North Houston Travel Guide

Plan your trip to North Houston with this comprehensive guide including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture and customs, and safety tips.


Introduction to North Houston

North Houston is a vibrant and exciting destination located in the heart of Texas. This bustling region is renowned for its world-class attractions, excellent cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a good time, North Houston has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in North Houston

  • Space Center Houston
  • The Woodlands
  • Buffalo Bayou Park
  • Discovery Green
  • The Menil Collection
  • The Houston Museum of Natural Science
  • The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
  • The Houston Zoo
  • Hermann Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North Houston is home to a wealth of museums and historic sites that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage. Space Center Houston is the top attraction in the area, where you can explore the history of space exploration and even take a tram tour of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

The Menil Collection is Houston’s preeminent art museum and is known for its world-renowned collection of art from ancient to modern times. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is another must-see for art lovers, with stunning exhibits of paintings, sculptures, and other works from around the world.

Other highlights include The Houston Museum of Natural Science, where you can explore exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to gemstones, and the Holocaust Museum Houston, a moving tribute to the lives lost during World War II.

Natural Attractions of North Houston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North Houston is also a paradise for nature lovers, with plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to explore. Buffalo Bayou Park is a beautiful green space that stretches for miles along the banks of the Buffalo Bayou River, offering stunning views of the Houston skyline and plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking.

Discovery Green is another popular urban park, particularly for families, featuring an array of outdoor activities, including a sprayground, playground, and stages for concerts and events throughout the year.

For a more immersive outdoor experience, plan a visit to Hermann Park, where you can stroll through Japanese gardens and admire the reflections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, or take a swan boat ride around the peaceful lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Houston

North Houston boasts an array of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular trails include the Cypress Creek Greenway Trail, the Katy Trail, and the White Oak Bayou Greenway. These routes offer miles of scenic natural beauty and are great for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Best Things to Do in North Houston: Activities and Tours

In addition to the many cultural and natural attractions in North Houston, there are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your visit. The Houston Zoo is a particular favorite, offering visitors the chance to get up close and personal with exotic wildlife from around the world.

For a more relaxed experience, consider taking a bayou boat tour, where you can float along the Buffalo Bayou River and take in the stunning views of the Houston skyline.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Houston

Day 1: Space Center Houston and Historic Galveston Island Day 2: The Menil Collection and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Day 3: The Houston Museum of Natural Science and Hermann Park Day 4: Buffalo Bayou Park and Downtown Houston Day 5: The Houston Zoo and Uptown Houston Day 6: The Woodlands and Market Street Day 7: Discovery Green and Bayou Boat Tour

Food and Drink Scene of North Houston

The food and drink scene in North Houston is as diverse as its people. Here, you’ll find a wide range of cuisines, from classic Texas barbecue to international flavors from around the world.

Must-Try Dishes

When in North Houston, you must try classic Texas barbecue, especially at the world-famous Goode Company BBQ. Other must-try dishes include fried chicken at Max’s Wine Dive and Tex-Mex at El Tiempo Cantina.

Local Beverages

North Houston is home to several top breweries, including Saint Arnold Brewing Company, known for its award-winning beers. For wine lovers, head to Galveston Island for tastings at Haak Vineyards & Winery.

Where to Stay in North Houston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Houston is home to a range of accommodation options to fit any budget or preference. For luxurious spa experiences, consider the JW Marriott Houston Downtown or the Four Seasons Hotel Houston.

What to Buy in North Houston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some must-buy local souvenirs include cowboy hats and boots, Texas flags, locally made jewelry, and even pecans and pralines from any of Houston’s specialty candy stores.

Local Culture and Customs of North Houston

North Houston is a vibrant and diverse region, known for its welcoming people, exceptional food, and lively cultural traditions. Texans are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so expect to experience plenty of Southern charm during your visit.

Best Time to Visit North Houston

The best time to visit North Houston is in the fall and spring, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be chilly. However, the holiday season (November-December) is very popular for festive events and bustling holiday markets.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Houston

Do:

  • Embrace the Southern hospitality and charm
  • Try Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine
  • Take in the natural beauty of parks and trails

Don’t:

  • Neglect your sunscreen and bug spray
  • Be offensive towards Texas or Houston culture
  • Forget to tip your servers and service providers

Safety and Health

Safety in North Houston

North Houston is generally a safe destination for visitors, but it is always wise to take precautions when traveling, such as not venturing into unknown or isolated areas of town by oneself. Be aware of surroundings, and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in North Houston

Water in North Houston is safe to drink, but it is always wise to carry a water bottle for outdoor activities to stay hydrated. Mosquitoes can be present, especially in the summer months.

Getting to North Houston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Houston

Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport is the primary airport serving North Houston. William P. Hobby Airport is another option, located about an hour’s drive south of North Houston. Both airports are well-served by domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near North Houston

Greyhound and Megabus both serve Houston from various locations in Texas and beyond. The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Houston and Megabus has stops at several locations around downtown Houston.

Other Options

Rental cars are a popular option for exploring North Houston and the surrounding areas, as are taxis and ride-share services.

How to Get Around in North Houston

The easiest way to get around North Houston is by car. Rental cars are widely available, as are taxis and ride-share services. For those who prefer public transportation, Houston’s METRO system provides bus services throughout the city and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from North Houston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Houston is conveniently located within easy driving distance of several other popular destinations. Galveston Island is a great option, known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and thriving arts and culture scene. Other nearby destinations include Austin, San Antonio, New Orleans, and Dallas.

Conclusion

North Houston is a destination that should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. With an abundance of natural beauty, world-class attractions, and exceptional cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in North Houston. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a good time, this vibrant and exciting region is sure to leave you feeling enriched, invigorated, and fully satisfied.