Getting to NRG Park in Houston, Texas
NRG Park in Houston, Texas, is home to the NFL Houston Texans and hosts events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, concerts, and Disney on Ice. The complex includes NRG Stadium, NRG Center, NRG Arena, and NRG Astrodome, previously known as Reliant Park until 2014. Due to its diverse offerings, visitors often face heavy traffic during events.
The 350,000-acre complex features approximately 26,000 parking spots. Although ample parking is available, finding affordable options can be challenging, especially during peak times when many event-goers converge on the area. Therefore, consider your travel dynamics—where you’re coming from, the time of day, and whether you plan to consume alcohol—when deciding how to get to NRG Park. Below are several convenient options:
1. Public Transportation
For visitors not residing nearby, public transportation is typically the most economical option to reach NRG Park. The Houston METRORail’s Red Line stops less than a quarter-mile from NRG Arena. While public transit can appear daunting for first-time users, METRO’s rail infrastructure is user-friendly: locate your nearest stop, wait for the train heading in your direction, and board.
The fare is $1.25 (exact change is required), and wait times for the Red Line can vary from 6 to 20 minutes depending on the time of day. METRO Ticket Vending Machines accept credit and debit cards for added convenience.
The Red Line extends from the Fannin South transfer center (1604 W. Belfort Avenue), just a stop south of NRG Stadium. Parking there typically costs around $3.00, though this can spike to $15 on game days, which includes round-trip fares for all occupants.
If you prefer not to carry cash, consider obtaining a METRO Q Fare Card, a reloadable debit card that allows seamless travel on METRORail and buses. With the Q card, transfers are complimentary for three hours following your initial payment, making it ideal for those switching routes. Q cards can be acquired online, at METRO stores, or customer service desks in grocery stores.
Additionally, mobile ticketing is available for greater convenience.
2. Ride Share
Using a ride-sharing service like Uber to reach NRG Park is another convenient alternative. Designated pick-up and drop-off areas exist, with the Uber NRG Stadium zone located at the intersection of Lantern Point Drive and Murworth Drive. Keep in mind that ride-share costs can fluctuate depending on destination and surge pricing; thus, it is wise to use the fare estimator on the app before booking. Furthermore, the Split Fare feature allows groups to share costs, making it an economical choice if you’re planning to enjoy drinks during the event.
Taxis are also a viable option, easily reachable via direct contact or through the Arro app.
3. Driving
If you choose to drive, expect to take either the 1C Kirby Drive exit or the 1B Fannin Street exit off I-610 Loop based on your desired destination within the complex. Below are detailed directions for various routes:
Directions from the North Side of Houston
Driving from the north involves taking I-45 south to Hwy 288 South. Then, merge onto the I-610 Loop West, exiting at either Kirby Drive or Fannin Street. The park is located less than a mile from these exits.
Directions from the South Side of Houston
Traveling inbound from either Hwy 288 or I-45 North, exit to I-610 Loop West, and choose either the 1C exit for Kirby Drive or the 1B exit for Fannin Street to reach NRG Park.
Directions from the West Side of Houston
From I-10 west, navigate to exit 763 onto I-610 Loop South and finally exit at either Kirby Drive or Fannin Street for direct access to the park.
Directions from the East Side of Houston
For those coming from the east, take TX-225 West to I-610 Loop West, with exits available at either Kirby Drive or Fannin Street to reach your destination.
4. A Note on Parking
Parking fees at NRG lots vary between $12 to $50, contingent upon the event. Securing a parking pass in advance is advisable to ensure a spot, as they can be purchased through the NRG box office or resale sites such as StubHub. These pre-paid parking passes are color-coded for easier identification of designated lots upon arrival.
On-the-day cash parking may be available, but typically at a premium compared to pre-purchased passes. NRG Park boasts eight distinct parking lots scattered around the four venues.
Keep in mind, for specific events, like Houston Texans games, you may need an advance purchase parking pass to access on-site parking. These passes can sell out quickly, necessitating the possibility of using third-party ticket exchanges. Alternatively, consider utilizing one of Houston’s Park and Rides or nearby off-site parking lots to facilitate your trip to the park.
