Houston is a hub for many things: the energy industry, space exploration, a varied food scene, all kinds of arts, and sports, to name a few. But what stood out to me during my recent August visit was the feeling that it’s a city where anyone can feel at home. Not only is Houston the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest city in the United States, but according to a 2024 WalletHub ranking, it’s also the most diverse major city in the country and America’s fourth most diverse city overall. That means there’s lots of cool things to do and inspiring people to meet.
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Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Houston
Whether you’re in town to explore the city’s arty side, catch a ball game, experience world-class cuisine, or relax in style, Houston promises a visit you won’t soon forget. Here are some of the best things to do, places to eat, and where to stay when you go.
Things to do in Houston
Wander around The Post
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The Post, or POST Houston, used to be a post office (specifically, the Barbara Jordan Post Office, named after the first Black senator elected in Texas since Reconstruction). It’s since become an urban redevelopment project with spaces for culture, food, events, and coworking, as well as a rooftop park and farm called the Skylawn from where you can see panoramic views of the Houston skyline. Inside is a mix of dining options, including international options like the West African fare at ChopnBlok, bars, and ice cream stalls. The Post also hosts events like live music, art exhibitions, and pop-up markets, so be sure to see what’s on while you’re in town.
Post Houston: 401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
Snap the street aesthetic at Graffiti Park
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Graffiti Park, also known as the Houston Graffiti Building, is an outdoor art space showcasing murals and creativity from the city’s street art community. It’s in the heart of Houston and is a testament to talented artists who use the walls as their canvas. The artwork is frequently updated, making for a unique experience each visit. Designs include abstract pieces, cultural icons, and tributes, including one for Kobe Bryant. Remember to bring your camera.
Graffiti Park: 1503 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003
Watch the Astros at Minute Maid Park
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Attending an Astros baseball game at Minute Maid Park is a quintessential Houston experience. The park is located downtown, and the stadium is known for its historic train features and retractable roof. I got to see both at a game the Astros won, cheered on by a hive of buzzing fans sporting orange and black, followed by a fireworks show. Minute Maid Park also has several amenities and food options on site, including traditional ballgame fare like hot dogs and nachos, as well as gourmet options like Cajun étouffée nachos, roasted vegetables, and pumpkin-flavored chicken wings at the exclusive Gallagher Club.
Minute Maid Park: 501 Crawford St, Houston, TX 77002
Catch an event at NRG Stadium
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
NRG Stadium is Houston’s venue for significant events; it hosted both Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour and Taylor Swift’s Eras tour during their Houston stops. It’s also home to the Houston Texans if you’re a football fan and want to catch some NFL action while you’re in town. I watched a different kind of football during my visit: a Leagues Cup soccer match between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Tigres, a club from the Mexican Premier League. Messi didn’t play or attend due to an injury, but the game and crowd buzzed with excitement nonetheless.
NRG Stadium: 3 NRG Pkwy, Houston, TX 77054
Take a swing at PopStroke
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
PopStroke is an entertainment venue in Katy, a city west of Houston proper in the Greater Houston metropolitan area. The franchise was designed in part by Tiger Woods and offers a modern twist on the traditional mini-golf experience by presenting courses that mimic actual greens. This PopStroke has two 18-hole putting courses that cater to all skill levels. The venue also has a lively atmosphere and dining area, craft beer on tap, and an extensive menu, including yummy appetizers and hand-scooped ice cream.
PopStroke: 23110 Grand Cir Blvd, Katy, TX 77449
Where to eat and drink in Houston
ChopnBlok
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Located in POST Houston, ChopnBlok is a fast-casual spot with a menu that celebrates West African specialties, including jollof rice, stewed plantains, and meat pies. It also offers East African fusion in the form of coconut curry. You can’t miss the smell of traditional African spices wafting through the restaurant, plus the Afrobeats bangers in the background.
ChopnBlok: 401 Franklin St Suite 1450, Houston, TX 77201
Bludorn
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Equal parts chic, modern, and approachable, Bludorn is one of Houston’s trendiest restaurants. Chef Aaron Bludorn helms the kitchen, turning out modern, French-inspired fare with an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Start with oysters however you like them — raw, fried, roasted, or smoked — followed by mains like branzino with étouffée or dry-aged duck with rice pilaf. The wine and cocktails list is also impressive, and there are plenty of delicious mocktails to choose from if you don’t partake.
Bludorn Restaurant: 807 Taft St, Houston, TX 77019
Koffeteria
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Located in the heart of East Downtown, Koffeteria is a cool, quirky bakery and cafe that embodies the personality and energy of Pastry Chef Vanarin Fuch. His pastries and desserts are anything but ordinary, with yummy fusion pastries like pho kolaches and black sesame salted egg yolk mochi pushing culinary boundaries while paying homage to Cambodian roots. You can also find specialty drinks at Koffeteria, such as the Salty Cambodian (a latte with butter, sweetened condensed milk, and Maldon salt) and the Salted Lemon Soda, which is perfect if you want a refreshing drink to beat the heat.
Koffeteria 1110 Hutchins St, Houston, TX 77003
Luv’em Leches
Luv ’em Leches is the perfect cure for late-night cravings and sweet tooth satisfaction. It’s located in the East End (though delivery is also an option). While I’m always happy to have traditional tres leches, what stood out to me were the flavors that Luv ’em Leches offers. The cakes have plenty of leche and come in various flavors, including piña colada, Reese’s peanut butter, and strawberry.
Luv’em Leches: 1010 Prairie St, Houston, TX 77002
Lucille’s
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Lucille’s is a beloved Houston spot doing Southern comfort food in a sophisticated way. It’s the place to be for a relaxing breakfast or brunch. Lucille’s is located in the Museum District in a vintage-style building that pays tribute to owners Chris and Ben Williams’ great-grandmother, Lucille B. Smith. The restaurant is relaxing and welcoming, with must-try dishes like the famous fried chicken and waffles, chili biscuits, and shrimp and grits.
Lucille’s: 5512 La Branch St, Houston, TX 77004
Handies Douzo
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Handies Douzo makes sushi with quality ingredients. It’s a small spot, so the atmosphere is intimate and makes for nice conversation with guests and sushi preparers alike. The simple menu features hand rolls with fresh fish and seafood, including amberjack, yellowtail tuna, and scallops, all perfectly seasoned and made to order in front of you.
Handies Douzo: 3510 White Oak Dr., Suite A, Houston, TX 77007
Where to stay in Houston: Marriott Marquis Houston
Photo: Bonnibelle Chukwuneta
Located in the heart of downtown, a short walk from Minute Maid Park, the Marriott Marquis Houston is a standout choice for a memorable stay. Its rooftop deck is home to the only Texas-shaped lazy river in the world, so you get breathtaking views of the Houston skyline while you relax. There are a number of restaurants to choose from at the hotel, including Walker Street Kitchen (Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch), Biggio’s (a two-story sports bar serving American fare), and Xochi (a Oaxacan culinary experience). There are also a ton of great restaurants nearby the hotel, which gets points for its walkability.
Before you leave, be sure to make time for some pampering. The on-site PureSpa offers facials, massages, and other therapeutic services that are nothing short of bliss. I had a hot stone massage while I visited, and it was one of the better ways to spend some time.
How to get to and around Houston
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Houston has two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Both airports are well-connected to cities across the US and internationally, making Houston an accessible destination no matter where you’re flying from.
Once you land, you can use a rideshare app, taxi, or airport shuttle to get into the city proper, or you can rent a car. Getting around Houston is pretty straightforward. The city is car-centric, with a vast highway network. I didn’t have the opportunity to try public transportation, but there were bus stops and light rail services a short walk from the Marriott Marquis Houston. Renting bikes and scooters is another popular way to get around Houston. 