According to forum posts, many travelers recommend the Marriott Marquis, known for its rooftop lazy river and central location, making it ideal for accessing various city attractions. The Houstonian is praised for its extensive amenities, including a large pool, wooded walking paths, and proximity to the Uptown and Galleria areas.

For those seeking boutique or more luxurious options, Hotel Zaza in the Museum District and the Post Oak Hotel are frequently mentioned. Hotel Zaza is noted for its unique decor and customer-focused service, although it's not within walking distance to many restaurants. The Post Oak is described as a super-luxury hotel with easy access to high-end dining and shopping along Post Oak Blvd.

Travelers have also called out the Embassy Suites for its convenient location and family-friendly amenities, including a free breakfast buffet and manager's happy hour. The Woodlands Resort is highlighted for its recreational facilities and scenic surroundings, making it a great option for a relaxing staycation.

According to forum posts, travelers recommend San Antonio or the Hill Country for road trips from Houston. These destinations offer scenic views and cultural experiences suitable for family trips.

Some users suggest making a stop in New Orleans, incorporating visits to Oak Alley and other plantation homes. This adds historical depth and visual appeal to the road trip experience from Houston.

According to forum posts, you can travel to the NASA Space Center from Houston using Uber or Lyft as the most convenient options, especially if you do not have your own car. Public transport is available but can be time-consuming, with trips taking over an hour and a half.

Some travelers recommended booking guided tours that include transportation to the Space Center. These tours are convenient as they follow a strict schedule and provide a guided experience.

For those considering public transport, specific bus routes like #249 and #246 were mentioned, but their availability on weekends could be uncertain. Checking the local metro's website or calling their customer service at 713-635-4000 upon arrival in Houston is advised for the latest schedule details.

Travelers have called out that using rideshare options like Uber or Lyft not only reduces the travel time but also provides flexibility in terms of travel hours, unlike public buses that may have limited operational hours.

Some travelers have mentioned that Houston airports offer a variety of dining options. For instance, at Houston Hobby, options range from fast food like Wendy's and Subway to sit-down restaurants like Pappadeaux, which serves Cajun seafood.

According to forum posts, if you have a longer layover and wish to explore Houston, Downtown offers a scenic view of skyscrapers and street art that can be enjoyed even outside business hours. Some travelers suggest visiting parks or botanical gardens close to the airport for a relaxing experience.

Travelers have called out that the 102 Bus runs from Bush Airport to Downtown Houston from 5 am till around 12:30 am, facilitating city visits during layovers. Additionally, Uber and Lyft are recommended for faster travel to the city, with travel times ranging from 30 to 40 minutes.

For international travelers, it's advised to arrive back at the airport 3 hours before your flight to ensure a smooth departure, as highlighted in traveler discussions regarding layover logistics.

According to forum posts, staying downtown or in the Medical Center area near Houston’s NRG Stadium is recommended by many users. These areas are connected to the stadium via the MetroRail, making it convenient for attending events.

Some travelers suggested downtown hotels like the Hilton Americas or Embassy Suites due to their proximity to late-night venues, which is beneficial after events. The Marriott Medical Center is another option, highlighted for its sizable pools, making it suitable for families.

Travelers have noted that downtown provides ample restaurants and is accessible via the MetroRail to NRG. However, dining options near the Medical Center might be limited, especially on weekends, necessitating a short rideshare to nearby areas like Rice Village for more variety.

According to forum posts, parking at IAH can be challenging due to high occupancy and ongoing construction. Travelers have recommended using off-site parking options for better rates and availability. Some travelers mentioned specific locations like Park N Fly and The Parking Spot on JFK Blvd as reliable choices, noting that reservations might be necessary for covered parking.

For those flying with specific airlines and needing terminal-close parking, it's noted that Terminal B offers a feasible option, though it often involves a walk to the airport tram. Terminal C parking was reported to be extremely busy, with some travelers experiencing difficulties finding spots.

Travelers have suggested checking the IAH official website for real-time parking status and possibly reserving parking online to ensure space and potentially save money. Links to the airport's traffic and parking updates were shared to help travelers plan their visit more efficiently.

According to forum posts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Children's Museum are highly recommended for families. These museums offer interactive exhibits that cater to a variety of age groups, making them ideal for children. Hermann Park, mentioned in the posts, also offers outdoor activities like mini-train rides and has proximity to both the zoo and the museums.

Some travelers have suggested visiting the Houston Zoo, which features a splash pad and other kid-friendly activities. For a unique experience, the Space Center Houston is a popular choice, although it is located a bit outside of Houston. The Kemah Boardwalk, also outside of Houston, offers evening fun with rides and dining options by the water.

Travelers have called out the Cistern at Buffalo Bayou Park for an interesting tour that could appeal to older children. Additionally, the NASA facility offers educational tours that are engaging for kids interested in space and science.

For outdoor enthusiasts, posts suggest checking out Discovery Green for various activities and events that are family-friendly. The park often features dining options and spaces for kids to play, making it a versatile spot for a family day out.

Some travelers recommended renting directly from the car rental center at George Bush International Airport, noting that various major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise are available. This option is described as convenient for those wanting to pick up a car immediately upon arrival.

For those preferring to rent away from the airport to potentially save on costs, it was suggested to use rideshare services to reach downtown Houston, where multiple rental offices are located. Companies such as Hertz, Avis, and National are mentioned as having local offices downtown, providing a broader range of choices away from the airport.

Travelers have called out the importance of choosing reputable rental companies. Negative experiences with lesser-known rental agencies, such as Next Car, which had issues like reservation cancellations and poor customer service, were highlighted. Thus, sticking with well-known rental providers is advised.

According to forum posts, for short-term needs or specific day trips, renting a car just for the day from a local office instead of for the entire duration of the stay could be more economical, especially when major travel is limited to nearby attractions or within the city.