Houston, Texas, Essentials: Exploring Food, Shopping and Entertainment Scenes

Houston's diverse dining scene includes over 11,000 restaurants representing dozens of cuisines from around the world. No matter what you’re craving, you'll find unforgettable offerings in every corner of the city. Indulge in an upscale experience at Bludorn, where seasonal dishes are served with French-inspired flair; savor Creole cuisine at local landmark Brennan’s and enjoy Tex-Mex classics at The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation. POST Houston is an international food hall featuring flavors from West African to Asian fusion. The historic downtown hot spot, a former post office, also houses an eclectic mix of shops and vendors.

Artisan storefronts and stylish shopping centers are everywhere in Houston, offering clothing, shoes, accessories and unique finds. Dedicate at least a day to exploring the Galleria, one of the largest shopping malls in the USA. The complex features more than 400 stores, 60 dining options and a four-season ice rink. Browse a variety of department stores and exclusive-to-Houston shops as well as design houses like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Nearby, Houston Heights offers a casual shopping experience and a taste of local culture. The historic neighborhood is home to boutiques, vintage shops and art galleries where you can shop for one-of-a-kind treasures.

Delight in creative displays from street art to stage shows in Houston’s ever-changing art scene. Check out colorful murals in the Downtown, Midtown and East Downtown (EaDo) neighborhoods, and then head for the historic First Ward to explore Sawyer Yards. The USA’s largest creative campus, Sawyer Yards houses galleries and studios in revitalized industrial buildings. The Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston (MATCH) is another modern arts center featuring four spaces for theater, dance, music and gallery shows.

Houston’s Theater District is filled with performing arts centers. The cultural hub spans 17 blocks in the heart of downtown Houston. You can’t miss Jones Hall – its grand exterior occupies an entire block on Louisiana Street. Stop in to hear the Houston Symphony or watch a production by Performing Arts Houston. The Alley Theatre is another outstanding venue presenting thrillers, comedies and classic shows.

Houston’s Museum District is home to nearly 20 museums and cultural institutions in four walkable zones. You’ll find attractions for all ages and interests, from the habitats of the Houston Zoo to the serene spaces of the Rothko Chapel. Browse impressive collections at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; the Menil Collection, and Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. The Houston Museum of Natural Science includes a planetarium, giant-screen theater and butterfly center in addition to more than a dozen exhibits.

Downtown, relax on the lush lawns of Discovery Green, a delightful city park featuring art installations, play spaces and a sparkling lake. Conclude your Texas vacation at Space Center Houston, where interactive elements detail the past, present and future of space exploration in the USA.

Fly into George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and rent a car to explore the city.