Welcome to Space City’s friendly skies and the gateway to Houston’s heart – William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)! As Houston’s oldest commercial airport and a major focus city for Southwest Airlines, HOU offers a more compact and often speedier experience compared to its larger counterpart, George Bush Intercontinental. This guide is your co-pilot for everything from terminal navigation to finding the best eats, and of course, securing that prime Houston Hobby Airport parking spot.
Getting To & From William P. Hobby Airport
Whether you’re heading into Houston or jetting off, HOU is well-connected.
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- Public Transportation – METRO Bus:
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) offers bus service to and from Hobby Airport
- Public Transportation – METRO Bus:
. Route 40 (Telephone/Pasadena) serves the airport, connecting it to downtown Houston and other areas. You can find the METRO Bus stop on the Arrivals (Lower) Level, Curb Zone 3. It’s an affordable option, especially if you’re traveling light.
- Rideshares (Uber/Lyft):
Uber and Lyft are readily available. Head to the Arrivals (Lower) Level and look for signage directing you to the designated pickup areas, typically Curb Zones 5 through 9. Use your app to request your ride once you’ve collected your bags. - Taxis:
Taxis are also found on the Arrivals (Lower) Level, Curb Zone 2. Follow the signs for “Taxi Stands” to grab a cab. - Rental Cars:
The Consolidated Rental Car Facility is located a short shuttle ride from the terminal. Shuttles pick up passengers outside the Baggage Claim/Arrivals Level at Curb Zones 1A and 1B. All major rental car companies serving HOU are housed here.
Navigating Houston Hobby Airport: Terminals & Airlines
One of the great joys of flying through William P. Hobby Airport is its wonderfully straightforward layout: one main terminal building. This makes getting around a breeze! Inside, you’ll find:
- Main Lobby/Ticketing: This is where you’ll find airline check-in counters and baggage drop-offs.
- Central Concourse: This is the primary concourse, predominantly used by Southwest Airlines for domestic flights. It’s bustling with shops and dining.
- West Concourse (International Terminal): This newer concourse handles international arrivals and departures, as well as some domestic flights from other carriers.
You won’t need to worry about trains or long treks between terminals here – everything is under one roof and easily walkable.
Major airlines operating out of HOU include:
- Southwest Airlines (HOU is a major focus city for them!)
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Allegiant Air
- Frontier Airlines
Always check with your airline for the most up-to-date gate information.
Amenities & Facilities at HOU
Despite its more compact size, Hobby Airport is packed with amenities to make your travel experience pleasant.
- Food & Drink: From Texas BBQ to familiar fast-food chains and sit-down restaurants, you won’t go hungry. Look for local Houston favorites like Pappasito’s Cantina, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and more scattered throughout the concourses and pre-security.
- Shopping: Pick up last-minute travel essentials, Houston souvenirs, books, or indulge in some retail therapy at stores like ATU Duty Free (international concourse), Space Trader, and various newsstands.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Houston Hobby Airport. Connect to the “Fly2Houston” network.
- Charging Stations: Keep your devices juiced up at the numerous charging stations available in gate areas and food courts.
- Pet Relief Areas: Traveling with your four-legged companion? HOU has designated pet relief areas located outdoors post-security.
- Lounges: There’s a USO Lounge available for active military personnel and their families, offering a quiet space to relax.
- Art & Music: HOU participates in the “Harmony in the Air” program, often featuring live musical performances in the Central Concourse Rotunda, adding a lovely local touch to your airport experience.
- Children’s Play Area: Located near Gate 23 in the Central Concourse, this can be a lifesaver for families traveling with young children.
On-Site Parking at Houston Hobby Airport
William P. Hobby Airport provides several on-site parking options:
- Red Garage & Blue Garage: These are terminal-adjacent garages offering convenient, covered parking. They are the closest but also the priciest options.
- Ecopark (Valet & Self-Park): Located a bit further from the terminal, Ecopark offers more economical on-site parking with shuttle service to and from the terminal.
- Cell Phone Lot: A free waiting area for those picking up arriving passengers.
While on-site Houston Hobby Airport parking is convenient, it can be costly, especially for extended trips. During peak travel times, desirable lots can also fill up.
Cheaper Parking at Houston Hobby Airport with OneStopParking!
Why navigate the hustle of airport lots and pay premium prices when you can secure guaranteed, budget-friendly Houston Hobby Airport parking with us at OneStopParking? We partner with reputable hotels and parking facilities near HOU to bring you fantastic deals and a stress-free start to your journey.
Check out these excellent options for your next trip from Hobby Airport:
- Houston Hobby Marriott South (HOU)
- Distance: A quick 1.5 miles from Houston Hobby (HOU) Airport.
- Shuttle: Convenient 24/7 shuttle service! It leaves every 30 minutes at the top of the hour (e.g., 5:00, 5:30, 6:00).
- Price: An amazing $3.95 per day!
- Why choose Houston Hobby Marriott South? The 24/7 shuttle service is a huge plus, especially for early morning or late-night flights, and the price is unbeatable.
Hampton Inn Houston Hobby Airport (HOU)
- Distance: Even closer at just 1.2 miles from Houston Hobby (HOU) Airport.
Shuttle: Operates from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM, running on demand. Please note: No shuttle service between 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM.
- Price: Excellent value at $5.95 per day.
- Why choose Hampton Inn Houston Hobby Airport? It’s super close to the airport, and the on-demand shuttle during operational hours means minimal waiting. Perfect if your flights align with its generous shuttle hours!
Booking your Houston Hobby Airport parking through OneStopParking means you get a confirmed spot at a great rate. Our partner shuttles will get you to your terminal smoothly, letting you focus on the adventure ahead.
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Hotels Near Houston Hobby Airport
Have an awkwardly timed flight? Consider staying at one of the many hotels near Houston Hobby Airport. This can significantly reduce travel day stress, allowing you to relax and refresh. Many hotels offer park, sleep, and fly packages, which can be very economical. Some great options include:
- Houston Marriott South at Hobby Airport (also one of our fantastic parking partners!)
- Hampton Inn Houston Hobby Airport (another excellent parking partner and hotel!)
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Houston Hobby Airport
- Best Western Plus Hobby Airport Inn & Suites
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houston Hobby Airport
These hotels generally provide shuttle services and comfortable amenities, making your pre-flight or post-flight experience much more enjoyable.
Tips for a Smooth HOU Experience
- Arrive Prepared: We recommend arriving at least 1.5 to 2 hours before domestic flights and 2 to 3 hours before international flights from HOU.
- Check Flight Status: Always confirm your flight status with your airline before heading to the airport.
- TSA PreCheck: HOU has TSA PreCheck lanes. If you’re enrolled, this can significantly speed up your security screening process.
- Pack Smart: Familiarize yourself with TSA regulations for liquids and prohibited items.
- Enjoy the Vibe: HOU is known for its friendly atmosphere. Take a moment to enjoy the live music if it’s playing!
Blast Off from Hobby!
William P. Hobby Airport offers a convenient and pleasant start to your travels. And with OneStopParking, your journey begins even before you step into the terminal, with affordable, pre-booked Houston Hobby Airport parking that takes the worry out of your departure.
Next time your travels take you through Hobby Airport, let OneStopParking handle your parking needs. We’re dedicated to making your travel experience easier and more enjoyable, one parking spot at a time!