Houston, Texas

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Houston, Texas

Located in Texas, the fourth largest city in the U.S. is known for NASA, its annual rodeo, and the largest medical complex in the world, the Texas Medical Center. However, Houston has matured into a complete and downright hip vacation destination for the savvy traveler. The city is a diverse metropolis where no ethnicity comprises a majority of the population. This mix of cultures has contributed to making Houston a city of superb cuisine and world-class culture, entertainment and shopping.

The City

A Texas city far away from the cliché landscape of cattle ranches. As the country’s fourth biggest city, Houston delivers all the delights visitors seek in restaurants, attractions and entertainment with its unique cultural character. Houston’s major attractions continue to grow along the accessible main highways and roads, which makes Houston a relatively easy city to navigate despite its rapid development. Known for its oil and gas heritage, the Houston area is home to 2.3 million residents in an extensive area of 627 square miles (1,623.92 km2). In addition, Houston holds second place in the U.S. for the number of Fortune 500 company headquarters located in the city, which makes Houston a powerful global city.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

There is always something to do in Houston. Wander around the Houston Heights community, spend the day exploring the Museum District, which boasts nineteen museums, galleries, and cultural centers, including the Menil Collection, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. These museums draw over 8.7 million visitors to the district each year. Other world-class attractions you should not miss are the NASA Johnson Space Center, the Hermann Park Conservancy and the beautiful Galveston Island.

NASA Johnson Space Center

Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA, features interactive exhibits, attractions and presentations that not only educate, but also entertain visitors. Learn about the history of space exploration in museum exhibits and short films and get a unique chance to touch a moon rock. Take a tram-tour to the Mission Control, the …

San Jacinto Monument & Museum Of History

A great piece of Texas history. Located in the battlefield where Texas gained its independence from Mexico, this museum, situated at the base of the 567-foot tall San Jacinto Monument, holds one of the largest collections of Texan art, artifacts, and history. Take an elevator ride to the top of the tower to get …

Downtown Aquarium

Visitors can walk through the aquarium exhibits and amaze themselves with an unexpected exhibit of white tigers. Outside, a Ferris wheel and other rides make for a fair-like atmosphere. There's a train that takes you around the small complex, stopping in the middle of an acrylic tunnel tank filled with sharks that swim above you. …

Hermann Park Conservancy

Recently named one of America’s great public spaces, this massive green area in the heart of Houston is a great opportunity for those looking to mingle with the locals, do some outdoor activities or just lay down on the grass and relax. Around the park, you'll find paddle boats for rent, jogging and bike …

Houston Museum of Natural Science

One of the most heavily attended museums in the U.S., the Houston Museum of Natural Science showcases within its permanent exhibits a paleontology hall, the McFerrin Fabergé collection, a gems and minerals hall, as well as an energy hall. You'll also find an IMAX theater, a planetarium, plus world-class traveling …

Downtown Houston

Downtown Houston is quickly becoming an excellent urban walking area and people-watching hot spot. Just a quick stop off the Metro Light Rail, indulge yourself in Broadway shows, concerts, live music, a vibrant museum community, professional and university sports, and an international social scene. A series of underground walkways, called “the tunnels,” provides a …

The Kemah Boardwalk

Less than 30 miles from downtown Houston, this boardwalk offers a fun day for the entire family. From carnival rides to shopping and dining destinations, all with an ocean view. Check the calendar of festivals and events that take place here all year …

Discovery Green Parks

Hiking and biking trails, as well as walking tours help locals and visitors stay active while taking in the tranquility of the scenery. The Discovery Green Park features a lake, restaurants, a children's area and multiple recreational areas. It also hosts events such as concerts and outdoor movies. Other parks such as Hermann, Sam …

Galveston

The seaside town of Galveston is a popular weekend getaway and it has become a regular departure destination for cruise ships. You should bring your walking shoes since the island offers 14 museums and 20 art galleries, but don't forget to spend some time relaxing in the sun and on the …

Battleship Texas

The Battleship Texas in La Porte provides an educational experience for visitors. It takes about three hours to tour the ship on the inside and on the decks. There is also a great video that tells the story of the Battleship Texas and the important role it has played in both World …

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts offers a fantastic collection spanning classical to modern art, and every period in between. This huge museum has two gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, visitors center, library, café, movie theater, two art schools, two house museums, and two gift …

Children's Museum Of Houston

The Children's Museum Of Houston is a huge playground with innovative and interactive exhibits for kids up to 12 years old. This is the place for family fun and children's activities. You can easily spend the whole day …

Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo has over 6,000 animals housed in natural settings, with beautiful trees and flowers. This is a great place to experience animal life and its different …

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

If you ever dreamed of flying then you should head over to iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Here you can experience the rush of skydiving without jumping from an airplane, just you floating in a vertical wind tunnel with the help of professional instructors. No skills are needed, and it is suitable for both kids and …

Art Car Museum

This small and funky museum also known as “Garage Mahal” is exactly what it sounds like. It hosts a small rotating exhibition of quirky and over-the-top cars, as well as interesting temporary exhibits of all kinds, not only automobile-related. Even if you're not into cars, this museum is a guarantee of a fun and …

City Hall

Houston's city government is housed in this 1939 Art Deco building, northwest of Tranquility Park. It can be admired from the outside, but the visitor's center on the first floor is also worth a …

Holocaust Museum Houston

An emotional, but inspirational experience. This building shaped as a cylinder houses a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. Be warned, the exhibitions can be difficult to explore due to the graphic photos and …

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens

Former home of Houston philanthropist and collector Ima Hogg, this gigantic 28-room mansion was donated by her and turned into a museum where visitors have a chance to experience the elegant lifestyle from 1620 to 1870 through a collection of American furniture and artwork. The beautiful gardens and surrounding wooded areas make for a …

JPMorgan Chase Tower

Look up and admire the tallest building in Texas. The JPMorgan Chase Tower was built in 1981. Unfortunately, the tower's observation deck on the 60th floor is closed …

Minute Maid Park

This imposing baseball stadium is the home of the Houston Astros. If you can catch a game here during your visit, go and marvel at the stadium's retractable roof, air conditioning system, and even the great views of the downtown skyline from the higher …

Dining

More than 8,000 restaurants await, ranging from international cuisine and fresh seafood, from the Gulf to barbecue, Tex-Mex and Asian flavors. There are so many quality venues to choose from that one might have to work hard to find a favorite restaurant. Houston has become a new hip culinary hot spot. The attitude here blends Southern gentility with Texas hospitality, so you’ll find service to be both gracious and friendly. Best of all, you can eat very well at prices that never cease to amaze the experienced traveler.

Fogo de Chão - Brazilian Steakhouse

Traditional Brazilian barbecue is served, wherein the meat is cooked on skewers and carved right in front of you. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of salads, as well as delicious …

Indigo

This restaurant specializes in Neo-Soul food informed by the history of slavery and oppression of indigenous peoples in the Southern United States. The oppressed communities diets were characterized by using leftover cuts of meat and crops, which receives its re-interpretation at Indigo. Indigo offers three styles of menu: classic, vegetarian and carnivore, to be enjoyed …

Blood Bros. BBQ

Getting their supplies from local farms, Blood Bros. BBQ serves the Texas Brisket, slow-cooked beef cuts, and their house-made sausages. You can also have their meat served in a sandwich, coupled with sides such as jalapeño coleslaw and mac & …

Taste of Texas

The only one of its kind, Taste of Texas has been a Houston steakhouse favorite since its opening in 1977. Patrons can choose their own steak in the butcher shop and enjoy some of the best wait staff service while surrounded by refined Texas …

Guadalajara del Centro

An extensive Tex-Mex menu complements the south-of-the-border flair at this bustling eatery. The popular restaurant and cantina has a solid reputation for creative yet consistent cuisine that ranges from traditional fajitas and enchiladas to festive seafood dishes with a Southwestern …

Goode Company BBQ

This urbanized Texas-decorated barbecue joint is wildly popular among locals, thanks to the expertly smoked brisket and a variety of platters. Sausage (from a well-guarded recipe), fresh pies and bread are made daily. In addition, Goode also offers smoked duck and chicken. Additional locations at 8911 Katy Freeway, 20102 Northwest Freeway and 8865 Six Pines …

Goode Company Hamburgers and Taqueria

Enchiladas, tacos, chicken and beef platters, pork chops, quail and catfish along with sides of refried beans, guacamole and rice attract many budget-minded hungry visitors. It lies just across the street from Goode Company Barbecue, in a good centralized …

Ninfa's

"The best Mexican food in Texas since Texas was in Mexico," Ninfa's likes to boast. An absolute favorite in the hearts and stomachs of Houston residents, it is as much a landmark as it is a restaurant. Their famous green salsa and always fresh-made tortillas are an experience. A must for any visitor to …

The Breakfast Klub

This come-as-you-are hot spot offers unlikely combinations like catfish with grits, chicken wings and waffles as well as more traditional breakfast favorites from around the …

Pappas Bar-B-Q

A local favorite for slow-smoked, lean and juicy Texas barbecue. It also features side dishes made from scratch daily. Ask for the refreshing watermelon juice. Over fifteen additional locations throughout …

Uchi

Uchi is an upscale sushi restaurant with an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. The entire restaurant revolves around the open kitchen and sushi bar. You should try the chef’s ten-course daily tasting menu if you really want to eat something …

Niko Niko's

One of the most popular Greek restaurants in Houston, Niko Niko's was established in 1977 and offers great flavors from Greece, including a gluten free and vegetarian menu. You can either order at the counter and enjoy your food at the patio or order online from their three Houston locations. Additional locations at 1040 West …

Kim Son Restaurant

If you are craving traditional Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, you should head over to Kim Son Restaurant. The chefs proudly use only the freshest ingredients and continuously strive to improve the quality of their food. On the menu you'll find mouth-watering dishes such as "chicken lettuce wrap" and "BBQ pork and …

Romano's Pizza

As the name reveals, this is an Italian restaurant serving pizza and pasta dishes. Besides pizza, the menu offers cannoli, chicken parmigiana, veal scallopini, salads and much more. This is a great place to dine with friends and …

Max's Wine Dive

Wine isn't the only thing to get here, although it is a highlight, as they offer an impressive selection. Portions here are enormous, but you'll kick yourself if you don't finish your meal, which will consist of some interesting combinations such as "Lobster Thermadelphia" and "Texas Haute Dog," and they will never fail to …

Carrabba's

In true Italian fashion, the service here is as friendly as it gets, and it includes a birthday serenade from the staff, if you happen to come on your birthday. The food is what you would expect: delicious Italian food with an American touch, piping hot and …

Cafes

Cafes are usually a world unto themselves, and Houston’s are no exception, offering plenty of variety in atmosphere, food, drink, and entertainment. Jazz is often the music of choice, and it is usually helpful to call ahead to find out about the night’s entertainment and menu specials.

Backstreet Café

A jazz brunch is featured most Sundays between 11h - 15h in this 1930s River Oaks-area converted house. Their classics include steaks, jalapeno cheese muffins, shrimp, grits, and flavor-packed …

Sambuca Jazz Café

Live music plays every night of the week at this stylish supper club located in Houston’s historic Rice Hotel. Sambuca may call itself a jazz cafe, but various musical styles can be heard here, including Latin sounds on Salsa …

Brasil

Artsy types, poetry buffs and music lovers from all walks of life count this warm coffeehouse as a favorite. Brasil frequently hosts musicians of all persuasions, from fusion jazz to experimental noise to ambient grooves. You might be able to catch a traveling poetry slam team or a group of local poets and writers …

Hungry's

This restaurant serves soup, salad, sandwich combos, burgers, Greek and Mediterranean entrées, Southwestern pasta and chicken dishes. Hungry’s has also a separate low-carb menu. Additional location at 14714 Memorial …

CoCo Crêpes, Waffles & Coffee

This is more than your typical coffeehouse. With 9 locations spread around Houston, CoCo Crêpes, Waffles & Coffee offers a wide selection of coffees, teas, crêpes, paninis, soups, salads and desserts. The thin, delicate crêpes are available in a variety of flavors, or you can simply create your …

Bars & Nightlife

Houston’s nightlife has been growing and developing into a different life from that known by previous generations, when most clubs and bars were located along Richmond Avenue. Now more places are opening throughout the city offering a much more varied and diversified array of night-time entertainment.

Axelrad Beer Garden

Axelrad Beer Garden features a great selection of beer on tap, delicious bar food, live music and the crowd's favorite: a huge patio with hammocks, so you can relax with your friends while sipping on one of their many craft …

Anvil Bar & Refuge

Set on the eclectic Westheimer Curve, this bar is known for its top-shelf drinks. Their expertise in the art of mixology has made an impression on Houston’s nightlife. Anvil also offers a wide selection of …

Belvedere

Expect a diverse mixture of cultures and high fashion in this dynamic night club, located in Uptown Park. There is a patio lounge where you can enjoy the sunset with a drink in your …

Howl at the Moon

Piano dueling and choreographed dances create the excitement that has characterized and attracted a diverse and loyal clientele to this popular bar. Here you can order a bucket with your favorite drink and share with your …

Club Tropicana

This is the place to go for the hottest Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, and Latin tracks. Club Tropicana also hosts live Latin bands and on Tuesdays and Fridays you can get free salsa …

The Red Lion

This is a great neighborhood pub where you can have a night out with the locals. The friendly staff serves good food and offers an amazing selection of beers and single malt …

13 Celsius

This wine bar is located in a 1920s era, Mediterranean style building, in a former dry cleaners, to be precise. They take quality control very seriously here, and all the wines are stored at 13 degrees Celsius (as the name suggests) and is handled very …

The Flat

Music is the star here, courtesy of resident music-maker DJ Sun, though there is a steady flow of guest DJs bringing their own beats to the dance floor. The ambiance is very laid-back, and it is as much a place to relax and have a bite to eat as it is a place to …

The Continental Club

This Houston franchise of the Austin original (opened in 1957) is every bit as characteristic, sporting the same neon exterior and red velvet stage in this former general store from the 1920s. Expect loud music and plenty of …

Cézanne

This excellent jazz bar welcomes jazz lovers from around the world as well as some internationally renowned performers. The focus here is strictly on music. Conversation is positively discouraged at this lovely piano …

Marfreless

Hidden behind an unassuming and unmarked blue door, this interesting bar is, simply different. When it opened back in 1972, it had one mission: to not have a theme. This allowed a truly eclectic group of "non-conformists and intellectuals" to gather naturally …

West Alabama Ice House

"Ice houses" are quite literally where people used to go to get ice. Today, however, they are open-air bars, and this is the oldest one in all of Texas. It's a friendly place where everyone is welcome (including dogs) and where strangers make a habit of buying a beer for their new friends at …

Poison Girl

Crowds from all walks of life enjoy coming to Poison Girl for its unusual vibe, decor and entertainment options. Artsy on the inside, great patio on the outside (Kool Aid man statue included), vintage pinball machines, the list goes on. Just check it out for …

Warren's Inn

A favorite among locals, this sports bar's jukebox was officially voted the best in Houston. Add a good selection of cheap beer and a friendly atmosphere to this bar loved by …

Jones Plaza

Located right next to the Jones Hall for the Performing Arts and the JPMorgan Chase Tower, this central open-air venue holds concerts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, spring through …

Rudyard's Pub

Loved by hipsters, this British pub hosts regular theatrical performances and small concerts, as well as darts championships. With a selection of international beers and a great jukebox, visitors tend to become …

Shopping

Houston shopping has grown to meet almost any shopper's budget or whim: From upscale stores located in the Galleria to trendy boutiques and outlet malls. International shoppers can also claim a refund of the sales tax at the Tax Free processing centers located in the Galleria, Katy Mills mall and at Bush Intercontinental Airport. Requirements include passport, visa (if applicable), boarding pass or e-ticket and original sales receipts www.taxfreetexas.com