Houston

Explore Houston with our travel guide. Discover the top attractions, local cuisine, shopping districts, and hidden gems that make this vibrant city a must-visit destination.

Houston Travel Guide

Houston, Texas, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich diversity, dynamic cultural scene, and thriving economy. As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston is home to world-class museums, such as the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts, as well as iconic landmarks like the Space Center Houston. Visitors can indulge in the city's renowned culinary scene, which reflects its diverse population, or explore its lively neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and plethora of activities, Houston is a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and modernity.

Table of Contents

1. Best Time to Visit

2. Getting to Houston and Getting Around

3. Top Attractions

4. Top Activities to do in Houston

5. Houston's Neighborhoods

6. Day Trips from Houston

7. Food Scene

8. Where to Stay

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Houston is during the spring months of February to April and the fall months of September to November. During these times, the weather is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying its many festivals and events.

The summer months of June to August can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, which can be uncomfortable for some visitors. However, this is also when the city is most lively, with numerous events and activities taking place.

The winter months of December to January are mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. This is also a good time to visit, as the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and there are fewer tourists.

Getting to Houston and Getting Around

Getting to Houston:

By Air:

Houston is served by two major airports:
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Located about 23 miles north of Downtown Houston, IAH is one of the largest airports in the United States and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
- William P. Hobby Airport (HOU): Located about 7 miles south of Downtown Houston, Hobby Airport primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Both airports offer a variety of ground transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, rental cars, and public transportation.

By Car:

Houston is well-connected by major highways and can be easily accessed by car from nearby cities and states.

By Bus:

Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate services to and from Houston, connecting it with other major cities.

By Train:

Amtrak's Sunset Limited line connects Houston with other cities in Texas and the United States.

Getting Around Houston:

By Car:
- A car is the most convenient way to get around Houston, as the city is spread out and public transportation options are limited in some areas.
Public Transportation:
- METRO: Houston's Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) operates buses, light rail, and a commuter train service that connect major parts of the city.
- B-Cycle: Houston's bike-sharing program offers a convenient way to explore the city.
By Taxi and Rideshare:
- Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Houston and can be a convenient way to get around.
By Bike:
- Houston has been working to improve its bike infrastructure, and there are now many bike trails and lanes throughout the city.
By Walking:
- While Houston is not traditionally known as a walkable city, some areas, such as Downtown and the Museum District, are pedestrian-friendly and can be explored on foot.

Top 26 Attractions in Houston

Houston is a vibrant city filled with diverse cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and world-renowned museums. Here are the top 26 attractions that you won't want to miss:

Space Center Houston: Explore the wonders of space and learn about NASA's latest projects.
Houston Museum of Natural Science: Discover a wide range of scientific exhibits, from paleontology to astronomy.
Houston Zoo: Meet over 6,000 animals and learn about global wildlife conservation efforts.
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Experience one of the largest art collections in the United States.
The Menil Collection: Appreciate contemporary and modern art in this unique museum.
Buffalo Bayou Park: Enjoy the outdoors and the Houston skyline in this urban green space.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: Experience the world's largest livestock show and rodeo.
Kemah Boardwalk: Have fun at this entertainment complex with rides, shops, and restaurants just 20 miles from Houston.
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: Explore the amusement park and restaurants on this iconic pier.
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center: Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems in this nature reserve.
Discovery Green: Attend events and enjoy recreational activities in this downtown park.
San Jacinto Monument and Museum: Learn about Texas history at this iconic monument.
Holocaust Museum Houston: Gain insight into the Holocaust and human rights issues.
Children's Museum of Houston: Foster learning and creativity at this interactive museum for kids.
The Health Museum: Explore the human body and medical science in this interactive museum.
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens: Appreciate American decorative arts and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Moody Gardens: Experience educational attractions, an aquarium, and a rainforest in Galveston.
Downtown Aquarium: Encounter marine life and enjoy dining in this aquarium complex.
Houston Museum of African American Culture: Learn about the contributions and culture of African Americans in Houston.
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center: Enjoy hiking and learn about local flora and fauna in this nature park.
Cockrell Butterfly Center: Immerse yourself in the world of butterflies at this indoor conservatory.
Houston Center for Contemporary Craft: Discover unique craft pieces and exhibitions.
The Orange Show Monument: Experience this folk-art environment created by Jeff McKissack.
Houston's Chinatown: A vibrant area with numerous restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions.
Asia Society Texas Center: Learn about Asian cultures and art at this educational center.
The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: A stunning water feature in the Uptown District.

Top Activities to do in Houston

Houston offers a wide range of activities for visitors and locals alike, catering to a diverse array of interests. Here are some top activities to consider:

Explore Space Center Houston: Learn about the history and future of space exploration, and see real spacecraft and artifacts.
Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science: Discover a world of science, from dinosaurs to gemstones.
See the Animals at the Houston Zoo: Meet over 6,000 animals and learn about global wildlife conservation efforts.
Admire Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Explore one of the largest art collections in the United States.
Stroll Through Buffalo Bayou Park: Enjoy the outdoors and the Houston skyline in this urban green space.
Catch a Show in the Theater District: Houston has a vibrant theater scene, with performances ranging from Broadway shows to ballet.
Shop at The Galleria: Experience Houston's premier shopping destination with over 400 stores and restaurants.
Enjoy Live Music: Houston has a thriving live music scene, with many venues offering performances ranging from rock to country.
Try the Local Cuisine: Houston is known for its diverse culinary scene, so be sure to try local specialties like Tex-Mex and barbecue.
Attend a Sports Game: Cheer for one of Houston's professional sports teams, including the Texans (NFL), Rockets (NBA), and Astros (MLB).
Take a Day Trip to Galveston: Explore the beaches, historic sites, and attractions of nearby Galveston Island.
Explore the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center: Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems in this nature reserve.
Take a Mural Tour: Discover Houston's vibrant street art scene with a guided or self-guided mural tour.
Visit the San Jacinto Monument and Museum: Learn about Texas history at this iconic monument.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to cook Houston's diverse cuisine with a local chef.

Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or food, Houston has something to offer for everyone.

Houston's Neighborhoods

Houston is a sprawling city with a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Here are some of the most notable neighborhoods in Houston:

Downtown: The heart of the city, Downtown Houston is home to high-rise office buildings, popular restaurants, and numerous entertainment venues.
Montrose: A vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its diverse population, art galleries, and unique shops.
The Heights: A historic area with beautifully restored homes, trendy boutiques, and popular restaurants.
Midtown: A lively neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial properties, as well as a thriving nightlife scene.
River Oaks: An upscale neighborhood known for its luxury homes, high-end shopping, and exclusive clubs.
West University: A residential area with tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Museum District: Home to many of Houston's top museums, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston.
East Downtown (EaDo): A rapidly developing area with a mix of residential and commercial properties, as well as a growing number of bars and restaurants.
Chinatown: A vibrant area with a large Asian population, numerous restaurants, and a variety of shops and businesses.
Galleria/Uptown: A bustling area with high-rise office buildings, luxury hotels, and the popular Galleria Mall.

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own unique character and charm, offering something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, beautiful parks and green spaces, or a family-friendly atmosphere, you'll find it in one of Houston's many neighborhoods.

Day Trips from Houston

Houston's location in Southeast Texas makes it a great base for exploring a variety of nearby attractions. Here are some recommended day trips from Houston:

Galveston: Just an hour's drive from Houston, Galveston Island offers beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and a variety of attractions, including the Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and the Strand Historic District.
Brazos Bend State Park: This state park, located about an hour southwest of Houston, is a great destination for hiking, bird-watching, and even alligator-spotting.
San Antonio: A bit longer of a drive (about 3 hours), but well worth it to visit the Alamo, River Walk, and other historic sites.
Austin: About a 2.5-hour drive from Houston, Austin is known for its live music scene, vibrant food culture, and beautiful outdoor spaces like Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park.
Beaumont: Located about 1.5 hours east of Houston, Beaumont is home to the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, which commemorates the birth of the Texas oil industry.
Kemah: Just a 45-minute drive from Houston, the Kemah Boardwalk is a popular destination for family fun, with rides, games, and waterfront dining.
Bryan-College Station: About 1.5 hours northwest of Houston, this area is home to Texas A&M University and offers a variety of attractions, including the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Food Scene

Houston's food scene is as diverse and vibrant as its population, offering a wide range of culinary experiences that reflect the city's rich cultural mix. The city is known for its barbecue, Tex-Mex, and Gulf Coast seafood, but you'll also find top-notch restaurants serving everything from Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine to Southern comfort food and more.

Barbecue: Texas is famous for its barbecue, and Houston is no exception. The city's barbecue joints serve up tender brisket, juicy ribs, and savory sausage, often smoked for hours over wood fires.

When it comes to the best barbecue in Houston, Pinkerton's BBQ, Truth BBQ, and Killen's Barbecue are local favorites, each serving up mouthwatering, tender meats that are smoked to perfection.

Tex-Mex: Another local favorite, Tex-Mex cuisine combines Mexican flavors with Texas-style cooking, resulting in delicious dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and queso.

For some of the best Tex-Mex cuisine in Houston, be sure to check out The Original Ninfa's on Navigation, Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina, and Killen's TMX, each offering delicious and authentic dishes that capture the unique flavors of Texan and Mexican fusion.

Seafood: Thanks to its location near the Gulf of Mexico, Houston offers some of the best seafood in the region. Local specialties include Gulf shrimp, oysters, and red snapper.

International Cuisine: Houston's diverse population means you can find authentic cuisine from around the world, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Indian, Korean, and more.

Farm-to-Table: In recent years, Houston has seen a growing trend of farm-to-table dining, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farmers and producers.

Food Festivals: Houston hosts a variety of food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from barbecue and crawfish to tacos and Greek cuisine.

Here are a few other noteworthy restarants to check out when in Houston:

Brennan's of Houston: An upscale restaurant known for its New Orleans-style cuisine and elegant atmosphere, Brennan's offers a range of Creole dishes, including their famous turtle soup.
BCN Taste & Tradition: This restaurant brings the flavors of Barcelona to Houston, with dishes like Iberian ham, seafood paella, and other traditional Spanish dishes.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse: A high-end steakhouse that prides itself on serving perfectly cooked steaks, aged to perfection, along with an extensive wine list.
Gatlin's BBQ: A local favorite, Gatlin's BBQ is known for its tender, flavorful meats smoked over wood fires, with standout dishes like brisket and ribs.
CorkScrew BBQ: Another top barbecue spot in Houston, CorkScrew BBQ offers a range of smoked meats, including pulled pork, sausage, and chicken.
Hugo's: Hugo's serves up authentic Mexican cuisine, with dishes made from scratch using traditional ingredients and cooking techniques.
Xochi: A celebration of Oaxacan cuisine, Xochi offers a range of dishes that showcase the flavors and ingredients of the region, from mole to tlayudas.
Goode Company Seafood: This restaurant is known for its Gulf Coast seafood, with dishes like gumbo, fried shrimp, and oysters on the menu.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen: A popular chain that serves up a variety of seafood dishes, from fried alligator to blackened catfish.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal at a food truck or a fine dining experience at one of the city's top restaurants, Houston's food scene has something to offer for everyone.

Where to Stay

When visiting Houston, there are many great neighborhoods and areas to consider for your stay, each with its unique character and amenities. Here are some of the best places to stay in Houston:

Downtown Houston: The heart of the city, Downtown Houston is home to many of the city's major attractions, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Zoo. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars to explore.
Midtown: Located just south of downtown, Midtown is a vibrant area known for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. There are also many restaurants and shops in the area.
The Museum District: As the name suggests, this area is home to many of Houston's museums, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. There are also many beautiful parks and gardens in the area.
The Galleria: This area is home to the Galleria, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States. There are also many high-end hotels, restaurants, and bars in the area.
Montrose: A diverse and eclectic neighborhood, Montrose is known for its vibrant art scene, with many galleries, studios, and street art to explore. There are also many cafes, boutiques, and vintage shops in the area.
The Heights: A historic neighborhood with a charming, small-town feel, The Heights is known for its beautiful Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and local boutiques and cafes.
West University Place: A family-friendly neighborhood, West University Place is known for its beautiful homes, well-maintained parks, and top-rated schools.

No matter where you choose to stay in Houston, you'll be sure to find plenty of things to see and do, and a range of accommodations to suit your needs.

Here are a few additional points that might be of interest:

Diverse Culture: Houston is a melting pot of cultures, with a large and diverse population that includes a significant number of Hispanic, African American, and Asian residents. This diversity is reflected in the city's cultural festivals, restaurants, and neighborhoods.
Sports Scene: Houston is home to several major sports teams, including the Houston Astros (baseball), Houston Rockets (basketball), and Houston Texans (football). If you're a sports fan, consider catching a game during your visit.
Medical Center: The Texas Medical Center in Houston is one of the largest medical complexes in the world, renowned for its hospitals, research institutions, and medical schools. It's an important part of the city's economy and identity.
Live Music: Houston has a vibrant live music scene, with many venues hosting performances by local and national artists. Genres range from country and rock to hip-hop and electronic.
Theater District: Houston's Theater District is home to many performing arts organizations, including the Houston Ballet, Houston Grand Opera, and Houston Symphony. If you enjoy the performing arts, consider catching a performance during your visit.
Parks and Outdoor Activities: In addition to its urban attractions, Houston also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. There are many parks, trails, and green spaces throughout the city, as well as nearby options like Galveston Island and Brazos Bend State Park.