Hotels in Houston (9 OYOs)

Looking to have fun in Houston without breaking the bank? Check out this list of free things to do in Houston! Save money on your stay on these OYOs in Houston so you can enjoy more of everything that Houston has to offer.

There are many ways to get around Houston that offer convenience for any need. METRORail offers convenient travel throughout downtown, midtown, and other key areas of the city. Check out this page for full details on the METRORail lines. METRO’s bus system also provides convenient transportation on city streets. Two other great options include ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft.

Only one day in Houston? There is still plenty to do and lots to explore. Even if you need to stay close to the airport you still have solid options to check out. Here are some ideas:

1. Nearby restaurants: There are several restaurants in close proximity to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) that are worth checking out. Gumbo Jeaux’s on JFK Blvd is within a few miles from the airport. It offers delicious American & Seafood cuisine and is one of Houston’s favorite gumbo spots! Another delicious restaurant near IAH is Jimee’s BBQ. This spot offers great Houston BBQ options to enjoy. Check out this list for more tasty options close to the airport. 
2. Explore Downtown Houston: If you have some time to explore during your layover/one day, Downtown Houston is well worth your time. The area offers countless restaurants and attractions to entertain any guest. While you are here, make sure to check out everything Downtown Houston has to offer!
3. Stay at an OYO: If you are in Houston for a limited time and need a place to stay, OYO Hotels is for you! There are 7 OYOs in Houston that offer essential amenities at wallet friendly rates. OYO Townhouse Houston George Bush Intercontinental is a conveniently located property for travelers who need to be near the airport.

Houston nightlife offers something for every taste. Whether you are looking for a dance club, casual lounge, or action-packed bars, Houston has a place to create memories that will last a lifetime. While you are here, check out some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife in Houston:

1. Downtown: The nightlife scene in Downtown Houston provides exciting opportunities for anyone visiting. High & Dry is a vibrant cocktail bar that offers a great variety of tropical drinks and includes a patio to enjoy. For those who want to get away from the typical bar scene, Dirt Bar is a local favorite with its heavy rock & roll theme. The Rustic in Downtown Houston offers free live music all week long. This bar owned by Texas country artist Pat Green is quickly becoming one of Houston’s must-see places. 
2. Midtown: Howl at the Moon in Midtown is an electric piano bar that has weekly events and specials at budget-friendly prices. This spot is the essence of the Houston party scene. Axelrad Beer Garden is another Midtown Houston favorite that features a relaxing hammock garden and an extensive drink list that is sure to satisfy any guest. This happening spot also features live music, movie & comedy nights, and much more every week. 
3. Washington Avenue: The nightlife on Washington Avenue adds tons of options to the Houston nightlife scene. Well known spots on this street are Max’s Wine Dive and Canyon Creek. Max’s offers an incredible wine list and food options, making it a great place for a night out. Kung Fu Saloon offers one of the most unique bar scenes with its free arcade games and countless TVs. This is an exciting spot to have a fun, laid-back night out. 

Shopping in Houston offers something for everyone. As the 4th largest city in the country, Houston is one of the best places to shop. They have plenty of shopping outlets, designer stores, antique shops, and much more. Check out some of our favorite places to shop in Houston:

1. Houston Premium Outlets: This shopping center in Northwest Houston allows visitors to shop at premium stores at discounted prices. The center includes 145 designer and name-brand stores for shoppers to explore. 
2. The Galleria: With over 375 stores, 30 restaurants, and a full sized ice rink, The Galleria in Houston is a must-see for visitors. The designer store list features Louis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and many more. The second level features the Little Galleria Play Area for the kids to enjoy. 
3. Harwin Drive: Looking for the best place to bargain hunt? Harwin Drive features tons of places to shop for good deals in Houston. The Harwin Central Mart and Harwin Outlet Mall are two of the most visited outlets that are part of this community. Harwin Drive features all kinds of small businesses and shops ranging from jewelry, perfumes, apparel, home & decor, and much more!

The Houston food scene is one that provides options for all kinds of tastes and budgets. If you are looking for traditional American options, Tex-Mex favorites, Cajun classics, or any number of iconic cultural options, Houston has it all! While in Houston, make sure to check out some of our favorites:

1. Gatlin’s BBQ: Looking for cheap eats in Houston? Look no further than Gatlin’s BBQ. From delicious brisket and ribs, to loaded fries and pulled pork baked potatoes, they have plenty to satisfy your taste buds! 
2. Antone's Famous Po'Boys: Have a bite at one of Houston’s most iconic restaurants. Famous for their New Orleans-style po’boys, Antone’s has been a staple in Houston since 1962! Their Tex-Mex cheesesteak and beef brisket are favorites, as well. Best of all, a majority of the food options are under $10!
3. Batanga: This beautiful restaurant features a 3,600 square-feet patio where you can enjoy live music and delicious Latin American cuisine. Come enjoy the patio that looks over Market Square Park in Downtown Houston. This restaurant is a great place to come enjoy food from Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, Chile, Mexico, Peru, and more!

Houston has everything parents and kids need to create wonderful memories together. While you are here, make sure to check out our Top 3 kid-friendly activities: 

1. Houston Zoo: Spend a day at the Houston Zoo and explore everything it has to offer. The Zoo includes the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo where kids can watch otters play underwater, pet the goats in the Petting Zoo, and see other incredible animals. Kids can also enjoy the Katherine McGovern Water Play Park and the Wildlife Carousel. 
2. Children’s Museum of Houston: This is an exciting place for kids who are 12 years old and younger. The Museum is full with 90,000 square feet of fun! There are countless exhibits for kids to explore and let their imagination run wild. The FlowWorks exhibit allows kids to explore science and physics with the fun of splashing water! While Kidtropolis, USA is an exhibit that allows kids to run a city and partake in real-life challenges in an engaging and interactive atmosphere.
3. Hermann Park: This 445-acre park is a wonderful place to take the kids to enjoy quality family time. Enjoy a picnic at the park, explore the Japanese Garden, and enjoy a ride on the miniature train on the Hermann Park Railroad. Hermann Park offers everything kids need to have a great time!

Houston is home to many famous places and attractions for visitors to explore. There is so much to do that we had to narrow it down to our Top 3 places to see:

1. Space Center Houston: This extravagant attraction is one of the most iconic Houston has to offer.  It is the Official Visitor Center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Visitors can go on the NASA tram tour to catch behind the scenes action of astronauts training for space missions in the incredible working facilities. The Space Center includes multiple exhibits and experiences where visitors can see flown aircraft, spacesuit collections, touch the limited moonrocks on Earth, and much more.
2. Houston’s Museum District: The extensive list of museums in Houston offers something for everyone. The Museum District is home to 19 different museums, 11 of which are free to the public! This is a great area for visitors to explore the rich cultural history of Houston.
3. Sports Stadiums: For sports fans, Houston is home to the Astros (MLB), Texans (NFL), and Rockets (NBA). Fans can catch a game at these stadiums that are a fundamental part of the city: Minute Maid Park (Astros), NRG Stadium (Texans), and Toyota Center (Rockets). Soccer fans can also enjoy a game at BBVA Stadium, home to Houston’s professional soccer teams, the Dynamo (MLS) and Dash (NWSL).