workout you’ll find in town (goat yoga!), The Woodlands Resort is the perfect family getaway. Plus, if you’re looking for some live music events, check out The Pavillion’s concert schedule ahead of time. The venue is just 6 minutes away!
2. Margaritaville Lake Resort
Photo credit: Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe
Looking for a Caribbean-inspired getaway without the flight? This waterfront property offers just that alongside the shores of Lake Conroe. Sip tropical beverages in a private pool cabana while the kids splash around, spend some time on the green or rent a pontoon boat and venture out on the lake for some much-needed time with nature.
3. Sam Houston National Forest
Photo credit: Sam Houston National Forest
Looking to connect even further with nature? The Sam Houston National Forest is the perfect place to immerse yourselves in the great outdoors. Just one of four national forests in the state of Texas, this American treasure is definitely one to discover. Reserve your space on one of three developed campgrounds and gear up for some canoeing, mountain biking and hiking on the Lone Star Hiking Trail.
4. Hotel ZaZa Museum District
Photo credit: Hotel ZaZa Museum District
Nestled in the center of the Museum District, Hotel ZaZa is always a wonderful accommodation for family adventures in the city. This premier boutique hotel offers everything from posh suites and pool villas to luxurious spa treatments and fine dining at the Monarch Bistro. Conveniently situated near Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo and the Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH), there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll love an afternoon of food truck hopping and snow cones at Discovery Green.
5. Post Oak Hotel
Photo credit: Post Oak Hotel
Feeling like a swanky 5-star hotel staycation? If you’re looking to “rest, relax, recharge and refresh,” this luxury retreat is just what the doctor ordered. Savor culinary cuisine at Mastro’s Steakhouse and Willie G’s Seafood, shop designer boutiques and definitely take time to pamper yourselves at the spa. You also can’t miss the art collection featuring rare works by Frank Stella and Alex Katz. Bonus: this luxury hotel in Houston scores major points for being pet-friendly, so feel free to bring the furbaby along, too!
6. Kemah Boardwalk
Photo credit: Visit Houston
Few things transport me back to childhood like the sweet smell of cotton candy and a good stroll along the boardwalk! If you’re up for a longer drive South, this iconic Texas Gulf Coast theme park rarely disappoints. This vibrant amusement park offers everything from roller coaster rides and traditional carnival food to a renowned Stingray Reef where the kiddos can get up close and personal! Need a good Kemah hotel recommendation? Try out the Boardwalk Inn for comfy seaside accommodations right in the midst of the action.
7. Galveston Beach
Photo credit: Galveston.com
Summertime always calls for hitting the beach. Just a 35-minute drive away from Kemah Boardwalk, Galveston Beach is one of the best beaches for families in Texas. Be sure to plant your umbrellas in the sand at Stewart Beach and play a few games of cornhole, giant Jenga and volleyball. Feel like traveling back in time? Don’t miss out on other cool things to do in Galveston like visiting the Moody Mansion and the Galveston Naval Museum!
