For many travelers, a pool is a key amenity they are searching for when choosing a hotel. Whether you are a fan of swimming or simply like relaxing poolside, you have dozens of hotel pools of all sizes and shapes in Houston. If you are also looking for great entertainment near a hotel with a great pool, we've got you covered too! Here are some recommendations for a memorable experience that will allow you to unwind, have fun and get inspired. And best of all, you don’t have to break your bank account to enjoy it in H-Town!
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
Take a plunge in not just one but all three temperature-controlled pools at The Houstonian, centrally located in the Galleria area. You can swim laps in their Sports pool, zip down the rockslide with your kids in “Little Lagoon” at the Resort pool, or escape to the quiet, secluded (adult-only) Garden pool. No matter your poolside preference, The Houstonian’s got you covered. Just a short drive away is the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, where you can enjoy the 155-acre urban nature sanctuary on the western edge of Memorial Park. Explore the Discovery Room or browse the Nature Shop after an adventure on the trails themselves!
Marriott Marquis
Let’s face it – traveling can be stressful, but there’s no better way to let your troubles slide away than to float in a Texas-shaped lazy river at the Marriott Marquis located in downtown Houston. Relax to the max by booking one of their daybeds, cabanas, or pergolas complete with bottled water and snacks. Or maybe all that pool time spiked an even bigger appetite? Just down the block is the award winning Oaxacan restaurant, Xochi, where you can enjoy a variety of house made masas and moles as well as ribbons of cheese (called “quesillo”) wrapped into balls. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with anything on their Chocolate Menu.
La Colombe d'Or
At La Colombe d'Or, a luxury boutique hotel in Montrose, enjoy the state-of-the-art rooftop pool on the 10th floor of the tower. Escape the heat, take a long swim, and enjoy a drink from a full-service outdoor bar near the pool. Stunning views of downtown Houston from the pool deck will inspire a night on the town, maybe even the theater. Catch the latest show at MATCH (Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston), a short distance away. This cultural hub of creativity will surprise you with an array of artists and shows, from solo concerts and immersive musical experiences to experimental dance and comedy. Or explore art treasures at The Menil Collection with free admission.
Hotel ZaZa Memorial City
At Hotel ZaZa Memorial City, you can work hard and play hard. Whether you’re hosting a meeting or just looking for a staycation, Hotel ZaZa can accommodate with luxury and style. When the work is complete, there’s no better place to order something bubbly and relax under their chic black and white awnings by the pool. Forgot your swimsuit? CityCentre Outdoor Mall is only a five-minute drive away with a wide variety of clothing stores as well as restaurants and shops to suit your mood.
The Whitehall
There sure are bright lights in the big city! The Whitehall stands out as Houston's original landmark hotel, featuring iconic mid-century architecture that decorates the city's skyline. Enjoy a refreshing swim in their outdoor pool surrounded by the buzz of the city beat of downtown Houston. After a few laps, take a 15-minute walk to 713 Music Hall and let the venue and music remind you why Houston is such a creative and cultural hub. This state-of-the-art, 5,000-person capacity concert hall is in the east wing of POST, originally downtown Houston's historic post office transformed into a hub for technology, food, concerts, and events. Complete with a rooftop park that showcases stunning downtown views, POST is a must-visit for any tourist or local, any day of the week.
Heights House Hotel
Heights House Hotel is more than a place to sleep at night; it’s a staycation, an oasis after a business meeting and a place to gather with friends – even if you just met them hanging out by their retro themed pool. This historic neighborhood area is a destination in and of itself highlighting historic homes from the late 1800s as well as unique shops and restaurants. Don’t forget to check 14 Pews, a multidisciplinary, artist-run nonprofit, which is passionate about engaging and challenging their audiences through the visual arts, film and theater.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Houston Downtown
Sometimes, the best way to unwind after a hard day is to swim a few lengths; there’s no better spot to exercise than SpringHill Suites Marriott rooftop pool. SpringHill Suites features plush bedding, ample workspaces, and complimentary breakfast to complete your stay in the heart of Downtown Houston. With such a central location, you’re walking distance from the best of Houston nightlife. Just down the street is 810 Billiards & Bowling, where you can bowl or play a few rounds of pool. Enjoy a weekday happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. or a live DJ on Saturdays!
Element Houston Katy
Trying to stay clear of the big city? Located in Katy, Element is an eco-conscious oasis outside the city limits. This hotel features modern amenities such as its Bikes to Borrow program, where you can navigate the city with passion using bikes, helmets, and local trail maps. After a biking adventure, their outdoor pool is a perfect spot to cool down. Want to explore more than just a two-wheeled ride? Head over to Andretti Indoor Karting & Games for entertainment with speed! From the whole sensory immersion experience on Hyperdeck to both the classic and latest in arcade gaming, there is something for everyone. Transport yourself to another world with their virtual reality attractions, including Hologate Arena or Omniverse, among others.
Hotel Derek
Needing a little luxury? You’ll find more than a little at Hotel Derek, a boutique hotel located next to the River Oaks District. Right when you walk through the front door, the contemporary design features heavenly fabrics and bold colors, setting the stage for pampering. Even the outdoor pool, playfully called “Splash”, feels glamorous and exclusive with a gentle waterfall and intimate setting. The outdoor space also includes a large social table to toast to friends and enjoy a light bite.
Continue the indulgence with a mouthwatering meal at the premier steakhouse in Houston Steak 48 nearby. Since opening in 2016, this restaurant, has provided Houston with an unrivaled total dining experience. Choose between their USDA Prime steaks consisting of the highest-grade Wagyu, dry-aged and grass-fed steaks, as well as fresh seafood and shellfish.
Blossom Hotel
One of the newest hotels in Houston, Blossom Hotel is steps away from Texas Medical Center, near NRG Stadium and Rice University. This pet-friendly property features spacious rooms and a rooftop pool with a skyline view.
Take a short ride on the METRORail line, conveniently located near the hotel, and explore the Japanese Garden in Hermann Park. Designed by world-renowned landscape architect Ken Nakajima, the garden features a teahouse and meandering paths to peruse the lush gardens and invigorate the spirit. If you are visiting with kids, don’t miss the Hermann Park Railroad for a 14-minute journey around the park. Their iconic red train departs from Kinder Station every 20-25 minutes.
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Photos: Courtesy of hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions mentioned in this post.
