People often do things in hotels that they would never do in their own homes, such as sleep soundly, watch Marley and Me, or let the kids drink as much shampoo as they want. Let loose with today's Groupon: for $86, you get a one-night stay and breakfast for two at South Shore Harbour Resort in League City, halfway between Houston and Galveston (up to a $173.50 value).

A jewel set in the crown of Clear Lake, South Shore Harbour Resort pampers patrons with sparkling accommodations and enticing attractions. Travel-weary tenants may take oodles of snoozes in a breezy standard room, boasting a king or two double beds, in-room movies, high-speed wireless Internet, and panoramic views of Clear Lake, the city, or a lifelike mural of Clear Lake and the city. After a night conquering dream rabbits, fast-breakers may make haste to the Paradise Reef restaurant, where an all-you-can-eat buffet awaits grumbling tums. The coming day serves up a host of activities and excitement, such as a dip or handstand in the 180-foot tropical swimming pool, with a swim-up bar tended by mixologist merfolk and a DJ on Saturdays, while the nearby 130,000 square-foot fitness center and spa houses exercise equipment, racquetball courts, and spa services by appointment ($5.40 additional access fee).

Across Clear Lake stands the Johnson Space Center and the family-friendly Space Center Houston, where kids and adults alike can pretend to eat gouda-stuffed moon rocks, just like the real astronauts do. The sprawling Kemah Boardwalk is also available to delight its strollers with waterfront restaurants, shopping opportunities, seaside shows, and the world’s densest cotton candy thicket.