Uptown Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Uptown in Houston, Texas.


Introduction to Uptown

Uptown is an upscale and cosmopolitan district located in the heart of Houston, Texas. The district is a blend of high-end boutiques, restaurants, cultural attractions, and luxurious accommodations that cater to the tasteful and discerning travelers. The skyline of Uptown perfectly captures the towering buildings amidst the lush greenery, making it a stunning district to explore. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family seeking a fun trip, Uptown offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Uptown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Uptown boasts of some of the best museums and historical landmarks that reflect its vibrant past and diverse culture. Here are some of the most popular ones that should not be missed:

  • The Houston Museum of Natural Science: This museum is home to an extensive collection of natural wonders, including fossils, gems, and minerals. The best part is the Burke Baker Planetarium, which provides an immersive and awe-inspiring experience of the universe.

  • The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: This museum has an impressive collection of American and European art, a sculpture garden, and an extensive collection of works from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

  • The Menil Collection: This museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Duchamp.

Natural Attractions of Uptown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Besides the cultural attractions, Uptown has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Uptown:

  • Buffalo Bayou Park: This park is a perfect place for a morning stroll, a picnic, or a bike ride along the bayou. The park has several trails that offer scenic views of the downtown skyline.

  • Memorial Park: This park is the largest urban park in Houston, covering over 1,500 acres of woodland and green spaces. The park has several trails, a golf course, and a Japanese garden.

  • Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: This park has a unique and stunning water wall that is 64-feet tall and made of white granite. The place is perfect for photo opportunities and relaxation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uptown

Uptown is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Rice University Loop Trail and Buffalo Bayou Trail are two popular walking and biking routes in the district. The trails are well-manicured and offer scenic views of the surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Uptown: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to engage in while exploring Uptown, Houston. Here are some of the best:

  • Visit the Houston Galleria: Houston Galleria is one of the largest malls in the country, with over 375 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The place is perfect for a day of shopping and entertainment.

  • Take a Culinary Tour: Uptown Houston is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of eateries serving lip-smacking cuisines. A culinary tour is the best way to explore the culinary scene of the district.

  • Go on a Segway Tour: A Segway tour is a fun way to explore the district’s landmarks and attractions. The guided tour offers an exciting and informative experience, perfect for families and groups.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uptown

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary to explore Uptown at a leisurely pace:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Houston Museum of Natural Science
Day 2 Explore The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Day 3 Walk around Buffalo Bayou Park
Day 4 Go shopping at Houston Galleria
Day 5 Take a culinary tour of Uptown Houston
Day 6 Enjoy the views of Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
Day 7 Go on a Segway tour of the district

Food and Drink Scene of Uptown

Houston’s food scene is famous for its diversity and bold flavors, and Uptown offers some of the finest dining and drinking options in the city.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tex-Mex Cuisine: Houston is famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, and Uptown has some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in the city. Try the quesadillas, fajitas, and margaritas at Chuy’s or Lupe Tortilla.

  • Seafood: Houston is located near the Gulf of Mexico, and the seafood dishes in the district are fresh and delicious. Visit McCormick & Schmick’s for its famous seafood platters.

  • Steaks: Uptown has some of the best steak houses in the city. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse serves the best steaks in the district.

Local Beverages

  • Local Breweries: Houston has plenty of local breweries that serve some of the best craft beers in the country. Visit Saint Arnold Brewing Company or Karbach Brewing Co. for a refreshing pint.

  • Local Wine: Texas is home to several vineyards that produce some of the finest wines in the country. Visit Memorial Wine Cellar for a glass of local wine.

Where to Stay in Uptown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Uptown offers luxurious accommodations that cater to all kinds of travelers, from budget-friendly hotels to high-end resorts. Some of the highly-rated hotels in the district are:

  • The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston: This hotel is located in the heart of Uptown and offers luxurious rooms and suites, world-class dining, and exceptional service.

  • Hotel Derek: This boutique hotel is a favorite among travelers for its stylish decor, modern amenities, and proximity to the Houston Galleria.

  • The Westin Galleria Houston: This hotel is connected to the Houston Galleria mall and offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and amazing views of the city.

What to Buy in Uptown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Uptown offers plenty of local products and souvenirs to take back home as a reminder of the trip:

  • Texas Artwork: Texas has a rich and vibrant art scene, and Uptown has several art galleries that sell local artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media.

  • Cowboy Boots and Hat: Texas is known for its cowboy culture, and Uptown has several western-themed stores that sell cowboy boots, hats, and other accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Uptown

Uptown reflects the vibrant and diverse culture of Houston. The district has a cosmopolitan vibe and celebrates its culture through art, music, and food.

Best Time to Visit Uptown

The best time to visit Uptown is from March to May or from September to November when the temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are thin. Summer months can get extremely hot and humid, while winter months can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uptown

Do:

  • Dress to impress when visiting high-end restaurants and bars in Uptown.
  • Take a Segway tour to explore the district’s landmarks and attractions.
  • Try the Tex-Mex cuisine and local beer.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Visit the district during the peak summer months when it’s extremely hot and humid.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uptown

Uptown is a safe district, but like any other urban area, travelers should be cautious and take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Uptown

Uptown has several medical facilities that offer urgent care and emergency services. Travelers should carry a copy of their medical insurance and seek medical attention if needed.

Getting to Uptown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Uptown is well-connected to other parts of Houston and the country through several transportation options.

Airports Near Uptown

The nearest airport to Uptown is the George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), located 25 miles away from the district. The William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is located 18 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Uptown

The Megabus and Greyhound bus stations are located 10 miles away from Uptown.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach Uptown via car, taxi, or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in Uptown

Uptown offers several means of transportation to get around the district, including:

  • METRO Buses: The METRO bus service operates several routes in and around the district.

  • METRORail: The METRORail red line runs through the district and connects it to other parts of Houston.

  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available in the district.

Where to Go Next from Uptown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several exciting nearby destinations and excursions that travelers can add to their itinerary after exploring Uptown. Here are some suggestions:

  • Houston Downtown: Downtown Houston is located just a few miles away from Uptown and is home to several museums, cultural landmarks, and restaurants.

  • Galveston Island: Galveston is a beautiful island located near Houston and is known for its stunning beaches and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Uptown is a beautiful and vibrant district that offers a perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, Uptown has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained throughout your trip. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Uptown with ease and explore the district like a local.