How has Houston Changed in the Last 10 Years?

In the last ten years, the Houston area has seen extensive changes in its infrastructure, commerce and population. As the largest city in Texas and fourth-largest in the United States, many of these changes mean a great deal to the city and state. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most important changes in Houston over the past decade and what they mean for this thriving city.

Houston’s Economy Grows

The last decade has seen Houston become an important part of the Texas economy. With its diverse business landscape, Houston is home to numerous industries such as energy, manufacturing, finance and technology. This has led to an increase in job opportunities, making Houston a sought-after destination for businesses and individuals alike. The city is consistently ranked as one of the most economically resilient cities in the country – a trend that appears likely to continue in the years to come.

A Tourism Boom

Houston’s success in the business world has made it an attractive destination for travelers. The city and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Tourists flock to Houston to visit historic sites like the San Jacinto Monument, kayak on Buffalo Bayou or take in a concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Visitors also come for sporting events, art galleries, award-winning restaurants and high-end shopping opportunities. With increased tourism come increased jobs related to services and hospitality.

Houston’s Population Grows

Houston’s population has grown significantly in the last decade. In 2018, there were more than 2.3 million people living in the city, an increase of 11 percent compared to 2008. In addition to domestic residents, Houston also welcomes numerous international migrants from countries such as Mexico, India and China. This population growth has subsequently caused housing prices to soar due to increased demand.

Improvements to City Infrastructure

Houston has seen widespread improvements to its infrastructure in the last decade. This includes light rail expansion, the construction of new highways and more bike lanes and trails. The city also received a facelift in the form of new buildings and parks. For example, The Ion is a 24-acre mixed-use development located near Houston’s Galleria district and River Oaks area. These changes have improved access to public transit, decreased traffic congestion and made Houston a more attractive destination for locals and tourists alike.

The Bottom Line

In just a few short years, Houston has evolved into an economic powerhouse that offers something for everyone, from businesses looking for economic growth to tourists looking for an exciting zest for life. As development continues, it’s likely that Houston will only become larger, better connected and more vibrant with time. To get all the official information about Houston’s recent changes, you can check out the official website of Houston.

An Insider’s Guide to Houston: Attractions, Dining, and Hidden Gems

Located in the southeastern part of Texas, Houston is the largest city in the state and boasts a diverse culture, world-class museums, sprawling parks, and delectable cuisine. Houston has undergone significant changes in the past decade, making it an exciting destination for visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re interested in history, arts, food, or outdoor activities, Houston has something to offer for all. Here’s a guide to discover the best of Houston.

Attractions

Space Center Houston: Located just 25 miles from downtown Houston, the Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. This museum features fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and behind-the-scenes tours of NASA’s astronaut training and mission control facilities.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is one of the largest art museums in the United States and houses over 70,000 works of art from all over the world. The museum’s permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including European, American, African, and Asian art.

Discovery Green: Situated in the heart of downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a 12-acre urban park that hosts events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. The park features a playground, a splash pad, a dog park, and a performance stage, and is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Dining

Riel Restaurant: Riel Restaurant is a modern Canadian-inspired restaurant that serves up delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Specialties include bison tartare, chicken-fried steak, and smoked brisket.

The Breakfast Klub: As the name suggests, The Breakfast Klub is a popular brunch spot that serves up soulful Southern breakfast fare. The restaurant is famous for its wings and waffles, catfish and grits, and pancakes, and has been featured on The Food Network and The Travel Channel.

Nancy’s Hustle: Nancy’s Hustle is a casual neighborhood spot that specializes in elevated comfort food and an extensive natural wine list. Must-try dishes include the crispy pork belly and chicken liver pâté.

Cultural experiences

The Menil Collection: The Menil Collection is a museum that houses the private art collection of Houston philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil. The museum features works from ancient to modern times, including Surrealism, Cubism, and Pop Art.

Houston’s Museum District: With 19 museums and cultural institutions, Houston’s Museum District is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Some notable museums include The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, The Houston Museum of Natural Science, and The Children’s Museum of Houston.

Rothko Chapel: The Rothko Chapel is a non-denominational chapel that features 14 abstract murals painted by the renowned American artist Mark Rothko. The chapel is a peaceful space for introspection and contemplation.

Local history

Buffalo Bayou: Buffalo Bayou is a 52-mile long waterway that runs through the heart of Houston. The bayou played a significant role in the city’s history, serving as a trade route for cotton and rice, and a source of water for early settlers.

The San Jacinto Monument: The San Jacinto Monument is a towering 567-foot tall monument that commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, a crucial Texan victory in the Texas Revolution. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the monument for stunning views of the surrounding area.

The Houston Heights: The Houston Heights is a historic neighborhood that was established in the late 19th century. The area is known for its Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and independent boutiques and restaurants.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

Beer Can House: The Beer Can House is a quirky folk art museum that features a house covered in thousands of beer cans, bottles, and caps. The house was decorated by John Milkovisch, a retired upholsterer who spent 18 years turning his home into a work of art.

Glenwood Cemetery: Glenwood Cemetery is a serene and beautiful final resting place for many of Houston’s notable citizens, including Howard Hughes and members of the Allen and Hermann families. The cemetery is open to visitors and offers guided tours.

Smither Park: Smither Park is an interactive art park that features whimsical mosaics and sculptures created by local artists and community members. The park is a celebration of Houston’s vibrant arts scene and is a unique and colorful destination for visitors.

Whether you’re in Houston for a day, a week, or longer, there’s always something new to discover in this exciting and everchanging city. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure in Houston.