Um, about that ....

Used to stay at Hilton a few times back when work took me all over, and NEVER saw a Hilton where smoking is permitted. In fact I did a Google search because I was under the impression that Hilton went all smoke free, at least in N. America.

And you will find that the museum district is quite impressive, one of Houston's (few IMHO) hidden gems ^

OK, there is some good dining as well. And shopping I'm told (not a shopper).

BTW, I've taken the public bus from the airport one time (I am a budget traveler), and it's not a pleasant experience. I do Supershuttle often in Dallas, and while not great, it's OK. Going to a downtown hotel is probably better than residence, as places will be closer together, but you could easily spend and extra half hour if you are last to be dropped off. Or 20 minutes waiting for other pax to load.

And I agree with the poster who said Houston is pretty easy to drive around in - but I would check how much parking costs.