What is Houston known for?

Houston, the fourth most populous city in the United States, is located in the Southeast region of Texas. This city is a vibrant hub of art, culture, food, and entertainment and is a great place to explore and experience the best of America. It’s a great city to visit if you’re looking for new sights to see, intriguing things to do, or a blend of both. So, what is Houston known for?

Culinary Scene

Whether you have plans for a relaxing lunch or an exciting dinner, there’s something for everyone in Houston. The city is known as the Culinary Epicenter of Texas, with over 11,000 restaurants and more than 150 food trucks offering a variety of international cuisines. From American and Tex-Mex, to Mexican and Mediterranean, there’s something for everyone in Houston’s Cooking Range. Upscale establishments offer five-star cuisine and fine dining with unique accents from the local fare. In addition, you’ll find some of the best barbecue on the planet served from nearby award-winning Food Trucks.

Sports

Houston is home to many major sports teams. The Houston Astros are the city’s major league baseball team and are based at Minute Maid Park in Downtown Houston. As part of the MLB’s American League West division, the Astros have been the World Series Champions in 2017 and are currently the defending champions. Additionally, the Houston Rockets (National Basketball Association), Houston Dynamo (Major League Soccer) and Houston Dash (National Women’s Soccer League) call Houston home. The city is also home to two Major League Rugby (Houston Sabercats) teams and minor league baseball with the Round Rock Express (based in Round Rock, TX).

Arts and Cultural Events

Houston is home to many museums and cultural attractions such as Museum District, Asia Society Texas Center, Contemporary Art Museum Houston, and others. Additionally, there are many performing arts venues hosting plays, concerts, and other special events. The city’s theater district includes more than 12 theaters offering everything from comedic plays to opera performances and much more. Some of the biggest music festivals in the state are held in Houston such as Free Press Texas Arts Festival and Day for Night Festival which feature some of the most popular music acts around.

Houston City Events

The city of Houston hosts several annual events that include Oktoberfest Houston, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Candy Land Festival Holiday Light Spectacular, Pride Parade and Festival, Art Car Parade, Paws in Space Dog Festival, and other events advertising to a wide range of tastes.

Conclusion

Houston is an impressive city that offers visitors an array of excellent museums, cultural attractions, food and entertainment options. From major sporting events to lively performing arts venues, live music festivals and exciting annual city events – Houston has something for everyone. With its strong culinary scene and Texas atmosphere, you’re sure to find something to wow your taste buds and your sense of adventure here in Houston. visithoustontexas.com is a great resource for those looking for more information about what Houston has to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Houston, Texas

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and the largest city in Texas. The city is renowned for its diversity, incredible food scene, cultural offerings, and world-class museums. Whether you’re looking to explore the art galleries, dine on authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, or dive into the history of Space Exploration, Houston has something for everyone. This insider’s guide will reveal some of the hidden gems of Houston and provide recommendations on what to see and do in the city.

Local Attractions

Houston is home to a vibrant array of attractions that will keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. Here are some of the top picks for local attractions:

1. Space Center Houston: A must-visit for history and science enthusiasts, Space Center Houston is the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Visitors can explore exhibits, touch a moon rock, and even meet real astronauts.

2. The Museum of Fine Arts: The Museum of Fine Arts boasts an impressive collection of art from around the world. This museum features works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Jackson Pollock.

3. Houston Zoo: Home to over 6,000 animals, the Houston Zoo is a fun day out for all ages. Visitors can take a stroll through the African Forest or explore the Kipp Aquarium.

4. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: This 64-foot-tall fountain is an iconic Houston landmark. It’s located in the Uptown area of Houston and is an ideal spot for a picnic or a romantic rendezvous.

Dining Spots

Houston is a culinary destination, offering amazing food from all around the world. Here are a few recommended dining spots that locals love:

1. Hugo’s: Hugo’s is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu features dishes such as cochinita pibil, chile en nogada, and tamales.

2. BB’s Tex-Orleans: If you’re looking for a taste of Cajun cooking, BB’s Tex-Orleans is the right spot. Known for their po’boys and gumbo, this restaurant is a favorite among locals.

3. Underbelly: Underbelly is a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases the diverse food culture of Houston. The menu rotates regularly and features seasonal ingredients that are sourced from local farmers.

4. The Hay Merchant: Featuring one of the largest selections of craft beers in Houston, the Hay Merchant is a perfect spot to enjoy a cold brew and some crispy chicken wings.

Cultural Experiences

Houston is also known for its rich culture and history, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience it firsthand. Here are some recommendations:

1. The Menil Collection: One of the world’s premiere art destinations, the Menil Collection showcases art from ancient to modern times. Admission is free, making it a great spot for budget travelers.

2. Buffalo Bayou Park: This 160-acre park features walking and bike trails along the Buffalo Bayou. It also includes a boat launch for those who want to explore the waters.

3. Houston Ballet: The Houston Ballet is one of the premier ballet companies in the world. Visitors can enjoy performances by world-renowned dancers at the Wortham Theater.

4. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum: Located in Houston’s historic Museum District, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of African American soldiers in the United States.

Local History

Houston has a unique history that dates back centuries. For those interested in learning more about the city’s past, here are a few recommendations:

1. San Jacinto Monument and Museum: Located just outside of Houston, the San Jacinto Monument and Museum commemorates the 1836 battle where Texas gained its independence from Mexico.

2. The Houston Museum of Natural Science: This museum covers a variety of topics, including paleontology, energy, and biology. Visitors can experience a butterfly exhibit or see a 60-foot dinosaur skeleton.

3. Rothko Chapel: The Rothko Chapel is a non-denominational prayer space and art installation. The space features 14 murals painted by Mark Rothko, creating a timeless and contemplative environment.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

For those looking to go off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems in Houston, here are some recommendations:

1. Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture: This college is home to some of the most innovative architectural designs in the city. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus and see the stunning buildings firsthand.

2. The Orange Show: An eccentric outdoor folk-art installation, created by Houston postal worker Jeff McKissack. The Orange Show reflects McKissack’s fascination with oranges, a symbol of health and vitality to him.

3. Beer Can House: Another quirky attraction, the Beer Can House is exactly what it sounds like. This house is decorated with thousands of beer cans, and it’s a unique sight to see.

Conclusion

Houston has an incredible amount of things to see and do, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food discoveries or off-the-beaten-path attractions. No matter what your interests may be, Houston is a destination that will not disappoint. Plan your trip with this insider’s guide to Houston and get ready for an unforgettable experience.