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."
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
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."
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
Travelers who can handle the heat can spend some time by the rooftop pool at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa.Courtesy of Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
