Houston Travel Guide

Houston is the largest city in the great state of Texas, and the fourth largest in the entire United States. This sprawling metropolis of skyscrapers, malls and parking lots owes its enormous size to the fact that it is the largest un-zoned city in the country.  The term “urban sprawl” takes on a whole new meaning here, but those traveling to Houston will find that the bulk of excitement lies within a few miles of downtown, or about half an hour away throughout an impressive stretch of coastal towns.  Its appeal as a vacation destination is no surprise, stemming from great attractions like NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and the availability of cheap flights to Houston’s massive airports, a crucial hub for several international carriers.

Houston—and Texas in general—can be considerably warmer compared to most parts of the US.  With that said, you probably don’t want to visit in August when the heat is at its peak.  Concrete is sizzling by late morning in August, with daily temperatures consistently reaching upwards of 100°F.  June to November is hurricane season in the coastal regions, which greatly increases the potential for tropical rains.  October is when you’ll find the sunrise being welcomed by a sticky 93% humidity.  Late February to early April is by far the best time to visit Houston.  Rodeo season is just beginning, the wildflowers are in various states of bloom, and most importantly, the heat and humidity are in check.

As is the nature of a sprawling metropolis such as Houston, hotels, motels, hostels, and luxury accommodations are in ample supply.  The Houston International Hostel is a traveler’s favorite, as are the multiple Marriott hotels spread across the city.  You’ll also find Houston to be a particularly big draw in regards to its luxury hotels.  The Four Seasons Hotel Houston has been featured prominently in several “Top 100” lists, including many international ones.   The Four Seasons offers world class dining and amenities, and is within walking distance to the majority of downtown’s most popular attractions.

In a city whose heat can be somewhat oppressive during the summer months, you’ll find that Houston offers a healthy mix of outdoor activities with those that can take place in a more controlled (read: air conditioned) setting.  Impressionist artwork, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and art cars are just a few of eclectic museums you’ll find here.  Then there’s just the plain strange, including the Orange Show Beer Can House, and the somehow stranger National Museum of Funeral History.  To the south in Clear Lake is arguably one of the area’s greatest attractions, Space Center Houston, offering an amazing assortment of astronaut-related memorabilia, space themed exhibits, and even the chance to take a behind the scenes journey through NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Houston’s Metro network includes a light rail commuter system that runs along Main St, originating downtown and through the Museum District to Reliant Stadium.  The majority of the bus network is geared to the weekday, 9 to 5 commute in and out and around the downtown area, meaning that weekend service to outlying areas like the Johnson Space Center isn’t nearly as convenient of an option.  Have no doubts that the best way to get around Houston is with a car.  Certain areas, such as the Museum District, have a good cluster of sights and allow you to ditch the wheels and walk around, even if it’s only momentarily.  The remainder of things worth doing and seeing are far enough out that driving is the only convenient and sensible way to reach them.   Thankfully, the freeways are expansive and the parking cheap, as well as readily available.