Home to lush green spaces, mouthwatering food stalls, vibrant street art, NASA and most importantly Queen B herself. Houston is one of the most diverse and unique cities in the USA.
Houston is one of those cities that has a little something for everyone. Embrace your artsy side? Eat incredible food? Shop til you drop? Relax in a park? You can do it all in this and more!
Deciding where to stay in Houston can be a tough mission to be tasked with. With so many areas to choose from it can be hard to know which one is best for you and your Houston travel desires. The best place to stay completely depends on YOU and what you want to get out of your trip.
“Houston, we have a problem” I hear you say. Never fear! I’m here to help. In this guide, I’ve compiled the best areas in Houston to stay, no matter your travel style or budget. From dazzling hotels to budget-friendly backpackers, there is something for everyone here.
So, without further ado let’s take one small step in your trip planning and one giant leap toward your epic adventure!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Houston?
- Houston Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Houston
- Houston’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Houston
- What To Pack For Houston
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Houston
- Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Houston
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Houston is in the southeast of Texas, near the Gulf of Mexico, and is a busy modern city that’s full of tourist attractions and friendly locals. It’s the fourth most populous city in the US and is absolutely HUGE.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Houston.
Wingate By Wyndham Houston Willowbrook | Best Hotel in Houston
This hotel in Houston offers a combination of comfort, convenience, and amenities. When you stay there, you can play a round of golf at the onsite course, relax in the sauna or Jacuzzi, or do a few laps in the outdoor pool. The rooms are all air-conditioned and the hotel is surrounded by restaurants, which will give you lots of dining options.
Wanderstay Houston | Best Hostel in Houston
This hostel in Houston is suitable for a range of travelers, with rooms that include full-sized beds and range from private rooms to dorms. In fact, this is one of the coolest places to stay in Houston if you’re on a budget as each room is themed. You can stay in a rodeo or Beyoncé themed room and enjoy a bit of whimsy along with a comfortable place to stay.
Upper Kirby Bungalow | Best Airbnb in Houston
This bungalow is close to everything, which is only part of what makes it one of the best Airbnbs in Houston. It’s suitable for up to 3 people and located close to the Downtown and the Galleria. You’ll enjoy a private bathroom and kitchenette as well as complete privacy when you stay in this fashionably decorated bungalow.
But there’s plenty to choose from…
Below you’ll find a map for easy navigation so you can start sussing out the place. Read on through if you want to see our recommendations.
Downtown Houston
On your first trip to Houston, you want to be close to everything or at least well connected so you can explore. And that’s exactly what Downtown Houston offers.
Northwest Houston
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston on a budget, you should try the Northwest. This part of the city is dedicated primarily to residential and leisure activities.
Uptown/Galleria
If you enjoy shopping, then you’ll love Uptown. This is one of Houston’s best neighborhoods and it’s where the Galleria is located, the largest shopping center in Texas.
Montrose
Montrose is a quirky, picturesque, and often tree lined part of the city. It’s also one of the safest parts of Houston, popular amongst college students.
Museum District
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for families, you can’t go past the Museum District. This area is near the Texas Medical Center in the south of the city and is one of the best-known cultural districts in the US.
Houston is a huge city, which means there are lots of areas to explore. In fact, there are at least 21 neighborhoods in the city, all of them with their own personality and attractions. Most of the areas where you’ll find accommodation are safe for tourists as long as you take the normal precautions.
So, when you’re looking for the best places in Houston to stay, all you need to do is think about your preferences and budget. If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for your first time, you should consider the Downtown area. This part of the city is well-connected and full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
But if you don’t like the crowds and busyness of the city, you might enjoy Northwest Houston more. This part of the city is mostly residential and is substantially quieter and cheaper than the central business areas. This is also a great area to stay in if you’re trying to find where to stay in Houston on a budget.
But if your budget isn’t so much of a concern, look for accommodation in Uptown. You’ll be surrounded by high-class shops and accommodation options as well as the best food and drinks in the city.
For a quirkier stay, try Montrose. This is a lovely, tree-lined part of the city that’s very walkable and close to museums and other cultural areas.
If you’re traveling with kids and trying to decide where to stay in Houston for families, then try the Museum District. This part of the city will keep everyone in your family entertained, no matter how long you’re staying.
Houston’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re ready to explore the best Houston accommodation options, then here’s where you should look.
1. Downtown Houston – Where to Stay in Houston for Your First Time
On your first trip to Houston, you want to be close to everything or at least well-connected so you can explore. And that’s exactly what Downtown Houston offers. This is the city’s business center, filled with skyscrapers and on the intersection of major highways.
It’s well connected by public transport to every other part of the city. Downtown is the best area to stay in if you want to do some extensive exploring and check out all the Houston things to do!
And you’ll need to explore this neighborhood before you go further afield as well. Downtown Houston has several fun and interesting attractions like theaters, malls, and architecturally important buildings. So, once you arrive in the city, fan out from your hotel and find your favorite spots!
Residence Inn Convention Center | Best Budget Hotel in Downtown Houston
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for nightlife or on a business trip, this hotel could be the answer. All the rooms contain a private bathroom, TV, and sofa as well as all the amenities. The hotel has a restaurant, Jacuzzi, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi and it’s close to several dining options for the ultimate in convenience.
Courtyard Houston Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown Houston
This hotel in Houston offers the best of both worlds. It’s right in the center of town and promises a comfortable, even luxurious stay. The hotel includes a day spa, Jacuzzi, health center, outdoor pool, and beauty center as well as free Wi-Fi. The rooms have private bathrooms and sleek, modern furnishings that will make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Downtown View Apartment | Best Airbnb in Downtown Houston
Something I dream of when I’m traveling is max relaxin’ on a big ol’ plush couch. This apartment has one bedroom if it’s just for you, and blow-up mattresses, plus plenty of room on that couch if you’re with your crew. This apartment is eclectic, modern, and fully furnished, including a VIEW.
The location is on point – near the CBD if you’re here on a business trip. This means walking distance to the Toyota Centre, 10 minutes on the train to the Texas Medical Center, and just a $6 Uber to Montrose… You can have it all babe and you deserve it!
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Unearth Houston’s darkest secrets and age-old ghost stories on a guided tour.
- Check out a show at the Alley Theater.
- Head down to the stunning One Shell Plaza and the JPMorgan Chase Tower, one of the tallest buildings west of the Mississippi.
- See Minute Maid Park, home of the 2022 World Series winners, Houston Astros, and experience 360° views on board an open-top double-decker bus on this tour.
- Explore the Houston Tunnel system, which connects different parts of the Downtown area and also houses a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Savor the many tastes of Houston’s EaDo district on a guided walking food tour.
- Take a tram ride to the International Space Station Assembly Building on this NASA tour.
- Explore different parts of the city while taking in all of the world-renowned street art Houston has to offer in an electric cart.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Northwest Houston – Best Place to Stay in Houston on a Budget
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston on a budget, you should try the Northwest. This part of the city is dedicated primarily to residential and leisure activities, if you’re looking for a quieter visit, Northwest Houston is for you. It is more relaxed than other parts of the city and yet still fun and interesting for locals and tourists alike.
None of that is to say that Northwest Houston is boring. There are parks throughout this neighborhood as well as the activities of everyday life. This means you can have a glimpse into local life at a price that’s much kinder to the budget than the prices in other neighborhoods.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston | Best Hotel in Northwest Houston
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in NW Houston, this hotel is your very best option. The rooms are huge, there’s a fitness center, and MULTIPLE pools and hot tubs. They have regular happy hours on-site, and a fitness center with plenty of treadmills and other machines. The 4 star establishment is also known for its amazing breakfast and good service. Plus, you won’t be too far from Houston attractions either.
Hampton Inn | Best Hotel in Northwest Houston
This hotel is one of the best places in Houston to stay for convenience and comfort. It has a gym, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi as well as a business center and meeting rooms in case you’re traveling for business. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and there are several cafes and restaurants nearby in case you get hungry and need a quick meal.
Peacock Apartment in Nature Habitat | Best Airbnb in Northwest Houston
Located in one of Houston’s best neighborhoods, Selia’s Airbnb is a must-stay for my fellow nature lovers. This charming apartment is nestled in a bird sanctuary and backyard habitat certified by the National Wildlife Federation in West Houston. Feel like you’re miles from the city while only being steps from the bus line.
This fully furnished apartment has a queen bed as well as a futon pull-out bed. The full kitchen even comes with a juicer and blender while the common amenities in this 3/4 acre garden property… a resource room for some offline research on the area (with a printer if you’re on a business trip) and a relaxation room!
Things to See and Do in Northwest Houston
- Head down to Terry Hershey Park.
- Defy gravity with skill, style, and courage at iFLY Houston-Memorial on their skydive simulator
- Go back to your childhood and race Go-Karts at the Karts Circuit.
- Relax in the local parks or have a picnic.
- Get the team together for an escape room adventure.
- Head down to see a movie and then explore the local shops.
- Just enjoy the quieter and slower pace of life.
3. Uptown/Galleria – Best Area to Stay in Houston For Nightlife
If you enjoy shopping, then you’ll love Uptown. This is one of Houston’s best neighborhoods and it’s where the Galleria is located, the largest shopping center in Texas. The Galleria contains 2 hotels, a skating rink, 375 stores, and 30 restaurants, so it’s the perfect place to spend a slow afternoon.
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston with kids or with friends, this landmark building could keep you entertained for hours.
But of course, there’s more to the Uptown area than a single shopping center, there’s heaps! Uptown is filled with brand-new skyscrapers, malls, and shops. It also contains lots of trendy places to grab a meal and a drink after you’ve hit the shops.
Drury Inn & Suites Houston Galleria | Best Hotel in Uptown
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Houston, this hotel has it all. It’s located at the Galleria, so you’ll never be short of things to do or eat, and offers 133 air-conditioned, comfortable rooms that would suit any travel group. There’s a spa and wellness center on-site as well as a Jacuzzi and pool so you can really have a relaxing holiday.
Residence Inn Houston by The Galleria | Best Hostel in Uptown
This hotel is in the best neighborhood in Houston to stay in if you want to be close to the Galleria and all the shops and restaurants it offers. It’s a traditional hotel that has been recently refurbished and offers a beauty center, BBQ area, and comfortable rooms with all the amenities. And best of all, the hotel is within walking distance of the Galleria!
Lovely Condo With a Pool | Best Airbnb in Uptown
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for one night or for a longer stay, this luxury option is a great choice. The condo has one bedroom, but it is suitable for up to 4 guests with an air mattress available to pop up in the lounge. There’s a pool and a jacuzzi and this Airbnb is minutes from the Galleria, Texas Medical Center as well as Midtown and Downtown.
Things to See and Do in Uptown
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Head down to the Galleria for a day or just an afternoon and shop until you drop.
- Keep out of the summer heat and go ice skating.
- Check out the fashion shops of top designers like Ralph Lauren as well as department stores like Macy’s.
- Head out after dark to experience the best nightlife in the city.
- This area is well-connected, so make sure you leave it to check out other parts of the city.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Montrose – Coolest Place to Stay in Houston
Montrose is a quirky, picturesque, and often tree-lined part of the city, it’s also one of the safest parts of Houston, popular amongst college students. It’s one of the best neighborhoods to choose when you’re deciding where to stay in Houston for nightlife. There are lots of bars, clubs, and restaurants close by.
But there’s more to do than just drink in this part of the city. It’s close to the Museum District, so you can enjoy a bit of culture and is also known for its art scene. Plus, if you’re into a low-key holiday, then you can just stake out a table at one of the local cafes and enjoy the scene.
Modern B & B | Best Bed and Breakfast in Montrose
This is the best neighborhood in Houston to stay in for a charming vibe and easy access to restaurants and cafes. The B&B has a Jacuzzi, laundry facilities, and meeting rooms onsite as well as comfortable rooms with a nice homey touch. Breakfast is organic and included with your stay, plus there are lots of eateries close by if you need a snack!
MyCrib Houston | Best Hostel in Montrose
This hostel is simply amazing and it’s a great choice if you love walking! It’s a bit out of Montrose but this makes it more accessible to Downtown and the Museum District. With plush beds and towels, a fun light shared space to cook, hang out, or work, this hostel is a vibe!
Montrose Apartment | Best Airbnb in Montrose
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for your first time, this is a great choice. The apartment is clean, comfortable, and suitable for four guests (the loveseat pulls out to a double bed). It includes free Wi-Fi, a full kitchen to use, and tasteful modern furnishings.
Best of all, it’s within walking distance from restaurants, lively bars, and artisan coffee shops. With Texas Medical Center, Buffalo Bayou Park, and the Galleria all conveniently close, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the area and whatever interests you.
Things to See and Do in Montrose
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
- Head out for a night on the town with some friends.
- Spend a day or more exploring the nearby Museum District and all it has to offer.
- Check out the many slightly eccentric but always delicious eateries in the area.
- Make sure you see the Menil Collection, Houston’s most prized and diverse art collection.
- Go running, biking, or just wander around and see what’s on in the famous Buffalo Bayou Park.
5. Museum District – Best Neighborhood in Houston for Families to Stay In
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for families, you can’t go past the Museum District. This area is near the Texas Medical Center in the south of the city and is one of the best-known cultural districts in the US. It doesn’t have much of a nightlife, but if you’re trying to decide where to stay in House for kids, this area will keep them happy and entertained.
There are 19 museums in this part of the city, each of them with their own appeal and attractions. You’ll find kid-friendly exhibits and shows held throughout the year to keep even the smallest and wriggliest member of your family happy. This area is also well connected to other parts of the city via public transport, so you can always get out and explore.
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western | Best Hotel in Museum District
This hotel is in the best neighborhood to stay in Houston to relax and take in the city. It has a spa onsite, so you can relax and be pampered, as well as enjoy a satisfying breakfast that will set you up for each day. It’s also close to local attractions, so you can literally walk out the front doors and start exploring.
Wanderstay | Best Hostel in Museum District
Located in one of the coolest places to stay in Houston, this hostel is just a 30-minute walk from the Houston Zoo. This hostel is suitable for a range of travelers, with rooms that include full-sized beds and range from private rooms to dorms. This is one of the coolest places to stay in Houston if you’re on a budget as each room is themed.
Texas Themed Studio Apartment | Best Airbnb in Museum District
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Houston for one night or for longer, this apartment is perfect. It’s suitable for 2 guests and has a private entrance so you can enjoy the space without any interruptions. The apartment includes all the amenities and facilities you could ever need on a holiday and is within walking distance of the Museum District.
Things to See and Do in the Museum District
- Take the kids to the Children’s Museum and let them be everything they can be in Kidtropolis, USA, a city for kids, run by kids.
- Experience the slightly weirder side of the city at the Health Museum or the National Museum of Funeral History.
- Spend some time in Hermann Park, an amusement park in the south of the district.
- Indulge in some culture at the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of natural science at the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Houston
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Houston and where to stay.
What To Pack For Houston
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where to Stay in Houston Without a Car?
Stay in Montrose – this area has been bumping since the 60’s. I can spend all day roaming the streets between fine art galleries and hip tattoo studios, feasting my eyes. Wherever you stay, there’s epic public transport to get around the great Space City.
What are Cheap Activities in Houston?
Grab a Houston CityPass to access the top attractions in the city for 50% off. There’s free entry to;
- Contemporary Fine Arts Museum
- Holocaust Museum
- Houston Center for Contemporary Craft/ Photography
- The Jung Center of Houston
… Just to name a few. There’s plenty to do in a city this size on the cheap. You could spend a whole day at the Galleria Houston which is officially a mall but basically a village.
What’s the Best Restaurant in Houston?
There are over 12,000 restaurants in Houston! So it’s a horrible choice to have to make (woe is me)… but the Remington Restaurant is always a failsafe option.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Houston
Everyone needs good travel insurance, be smart and sort yours out so you can explore with peace of mind.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Houston
Once you know where the best areas to stay in Houston are, you’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace. Visit the museums and the malls, try all the delicious food, and know that you will have a quiet, comfortable base to come home to.
If you’re still unsure of where to stay, check into Wanderstay Hostel – you’ll meet people and get an initial vibe of the city. I also like Wanderlust because it’s within walking distance to so much of Downtown, Midtown, and the Museum District (if you like walking).
Or maybe you’re looking for somewhere bigger, for the family, or your friends…? Stay a couple of nights at Peacock Apartment, experience Selia’s beautiful hospitality, and get a true feel for Houston.
Wherever you stay, Houston is a big city with a big vibe – I’m sure you’ll love it.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Houston.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Houston instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
