Best hotels in The Woodlands, Texas for kids and families

Editor’s note: Robin Soslow was a guest at several hotels in The Woodlands that paid for her stay during reporting. All opinions expressed below are entirely hers and were not subject to review by any of the hotels that hosted her. 

But how do you choose a hotel your family will love? You want to be close to those great Woodlands parks, waterways, restaurants, activities and shopping—and you might also want perks such as pools, free breakfast and spacious rooms.

We recently visited the area and compiled a list of family-friendly hotels in The Woodlands that are sure to please everyone in your brood.

Seeking big rooms, comfy furnishings, friendly staff, full breakfasts and a bang for your buck? The Hilton Garden Inn Houston/The Woodlands has it all and is dog- and cat-friendly.

Families can relax in front of the cozy fireplace in the lobby that’s adjacent to the breakfast room, Garden Grille & Bar and the pool or enjoy their rooms which feature living rooms with sofa beds, mini fridges, microwaves, coffee makers and comfy beds. Active families will especially appreciate the self-service coin laundry. And, the pavilion and the shops and restaurants of Market Street are conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel, making the hotel even more attractive to families

“Our entire team is dedicated to the mission of being the cleanest and friendliest hotel … and being our guests’ home away from home,” said General Manager Leila-Marie Wong. “Little extras personalized to every guest and family keep them returning time and time again.”  

Families come from all over Texas to stay at The Woodlands Resort, and it’s easy to see why. The resort boasts a Forest Oasis Waterpark & Lazy River with water slides, waterfalls and a lazy river, plus a sprayground for kids with a zero-entry pool, perfect for those hot Texas days. Kid-focused programming includes foam parties, arts and crafts, kids’ karaoke and coloring sheets featuring scenes created by The Woodlands-based artist Judith Dollar.

Simon Yap, a resident of The Woodlands who shares family-friendly travel finds on his Instagram page says the resort is “great for families” and we couldn’t agree more. 

Relax in one of the resort’s leveled-up suites that feature a sofa bed, mini fridge and large TV or stroll 350 acres of meticulously-cared-for grounds between crafts, lawn games, lakeside movies, pickleball, golf and tennis. “You feel like you are miles away from everything, surrounded by trees and nature,” said Kelly McCourt, director of marketing at The Woodlands Resort. 

The Woodlands Resort offers five places to eat and drink, including Harrison’s by the lake and Cool Water Bar & Grill by the pools. Guests can also grab a table on the patio beside the 18th hole of the Panther Trail Golf Course when dining at Back Table Kitchen & Bar. Here, enjoy twists on Southern-inspired cooking, fancy ice cream desserts, cocktails and mocktails. 

The hotel’s well designed, compact rooms are outfitted with workspaces, mini fridges and sofa beds, making it an ideal spot for families. The Hyatt Place Houston/The Woodlands also offers cribs and guest laundry services, and is dog-friendly.

Relax at the outdoor pool with shaded areas or enjoy food and drinks in the lobby’s restaurant or 24-hour, on-site Starbucks. Either way, the wooded neighborhood adds a pleasant touch for getaways. 

Insider tip: Pack a picnic, cross Grogans Mill Road and take the hike-bike path that leads to the beautiful waterfront at Hughes Landing. Here, you can grab a shaded table and watch the kayakers and then walk a few more minutes to reach the Landing’s entertainment, dining and recreation district. 

Families seeking a well-appointed hotel with great service will be in good hands at the The Westin at The Woodlands.

The stylish, pet-friendly rooms at The Westin at The Woodlands boast the brand’s famous Heavenly Beds as well as rain-shower baths that make getting kids to take showers easy. The rooftop infinity pool is heated during cooler months and a great spot to relax in warm weather. Want to make it a pool day? Surprise the family with a luxurious private cabana. 

For meals, the main and side dishes and desserts at the hotel’s swanky Sorriso Modern Italian Kitchen are not to be missed. Order the authentic Margherita pizza for the kids, and you’ll be able to poach a slice or two. Be sure to toast your stay with a glass of wine, as the restaurant was the recipient of the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence in 2019, 2020 and 2021.

“We strive to create an upscale experience that goes above and beyond, ensuring that our visitors feel pampered and well-cared for,” said Ernesto Rivera, director of operations at The Westin at The Woodlands. 

The free hot breakfast and complimentary early evening reception with veggies, snacks, soft drinks and adult beverages served every day at Embassy Suites by Hilton The Woodlands at Hughes Landing are two prized benefits for busy parents watching their budget and needing a break from always finding the next place to eat. 

The hotel’s proximity to attractions also makes this hotel a hit for families. Catch a ride on The Woodlands’ free, frequent trolley, which runs a four-mile loop all day and evening to places such as The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, The Woodlands Waterway and other fun spots, and makes stops right in front of the hotel. Several restaurants and Lakes Edge Boathouse, where the family can rent kayaks and paddleboards, are located an easy stroll from the hotel, too.

Rooms and suites at this dog-friendly hotel are outfitted with comfy beds, microwaves and mini fridges. Some rooms have sofa beds, and you may also choose to stay in connecting rooms. Relax at the outdoor pool and keep clothes fresh with the self-laundry. 

Just off I-45, this pet-friendly hotel stretches the family dollar with low rates, free breakfast, a nightly “Kickback” happy hour with hot food and drinks, as well as free popcorn and soft drinks nearly anytime. Room amenities include a microwave and mini fridge, and suites have a bedroom separated by a door from the living area, which has a pull-out double sofa sleeper. Kids and parents will also enjoy swimming in the recently renovated outdoor pool and taking a dip in the hot tub.

This story was edited by Hearst Newspapers Managing Editor Kristina Moy; you can contact her at [email protected].