Airport, Houston, TX (IAH-George Bush Intercontinental)
21 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Garden
About this property
Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry
Please tell us about yourself and your stay when you inquire. This is our home, and we want to get to know the people who will be staying.
This listing is a spacious private room with your own private entrance off a secret garden. Relax to the sound of a waterfall and enjoy the serenity of the 14-foot stream with fish and turtles. You will hardly believe you are right in the middle of the city. Downtown Houston—8 miles Medical Center —8-12 miles
Enjoy relaxing by the pond. Free off-street parking. Many can't believe that the secret garden is in the middle of Houston. You can not see it from the road, and when you find that your bedroom door opens to the center of it, you will be delighted. Is there magic here? Children believe it is magical. Adults take a deep breath and linger at the pond, commenting about how peaceful they feel.
It is a private room and has no kitchen access. There is a fridge and microwave in the room, and many restaurants are close by, including Asian, Mexican, Starbucks, BBQ, and Subway, some within walking distance.
I live and work on the premises, so if you need anything or have a question, I'm usually here. Your entrance is private with no access to my home. Come and go as you like. I work in the back building.
ALICE IN WONDERLAND If you like, and I am available, I can give you a tour of my monumental sculpture of Alice in Wonderland's Mad Hatter tea party. The sculpture is located in Houston, in Evelyn's Park. There is no charge for this, though I'm highly motivated by the promise of a meal. It also hosts 150 hidden things in honor of the 150th anniversary of the story. It proves to be the best selfie spot in Texas.
I also have souvenir collectibles of some of the 150 hidden things for purchase. I work both digitally and traditionally and have written a book about the process. It is also available for purchase. Depending on what is happening in the studio behind my home, I'd also be happy to show you around. Please let me know when you book that you would love a Wonderland experience.
Feel free to make this space your creative space. It is excellent for a writer's retreat, to finish those pages, or simply a getaway. Just seven miles to downtown Houston, and nine miles to the medical center. Visiting nurses and guests who need to sleep in will enjoy the blackout curtains.
WORKOUT There is an LA Fitness very close to my home. You can walk there in 10 -15 minutes. They offer day passes and have classes.
LONG-TERM STAY The room has a microwave and fridge/freezer. Many have contacted us about long-term stays, especially since it is convenient to downtown and the medical center. I certainly encourage that; however, the room has its limitations. At this time, there are no kitchen privileges. The room does not have a sink conducive to dishwashing, nor would I want food going down that part of the plumbing. I will provide you with a bin, and I can wash your dishes.
Cleaning- For long-term stay guests. We can work out a cleaning schedule that you will pay for in addition to the other fees, before your arrival. Linens and towels will be changed, trash taken out, general cleaning done, and necessary materials replaced.
Discounts for long-term stay. Please do not inquire about further discounts for a long-term stay. ++++ PLEASE NOTE: The owner has lung disease, so if you are sick, please reschedule, and we will be sure to give you as much of a refund as the platform allows. ++++ IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED We are now requiring all guests to provide us with a copy of their driver's license. I do background checks. I have also installed cameras on the property- there are no cameras in your rooms. Please send the driver's license at your earliest convenience. You may not be able to attach it until I accept, but know that I will base true acceptance of your request on the background check. I appreciate your understanding.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Freshly Renovated Studio with full kitchen, bathroom, and private gate, parking
Northeast Houston
Freshly Renovated Studio with full kitchen, bathroom, and private gate, parking
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Houston
Located in Northside, a neighbourhood in Houston, this holiday home is near theme parks and near a water park. Memorial City Mall and CityCentre are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Downtown Aquarium and Houston Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Daikin Park, or consider NRG Park for a night out. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including wildlife walks.
George R. Brown Convention Center - 11 min drive - 15.6 km
Toyota Center - 12 min drive - 14.1 km
NRG Stadium - 18 min drive - 27.4 km
Getting around
Northline Transit Center/HCC Station - 4 min drive
Kinder Station - 16 min drive
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - 31 min drive
Restaurants
Esther's Cajun Cafe & Soul Food - 3 min drive
Daily Cup - 2 min drive
The Grind House - 2 min drive
J Dykes Food Court - 16 min walk
B & W Meat Company - 9 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry on 18 Sept 2026 start from AU$136, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry?
Checkout is at 9:00 AM.
Where is Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry located?
Located in Northside, this holiday home is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from The Heights Theater and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital. Karbach Brewing and Delmar Stadium are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Quiet and close to almost everything I needed. Host was very informative about details pertaining to the stay. It was a little bit more snug than I anticipated but overall a good stay.
This property is very conveniently located for me when visiting family in Houston. It was spotlessly clean and the host provided detailed information on both check-in/checkout and the many local eateries, watering holes, attractions etc etc. I wish I had had more time to just sit and enjoy the beautiful oasis she has created in the back yard. I found myself stopping and taking it in just for a few seconds each time I came or went. The neighborhood was quiet and seemed pretty safe for a big city like Houston. The coded locks on the gate and the doors definitely added to that sense of security. I would highly recommend booking this property for it’s simplicity, ease, price, location and the tranquil garden space right outside your door!
The Secret Garden is a surprise and it is very rekaxing, The room was clean and neat. The hostess was fantastic!
Great place to stay. Easy to get to other locations.
We were in town for the weekend to enjoy some museums. Bridgette was friendly and communicative and the property is beautiful! We enjoyed the kitties too. Thank you!
This location was conveniently located to everywhere I needed to be over my weekend stay. Tucked away in a lovely backyard, it’s easy to forget you’re in a big city. Add in a visit by the resident cats, and it’s a good time.
Beautiful spot, feels right at home to stay in nature whether you’re here for work or pleasure. Host is very attentive and accommodating, and the cat “hosts” are very cuddly and sweet. 10/10!
Bridgette and her home were excellent hosts! The neighborhood is quiet and the garden is tranquil and calm. Bridgette was welcoming, accommodating and kind! Thank you so much!
This place is charming and enchanting. Very peaceful, soothing and safe. Calm energy and vibes. It was clean and comfortable with everything I needed. Bridgette is a gracious accommodating host.
Jamie C.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Mar 2025
Thank you
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Bernice H.
12 May 2019
Peaceful and tranquil environment
My husband and I enjoyed being at the garden room. We feed the turtles, as well as the fish in the pond. We got to tour her Art studio, which was a honor. She was the best hostess I have ever meet, no joke. I would definitively recommend staying there.
Bernice H.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2020
Thanks so much for your comments. I'm glad you enjoyed your stay. Come again any time.
I enjoyed my stay. I was in town for a marathon and had everything I needed. The place was quiet and restful. Bridgette had things I may have forgotten and was attentive to make sure everything was as expected. I also booked a massage with Victor - quite possibly the best massage I've ever had and was nice that I didn't even need to leave for the appointment. Overall very pleased!
Laura S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020
Verified
6/10 Okay
Brian D.
19 Apr 2025
Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Location
Nice gardens!
Bathroom was tiny and cramped making it very difficult to get in and out of the shower. Bathroom sink was also basically clogged! Room itself was like staying in your Aunt’s house with her things stuffed in the closet!!
The house and property were as described. A car is a must-have for this rental. The surrounding neighborhood was not walkable (no coffee shop or breakfast spot). The guest bathroom sink was very slow draining.
Everything about this Secret Garden says "relax." The front yard is a riot of wildflowers & tomato plants. The back is as lovely as the photos, even after suffering high winds & rains recently. The "casual wildness" reflects loving planning & execution over years.
The room itself is homey, quiet & comfortable. The host truly cares about your experience & is accommodating.
Perfect for one person.
This is hands down one of the best times I have had out of town,Bridgette’s home is absolutely wonderful,the pond is magical ,if you’re looking to relax & slow things down mentally & even spiritually ,this is the place to go ,she was so welcoming ,& so were the cats it was such a vibe ,I enjoyed showing my son her studio in the backyard where she creates her one of a kind art ,I even took him to the park where she has her absolutely huge Alice in wonderland sculptures they are so in person ,if this place is available anytime I am in houston I’m sure to be looking to book ( oh she even writes books & I purchased one she signed it for me & everything) HANDS DOWN ONE OF A KIND TIME & I appreciate the hospitality & experience .
Reuben R.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Verified
4/10 Poor
Julie r.
2 Dec 2021
Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Unpleasant stay
It had a mildewy smell, no tv, there was instructions everywhere, cat kept trying to come in, helicopters, and gunshots. We bought things to make it better. We could have dealt with the rest but the mildewy smell was making my wife nauseous. We stayed 15hrs and left the middle of the night. If your looking for a modernized place this is not for you.
Julie r.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2022
The location of this property is near adjoining neighborhoods where there are homes that I only wish I could afford. So this is not as this review sound. You are, however, in the fourth largest city in the nation. There will be loud noises. I'm so this couple did not like their stay here.
If you are new to the city of Houston, it is a humid place. The room is kept clean and dry. There was an outdoor kitten who I was fostering and was extremely affectionate and has been adopted out. So sad this couple missed out on that great affection. If you are new to vacation rentals and used to staying in a hotel it is different. It is more homey and intimate. Many love the gardens, the yard, and the eclectic feel that is my home. For some, they prefer the commercialization of a hotel. That is fine. My other reviews say what others have felt. It was this couples first time in a vacation rental. I can't wait to see others in the secret garden.
The property is just as described. I needed a nice quiet place close to downtown Houston. I had great stay. Bridgette went above and beyond to make a stay comfortable. I will be back for another visit.
Bridgette is an amazing and responsive host. Her room with a private entrance is just what a needed while working the Houston Rodeo. I hate I did not have the time to enjoy the pond, the cats and visit her sculpture of the Mad Hatter. I hope to return in the future for a staycation or a mini-retreat.
Bridgette was an excellent hostess. The room we stayed in was cozy and she made sure to make us feel welcome during our stay. It was clean, remote, and peaceful. The check in was easy and efficient. The actual room had accommodations for food and coffee as well as a microwave. She truly thought of everything to make our stay as comfortable as possible and also worked with us when our trip unexpectedly changed. She went above and beyond. Thank you Bridgette. We would definitely book again with you.
It's a great place to stay, less than 15 minutes from downtown. Brigette is accommodating and has a wealth of local knowledge about Houston. The room is great, the backyard is a treat to spend time in. I highly recommend staying here.
We were in town for a family event, the location was perfect as it was a little over a mile from where our family lives. There are many good restaurants and other conveniences close by. Unfortunately we were to busy to hangout and enjoy the garden or have Bridgette show us around.
Bridgette provided clear and detailed information about the property which made it easy to navigate. We would definitely stay again if/when we make it back to Houston.
Debbi D.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
About the host
Hosted by Bridgette Mongeon
I love to travel, but spend a good deal of time home working in my studio. I'm a sculptor, writer and public speaker and enjoy meeting people from around the world.
Why they chose this property
This area of Houston is an incredible place to live. Travel is easy as you can quickly jump on several different freeways depending on where you want to go. The area has changed over the years and now offers a variety of restaurants and entertainment. Houston itself is a great place to visit. Between the museum district and even the funky art things like the art car museum or the beer can house to the free entertainment at Miller Outdoor theater. Those visiting nurses looking for a place to stay to work in the medical center will find this location perfect for their work.
What makes this property unique
The secret garden has morphed over the years I have owned it. Many fall in love with it. Children say it is magical. My goal was to create an experience and not just a place to rest your head. Stress instantly fades away when you are here.