Hotel ICON – The lobby

The award winning Hotel ICON Houston was formerly the Union National Bank, a statuesque landmark building erected in 1911 which was converted to a hotel in 2004 and is now part of the Marriott Autograph Collection. Erected with a limestone and brick façade, it’s a palatial building that reflects the grand neoclassical architectural style of the time. Today Hotel Icon continues to maintain many of its original touches such as the Corinthian columns and decorative features of Roman Gods. And now this sense of history has also been intertwined with a modern urban Texan décor to produce a result that is the ultimate in comfort and style.

Hotel Icon is located in the business downtown area and offers fabulous access to the city’s attractions including the theatre district (the second-highest concentration of theatre seats in the country), galleries and museums, Market Square, Houston Pavilions, Discovery Green and Houston’s sports districts. It also operates a handy free shuttle service to any location within the downtown area and is the only downtown hotel on the 7.5 mile, state-of-the-art Houston METROrail light rail line

On the ground floor are the hotel’s lavishly appointed L&L Bar and Line & Lariat Restaurant, both of which embody a bold energy that easily charms guests. Although I didn’t dine at the hotel restaurant, meals include a buffet breakfast and a lunch and dinner menu offering modern Texan cooking. On the lower lobby level is the Wine Vault, a private dining area with two display windows that offer views into the kitchen.

Hotel ICON – The L&L bar

The rooms were spacious, very clean and comfortable, with the deluxe king rooms featuring a Whirlpool bathtub and separate shower. There are also eighteen signature suites including a two-level Presidential Suite and a three-level Penthouse Suite. Other Hotel ICON amenities include a 24-hour executive fitness centre and an Urban Spa retreat offering special day packages, a variety of treatments as well as in-room services by appointment.

Hotel ICON – Guestroom

Hotel ICON is a visually arresting hotel with lots of character. I stayed one night at the hotel and found it to be an extremely comfortable experience. The staff were welcoming and friendly and make every effort to ensure my stay was an enjoyable one. It’s location and transportation options also make it a great hotel for business travel.

Website: http://www.hotel-icon.com/