The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

Set on 18 literally green acres, this amenity-rich hotel feels like a secluded retreat among the towering pines, sprawling oaks, and manicured grounds—despite its proximity to the bustling Loop 610 and the Galleria. It affords so much peace and quiet, along with accessibility, that President George H. W. and Barbara Bush used the Houstonian as their home address while he was in office, and stayed on property during visits back to Houston.

The lobby has a warm, luxury lodge feel with soaring ceilings, wood details, and a massive stone fireplace. Guest rooms feel more elegant and traditional, with lavish textures and verdant floor-to-ceiling views. Every room has a 42-inch HDTV, complimentary Wi-Fi, a Keurig coffeemaker, and terrycloth bathrobes. (There are 67 concierge-level rooms that include daily continental breakfast, after-dinner sweets and cordials, plus additional services.) For the nature-minded, there’s a mile-long walking trail around the serene property.

This is a very relaxing place to stay that’s still right in the middle of the action near the Galleria mall. It sits on 18 acres of wooded land and has three resort-style pools, a walking trail, a full-scale fitness center and spa. The rates are reasonable for the level of service that you get here.

This resort is located in the middle of the city, but you’d never know it, as it’s surrounded by 18 acres of pine forest. Parts of the property are more like a hunting lodge than a hotel, like the Great Room, which is jazzed up with flags and coats of arms. Rooms are cushy and understated, and the staff is happy to help put some romance into your stay, whether you want to surprise your loved one with a bottle of bubbly or a rose petal bath. Live music every Thursday evening in the lounge also adds to the romance in the air here.