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Houston, Texas's largest city, attracts millions of tourists every year. While most people visit this great state for business, Houston has a lot to offer, more than travelers may realize. Being the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the country, it means Houston truly has everything one could ever ask for. It is home to more than 150 museums, an incredible food scene, and a range of outdoor opportunities for nature lovers to explore at any time of the year. Almost seven million residents occupy the city's metropolitan area, 20% of which were born abroad, making Houston a melting pot of cultures. There is so much to experience in Houston, and visiting the city will be rewarding. Here is a complete guide to visiting Texas' largest city.
The Best Time To Visit Houston
Located near the Gulf of Mexico, Houston experiences warm weather and affordable rates almost the whole year. Summer tends to be very hot, and many residents get to other destinations to escape the heat. For travelers looking to visit Texas' largest city on a budget, this is a perfect time, as most hotel deals are great, but get prepared for the heat! The weather can be chilly in winter, but snowfall is a rare thing in this city. February through April and September through November are the best times of the year to explore Houston because the weather is splendid and the city is brimming with festivals to experience. It is important to reach out to the attractions' authorities, hotels managements, and restaurants to confirm the opening times at the time of the visit.
Getting Around Texas’ Largest City
While renting a car might be considered the best option to explore Houston, there are many other transportation options to consider. The METRORail covers the Texas Medical District, the Museum District, midtown, and downtown.
- The cost of METRORail: $125 per person per day
The local bus service operates on the streets and stops almost everywhere along each route. Travelers commuting long distances can have access to Park & Ride service, which charges a different price, depending on the distance. METRO's 28 Park & Ride offers bus services to the city's iconic destinations.
- The cost of a normal ride: $1.25
- The cost of METRO’S 28 & Ride: $2-$4
Taxis are another option to get around Texas’ largest city. With many taxi companies operating over 2,200 taxis in Houston, visitors can't run short of a cub to take them to their destinations. Seniors aged over 60 are eligible for a discount when exploring the city in a taxi.
Rideshare, both Uber and Lyft, offer transport services in Houston, and it is an ideal option for visitors planning to explore Texas’ largest city on a budget.
Things To Do In Houston
Visit Space Center Houston
''Houston'' was the first word said on space, so it makes sense that the city host one of the world's most impressive interstellar museums. Johnson Space Center comprises 100 buildings, all covering 1,620 acres of space. It is the facility responsible for coaching astronauts and managing all the operations of the International Space Station. While the Independence Plaza exhibit is the crown jewel of NASA’s Space Center Houston, there are numerous displays and attractions here to experience. Vacationers can explore the insides, including the flight decks, and see the astronauts living in space. Another permanent display to experience is Space X Falcon 9 rocket, measuring 156 ft in length. There are plenty of live shows and aircraft collections to explore. Also, travelers looking to learn more about space can always take a Level 9 route to the Johnson Space Center.
- Cost of entry: $29.95 adults, $27.95 seniors, $24.95 children
- Address: 1601 Nasa Parkway, Houston, TX 77058
Downtown Aquarium
Covering six acres, Downtown Aquarium is an incredible destination boasting several entertainment options and a fantastic restaurant. The aquarium to over 300 species of aquatic life from different corners of the world. There are several rides in the aquarium, including Ferris Wheel and a Carousel. Exhibits include Louisiana Wamp, Shipwreck, Rainforest, Sunken Temple, Discovery Rig, Gulf of Mexico, and Shark Voyage.
- Address: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
- Cost: $12.99 adults, $10.99 seniors, and $9.99 kids
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
The Waterwall Park is arguably the most Insta-worthy spot in Texas' largest city. Mounted a few miles east of the Galleria mall, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall is 64 ft tall and comprises 78,500 gallons of water, which goes through recycling after every three hours, two minutes. The fountain pours out 11,000 recirculated gallons of water every minute, forming an incredible backdrop for some epic pictures.
- Address: 2800 Post Oak Boulevard, Houston, TX 77056
- Opening hours: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm, daily
- Entrance fee: free
Houston Museum Of Natural Science
Established in 1909, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the most visited museums in the United States. Of course, every day is great to explore this city's iconic landmark, but being a popular attraction, visitors should take note of the peak times. Almost half a million students go on day trips to the museum, usually in the mornings on weekdays. In the museum, travelers will explore many robotic dinosaurs and more than 60 species of butterfly in the Cockrell Butterfly Center.
- Address: Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, TX 77030
- Fee: $25 for adults, $16 for seniors and children
Other attractions not to miss in Houston include the Houston Art Car Museum, perfect for art and car lovers; the National Museum of Funeral History, Buffalo Bayou Park; and Kemah Boardwalk.
Where To Stay When Visiting Houston
Located in the heart of the city's downtown, Lancaster is arguably the best hotel. It is a four-star hotel constructed in 1926 and boasts picture-perfect artworks dating back to the 19th century. The best budget hotel in the city is Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites, suitable if one is looking to stay near the city center without having to spend a lot of money. For a more boutique hotel, check out Hotel Sorella, which is surrounded by colorful shops and restaurants. This is the ideal option for vacationers in design. Those looking for a family-friendly hotel should opt for Omni Houston Hotel, located near Memorial Park.
Houston is usually overlooked by travelers, but there is so much to explore in this city, and it should be given the attention it deserves.