As the pilot’s wife, I’m always up for an adventure, even when it’s a last-minute staycation in our hometown of Houston. Thanks to the pilot’s reserve schedule, we couldn’t plan too far in advance, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying a memorable New Year’s Eve right here in the heart of the city.
A Magnolia Marvel: The Perfect Stay
We kicked off our NYE staycation with a short drive into town. Surprisingly, there was no traffic on that Sunday evening, setting a positive tone for our getaway. Our destination? The elegant Magnolia Hotel, a hidden gem in downtown Houston.
The Magnolia Hotel boasts a rich history, which I couldn’t help but appreciate. Its beautifully appointed rooms, numerous amenities, and excellent service make it a top choice for a staycation. We were even fortunate enough to secure a special United Airlines rate, a little-known secret that can lead to significant savings.
A Corner Suite and Late Checkout: Pure Luxury
Upon checking in, we received an unexpected treat: an upgrade to a corner suite with a kitchenette and a luxurious tub. This was perfect, considering we planned to stay for two nights. The hotel also graciously extended our checkout time to 4 pm, allowing us to make the most of our stay.
NYE Delights at Potente
For our New Year’s Eve dinner, we didn’t have to go far. Potente, one of our favorite restaurants, was just a 5-minute walk away. They offered a delectable prix-fixe menu that we shared, accompanied by the lively tunes of a live band in the bar area. After our meal, we decided to hit a few bars in the area to ring in the New Year.
Breakfast Bliss and a Football Fix
The next morning, we rose early to enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel, courtesy of my husband’s Bonvoy status. The chorizo, egg, and cheese breakfast tacos were a hit, paired perfectly with fresh fruit and coffee. Of course, we couldn’t resist a morning mimosa.
Afterwards, we geared up for some football action, and luckily for us, LSU emerged victorious. As a huge LSU fan, my husband was on cloud nine. We then ventured to the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation, indulging in their mouthwatering queso and frozen margaritas. Don’t miss their queso, which you can order in a smaller side size if you’re looking for a light bite.
Groovy Vibes and Lupe Tortilla at Little Woodrow’s
Our day continued with a visit to Bauhaus, where we soaked in the beats of a few DJs. The atmosphere was electric, making it an ideal spot to unwind. We also made a pit stop at Little Woodrow’s to watch the Longhorns play, even though the game didn’t go as planned. The silver lining was the Lupe Tortilla food truck, offering limited but tasty food options.
Uber Convenience and Cheers to 2024
Throughout our staycation, Uber was our trusty companion, ensuring convenient and readily available transportation at every turn. After a few days filled with delicious food, football, and fun, it’s time to check out of the Magnolia Hotel and embrace all the adventures that 2024 has in store.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead, filled with more exciting journeys and unforgettable experiences! Cheers to 2024! 🥂✈️
Jet-Set Journeys 
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