This Texas metropolis is a hub for energy, medicine, and space exploration. Its skyline, diverse food scene, and cultural attractions draw millions of visitors annually.
Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, is a metropolis in southeastern Texas. You can explore the Museum of Fine Arts, learn about space exploration at Space Center Houston, and try Gulf Coast seafood at local restaurants. The city also has large urban parks like Memorial Park, professional sports teams such as the Houston Astros, and neighborhoods representing various cultures.
Size and Population
Houston is the most populous city in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States, with over 2.3 million residents as of 2020. Its skyline rises from the flat Gulf Coastal Plain. The city has grown rapidly and become significant in industries such as energy and healthcare.
Museums and Culture
In Houston's Museum District, you'll find 18 institutions within walking distance. You can see paintings and sculptures at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, or examine dinosaur fossils at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Downtown's Theater District hosts performances by local ballet, opera, symphony, and theater companies.
Space Exploration
NASA's Johnson Space Center, which manages human spaceflight activities, is in Houston. At Space Center Houston, the center's visitor facility, you can see real spacecraft and touch a moon rock. The center's Mission Control guided Apollo 11 during its moon landing, which led to Houston's nickname "Space City."
Food Scene
Houston's restaurants reflect its multicultural population. You can find Tex-Mex, barbecue, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern cuisine throughout the city. Many local restaurants and chefs have won awards. For a local specialty, try some Gulf Coast seafood.
Professional Sports
Houston has professional teams in all major sports leagues. You can watch baseball at Minute Maid Park with the Houston Astros, basketball at the Toyota Center with the Houston Rockets, or football at NRG Stadium with the Houston Texans.
Parks
Houston has several large parks. Memorial Park covers nearly 1,500 acres and includes trails, sports facilities, and a golf course. In downtown, Discovery Green is a 12-acre park with a lake, gardens, and regular events.
Climate
Houston has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city gets a lot of rain throughout the year. Summers are particularly humid, with high temperatures. From June to November, there's a risk of hurricanes and severe weather.
Transportation
Houston has an extensive freeway system and is expanding its public transportation. The METRORail light rail system serves downtown and some surrounding areas. As a visitor, you might find it convenient to rent a car to explore the city, but ride-sharing services are also available.
