I live in Houston and attend Festival every year, but I don't know a lot about the hotel situation. If you are at one of the large hotels downtown, they might have a breakfast buffet. You can probably find out thru their website. As I remember there is usually food available upstairs before the Festival opens. I don't know what the quality is though. If you don't have a car, I would suggest taking one of the quilt shop tours. There are no quilt shops downtown that I know of. There used to be one large fabric shop, but it may or may not be within walking distance of the hotel. I don't now anything about the taxi vs shuttle. I believe most of the large hotels have a free airport shuttle, but you would have to confirm this thru your hotel.
Also, remember there are discounts. I believe there is one for the Supershuttle.
Last edited by cashs_mom; 10-08-2015 at 05:39 PM.