Destination Houston: Easy, Fun Staycation Ideas for Summer!

The Four Seasons Hotel Downtown recently debuted its multi-million-dollar renovation. Stay in one of the newly transformed Cabana Rooms, in which sliding glass doors open up to a semi-private, covered patio overlooking the pool and deck. There are plenty of poolside parties happening here this summer, including a Grill & Chill celebration on July 2-3 with outdoor grilling stations, drink specials and a live DJ, and Dive-In Movies on Friday nights throughout the summer. The Stay and Play package is catered to locals, and comes with a $100 resort credit each night, plus two cocktails at Bayou & Bottle or The Pool Deck, late checkout (3pm!), and overnight valet parking. What a deal!

The latest luxury property to bow in the Med Center, Blossom Hotel has a rooftop pool with fantastic views, and a special rate for locals: Texas and Louisiana residents can save (and score free drink coupons) with the promo code TXRES, and those who book two nights or more can get 20 percent off with the code PROSU.

The stunning Alessandra property Downtown closed mid-pandemic, and in its place, The Laura Hotel quietly debuted earlier this year, and its spa just opened at the beginning of the summer. Promotions touting deals at the spa (get a blow-out and manicure for just $100!) and the beautiful Hull & Oak restaurant are available; book the Bubbles & Brew package to score two beverages at the bar and a $50 dining credit. The rooftop pool is uniquely intimate, and a perfect place to cool off after exploring Downtown.

The Woodlands Resort's multiple-pool situation, compete with lazy river and giant waterslide, is hard to beat. The hotel is offering tons of kid-friendly fun this summer, including a "glamping" package, in which a tent with a sleeping bag and s'mores kit is set up inside the guest room. Programming for the weekend of July 4 includes karaoke, arts and crafts, and turtle feeding (yes, really).

Looking for a hassle-free great view of the July 4 fireworks display? Check in at the C. Baldwin, which has several west-facing suites that will offer an ideal view of the show on Allen Parkway. That evening, the hotel also hosts a "patio party" with special barbecue fare from Rosalie.

A go-to for Houstonians seeking a respite from the daily grind, The Houstonian's new Trellis Spa is the definition of staycation-worthy. It'd be easy to spend a whole weekend getting pampered and relaxing by the soaking pools, but some of the summer packages — like the Stay & Play or the Unwind & Dine — will encourage you to explore the rest of the property. For example, trails lead all the way to Memorial Park, perfect for an early-morning jog, and Tribute restaurant's "Tex-Lex" fare melds the mouthwatering flavors of Texas and Louisiana cuisine.