Houston is the fourth largest U.S. city, which boasts a bustling economy, a vibrant arts scene and a diverse and dynamic population. Locals speak more than 90 languages, and their homelands influence everything from cuisine to entertainment in this sprawling, surprising Texas metropolis. You can shop for haute couture, eat an unforgettable Vietnamese meal and get your boots dusty at a rodeo—all in the same day.
The city is home to more than two dozen Fortune 500 companies, and its medical centers are some of the largest in the world. Houston is making an effort to diversify from energy—especially oil—and high-technology, medical research and professional services are all growing industries.
Things to do and see
If you’re planning to visit several of Houston’s top attractions, consider buying a Houston CityPass. It’s $46 but can save you much more in discounted admissions if you’re going to several places.
Space Center Houston is the official visitors’ center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. You can touch a moon rock and see how astronauts train. Or jump on a mission to Mars in the Blast-Off theatre.
If you want a more introspective experience, check out the The Health Museum, where an interactive display will give you a glimpse of how you might look in 40 years. Or check out the Art Car Museum, which displays cars that artists have altered in a “transformation of the vehicle from a factory-made commodity into a personal statement or expression.”
During baseball season (spring to fall), you can catch a major league game at Minute Maid Park, the retractable-roof stadium where the Houston Astros play. Be sure to check out the replica of 19th century locomotive on the grounds just outside the stadium.
For a world-class shopping spree, head to The Galleria, the largest mall in Texas. It has 400 stores and restaurants, an ice rink, two swimming pools and much more. The smaller-scale Rice Village is a great area for shopping or just people-watching. Or hunt for bargains at the weekends-only Sunny Flea Market.
Where to eat
Chef Justin Yu joined forces with his pastry chef wife, Karen Man, to create the cozy Oxheart. Many of the ingredients are locally sourced, and dishes reflect the owners’ origins. The Oxheartofferings vary, but expect to find dishes like mesquite-smoked Gulf mackerel and a stew of black kale and fermented vegetables. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You’ll find it at 1302 Nance St.; Ph: 1-832-830-8592.
For Mexican cuisine, head to Hugo’s, where even the 1920s-era building is Latin-inspired. Hang out by the gorgeous wood bar and enjoy a pre-dinner mescal (a tequila-like drink) or refreshing sangria. Try the lechón (braised tender suckling pig), the conejo (braised rabbit in banana leaf) or the adventurous chapulines (pan-sautéed grasshoppers). Vegetarians will be delighted with Hugo’s non-meat options. The restaurant is at 1600 Westheimer; Ph: 1-713-524-7744.
The Taste of Texas Restaurant lives up to its name, serving classic Texan fare such as steaks and prime rib. Try the pecan-crusted chicken or jalapeño-stuffed shrimp. The whopping 38-ounce Tomahawk rib-eye steak challenges even the heartiest eater. You’ll find Taste of Texas at 10505 Katy Freeway; Ph: 1-713-932-6901.
Going on a business trip to Houston? Book your flight and hotel at BCD Travel.
