What to expect: A 42-inch plasma-screen faux fireplace is a fun focal point in the lobby of this sophisticated urban hotel. Hip businesspeople and vacationers find a 1960s decor that blends cool kitsch and Bauhaus modernism with a Texas sense of humor—cowhide rugs, fake-fur chairs, and leather seating. The hotel welcomes pets (surcharge) and provides complimentary treats and use of food dishes during stays.

Amenity highlights: A secluded outdoor pool features a dramatic waterfall and a sheltered sunning terrace with cushioned teak chaise lounges. The bistro moderne offers a café menu in addition to sophisticated French selections and delectable desserts. Wireless Internet access is complimentary in public areas.

Insider tip: Two miles from the hotel within Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center features “special” gardens, including a wildlife garden, sensory garden, and hummingbird and butterfly island.

Connected to the Galleria shopping mall, the Westin Oaks Houston is popular with business travelers visiting nearby office buildings during the week. On weekends, the 21-story hotel fills with shoppers and leisure travelers heading to cultural and sports events. In the lobby, guests are greeted with complimentary fruit-infused ice water or a refreshing cold cloth.

Adjacent to the Galleria shopping mall, the 24-story Westin Galleria is popular with business travelers, shoppers and other leisure travelers, and conventioneers. Located four miles from the expansive Memorial Park, the hotel is eight miles from downtown Houston.

The Omni Houston Hotel at Westside has a modern, mirrored exterior. A large pond at the entrance is home to turtles and koi. The atrium lobby includes a restaurant and cocktail lounge, both overlooking an indoor koi pond. Guests include business travelers to Houston’s Energy Corridor as well as vacationers who prefer a suburban location.

A peacock topiary with sweeping floral tail guards the entrance to this 14-story Houston hotel. Guests staying for business or weekend shopping gather in the intimate seating areas of the Palm Court overlooking the manicured meadow and swimming pools. The grand lobby has emerald-green marble flooring, fine tapestries, fresh flowers, and helpful concierge staff.

Couples and generations of families seeking recreation and pampering fill this country-club-style hotel and spa. The lodge-inspired lobby is appointed with a huge stone fireplace, dark-wood paneling, and richly patterned carpets. Other buildings, including the Trellis Spa, are arrayed around the wooded grounds.