How can you possibly know where to stay, go and eat in Houston, without spending days researching?
Luckily for you, I’ve already been and done all the research for you, so you can enjoy yourself.
HOUSTON: WHERE TO STAY
Firstly, Houston is a sprawling metropolis, you really want to consider what it is you would like to experience, so you can choose the best area to fit your needs. Here are my top picks and a little about each neighbourhood to steer you in the right direction.
Montrose – For me, this was the place to be, although the area is light on hotels, you may want to check Air Bnb or stay in another area, but spend time here. This eccentric hub is brimming with art, culture, restaurant and bars. Combine this beautifully with the Museum District which is walkable to the south.
Downtown – If you’re wanting walkable access to Avenida Houston, Discovery Green, Market Square Park, sporting and art events, Houston’s CBD is where you want to be.
Galleria / Uptown – If you are looking to shop, you have found your home in Houston’s retail paradise.
EaDo / Eastend – Within walking distance of downtown, you’ll be surrounded by more ethnic restaurants, art galleries and clubs.
Houston Heights – Dating back to the late 1800’s, these neighbourhoods are filled with historic homes, quaint shops and cool restaurants.
Washington Corridor / Memorial Park – This strip is lined with bars, and more bars.
West U / Rice Village – Home to Rice University, plenty of bars and local boutiques.
River Oaks – A luxurious area, between Montrose and Galleria that is perfect for shoppers and foodies.
Chinatown – As the name suggests, here you will find a district that thrives on great food and markets.
Hotel recommendations
Hotel Zaza Museum District – $$$ – A standout boutique hotel, located in the Museum District.
Marriott Marquis Houston – $$$ – Perfectly located in the heart of the downtown. The highlight is an infinity pool overlooking the city, and a Texas shaped lazy river on their rooftop.
The Whitehall – $$ – Sophisticated southern style, located downtown.
The Post Oak Hotel – $$$ – The cities only AAA Five Diamond property, in the heart of uptown.
Hotel Indigo at the Galleria – $$ – Steps from the shops and a great price.
Sara’s Inn – $$ – Cozy, peaceful, and brimming with history, all while being in a great location.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Houston Downtown – $ – Great value and always gets good feedback for this location and price. Don’t let the name fool you, this is more Heights district than downtown.
The Houstonian – $$$ – If you’re seeking a resort experience, within the city, this is it. You’ll find it nestled nearby Memorial Park.
Omni Houston Hotel – $$ – A modern take on Texas style, close by to Memorial Park.
If you’re on a budget, you may want to stay a bit further out of the city at a chain hotel, or take a look at Air Bnb.
HOUSTON: WHERE TO EAT
Did you know that Houston is the number one hot spot for food in all of America? I had no idea either, but I did my research, and was pleasantly surprised.
There are more restaurants in Houston per capita than in New York City, and every ethnicity on earth is catered for in H-Town.
I highly recommend starting with, 50 things to eat in Houston before you die. If you have time, follow that up with a serving of 38 essential Houston restaurants.
Feeling overwhelmed with choice (which by the way, you should be)? Here are a handful of my absolute musts.
Xochi – An ode to Oaxaca, and being close to the Mexican border, Texans know how to do this right.
BBQ – I really went all out for this and ventured out to Pearland to get a taste of Killen’s Barbecue. Was it worth it? You won’t want to leave! If you’re looking for something a little closer though… Check out this list.
Anvil Bar & Refuge – Okay, this is not about the food… but it is ALL about the drinks, and an absolute must.
Present Company – Easygoing, colourful and fun. I’m not going to lie, I came here for the gram, but stayed for the atmosphere.
Tiny’s No. 5 – This place is incredibly cute, and the food divine. Also, check out their shop next door, Milk and Cookies, for the perfect choc chip cookie.
HOUSTON: WHAT TO DO
Houston for me, is all about the food, bars and art. H-Town is also home to a wealth of museums, sporting events and inviting green spaces.
You most likely know Houston for it’s Space Center. Not only a museum, it is also a learning center.
Houston has over 150 museums and cultural institutions, with 19 of those dwelling in the Museum District. You need a lifetime to visit them all, but my standouts were the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Center for Photography.
Spend some time in the sun (you may want to go early or later to avoid the heat) at Discovery Green or Buffalo Bayou Park.
Ten minutes before sunrise and sunset each day (except Tuesdays), experience the light and sound installation at James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace.
Catch a game! Houstonians love their sport and if the opportunity arises, you can cheer them on at these venues; Astros (baseball) at Minute Maid Park, Rockets (basketball) at Toyota Center and the Texans (NFL) at NRG Stadium.
After that, make sure you set aside ample time to bar hop and fill your belly, all around Houston.
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