Info for 4/21 Taylor Swift concert – hotel? parking? help

Hi, this is my first concert out of town & first time in Houston (I’m from SA). I feel like I’m making myself anxious trying to figure out best places to stay, traffic, parking etc. so looking for some tips on the following

1) finding a hotel near the NRG is not going well (the holiday inn down the street is charging almost $1k LOL) how bad do y’all think traffic would be / travel time if I stay near the Westchase area? Or are there other areas that might be better that aren’t charging $500+ a night?

2) has anyone taken the Rally shuttle bus before? They have pickup points around Houston & most are saying will arrive at the stadium around 5:30pm. OR would it be better to take the rail?

3) for leaving, I see there’s a target and Kroger nearby and also a Pappadeaux on the other side. How walkable is it from the stadium to one of these? Like if I decide to not do the bus or rail back, is it okay to have a ride meet us there because I imagine the stadium is going to be a literal nightmare. Or would y’all not recommend?

Feel free to offer literally any other tips for the NRG! Thank you!!!