I stayed at the Magnolia June 18-21, on government rate for business. Magnolia was not my first choice, but I'm glad I ended up there!
The rooms were very nice - bed was extra-comfortable, bathroom well-appointed with large garden tub/shower, excellent toiletries, hair dryer. The towels were clean and in good condition. The bath towels were a little small. The room had a small coffee pot and packets of Starbucks coffee. The mini-bar was stocked with the usual over-priced items that I did not use.
High speed wired internet (free) was excellent and never faltered during the three days I was there.
The check-in took less than 5 minutes and front desk personnel and bellmen were friendly and efficient. The lobby was clean and nicely decorated. A small gift shop was attached to the lobby and had a small supply of "emergency" items that were way overpriced.
I ate from room service twice and the service was very fast. Since I had a sandwich both times, this may have speeded up the process. The prices were high, but not unusual for a full-service hotel.
Although I did not use the pool or exercise room, I did look at both and they seemed adequate.
The Magnolia Club was a bit of a disappointment, as no one seemed to be around to greet guests. It wasn't until I was checking out and mentioned to the bellman that an on-site restaurant would be nice that I found out I could have eaten any of the three meals at the Magnolia Club. The free continental breakfast was pretty pathetic, but ok for me as I had yogurt and a muffin, with a banana "to go". A breakfast buffet was available for about $11, but signage was unclear and no waitstaff was in evidence at first. When a waiter did appear, he ignored me and another single woman and catered to the businessmen in the room. (Psst - guess what Magnolia - women do travel on business and we usually tip better!)
The Houston weather was the normal humidity, rain and heat. Free van service from the hotel to downtown locations was great and prompt.
Overall, I would stay at The Magnolia Hotel again. There was one incident of three inebriated guests in the room next to me who were extremely loud at 2 AM. I called the front desk and the response was swift and effective - good job!










