Rob Giardinelli
From Its Iconic Texas-Shaped Lazy River To Rooftop Cocktails, Luxe Amenities, And Unbeatable Access To Houston’s Biggest Attractions, The Marriott Marquis Houston Turns Every Downtown Stay Into A Stylish Lone Star Escape
By Rob Giardinelli Photography courtesy of Marriott Marquis Houston
As many know, Houston is the ultimate Texas getaway for top concerts and sporting events. That makes Space City a frequent destination for many a Texan and those who are Texans at heart. That is why I was so happy to find a hotel in the heart of downtown with great amenities and easy access to top destinations: The Marriott Marquis Houston.
Located downtown at 1777 Walter Street, the hotel is strategically convenient to three of downtown Houston’s biggest attractions: The Houston Toyota Center, Daikin Park, and the George R. Brown Convention Center. Each is within a three-block walk of the Marriott Marquis Houston, so if you are flying in from another city, consider using rideshare instead of a rental car during your stay and take advantage of the walkability to these popular locations.
I arrived shortly before my designated check-in time and was warmly greeted by Candice, who offered a smooth check-in experience in the Marriott Bonvoy Elite Check-In line. After offering a beverage, she went on to tell me about her many favorite features of the hotel and gave me a roadmap to my stay.
After receiving directions to the elevator from Candice, I took the elevator to my room on the 29th Floor, which, during my stay, was designated a quiet floor between 10 PM and 7 AM. Upon entering, I had views of perhaps the Marriott Marquis Houston’s biggest draw: the Texas-shaped lazy river below. Inside this iconic river are chairs shaped like Texas that can be accessed by land or by water. You can take a bridge to head “Inside Texas” at either Del Rio or northwest of Fort Worth, where you can access dozens of comfy lounge chairs to get some sun and splash, and looking below, I saw many revelers doing both.
The king-sized bed in the room was spacious and comfortable with amenities that appeal to both luxury and business-oriented travelers. This included conveniences such as comfortable gray bathrobes and a shelf in the shower directly next to the showerhead for easy access to soaps, shampoos, and other bathing essentials. I also called the front desk for additional towels and pillows, which were promptly delivered within 15 minutes.
While in my room, I made a point of connecting to the hotel’s free Wi-Fi. While there is an option to purchase Wi-Fi for $14.99 per day, I found the free wi-fi to be fast and reliable. Additionally, I had strong cell reception on my smartphone, and I took several calls without a single drop.
Intrigued by what I saw down below, I headed to the Altitude Rooftop & Pool located on an outdoor terrace on the property’s 6th Floor. The best part about the Marriott Marquis Houston pool is that you can buy wristbands for in-town friends or business colleagues staying at different hotels, making it a great social gathering place for friends old and new. In addition to the Texas-shaped lazy river, there is a traditional swimming pool for laps if you are more fitness-oriented.
The High Dive is the main gathering place outside the lazy river in the pool area. Here you can enjoy great bar food and delicious drinks, including their popular pina colada, served inside a fresh pineapple, which is perfect whether you are on vacation or simply want to feel like you are.
After a stay in the pool, a great place for large groups and families to gather is Biggio’s. Named after the Houston Astros Hall of Famer, this sports bar offers delectable, yet reasonably priced bites for the entire family. The portions are incredibly generous, with a family of four easily able to enjoy two to three shareable items that will leave everyone feeling full.
If you are a business traveler, the hotel offers a host of luxe amenities to make your stay even more enjoyable. Top-tier Marriott Bonvoy members, as well as those who purchase the upgrade, have access to the M Club. Also on the 6th floor, the space offers conference rooms, comfortable seating, snacks, and a delicious free breakfast, with bacon as the most popular and sought-after item.
Additionally, the Marriott Marquis Houston boasts the magnificent PureSpa on the 6th floor as well. The spa offers a range of treatments, including individual and couples’ massages, facials, luxury body treatments, and salon services such as mani-pedis, sound bath therapy, and yoga to relax and recharge.
Anyone who travels regularly knows that hotel fitness centers are hit-or-miss. That is why I was so happy to find an exemplary fitness center waiting for me at the Marriott Marquis Houston. Located on the 6th floor, with a view of the pool area, the space has ample free weights, medicine balls, 18 treadmills, 12 elliptical machines, and stationary bicycles. The fitness center was bright, spacious, and comfortable. Upon leaving, I grabbed one of the many cool water bottles and hydrated after my hour-long treadmill workout.
No stay at the Marriott Marquis Houston is complete without stopping into Xochi. The interior Mexican restaurant offers a delectable menu of dishes from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. If you are a mole lover, I highly recommend their five-course Mole Tasting Menu, available Monday through Saturday. Make sure to upgrade and purchase the beverage pairing to fully savor the delectable menu.
Whether you are a business traveler in Houston for a convention, a sports enthusiast or concert goer looking to take in world-class acts, looking for a vacation where there is something for the whole family, or are looking for a quick staycation, the Marriott Marquis Houston has something that appeals to everyone. To book your stay at the Marriott Marquis Houston, click here.
There Are So Many Reasons To Visit Marriott Marquis Houston…
Prime downtown Houston location within walking distance of Toyota Center, Daikin Park, and George R. Brown Convention Center
Seamless, hospitality-driven arrival experience with elevated Marriott Bonvoy perks
Spectacular 29th-floor views overlooking the iconic Texas-shaped lazy river
Spacious guest rooms blending business-friendly convenience with luxury comforts
Complimentary Wi-Fi and strong cell reception are ideal for business travelers
Altitude Rooftop & Pool offers a lively social scene with private cabanas and skyline vibes
Famous Texas-shaped lazy river provides one of Houston’s most Instagram-worthy experiences
High Dive serves tropical cocktails, including a signature piña colada in a fresh pineapple
Biggio’s delivers generous portions and elevated sports bar favorites, perfect for groups
Exclusive M Club lounge features premium breakfast, meeting space, and upscale amenities
Pure Spa Houston offers massages, facials, yoga, sound bath therapy, and salon services
Expansive state-of-the-art fitness center features pool views and extensive cardio equipment
Xochi showcases award-winning Oaxacan cuisine and an unforgettable mole tasting experience
Ideal for concerts, conventions, Astros games, staycations, and weekend getaways alike
