The Courtyard Dallas LBJ at Josey (2930 Forest Ln., 972/620-8000, www.marriott.com, $65 d) is a clean, reliable motel (albeit in a somewhat-marginal part of the city) 12 miles north of downtown and 14 miles from the airport. The Courtyard features free Internet access, an outdoor pool, and whirlpool, and its suites offer microwaves and minifridges. The adjacent Courtyard Café serves a hot breakfast daily.

For a slight step up, consider Staybridge Suites (7880 Alpha Rd., 972/391-0000, www.staybridge.com, $85 d), which offers a “well-equipped kitchen” in every suite, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool and whirlpool. The hotel is near the suburb of Richardson—a cab ride to downtown Dallas is fairly reasonable (typically around $20).

If you want to avoid the chains, book a room at the Texas-based MCM Elegante (2330 W. Northwest Hwy., 214/351-4477, www.mcmelegantedallas.com, $99 d). The Elegante offers complimentary shuttle service to and from both DFW and Love Field airports, an outdoor splash pool and spa tub, free wireless Internet access, and 27-inch TVs with premium cable.