The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

The Romans had it right. They discussed business while they exercised, which subsequently turned into making deals as they relaxed afterwards in luxurious baths before being pampered, perfumed and made ready to enjoy an evening’s bacchanal to celebrate. Located on an 18-acre wooded sanctuary near Memorial Park, The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa gives you plenty of opportunity to sweat, stretch and self-indulge whether it’s for business or pleasure. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling views of the lush grounds, premium bedding and all the latest high-tech gadgets. Guests have access to one of the nation's top 10 fitness centers, The Houstonian Club, which has 125,000 square feet of exercise machines, indoor and outdoor walking/running tracks, a 20-foot rock climbing wall, a full-size basketball court, eight outdoor tennis courts, three swimming pools, squash and racquetball courts and a staggering 100 group exercise classes per week. There’s also a posh spa with an indoor float pool and more than 100 decadent treatments. One of our favorite spots is The Manor House, an elegant old home on the property which overlooks the landscaped grounds and is an exclusive restaurant for hotel guests and members of the health club only.

We love the gigantic wood-burning fireplace in the lobby—it makes us feel like we're in an exclusive hunting lodge.