Things to Do in Houston

Home to NASA and the Houston Space Center, Houston is well known for its contributions to advancements in space and science. In more recent years, Houston has also become a foodie destination. Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., and that is well represented in the restaurants and food trucks around the city. One of the largest medical centers in the world rests in the heart of Houston as well, bringing visitors from all over to get treatment here. Locals will also boast that Houston has the best Livestock Show and Rodeo around.

If you're in Houston for just a day or looking for things to do during your layover, there are plenty of places nearby. 

If you're flying into IAH, you can take a Metro bus into Downtown or a cab (about $55). If you're flying into Hobby, then you'll need to take a cab (about $45 to downtown).

Head downtown and visit Discovery Green park and The Heritage Society. The Grove is a lovely restaurant inside the park that would be a good lunch spot. You could also explore downtown by downloading audio walking tours--it's a really cool way to learn about the city. From downtown, you can also take the light rail and visit the Museum District and Hermann Park. There are so many lovely places there, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Museum of Natural Science, The Menil Collection, and more. 

Or if you like to shop, take a cab (about $35) to The Galleria. You'll find 375 shops, an ice rink, and an entire wing of great restaurants. Less than a mile away are two more shopping centers, Uptown Park and Highland Village.

If you want to stay near IAH, there is the National Museum of Funeral History. It's a quirky place whose motto is "the everyday above ground is a good one."

Related guides:

• Outdoor day trips
• Houston museums
• Free museums
• The Heritage Society Complex - historic Texas homes
• Quick spa and salon services

Sekai Night and Day

Houston’s newest nightclub is energizing a block of Saint Emanuel St. in the EaDo neighborhood as creators transform a 26,000 square foot warehouse into an energetic Vegas-style experience. Night owls and party revelers will appreciate amenities such as a 1,000-square-foot, resort-style pool, luxurious couches, private cabanas, and a 1,200 square foot elevated lounge.

Wyld Child

The second concept from Sekai Hospitality has found a home just off Washington Avenue near Rice Military and slated to open in the space formerly occupied by Benjy’s/The Classic later this year. The boutique nightclub will feature an upscale nightlife experience for guests, including premium bottle service.

Shopping in Houston is an experience where shoppers can find the perfect piece at designer boutiques, deluxe malls, and bargain-filled centers. 

Here are some of the top places to go for shopping and guides to get you started.

In downtown, GreenStreet has a flagship Forever 21 store and BCBG. The tenant list continues to grow. 

Visit the 4th largest shopping center in the country! The Galleria has more than 375 shops, with everything from Chanel to Banana Republic. There is also an entire wing of restaurants, an ice rink, and two hotels. Other great places to go areRice Village  (where Dao Chloe Dao is located), Uptown ParkHighland Village, The Heights.

Shopping tips and guides:

• Top Houston boutiques
• Shopping tips
• Bargain hunting on Harwin Drive
• Texas-centric shopping
• Antique shops
• Full list of places to shop