Houston

When Houston dubbed itself Space City, it was referring to its connection to the stars (via NASA's Johnson Space Center). But the nickname could just as well refer to the enormous amount of earthly space the town and its suburbs occupy. Houston is so spread out that visitors and even residents have difficulty finding its center. Its immense size also brings a certain magnificence: The modern buildings that define the city's skyline are grand in a way few new buildings are. Houston is headquarters to almost two dozen of the largest corporations in the U.S., its port is the nation's second largest, and half of the world's largest foreign companies have offices there. Oil money and corporate largesse have enabled the city to lasso some of the finest museums and performing arts companies in the country.

Houston Travels & Tours

Space Center Houston Ever since the Apollo flights, Houston has been synonymous with space travel. This section of NASA's Johnson Space Center allows visitors to take a look back at the making of space history. Enter into the five-story plaza which features a full-size shuttle mock-up, complete with flight deck. By far, the most popular highlight for adults is the tram tour that takes you to various buildings throughout the Space Center. You will be able to have a seat in the viewing room of the original Mission Control room and stroll past full-size mock-ups of the original Apollo rockets. When you need a break from all the activity, the Zero-G diner is on hand to fix you right up Six Flags AstroWorld This theme Park is loaded with popular rides and fabulous shows, which means a two-day pass may definitely be in order if you want to experience it all. For some heart-stopping fun that simply cannot be beat, jump on the Texas Cyclone; it is one of the best all-wood roller coasters in the country. The sweet shops, however, run a close second and offer confections that are definitely worth a nibble. The show schedule includes a magic show, music and dancing and cartoon adventures for kids. The park operates March through October. Children's Museum of Houston This beautiful building opened in 1984 and is devoted to teaching through interactive play. Nine separate galleries cover history, cultures, fine and performing arts, technology, science, and geography. Adults are welcome to take a break in the Teacher and Family Resource Center where extra teaching materials are available to boost those creative juices. Lots of fun, educational toys are available in the gift shop, and snacks are available to satisfy your hunger. Houston Zoological Gardens Set in lovely Hermann Park, this 50-acre park has more than 700 species of animals including a living coral exhibit, a gorilla habitat, a rainforest aviary and creepy vampire bats. It has a wonderful petting area for the children, as well as special shows like the sea lion demonstrations and the bat feeding times. If watching the animals eat makes you hungry, there are two outdoor concession stands and one indoor dining area. Both feature hamburgers, hot-dogs, sandwiches, and snacks. HGalleria (The) Wonderful shopping is available all over Houston, but this is the definitive place to go for designer shops, unusual gifts, wonderful imports or just plain fun. Boasting almost 300 stores, it is certain to offer exactly what you need. Clothing shops include Barney's of New York, Macy's, and Lord & Taylor. Shops like Global Ideas and Royal Indian Jewelers represent only a portion of available gift and novelty shops. If you are more interested in art and culture, check out Ar Te Fact, Hanson Galleries or the Metropolitan Museum of Art store. Eighteen restaurants cater to hungry shoppers, and the ice skating rink is a popular way to cool off. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo The world's largest rodeo starts off with a bang as trail riders from all over the state gallop into town on Go Texan Day for a downtown parade. Western-style fun and games continue for two days at the Astroarena. During the next three weeks, the Astrodome and adjacent facilities come alive with rodeo events, award-winning barbecue and livestock events. World-champion competitors participate in roping events, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and bareback, bull and saddle bronc riding. Each segment of the rodeo ends with a flourish as top performers take the stage. Houston Museum of Natural Science This interesting showplace offers a wide variety of exhibits that are worthy of a full days outing. The three-level live butterfly exhibit fascinates the young, as does the Challenger Learning Center with its great introduction to space science. Definitely spend some time exploring the dinosaur exhibits. Of equal appeal to the adults in the crowd are the oil and energy exhibits, the Native American exhibits, the collection of minerals and gemstones, and The Hall of Medical Science. If you need a break enjoy an IMAX film or sit in on one of Burke Planetarium's shows. Houston International Festival This annual festival is a massive celebration of international culture. The city closes off 20 downtown blocks to showcase arts, crafts and food from a dazzling variety of nations representing the diversity of Houston. More than 1000 performers will appear on the outdoor stages. Listen to the music, do a little dancing, and enjoy a lot of people-watching during this week of fun and games. Each year a different country is highlighted. It is a great opportunity to learn about other nations and have a great time doing it. Tunnel Walks This downtown, multimillion-dollar tunnel system gives new meaning to the term underground. Those who venture beneath the city will be delighted at what they find hidden there. Restaurants, hotels, gift shops, and many more fun spots line the corridors. The temperature below is always pleasant and allows the busy people of downtown to navigate in comfort, regardless of the season. Major buildings that are connected by the tunnel system include One Allen Center, Shell Plaza, Alley Theatre and Wortham Center. If you are not familiar with the layout, you might want to pick up a tunnel map, or call to schedule a Tunnel Tour. Even the natives get lost in the jungle on occasion. Reservations are suggested for all tours. Astrodome Opened in 1965, this venue gained a place in history as the "Eighth Wonder of the World". In the years since, it has been home to the Astros baseball team and the Oilers football team. It also hosts the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, college sporting events, and concerts. Hotel accommodations, a bowling alley, and many other amenities have gained a lot of use over the years.

Nature and Adventure

The climate reflects Houston's location near the Gulf of Mexico: There are mild winters and hot, humid summers. In winter (December-early February), temperatures rarely dip below freezing and highs often reach the low to mid-60s F/15-18 C. Spring, which starts in late February or early March, is warm and slightly humid, but usually comfortable. Summer (late May-September) is hot and uncomfortably humid, with high temperatures above 90 F/32 C for extended periods. In this sprawling city, taxis are fine for short trips, but visitors who plan to go beyond a specific neighborhood (or outside downtown) will want to rent a car. Make sure you get a good map -- and study it -- before setting out. Freeway traffic can be heavy and fast any time of day. Public transportation is available, but it's designed for commuters, not travelers.

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