hospitality awards

Houston billionaire's Uptown hotel ranks No. 2 in Texas, says U.S. News

The Post Oak Hotel has held on to its No. 2 ranking for the second year in a row.

Photo courtesy of U.S. News & World Report

Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta's famous hotel has earned a new award to add to its trophy case. The Post Oak Hotel has claimed the No. 2 spot in U.S. News & World Report's just-released rankings of the Best Hotels in Texas for 2025 for the second consecutive year.

The 15th annual report by U.S. News analyzes more than 31,000 properties across the United States, Europe, Bermuda, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. Hotels are ranked based on industry awards, star ratings, published opinions from travel experts, and online guest reviews.

San Antonio's Hotel Emma continues its reign as the No. 1 best Texas hotel, and ranked 19th U.S. News' list of the best hotels in the nation.

The Post Oak Hotel fell into second place statewide in 2024, after previously holding the crown in 2023. It also ranks 45th in the publication's national rankings for 2025.

This resplendent hotel has been on the radar for many Houstonians and out-of-towners that want the most luxurious experiences in the city. But a stay there won't come cheap, U.S. News warns, considering its numerous amenities inside and outside their guest rooms.

"The hotel houses a salon, a spa and a fitness center equipped with weight and cardio equipment, including Peloton bikes offering live cycling classes, seasonal wellness events and occasional exercise classes," the hotel's profile says. "The pool area, billed as a 'tropical sanctuary,' is lined with cushioned lounge chairs and cabanas – and travelers say it's another fantastic perk of staying here."

The Post Oak Hotel Visitors can enjoy the best Houston has to offer. Photo courtesy of U.S. News & World Report

The hotel also boasts five different dining establishments with varying lavish cuisines.

"The hotel is also home to a chic lobby bar and The Cellar, which boasts an inventory of 30,000 bottles of wine curated by the property's sommeliers," U.S. News says.

The esteemed hotel has received many top awards as of late, including earning one Michelin Key in its inaugural Texas guide. The One Key status is awarded for hotels that provide exceptional stays with guest services that go above and beyond what other similar hotels would offer.

10 more Houston hotels earned recognition among the top 50 best hotels in Texas, including:

No. 8 – Four Seasons Hotel Houston
No. 15 – The Lancaster Hotel
No. 18 – The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
No. 20 – The St. Regis Houston
No. 23 – Hotel ZaZa Houston Memorial City
No. 32 – The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
No. 33 – The Moran CityCentre
No. 34 – JW Marriott Houston Downtown
No. 35 – Hotel Granduca Houston
No. 50 – Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwoods Village, Spring

The best resorts in Texas
In U.S. News' separate ranking of the best Texas resorts for 2025, The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa ranked No. 3 statewide, the highest out of all Houston-area resorts.

Besides its glorious forested landscape, U.S. News says this luxe resort is highly valued by guests for its expansive size.

"And with its multiple pools, tennis courts and jogging paths (all set in 27 acres of forest), it's no wonder a lot of recent guests couldn't find a reason to leave the property," the resort's profile says. "If you're looking to burn some energy, you'll find a rock-climbing wall and a gymnasium – where more than 180 fitness classes are held each week – at your service."

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa Get some laps in before heading off to the spa for a little relaxation.Photo courtesy of U.S. News & World Report

The hotel's up-to-date tech also helps improve guest experiences.

"Inside your digs, you'll find luxury bath products, Keurig coffee makers and occupancy sensors to let housekeeping know when you're in the room so as not to disturb you," the profile says.

Other Houston-area resorts that ranked among the top 25 include:

No. 8 – The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
No. 17 – Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center, Galveston
No. 24 – Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection, Galveston

hotels resorts us news & world report awards houston

all routes lead to rome

New nonstop flight connects Houston with Rome for the first time

Photo courtest of Houston Airports

Houston Mayor John Whitmire listens as Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, discusses the addition of ITA Airways at IAH.

Thinking of a Roman holiday? The good news for Houstonians is that George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will begin offering direct, nonstop flights to Rome starting next spring. It will be the first time IAH and Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Fiumicino, Italy have connected nonstop.

“We welcome ITA Airways to Houston, as it reflects our city's prominence on the global stage," said Houston Mayor John Whitmire in a press conference held on Tuesday, December 2. "The first ever route between Houston and Rome will strengthen our business, diplomatic, and cultural ties with Italy. It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston's vibrant culture, world-class healthcare, and diverse industries."

Starting May 1, 2026, ITA Airways will offer three flights a week between Houston and Rome, expanding to five flights a week beginning June 1. Houston is ITA's ninth North American destination.

“Nonstop service to Rome is a defining moment for Houston and a direct result of the strength and credibility of our airport system. This route will bring new visitors, new investment, and new business opportunities into our region,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “It expands Houston’s presence in Europe and proves that disciplined, strategic growth at Houston Airports delivers measurable economic impact. Strong airports don’t just move people. They shape markets, expand opportunity and help define a city’s place in the world.”

Flights will be made via a Airbus A330-900. The model is renowned for its comfort on long flights, including ergonomic seats, ample personal space, and a quiet cabin. Appropriately, many of the interior cabin components are made in Italy and reflect an elegant European design.

Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta, currently serving as America's ambassador to Italy, also welcomed the new route that connects his hometown with his current job.

“As a Texan and as the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, I’m thrilled by ITA’s new direct route between Houston and Rome," Fertitta said. "It strengthens the economic links that drive mutual understanding and shared prosperity. It was great working with ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart, Mayor John Whitmire, and all the partners that helped make this possible.”

The new route to Rome continues the international expansion that has been happening at IAH over the last several years. Last year, the airport announced new non-stop flights to recent vacation hotspot, Puerto Escondido, Mexico. It was part of Houston Airports' goal of making Houston the gateway to America ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Now, it looks like IAH will be welcoming Italian soccer fans, as the routes open up just in time for the sports event next summer.

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