Ever since I first heard about Texas Winter Lights at the Marriott Marquis Houston, I’ve wanted to go check it out - but I haven’t been able to make it until this year. If you’re wondering whether the experience is worth it, I would like to offer a resounding “yes!” The hotel’s iconic Texas-shaped lazy river (which is located on a rooftop pool deck, no less) is adorned with thousands of glittering lights and festive displays, and it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.
As soon as I stepped into the hotel, I knew I was in for a treat.
Not only was the lobby decked out with elegant holiday decor, but it’s also simply one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever visited. Whether you find yourself there for business or pleasure, you feel like a VIP just being in the building.
My room was on the 27th floor and offered a spectacular view of the pool deck, which is located on the 6th floor. As you can see, there is a Texas-shaped lazy river, which is the hotel’s most iconic feature.
Back to the room: it was spacious and stylish, and the bed was very comfortable. I especially loved the personalized welcome message on the TV - it’s small touches like that that really take a hotel over the top for me.
Prepare for the best night's sleep of your life, all thanks to the hotel's incredible lineup of sleep amenities. You can order in-room sleep aids, rent a sound machine, and purchase eye masks so you can feel your best on vacation.
In addition to the pool area, my room overlooked the towering downtown skyscrapers. It was a fairly overcast day when I visited, and the fog shrouding the tops of the buildings was a magical sight.
Shortly after checking in, I headed out to the pool deck to see what Texas Winter Lights was all about (hint: it exceeded all expectations!).
The lazy river is open (and heated!) for the event, so don't forget to bring a swimsuit. If you prefer a more tranquil float experience, the hotel offers early morning "quiet hours" when you can drift on the river in silence.
From lighted tunnels...
...to festive displays like nutcrackers and polar bears...
...to Insta-worthy photo-ops and even a snow machine, it was like stepping into a winter wonderland.
There was a fire pit for staying warm, plus lots of delicious snacks and drinks like popcorn, churros, candy, and apple cider and hot chocolate. Alcoholic beverages are available, but it’s worth noting that this is very much a family-friendly event. I saw tons of families with children having a blast!
One of my favorite things about Texas Winter Lights was these little swinging chairs overlooking the skyline. Between the twinkling lights strung up overhead and the city lights all around, words simply can’t convey the feeling of enchantment that washed over me.
The last thing I’d like to touch on is the food. I ordered room service for both dinner and breakfast (what can I say? I like being cozy!), and my meals were phenomenal. Pictured here is the migas skillet, which came with Southwestern l-style scrambled eggs, avocado, and seasoned beans. For dinner, I had the roast chicken and potatoes, and it was the juiciest, most flavorful chicken I’ve ever had - not exaggerating!
If you're keen on having the full in-person restaurant experience, you have lots of delicious options. From MLB-legend-owned Biggio's to Cueva, a Spanish wine bar with over 200 wine selections, there are six food and beverage outlets sure to please every palate.
In addition to Texas Winter Lights, the Marriott Marquis Houston plays host to several other events throughout the year, including a summer concert series and full moon parties.
Texas Winter Lights 2023 runs through December 31.
Please visit the Marriott Marquis Houston website or the Marriott Marquis Houston Facebook page for more information about Texas Winter Lights and the hotel in general, and to book a room.
Have you ever been to Texas Winter Lights at the Marriott Marquis Houston? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments!
Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby park, Discovery Green, that’s right across the street from the hotel. It’s the perfect addition to your itinerary!
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