Entire home

Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry

Photo gallery for Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry

Your private entrance-french doors open to an upper pond, a 14 foot stream.
Property grounds
sit at the upper pond and talk to the turtles while you have your coffee.
The upper pond and bench is just outside your door.
Queen bed with extra linens. Black out curtains for those working nights.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Houston, TX
  • Daikin Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Toyota Center
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • George R. Brown Convention Center
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Houston, TX (JDX-Central Business District Heliport)
    ‪19 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 that will be staying.

Spacious private room with your own private entrance off of a secret garden. Relax to the sound of a waterfall, 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

Snacks are in your room for you to snack on or for breakfast. Enjoy them by the pond or while swinging in a hammock. 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 there are many different restaurants close by including Mexican, Starbucks, BBQ, Subway. Simple snacks are provided.

I live and work on the premises so if you should have a need or 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.

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. It 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 are booking that you would love to have a Wonderland experience.

Feel free to make this space your creative space. It is great for a writers retreat, to finish those pages, or simply a get away.
Just seven miles to downtown Houston, and nine miles to the medical center.
Visiting nurses and guests that need to sleep in will enjoy the black out curtains.

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.


The room has a microwave and fridge/freezer. Many have made contact about long term stay, 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 contain the type of sink that is conducive to cleaning dishes, nor would I want food going down that part of the plumbing.

Cleaning- For long term stay guests. The room will be cleaned once a week on Wednesdays 12 and 3:00p.m. I'll let you know in advance. There will be an additional fee agreed upon and paid before your arrival. Linens and towels will be changed, trash taken out and general cleaning, as well as watering plants and replacing necessary materials.

Discounts for log term stay. Please do not inquire about further discounts for long term stay.
++++
THE OWNER IS AT RISK We are slowly opening back up during COVID. There are some changes to the policy. Masks are required outside, and you must strip bed and put linens in hamper before leaving. Please let the owner know if you have been vaccinated. It helps us to keep cleaning crew safe as well as host.
++++
We are now requiring all guests to provide me a copy of their drivers lisc. I will be doing background checks. I have also installed cameras on the property. Please send at your earliest convenience, and know that your true acceptance is based on this. Thank you for your understanding.

Property manager

Bridgette Mongeon

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 9:00 AM
default

Children

Adults only
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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. 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.
Map
Houston, TX

What's nearby

  • The Heights Theater - 5 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Downtown Aquarium - 10 min drive - 11.2 km
  • Daikin Park - 11 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Toyota Center - 11 min drive - 12.6 km
  • George R. Brown Convention Center - 13 min drive - 13.0 km

Getting around

  • Northline Transit Center/HCC Station - 4 min drive
  • Houston Station - 21 min drive
  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪B & W Meat Co - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Church's Chicken - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Esther's Cajun Cafe & Soul Food - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Miller's Cafe - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Secret Garden-Near Downtown Houston-Private Entry?

Check-in begins at 4:00 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 White Oak Music Hall are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mercedes M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay!

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!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jamie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secret Garden

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Michelle P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

October 2024 long weekend stay

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Phyllis R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Secret Garden

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Houston Oasis

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.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolute wonderful stay

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jalen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Great place. Very cozy. Great location
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Willie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay

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.
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truly a well kept Secret. Will be back!!!

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jackson H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great 👍

Great 👍
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jackson H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Well kept Secret, Take it if it's avaliable

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.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Debbi D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, private and cozy.

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

4/10 Poor

Julie r.

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

John L., Highland Falls, NY

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very close to The Heights

10mins to some of the best coffee shops, bars and restaurants Houston has to offer. Accommodations were exactly as listed. I have a cat allergy, so didn't sit out in the back yard oasis as much as I wanted but did enjoy a few mins in the morning and evening between ride pick ups. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Julie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A peaceful stay

This place was exactly what I needed after a long semester of teaching high school students. It was clean, colorful and the garden was lush. Hi particularly like the fact that it's so close to everything I needed.. restaurants, gas stations and the highway. I highly recommend that you stay here in the near future.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Cat Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay

Host was kind and accommodating. The property was comfortable and the gardens were beautiful. Thank you for sharing your space and amazing home.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Craig Z., Byers

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

enjoyed my stay

was a great place to stay
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

barry s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace and quiet

What a wonderful experience staying at this property. Bridgette was very accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Derrick F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway in Houston

This is a great little room if you're passing through town or need a longer stay. The fountain is soothing during the evening and the owner goes out of her way to accommodate you. The bathroom sink seemed to have some issues draining quickly, but the bathroom was well supplied with anything you could need.
Stayed 22 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

Very gracious host. Wonderful room and the property is just enchanting

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanting

This property is beautiful and Bridget is an awesome host. She is available any time needed. Very clean.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mystical

Mystical, beautiful property! While they are recovering from the snow, this property is beautiful and enchanting. The owner is so gracious and kind. Attentive to your every need without hoovering. Definitely on my list to revisit.

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Property with excellent host.

The host is so gracious without hovering. The property is beautiful.
Stayed 15 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay!!

The owner is kind and accommodating
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Laura S., O'Fallon, MO, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

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!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020

About the host

Hosted by Bridgette Mongeon

Host profile image
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.

Languages:

English