Driving across Texas, we needed a brief, one-night stay in Houston. One of our favorite neighborhoods is the Galleria area and I booked a reservation at the brand-new Holiday Inn Express, just inside the 610 Loop. The location gave us plenty of dining and shopping options while ensuring our morning departure would get us quickly back on our route.

The Holiday Inn Express is a dual-branded property, sharing the 14-story modern building with Staybridge Suites Houston — Galleria Area, which caters to extended-stay guests. Both hotels belong to the InterContinental Hotels Group brand.

The new-build hotel, with 319 rooms, was only three months old during our May visit. Guests can self-park in the on-site garage for a fee. The lobby, with a large registration desk, bar, grab-and-go shop and seating, was busy when we arrived. The friendly staff explained breakfast was complimentary, as was the Internet service. We were quickly given the keys to a mobility-accessible suite.

Our fourth-floor guestroom with views of the city contained a king-sized bed, twin sofa sleeper, flat-screen TV, coffee/tea maker, microwave, mini fridge and steamer. The bathroom was large enough for a wheelchair user. The tub had a transfer bench and a hand-held shower control.

Although we didn’t have time to exercise, the hotel has an expansive, on-site, work-out space and an outdoor heated swimming pool with a large deck. For even more recreational pursuits, the hotel is about a mile from Memorial Park, home to a golf course, kayaking, 10 miles of hiking/biking trails and an arboretum.

We stretched our legs with a 15-minute walk to Bosscat Kitchen & Libations. Sitting under a blue sky on the large outdoor deck, we drank cocktails and shared a shaved pork chop sandwich. Not having to drive to dinner made the evening much more relaxing and we stopped for gelato on our stroll back to the hotel.

The modern decor and range of amenities at the Holiday Inn Express exceeded our expectations. The hotel provides the services we appreciate at an approachable price.

And we’ve already recommended the hotel to friends whose daughter recently relocated to Houston.

Holiday Inn Express Houston-Galleria Area

2351 West Loop South
Houston, TX 77027
tel 346 415 5900