With over 2 million people living here making it the largest city in Texas, Houston is very diverse and this is clearly reflected in the myriad of interesting things to see and do. There’s so much to do in fact that if you are coming to Houston for your holiday, you might find that you quickly run out of time. Here’s our top pick of attractions, restaurants, shopping and nightlife to ensure you get the best from your holiday in Houston.
Attractionsin Houston
The Johnson Space Centre is the best of the rest and a truly unique attraction. This mammoth centre spans 1,620 acres and is the home of the NASA astronaut corps. Visitors to the centre can touch real moon rocks, see behind the scenes on the NASA Tram Tour, experience a zero gravity environment in the Living in Space exhibit and even experience a virtual rocket launch in the theatre plus much more. Everyone has a secret fascination with space and astronauts and what better way to uncover it than with a visit to the space centre; it will be sure to make your visit memorable.
Get an insight into the history of Texas with a visit to the George Ranch Historical Park. This 480 acre living-history park offers hands on experiences and costumed historical interpreters. Book up for an authentic meal to really complete the experience!
When it comes to museums, Houston doesn’t disappoint with two of the best including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the John P McGoven Museum of Health & Medical Science. Both offer fascinating, fun and education exhibits and displays with hands on attractions too. The Science Museum even has an in-house IMAX theatre.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Bayou Place is widely regarded as the best place for both eateries and evening entertainment. Contained within one large complex in the heart of downtown’s Theatre District, Bayou Place offers a huge selection of restaurants such as the excellent Sambra Grille and the obligatory Hard Rock Café, not to mention the Blue Fish which is rated as one of the best sushi bars. Verizon Wireless Theatre has music of all styles covered whereas Sundance Cinemas delivers the very best in film.
Kemah Boardwalk is a similar type of establishment located on the waterfront, however it combines restaurants with a larger array of entertainment including fairground rides. Kemah Boardwalk is therefore a great choice for families.
Shopping
When it comes to retail therapy, the best regarded areas include the Galleria, Houston Heights and Westheimer and Dunlavy. Westheimer offers a range of big name brands whereas Galleria and Houston Heights offer a more sophisticated and upmarket approach.
Old Town Spring shopping village offers a different retail experience and boasts a huge selection of 1900’s Victorian style shops combined with restaurants, museums and art galleries. It certainly makes for an alternative approach to shopping but no less enjoyable by any means.
The Montrose Neighbourhood one the other hand is a vintage shoppers dream with its antique mall and live music venues. The tree lined boulevards make this area particularly pedestrian friendly and is highly enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
What do you think are the best things to see and do in Houston? Share your thoughts!