Is It Safe to Visit Houston: An Insider’s Guide

Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, is known for its thriving economy, diverse population, and cultural attractions. However, like any other major city, Houston also has its share of crime and safety concerns. If you are planning a trip to Houston and wondering whether it is safe to visit, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Crime Statistics

Before we address the question of safety in Houston, let’s take a look at the city’s crime statistics. According to the latest data from the FBI, Houston reported a total of 87,555 crimes in 2019, including 250 homicides, 2,535 rapes, 13,552 robberies, and 36,254 aggravated assaults. While these numbers may seem alarming, it is important to put them in perspective. Houston’s crime rate per 100,000 residents is lower than that of other major cities such as Detroit, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Neighborhoods to Avoid

As with any other city, there are certain neighborhoods in Houston that are known for their high crime rates. Some of the areas that you may want to avoid or take extra precautions in include:

• Fourth Ward
• Fifth Ward
• Greenspoint
• Trinity Gardens
• Gulfton
• Sunnyside
• Northeast Houston
• Alief

While these neighborhoods may have a reputation for being unsafe, it is important to remember that crime can happen anywhere, even in the safest of neighborhoods. By taking basic safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Safe Neighborhoods to Visit

Despite its reputation for crime, Houston has many safe neighborhoods that are worth visiting. Some of the areas that are considered to be the safest in the city include:

• The Heights
• Museum District
• Montrose
• Bellaire
• River Oaks
• West University
• Midtown
• Rice Village

These neighborhoods are known for their low crime rates, vibrant cultural scene, and attractions such as museums, parks, and restaurants. If you are planning a trip to Houston, it is worth considering staying or visiting one of these areas.

Tips for Staying Safe in Houston

Whether you are a Houston native or a first-time visitor, there are several things you can do to stay safe in the city. Some basic safety tips include:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid displaying costly items such as jewelry or electronic devices
• Lock your car doors and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight
• Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Stay at reputable hotels and avoid staying in low-cost motels or Airbnbs in high-crime areas
• Trust your gut instincts-if something feels off, it probably is

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to crime in Houston.

Conclusion

So, is it safe to visit Houston? The answer is yes, as long as you take basic safety precautions and avoid high-crime areas. Houston has many safe neighborhoods that are worth exploring, and the city’s cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife make it an exciting destination for tourists. By staying aware and informed, you can ensure that your trip to Houston is both memorable and safe.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Houston, Texas

Houston is the fourth most populous city in the United States and a hub for international business, NASA space exploration, and culture. It is a city that celebrates its culinary and music scene, sports, and history. Whether you’re here for business, pleasure, or a little bit of both, Houston has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Houston has to offer.

Top Attractions

Some of the must-see attractions in Houston include:

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston, the visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is a must-visit attraction for space enthusiasts. Here you can learn about space exploration, see real spacecraft and artifacts, and even meet astronauts.

Houston Museum District

The Houston Museum District is a walkable area with 19 museums, galleries, and cultural centers. Some of the popular ones include the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children’s Museum of Houston.

Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from 900 species, making it one of the top animal sanctuaries in the country. It has an African Forest, Kipp Aquarium, McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, and many more exhilarating exhibits.

Dining Spots

Houston is famous for its culinary scene, and it offers something for every taste bud. Here are some of the top dining spots in Houston:

Gatlin’s BBQ

Gatlin’s BBQ is an iconic Houston restaurant that serves up some of the best BBQ in the region. It is known for its smoked meats, homemade sides, and casual atmosphere.

Brennan’s of Houston

Brennan’s of Houston is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a mix of Creole and Texas cuisine. It is a popular spot for a romantic dinner or brunch. It features a courtyard patio and elegant dining rooms.

Hugo’s

Hugo’s is a Mexican restaurant that offers flavorsome dishes from different parts of Mexico. It is known for its margaritas, guacamole, and mole sauces.

Cultural Experiences

Houston is a diverse city that is famous for its cultural experiences. Here are some of the top ones:

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston is one of the largest art museums in the country, featuring over 70,000 works of art. The museum has an extensive collection of American, European, African and Asian art.

Miller Outdoor Theatre

Miller Outdoor Theatre is an outdoor theatre that showcases free cultural performances, including music, dance, and theater, throughout the year. It is a perfect spot for picnics and family-friendly events.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of the largest rodeos in the world, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and other western events. It takes place in February and March at NRG Stadium.

Local History

Houston is a city with a rich and diverse history. Here are some of the top historical sites to visit in Houston:

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site

The San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site is the site of the 1836 Battle of San Jacinto, which was a victory for the Texan army against the Mexican army. You can visit the San Jacinto Monument, which is the tallest monument in the world.

Buffalo Bayou Park

Buffalo Bayou Park is a 160-acre park that runs along the Buffalo Bayou river. You can go biking, hiking, kayaking or canoeing while enjoying some of Houston’s scenic views. The park is also home to historical attractions like the Sabine-to-Bagby Promenade and The Waugh Bridge Bat Colony.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

Here are some off-the-beaten-path locations that are worth checking out:

Mural Trail

Houston’s mural trail is a must-see attraction for art lovers. The trail features over 250 murals that are a perfect backdrop for photos. Some of the popular spots include “Greetings from Houston,” the Sugar and Cloth Color Wall, and “Preservons La Creation.”

Beer Can House

The Beer Can House is a quirky home in Houston that is entirely covered in beer cans. It is a unique attraction that was built by a local resident named John Milkovisch in 1968.

Underbelly Art Gallery

If you’re looking for a hip, underground art scene, check out the Underbelly Art Gallery in the Houston Heights. The gallery features contemporary street art and mixed media work by local and international artists.

Houston is a city that is full of surprises and hidden gems. Do some more research to discover the city’s authentic experience that provides its visitors with lifetime memories.