With its sprawling highways, mazelike neighborhoods, and humidity that’ll have you hotter than a jalapeño pepper, Houston can be an overwhelming place for visitors. Heck, even locals like us sometimes forget where we parked our trucks in some of those endless parking lots!
But once you figure out how to navigate around here without getting swallowed in an epic freeway merge, Houston might just become your favorite city in Texas (don’t tell Austin!). From our finger-lickin’ good BBQ joints to shops packed with more bling than a hip-hop video, Space City has its own unique swagger.
Follow us through this Houston travel guide as we help you dodge floods, fend off fire ants, and get your boot-scootin’ boots ready for a dang good time! We may need to pick up some cowboy hats to blend in with the locals. Just don’t be shocked if someone calls you “honey” or “darlin'” – that’s the Houston hospitality kicking in. Armadillos and alligators optional.
Strap on your astronaut gear and let’s rodeo! Yeehaw, y’all! Our down-home tour of good ole H-Town begins…now!
About Houston
There’s no shortage of things to do in Houston. This fourth-largest city in the United States is a multicultural melting pot, with everything from LA-style shopping strips to historic African-American neighborhoods in the midst of sprawling refineries. There’s something for everyone in Houston, from renowned chefs to beautiful parks to an annual Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Houston’s climate is generally temperate, but it can be hot and humid at times. During the spring and fall, the weather is warm but not as oppressive as in July and August. However, you should avoid visiting Houston during the summer, when temperatures can soar to over 100°F. Be sure to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting from a temperate climate.
Driving is an option for getting around Houston, but make sure to plan your trip accordingly. Houston traffic can be heavy at any time of day. Even if you’ve booked a rental car, keep in mind that traffic can get worse during rush hours. In addition, tolls are automatically added to your rental bill, so you’ll want to be aware of these charges. Fortunately, on-street parking is free after 6:00 PM and on Sundays.
Why Go to Houston
If you are looking for a big city, consider Houston. The fourth most populous city in the US is home to a diverse mix of cultures. From upscale suburbs with LA-style shopping strips to historically African-American neighborhoods battling gentrification, Houston is a city that has something for everyone. Houston is also close to the Gulf of Mexico, which makes it a great place to visit in the spring and fall.
Houston is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, which is an enormous complex that includes the replica of the space shuttle Independence. Visitors can also explore the Skylab, America’s first space station, and touch a moon rock. The space center is also a great place to learn about upcoming NASA projects. You can even take a “Level 9 Tour” to see how astronauts work in the space program.
Visiting Houston in the fall or spring is ideal if you are a science or space enthusiast. The weather is relatively mild, but the humidity levels can become oppressive during the summer months. Although temperatures rarely dip below freezing, you should make sure you are well hydrated and don’t forget to pack plenty of water.
Best Time to Go
While the city is beautiful year-round, it is best to visit Houston during the spring and fall. The summer months are hot and humid and the city is prone to thunderstorms. In the winter, the weather is cooler and less likely to have thunderstorms. In other words, if you want to avoid crowded attractions, you should avoid traveling during the summer.
While temperatures in Houston can vary from the mid-60s to mid-70s, the spring and fall months are the best times to visit the city. The temperatures are comfortable during these months, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities such as Buffalo Bayou or outdoor dining. You can also catch baseball games at Minute Maid Park during this time of year. However, the spring season is a popular time for Houston visitors, and hotel prices are higher at this time of year than in other months.
Houston experiences mild winters and chilly summers, but temperatures rarely drop below 35°F. Spring weather in Houston is pleasant, with daytime highs ranging between 70-85°F. However, you should be aware that thunderstorms can still occur at any time of the year.
How to Get Around
If you plan to visit Houston, you should know how to get around without a car. Though the city has a strong car culture, transit options have increased dramatically in recent years, including the light rail system, which connects downtown to many of the city’s best neighborhoods. You can also take a cab or hail an Uber.
If you are staying in Downtown Houston, you can catch a free MetroLink shuttle bus. These buses stop at nearly every corner of the route. You can also use a taxi cab, which charges the same as a METRO ride. Another inexpensive way to get around Houston is to take BCycle bicycles. There are more than 75 stations in downtown Houston and the surrounding areas.
If you are traveling on business, you may want to rent a car. It is cheap and easy to find and is the fastest way to get around the sprawling city. However, you should be sure to have a full national driver’s license and be at least 25 years old. Some car rental companies may charge extra if you are under 25, so it’s worth checking first. If you’re not comfortable driving, there is an extensive bus system and light rail line in Houston.
Best Restaurants
If you are looking for a great place to eat in Houston, look no further. Whether you are a seafood lover or a meat lover, there are a few great restaurants to choose from. The diversity of the city’s population contributes to a unique and varied menu. From Tex-Mex to Louisiana Creole, Houston has a diverse selection of restaurants to suit your palate.
Whether you are looking for a place for brunch or for fine dining, you’re sure to find the perfect place in Houston. The city is home to more than 10,000 dining establishments. You can find everything from elegant fine dining venues to quaint, cozy spots with simple, delicious menus. You’ll find a great place to dine in just about any part of town, from Uptown to Midtown.
New American fare can be found at Brennan’s of Houston, which opened its doors in 1967. It boasts a menu that showcases the region’s bounty. Tempt your taste buds with dishes like gulf fish Pontchartrain, jumbo lump crab, and parmesan mushroom rice. The atmosphere is welcoming and inviting, complete with barn ceilings and a gilded dining room.
Things to Do
One of the best things to do in Houston with kids is to visit the Children’s Museum of Natural Science. Its exhibits cover a range of topics, including dinosaur skeletons and precious gems. It also has a butterfly conservatory, planetarium, and 3D IMAX theater.
You can also check out the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. This stadium is a must-see if you’re a baseball fan. You’ll also be able to see batting practice and watch autograph signings. There are plenty of things to do with kids in Houston, and they’ll be sure to have a great time.
Another great thing to do in Houston is to visit the Menils Museum of Art. It’s free and open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday. It’s home to many large works by famous artists, including Mark Rothko. You can even walk around the chapel, which is octagonal and has a circle of benches in the center.
Neighborhoods to Know
Houston is a city that is made up of diverse neighborhoods. While downtown is very vibrant, some neighborhoods are more serene and quiet. Some of the best neighborhoods to visit include River Oaks, Montrose, Uptown, and the Galleria. The Galleria is Houston’s largest shopping mall with 375 stores and 30 restaurants. It is a wonderful place to spend a leisurely afternoon and can easily keep you occupied for hours.
In the northwest corner of the loop is the historic neighborhood of The Heights, which features Victorian homes built during the nineteenth century. It’s now home to hip families and some of Houston’s most happening local businesses. The area has a Stepford Wives vibe but also offers a fun nightlife and a dining scene with hip restaurants.
Near the Rice University campus is Rice Village, which is an excellent place to shop. There are many great boutiques and restaurants in this area, including the renowned Istanbul Grill & Deli. For a great lunch, you can also stop by Local Foods. This local restaurant is known for serving health-conscious fare and is an excellent place to grab a bite.
Weather
Travelers to Houston will want to know the weather forecast if they are planning a visit. Houston’s weather is generally warm and pleasant during the spring and fall months. In fact, Houston has one of the warmest spring seasons in the United States! The average temperature is around 70°F during March and April. In addition, the city is often overcast or rainy, but these are the only times that the weather is truly unpleasant.
Houston has a warm, humid subtropical climate. The prevailing winds bring heat and humidity from the Gulf of Mexico. The summer months can be very hot, and air conditioning is essential. The humidity is high, and summer temperatures can reach 95°F. The city can also be subject to thunderstorms, which can produce rain on most days.
If you are traveling to Houston in the summer, you should pack appropriate clothing and shoes. In general, you should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and comfortable shoes. If you are visiting during spring and fall, the temperatures are pleasant, but remember that Houston can be hot and humid during summer and winter. You can pack light during these seasons, but be prepared for frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can even bring hail.
