Cowboys in Western wear toting their ropes and suitcases checked into the Sonesta ES Suites the same day we did. We didn’t ask, but we assumed they were in town for the world’s largest rodeo. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is an annual charitable event with horse riding, concerts, shopping, dinning and exhibits. The Sonesta ES Suites lies two short blocks from The Galleria, a shopping center with 400 stores. The posh neighborhood inside the Loop is only 20 minutes from downtown or to NRG Stadium, where Rodeo Houston is held. This trip was our first experience at the extended-stay brand. On-site parking, located in front of the hotel or in a garage, is free. Even though we arrived several hours before check-in, our second-floor studio suite was ready. The friendly staff told us the hotel offers complimentary light dinners Tuesday through Thursday nights, as well as daily breakfast. The guestroom, painted in a sunny yellow, contained a spacious kitchen with a stocked coffeemaker, full fridge, stovetop and dishwasher. A table for two provided space for dining. The focal point of the living room, a large, flat-screen television was easily viewed from a small couch or while relaxing in the raised king-sized bed. Only three rooms in the hotel include a balcony, and we were lucky enough to have this bonus amenity overlooking the courtyard and swimming pool. The additional amenities we appreciated included an in-room safe, free WiFi, on-site laundry and a small workout room. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle will transport guests within a three-mile radius of the property. Open 24 hours a day, the EShoppe contains the essential pantry items travelers often need, like microwave popcorn, aspirin and toothpaste. We never did get to the rodeo, but the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is less than three miles from the hotel. Even though the property is in a highly trafficked area of Houston, evenings were peaceful. The Sonesta ES Suites boasts an ideal location, and comfortably sized suites make it a good choice both for business and leisure travelers.

Sonesta ES Suites Houston Galleria

5190 Hidalgo St. Houston, TX 77056