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Nestled at the gateway to Houston’s Museum District and overlooking the lush expanse of Hermann Park, Hotel ZaZa Houston is more than just a luxury boutique hotel – it’s a living piece of the city’s history, reimagined with flair, fantasy, and sophistication.
From Warwick to ZaZa: A Storied Past
Before it became the eclectic and glamorous Hotel ZaZa in 2007, the building was known as The Warwick Hotel, one of Houston’s first luxury hotels. Built in 1926, the Warwick quickly became a city icon, renowned for its elegant architecture and breathtaking views.
The hotel was designed by Joseph Finger, a prominent Houston architect best known for designing Houston’s iconic City Hall. His work on the Warwick reflected the grandeur and sophistication of early 20th-century design, blending classical elements with modern luxury.
Legendary entertainer Bob Hope once called the view from the top of the Warwick “the most beautiful I’ve ever seen.” The hotel was purchased by oil tycoon John Mecom Sr in 1962 and underwent renovations before reopening in 1964. Decades later, the transformation into Hotel ZaZa brought a bold new identity to the historic structure, blending its classic bones with modern opulence and artistic flair.
Location, Location, Location
Hotel ZaZa sits at 5701 Main Street, right in the heart of Houston’s Museum District. It’s surrounded by cultural gems like the Museum of Fine Arts, Contemporary Arts Museum, Holocaust Museum, and Houston Museum of Natural Science. Rice University is just a short walk away, and the METRORail station across the street offers easy access to Downtown and the Texas Medical Center.
The hotel’s proximity to Hermann Park and the Mecom Fountain adds a serene, picturesque charm to its urban setting, making it a perfect base for both leisure and business travelers.
A Feast for the Senses
Hotel ZaZa is known for its whimsical and luxurious design. From velvet furnishings and crystal chandeliers to themed fantasy suites, every corner of the hotel is curated to surprise and delight. The top floor features the Magnificent Seven Suites, each with its own theme—like the “Rock Star Suite” or “Black Label”—designed to fulfill your wildest dreams. One suite even includes an outdoor bathtub on the balcony, offering panoramic views of the city.
The Gothic-Themed Room: “Hard Times”
Among ZaZa’s most talked-about rooms is Room 322, nicknamed “Hard Times”, which has gained internet fame for its gothic dungeon-like aesthetic. This compact room features exposed brick walls, chains linking the bed to the wall, and eerie artwork, including portraits of long-necked, large-eyed characters and a mysterious figure believed to resemble a former financial executive.
Guests have described it as a “goth dungeon closet”, and while it’s smaller than typical ZaZa rooms, it’s fully equipped and intentionally designed to evoke a playful, jail-like vibe. It’s a favorite for those seeking a quirky, offbeat experience—and yes, the hotel will happily move you to a more traditional room if it’s not your style.
Dining & Wellness
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Monarch, is helmed by local celebrity chefs and serves Gulf Coast-inspired cuisine. Guests rave about dishes like Southern-style shrimp and grits and seared scallops with peas and carrots. The vibe is upscale yet inviting, perfect for romantic dinners or business lunches.
For relaxation, ZaSpa offers a full suite of treatments—from facials to massages—alongside a sauna, steam showers, and an oxygen lounge. The French Riviera-style pool and state-of-the-art gym round out the wellness offerings.
Houston has Character
Whether you are looking for modern, or historic, a good time, or a good story. Houston has it all. Reach out with any questions regarding neighborhoods, markets, or simply for a cup of coffee!
