Whatever you’re looking for, Houston’s got it.
America’s fourth-largest city, Houston is a fast-growing melting pot of cultures. It’s home to several professional sports teams, a world-class zoo, a top-notch symphony, and the Houston Rodeo. With beaches just a short drive away, there’s something for everyone.
Houston Overview
The Houston metropolitan area houses nearly seven million people, with over 20% of the population born abroad, creating a rich cultural tapestry that spans numerous religions, languages, and cuisines. The city has significant Indian, Vietnamese, Chinese, African, and Hispanic communities.
Sports
Sports enthusiasts can watch professional basketball by catching a Houston Rockets game, while football fans can support the Houston Texans. If baseball is your passion, make sure to plan your trip around a Houston Astros game.
Events
For a real Texas experience, you must check out the Houston Rodeo, which is the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world. Millions visit the 20-day event annually, featuring performers from Beyoncé to Taylor Swift.
Space Exploration
Don’t miss the Johnson Space Center, which acts as Mission Control for American space missions, offering visitors a chance to explore artifacts of space exploration. Afterward, enjoy a walk along the beach in nearby Galveston.
Geographical Insights
Time Zone
Central Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)
Best Time to Go
While summers can be sweltering, winters are mild, making Houston an ideal escape from freezing temperatures elsewhere. The prime months to visit are typically January through May, featuring key events such as the Houston Rodeo and Bayou Regatta. September through November is also a good period for football fans.
Precautions
Houston summers are hot and sticky, with temperatures often reaching the 90s and 100s. If visiting in summer, remember to apply sunscreen and carry a water bottle. As Houston is a sprawling city covering over 637 square miles, traffic can be quite congested; having a vehicle is advisable.
Getting Around
Public Transit Options
METRORail: Covers key areas such as downtown and the Museum District, allowing easy access to sporting events for just $1.25 per ride.
Buses: Operate on various color-coded networks, with rides priced at $1.25 each and running between 14 to 18 hours a day.
Taxis: Meter rates start at $2.75 for the first 1/11 mile. Discounts are available for riders over 60.
Rideshare Services: Both Uber and Lyft are operational throughout Houston.
Accommodations
Hotel ZaZa
Address: 5701 Main St, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 526-1991
Website
Hotel ZaZa is a luxury art hotel in the Museum District featuring a collection of themed suites. It offers spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace.
Marriott Marquis
Address: 1777 Walker Street, Houston, TX 77010
Phone: (713) 654-1777
Website
This unique hotel features a Texas-shaped rooftop lazy river and an infinity pool with expansive views, perfect for convention attendees.
JW Marriott Houston Downtown
Address: 806 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713) 237-1111
Website
This elegant hotel located in a historic skyscraper features art from local artists and easy access to a Houston-themed restaurant.
Culinary Scene
The Breakfast Klub
Address: 3711 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713) 528-8561
Website
This casual eatery redefines chicken and waffles, serving its signature “Wings & Waffle” plate with chicken wings and a Belgian waffle.
Xochi
Address: 1777 Walker Street, Houston, TX 77010
Phone: (713) 400-3330
Website
Chef Hugo Ortega’s restaurant highlights the flavors of Oaxaca, featuring a wide selection of moles and a vibrant beverage menu.
Ninfa’s on Navigation
Address: 2704 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77003
Phone: (713) 228-1175
Website
Ninfa’s is famous for its role in popularizing fajitas in Houston, with delicious queso that shouldn’t be missed.
Notable Activities
Johnson Space Center
Address: 1601 Nasa Parkway, Houston, TX 77058
Website
Explore NASA’s hub for human spaceflight, where you can view spacecraft and spacesuits. Adults $29.95, Seniors $27.95, Children $24.95
Downtown Aquarium
Address: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
Website
This entertainment complex houses aquatic life and features multiple rides and dining options. Adults $12.99, seniors $10.99, Children $9.99
Houston Zoo
Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
Website
Home to over 6,000 animals, the Houston Zoo is the second most visited in the U.S. and offers exciting experiences for visitors of all ages. Adults $18, Seniors $11.50, Children 2 to 11 $14
Shopping in Houston
Houston Galleria
Address: 5085 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056
Website
The Galleria is Houston’s premier shopping destination, offering luxury brands and dining options across 2.4 million square feet.
Houston Premium Outlets
Address: 29300 Hempstead Rd, Cypress, TX 77433
Find designer labels at discounted prices at Houston Premium Outlets, featuring 145 stores and covered walkways.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Montrose
This eclectic neighborhood is famous for its vintage shops and independent art galleries, making it a great place to explore culture.
Museum District
Home to 19 institutions including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum District offers a rich cultural experience.
Uptown
An upscale shopping area known for high-end retailers and exquisite dining experiences, Uptown is a shopper’s paradise.
Weather
During the summer, expect steamy conditions, while winters are usually mild. Below is a guide for average temperatures in Fahrenheit.
- January: 44 – 62
- February: 46 – 65
- March: 54 – 72
- April: 60 – 78
- May: 66 – 84
- June: 72 – 90
- July: 74 – 92
- August: 74 – 93
- September: 70 – 88
- October: 61 – 81
- November: 52 – 71
- December: 45 – 63
Essential Apps
Waze: Real-time traffic information
iOS | Android
METROrail: Public transit trip-planning
iOS | Android
