If you’re looking for a way to squeeze in more leisure and entertainment on a budget, Groupon Houston might be the service for you. The app and website are both free and offer a wide variety of deals and discounts here in Houston and all over the map. Their offers vary and change daily – it’s like a gift certificate with a discount.
But is it really a good deal? Whether you’re looking for a gift or to try something new, you’re sure to find something you love at a steal of a price. Read our Groupon review below for the low-down on what’s up with Groupon in Houston. Or, click here to browse deals now!
What is Groupon?
Groupon is an e-discount website offering deals on everything from local restaurants to winery tours and horseback riding. The offers vary widely so you can choose from restaurants, entertainment, sports, getaways, shopping, and more.
Some deals function as vouchers. You pay $X and get X service, usually at a discounted rate. For example, you can currently get a voucher for an oil change for $27.99, for a service which would normally cost $43!
Source: Groupon. Pricing and availability subject to change
Generally these voucher deals work like so:
- You purchase the voucher on Groupon
- When you’re ready to use it, either print it out or pull it up on the Groupon app on your phone
- Show the cashier, server, etc. the voucher, and they will redeem it
- If there is a balance leftover, you can usually use it later
- If you owe more than the voucher is for, you can settle up in cash
Each deal has some fine print to be aware of, and details of each Groupon vary.
Other deals, on Groupon+ in particular, offer a cash back percentage on your purchases at a certain retailer (usually restaurants). For instance, you can link your card to Groupon and earn 10-25% cashback on purchases at many restaurants in the Houston area!
The company also offers discounted travel packages, coupons, discounts on physical products, and more.
There are all sorts of deals to choose from. To get a better idea, click here to browse available deals right now!
Does Groupon Houston Have Good Deals?
Example deals. Pricing and availability subject to change.
Alright, you’re reading a website called Houston On The Cheap, so chances are you enjoy scoring a good deal. Does Groupon bring the goods?
For the most part, yes! There are some great deals to be had on Groupon.
Looking at Groupon Houston’s deals right now, we find the following examples:
- 50% off an indoor rock climbing experience for 2
- 70% off a bowling and shoe rental package for 2
- 25% cash back on a well-rated Mexican restaurant
- 90% off a portrait photo package
- 32% off a $20 voucher for some delicious pho
- 35% off an oil change
- And much, much more!
Groupon currently has 500+ deals in the Houston area, so there is a LOT to choose from. This is in addition to thousands of deals available nationwide, such as travel packages, online experiences and more.
Click here to browse Groupon Houston and find some great deals!
Is Groupon Worth It? Is It Legit?
One of your first questions about Groupon is whether or not the site is safe. Groupon is a trusted, well established company that is publicly traded on the stock market.
It uses industry-standard encryption technology to protect your data. They have teams of agents not only scouring the internet for great deals but also to help you with any security issues you may have. Your purchases with Groupon are protected and any unauthorized purchases will be handled quickly.
Groupon is not without its drawbacks but a savvy consumer can navigate the offers to save hundreds of dollars a month. When it comes to restaurants, the majority of businesses offering deals with the site are new or lesser-known locations. That means your favorite spot or chain restaurant probably isn’t advertising with Groupon. Still, it’s the perfect excuse to find that hidden Houston gem of a hot spot.
Individual Groupon deals also have reviews, which is another great feature. You can look at Groupon reviews to see how customers enjoyed the experience, if there were any issues, etc.
What’s the Fine Print?
Savvy deal-seekers should always read the fine print of any deal they are considering – on Groupon, and elsewhere. The fine print on each deal will be a little different, so you should definitely look closely.
With that said, Groupon has some guarantees that can set your mind at ease. For instance, while promotional value may expire, but the amount you paid never does. For example, if you purchase a $50 restaurant voucher for $25, the voucher might expire 12 months later. However, only the $25 discount expires – the $25 you actually paid can still be redeemed at the restaurant.
In many cases, you can also trade in unused Groupon vouchers for Groupon credit, which you can use on other deals.
All that said, there are still some things to look out for.
While Groupon can offer significant discounts, some of their deals come with a minimum purchase or other restrictions. Some of them may have specific requirements, like requiring you to make a reservation ahead of time, or restricting the voucher’s use on certain busy days.
In addition, sometimes the deal may seem like a better one than it actually is. For instance, it might say you’re getting 80% off the retail price – but there are other ways to get the item or service for under retail value, so the 80% figure is a bit misleading. Even so, it’s still often a pretty good deal.
The most common restrictions have to do with not combining discounts with other offers- which is common with most promotions. Be sure to read all of their fine print before purchase so that you get the most bang for your buck.
The last word? Groupon is a legit way to save some serious cash this summer and all year long. We use our Groupon Houston account almost daily – it’s definitely worth checking out. What’s your Groupon review? What’s the best Groupon deal in Houston that you’ve scored?
