What is the Best Airport for MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston?
MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world’s leading cancer treatment and research facilities. It attracts thousands of patients and their families from around the globe every year, and with such a diverse range of visitors, it's important to know the best ways to get to MD Anderson and what accommodations are available nearby.
Let’s explore the best airports for patients and families to MD Anderson, the benefits of places to stay near the center, and the different commuting options, including shuttles, rental cars, and ridesharing services like Lyft and Uber.
What is the Best Airport for MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston?
By Luxurway
What is MD Anderson Cancer Center?
MD Anderson Cancer Center is one of the largest and most respected cancer treatment and research centers in the world. Founded in 1941 and part of the University of Texas System, it has gained recognition for its innovative research and treatment protocols. With a focus on patient-centered care, MD Anderson serves hundreds of thousands of patients each year from around the globe. The center aims not just to treat cancer but to eradicate it through groundbreaking research, personalized treatment plans, and a holistic approach to care.
The Best Airports for MD Anderson
Houston is served by two major airports, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Both are within reasonable distance of MD Anderson, but one may offer more advantages depending on your specific needs.
1. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Distance to MD Anderson: Approximately 25 miles, or a 30-40 minute drive.
Why IAH might be the best option:
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is Houston’s largest airport and handles the majority of international and long-haul flights. If you are flying in from outside the United States or from other major hubs, IAH is likely to be your primary arrival point. Despite being further from MD Anderson compared to Hobby Airport, IAH is well connected to various transportation options, including shuttles, taxis, and rental cars, making it easy to get to the medical center.
IAH is also home to a number of amenities such as lounges, restaurants, and services that can make your layover or travel experience more comfortable.
2. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
Distance to MD Anderson: Approximately 10 miles, or a 15-20 minute drive.
Why HOU might be the best option:
Hobby Airport is closer to MD Anderson, which makes it the more convenient option for those arriving from within the United States, especially if your flight is domestic or regional. While it’s smaller than IAH, Hobby has a good selection of flights, including those from Southwest Airlines, which tends to offer budget-friendly options.
HOU is often preferred by patients and visitors who don’t want to deal with the extended commute time from IAH. The airport is known for being more manageable and less congested, which can be a plus for travelers who want a more relaxed airport experience.
LUXURWAY offers private fully-furnished homes and apartments for rent for MD Anderson Cancer Center patients and their families. A comfortable, peaceful and private home to rent near MD Anderson.
Homes are fully-furnished, fully-renovated and all utilities-included within 1-5 miles (3-15 minute drive) from MD Anderson.
Benefits of Lodging Near MD Anderson
When visiting MD Anderson, it’s essential to consider where you’ll stay during your treatment or visit. Staying close to the hospital offers a variety of benefits:
1. Proximity to Appointments
MD Anderson is a large campus with several buildings dedicated to different aspects of cancer care, including treatment, research, and consultation. Being close to the medical center allows for easy access to appointments and minimizes travel time, which can be especially beneficial for those undergoing treatment or dealing with health issues.
2. Convenience for Family and Caregivers
Family members or caregivers will likely want to stay close to MD Anderson to support their loved ones during treatment. Having accommodations near the center means they can easily visit and provide assistance without having to worry about long commutes. Additionally, hotels near MD Anderson often offer services tailored to cancer patients and their families, such as transportation assistance, meal services, and even counseling or relaxation programs.
3. More Accommodation Options
Houston has an extensive range of hotels and lodgings near MD Anderson. From budget-friendly options to luxury hotels, you’ll find something that suits your needs. Some of the hotels near MD Anderson even offer discounts for patients, making the financial burden of traveling for medical treatment more manageable. Notable hotels in the area include the Hotel Zaza, Marriott, and the Houstonian Hotel, which are all within a short distance from the center.
4. Peaceful Surroundings
Staying near MD Anderson allows you to choose accommodations that are both comfortable and peaceful. Many hotels in the area offer serene environments and access to parks, which can be a welcome relief for patients and their families. Having a relaxing place to unwind after a long day at the hospital can help reduce stress during a difficult time.
Commuting to MD Anderson: Shuttles, Rental Cars, or Lyft/Uber?
Once you’ve arrived in Houston, you’ll need to figure out how to get to MD Anderson. There are several transportation options to choose from, each with its own set of benefits. Let’s take a look at the different options:
1. Shuttles
MD Anderson offers a free shuttle service to and from key locations in the Houston area, including nearby hotels and airports. This is one of the most convenient and cost-effective options for patients and visitors. The shuttle service is especially helpful for those who may have limited mobility or prefer not to rent a car. The hospital’s shuttle services are reliable, and they run at scheduled times, which means you can plan ahead for your trip.
Benefits:
Free of charge for patients and visitors.
Convenient, with scheduled departures.
Great for those who want to avoid the hassle of navigating traffic or parking.
Drawbacks:
Limited availability and departure times.
Potentially crowded, especially during peak times.
2. Rental Cars
Renting a car gives you the flexibility to come and go as you please. With many car rental agencies located at both IAH and HOU, getting a rental car is relatively easy. If you plan to explore Houston or have multiple appointments in different locations, a rental car may be the best choice. However, keep in mind that parking at MD Anderson can be expensive, and traffic around the medical center can be heavy during certain times of day.
Benefits:
Flexibility to travel when you need to.
Ability to explore the city during your downtime.
Drawbacks:
Expensive parking at MD Anderson.
Dealing with traffic, especially during rush hour.
May not be necessary for those who only need to visit the hospital.
3. Lyft and Uber
Lyft and Uber are convenient and widely available in Houston. Both ridesharing services provide door-to-door transportation, making it easy to get from the airport or your hotel to MD Anderson. Rideshare apps are particularly useful if you don’t want to worry about parking or navigating the city yourself. They are often a good choice for short trips, and the fare is calculated based on distance and time.
Benefits:
Convenient and easy to use.
No need to park or deal with driving.
Available 24/7.
Drawbacks:
Fares can vary depending on demand and traffic conditions.
Surge pricing may apply during busy times.
Might not be as cost-effective for longer stays.
An extended stay in Houston typically refers to a lodging option designed for people who need to stay for a longer period, usually a week or more.
Unlike traditional hotels, extended stay accommodations often provide more amenities and services to cater to long-term guests in Houston for MD Anderson lodging or temporary housing near the Texas Medical Center.
Renting a Furnished Home or Apartment near MD Anderson with Luxurway
For those needing longer stays in Houston, renting a furnished home or apartment through Luxurway offers comfort, privacy, and flexibility that hotels may not. Furnished lodging near MD Anderson is ideal for patients undergoing extended treatment at MD Anderson, as it provides a homelike environment, more space, and the ability to cook meals, which can be both comforting and cost-effective.
Benefits of Luxurway’s Furnished Rental Homes near MD Anderson:
Comfort and Privacy: A furnished rental provides the privacy and comfort of a home, with spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and private bedrooms.
Cost-Effective: For extended stays, renting a home or apartment is often more affordable than booking a hotel, especially with the added benefit of cooking your own meals.
Convenience: With flexible rental terms and properties close to MD Anderson, Luxurway offers easy access to appointments and surrounding amenities.
Tailored Amenities: Luxurway properties come with premium amenities like high-speed internet, concierge services, fitness centers, and pet-friendly options, making your stay more enjoyable.
How to Rent a Home or Apartment with Luxurway
Browse Listings: Explore available properties on the Luxurway website or consult with their team to find a rental that suits your needs.
Consult with a Specialist: Get help in selecting the ideal property based on your preferences and proximity to MD Anderson.
Book Your Stay: Reserve your rental through Luxurway, with assistance in lease agreements and payment terms.
Move In: Enjoy a fully furnished, hassle-free home during your treatment.
Renting a furnished home or apartment through Luxurway is a great option for those seeking comfort, convenience, and flexibility during their stay in Houston for MD Anderson treatment.
Next Steps for MD Anderson Lodging?
When planning your visit to MD Anderson, the choice of airport depends largely on where you’re coming from. IAH is the best option for international and long-haul flights, while HOU is more convenient for domestic travelers.
Staying near MD Anderson offers numerous benefits, from proximity to appointments to comfort and convenience for caregivers. As for transportation, shuttles are a great option for those who want a free, reliable ride to the hospital. Rental cars offer flexibility but come with the added cost of parking, while Lyft and Uber provide a convenient alternative without the hassle of driving.
LUXURWAY offers MD Anderson patient housing in Houston
Luxurway offers comfortable and affordable MD Anderson housing with private fully-furnished homes for rent for MD Anderson Cancer Center patients and their families. We understand you may be coming to receive treatment and need a warm and peaceful home to rent near MDA. We are here to help.
We offer fully-furnished, fully-renovated and all utilities-included private home rentals located within 1-5 miles (3-15 minute drive) from MD Anderson. Foregoe hotels near MD Anderson, and instead contact us for MD Anderson housing to rent a home away from home.
Contact us to inquire about our MD Anderson home rental availability and pricing for your stay in Houston.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to stay near MD Anderson Cancer Center?
Luxurway is a top luxury option for furnished lodging near MD Anderson, known for its high-quality accommodations and services.Does MD Anderson have a shuttle to the airport?
Yes, MD Anderson offers shuttle services to and from local airports.Is there a shuttle from Hobby Airport to MD Anderson?
Yes, there are shuttle options available from Hobby Airport to MD Anderson.Which airport is closer to MD Anderson in Houston?
William P. Hobby Airport is closer to MD Anderson than George Bush Intercontinental Airport.How big is MD Anderson in Houston?
MD Anderson is one of the largest cancer centers in the world, with a vast campus featuring multiple buildings and facilities.Is Texas Medical Center the same as MD Anderson?
No, Texas Medical Center is a larger complex that includes MD Anderson along with other hospitals and research institutions.Does MD Anderson have multiple locations?
Yes, MD Anderson has multiple locations across Texas and other states, including outpatient clinics.What is MD Anderson Houston rated?
MD Anderson is consistently ranked among the top cancer treatment centers in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.What are the best things to see and do around my hotel near MD Anderson Cancer Center?
Nearby attractions include the Houston Museum District, Hermann Park, and the Houston Zoo.What kind of cancer does MD Anderson specialize in?
MD Anderson specializes in all types of cancer, with particular expertise in complex cases and rare cancers.What types of cancer does MD Anderson treat?
MD Anderson treats all types of cancer, with expertise in complex cases and rare cancers.How do I make an appointment at MD Anderson?
You can make an appointment online through their website or by calling their patient services.What insurance plans does MD Anderson accept?
MD Anderson accepts a variety of insurance plans; it's best to check their website or contact their billing department for specific details.What is the survival rate for patients treated at MD Anderson?
MD Anderson has high survival rates, but specific rates vary by cancer type; they publish outcomes on their website.How does MD Anderson rank among cancer treatment centers?
MD Anderson is consistently ranked among the top cancer treatment centers in the U.S. by sources like U.S. News & World Report.What clinical trials are available at MD Anderson?
MD Anderson offers a wide range of clinical trials for various cancer types, which can be explored on their website.Does MD Anderson offer second opinions?
Yes, MD Anderson provides second opinions for patients seeking confirmation or alternative treatment options.What support services are available for patients and families?
Support services include counseling, nutritional guidance, social work, and spiritual care.How can I get to MD Anderson from the airport?
Shuttle services and rideshare options are available from both Hobby and Bush Intercontinental Airports to MD Anderson.What accommodations are available for patients traveling to MD Anderson?
There are various nearby hotels and housing options, including specific accommodations designed for patients and their families.