Houston is the fourth city in the United States and a great city in every way. In addition to its large area, Houston is home to Space Center Houston, the largest Medical Center in the world, the largest Rodeo and Cattle Fair on the planet, a Theater District that houses world-class organizations, a prestigious culinary scene, and top-level sports facilities.
In Houston, you can enjoy a host of attractions and events of varied types throughout the year, and you can shop until you falter. The possibilities in Houston are endless, so we invite you to get to know the Space City, named a top destination in 2015 by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Boston Globe.
Attractions
Houston has family-friendly attractions such as the Houston Zoo, which in May 2015 completed Phase 2 of the Gorilla Exhibition, allowing visitors to see the primates more closely. In September of the same year, the zoo also welcomed Gigi, a beautiful baby giraffe.
Other great options for family fun include water parks, the Downtown Aquarium, the Moody Gardens pyramids, and the Kemah Promenade. And of course, the Rodeo and Houston Cattle Fair is a magnanimous event that welcomes more than two million visitors every year during its three-week run.
Fine Arts
The Houston Theater District covers 17 blocks in the city center and is surpassed in seating capacity only by New York City. Houston is home to professional companies in all four performing arts disciplines: ballet, opera, symphony, and theater.
Other venues outside the Theater District, such as Houston's Bilingual Talent and the Miller Outdoor Theater, are also ideal for enjoying high-quality performances.
Shopping
Considered the fashion capital of the American South, Houston offers stores for all tastes and budgets. Start your shopping experience at The Galleria, the largest shopping center in Texas, and continue through Uptown Park, Highland Village, Rice Village, and the outlet malls.
The recently renovated River Oaks District is a must-see destination, featuring luxury brands such as Cartier, Dior, and Chopard, while also offering spaces for walking, dining, and relaxing.
Gastronomy
During the month of August, Houston Restaurant Weeks allows visitors to enjoy top restaurants at incredible prices while supporting a great cause, as proceeds benefit the Houston Food Bank. Houston is home to chefs who have been nominated for and have won the prestigious James Beard Award, such as Hugo Ortega and Irma Galván.
The city’s culinary reputation extends far beyond Houston, earning both national and international recognition.