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About this guide
Houston stands out as one of Texas' most dynamic metropolises. There are soulful rhythms of live jazz and blues performances in the historic Fifth Ward and thought-provoking exhibits at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. It holds a historical part of the African American narrative and Hispanic heritage. Travelers worldwide come to try the melting pot of Creole, Mexican, and Southern cuisines. The “Space City” has a legacy of trailblazers inspired by African American culture. Houston also has a vibrant tech scene with the global gathering extravaganza, AFROTECH24 in November 2024. A community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and professionals come together for a week of networking, learning labs, and immersive experiences. There’s also access to the expo floor, main stage talks, and exclusive partner events at a discounted rate, so don’t miss out!
- Best time to travel: February to March and June to September (peak season), January (off-season), April to May and October to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central Time Zone (CST)
- Currency: USD ($)
- Noteworthy: Black Restaurant Week Houston (April), Pan-African Cultural Festival (May), Houston Black Heritage Music & Arts Festival (October)
- Best for: Culture & Entertainment, Art & Music Festivals, Culinary Trips, Black History Enthusiasts
Get Away: Getting To and Around Houston, Texas
By Air
The best way to travel to Houston, Texas by air is to book a direct flight to George Bush Intercontinental Airport or William P. Hobby Airport. These airports are well-connected to major cities and offer routes to and from domestic and international flights. Pay attention to seasonal travel trends like shoulder or off-peak times to avoid crowds.
By Car
Navigating Houston by car is a more convenient and flexible option for travelers with busy itineraries. Rental car agencies are available from the airport and all around the city. It is best to make reservations in advance to secure the best rates. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also a simple way to get around without committing to a rental for the whole trip. Taxis are another option, but they might be less readily available during peak traffic hours.
By Public Transit
Houston’s Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County public transit system is an extensive and convenient network of buses and light rail. It provides affordable transportation throughout the city with their Q Card or METRO mobile app. Exploring Houston's key attractions, cultural sites, and diverse neighborhoods via public transit are a more sustainable way to experience the city.
Explore Houston, Texas on Foot
Neighborhoods like Downtown, Montrose, and the Museum District have attractions and dining options within walking distance of most accommodations. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are key as some routes can be rough. The city's unique character and vibrant street life are a testament to the cultural richness of the area.
Quick facts
Central Time Zone (CST)
USD ($)
English and Spanish
Good For
Culture & Entertainment
Art & Music Festivals,
Culinary Trips
Black History Enthusiasts
Keep in mind
- Black Restaurant Week Houston (April)
- Pan-African Cultural Festival (May)
- Houston Black Heritage Music & Arts Festival (October)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Houston, Texas
The Black family-owned Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant shows the rich heritage of Ethiopia through traditional dishes served with teff-based Injera bread. The menu features delicacies like Teff, Yemissir Wot red lentil stew, and sautéed minced lamb tripe, liver, and beef called Dulet.
Visionary founder Marcus Davis created the Black-owned brunch spot, The Breakfast Klub, which is popular for brunch classics and lunch favorites. Modern art, lush greenery, and wooden tables adorn the interior for a casual familiar vibe.
The Black-owned Korny Vibes Vegan Cafe is where plant-based foodies can enjoy Houston without sacrificing flavor. The soulful vegan comfort food menu also includes sweet treats, like cookies, pastries, shakes, and soft-serve ice cream.
Phil & Derek's Restaurant Wine and Bar is a Black-owned spot in Houston's Midtown area perfect for foodie travelers. There are weekend brunches with Southern comfort foods, New Orleans-inspired cuisine, and Cabaret-style live entertainment.
The Black-owned Bungalow Downtown Dining serves a fine dining menu on a state-of-the-art rooftop patio with gorgeous views of Downtown Houston. The vibrant bar offers luxurious cocktails and a lavish dining room with gold accents and plush velvet booths.
Urban Eats is a two-story community space with an upscale market that complements the full-service bistro upstairs. The menu offers locally sourced classic American food with a twist on sliders, meatloaf, seafood, and brunch dishes.
Stay
Stay: Places to Stay In Houston, Texas
The Black-owned urban bed and breakfast La Maison in Midtown is within walking distance of Houston's finest restaurants and lively entertainment. Choose one of seven luxurious twin, queen, and king rooms or indulge in a full-size suite with a private veranda.
The Black woman-owned Wanderstay Hostel in central Houston is where guests choose private or shared rooms. Every stay supports a global exposure grant program for college students to get a passport and a week-long study abroad experience.
This Black-owned Airbnb is an ideal getaway stay for travelers who want a more homely place to rest with four bedrooms. The Sparhill Comfort King Suite has modern appliances, including a washer/dryer and a fully stocked kitchen.
Guests can enjoy this entire Heights Bungalow Airbnb home close to the downtown shopping and dining areas with full amenities. The house has lots of light, windows, and original artwork on the walls.
This cozy bohemian-style one bedroom apartment is a short commute to the Medical Center, outdoor shopping in Rice Village, and fun activities in the Museum District. The space includes a full kitchen, an in-unit washer/dryer, and guest access to the gym and pool.
For over 35 years, the historic Sara’s Inn has been a local boutique hotel with whimsical decor and charming character alongside complimentary robes, linens, and slippers. All rooms have an ensuite private bath, but the Paris suite has a larger private bathroom across the hall.
Play
Play: Things To Do In The Houston, Texas
This bike tour has a bar with LED lights, a booming sound system, and Trill Trivia and Trap Karaoke throughout this electrifying 2-hour ride. The Trappin' Captain guides guests through local landmarks with drink specials and VIP entrances at various bars.
Catch a show at the historic Black-owned The Ensemble Theatre. Notably recognized with numerous accolades, this space preserves Houston's theatrical history by captivating diverse audiences.
The Black woman-owned paint-and-sip experience Everything Artzy teaches color mixing, blending, and brush techniques led by professional artist, Zyn. Guests groove to beats as they connect with like-minded people through laughter, food, and beverages.
As a proud Black woman business owner, TearaVon has over three decades of expertise in teaching hands-on baking techniques. She brings baking mastery to the Design Cake or Cookie Class with homemade cookies or a two-layer cake with two blended icing colors.
This immersive mixology class came to be with the visionary Black owners of Pour Me Perfection. Rasheed and Carlesha Sidney created an intimate evening of mingling and mastering mixology with bartending tools provided.
Guests can sip drinks as they learn the craft of fragrance blending and create two unique candle souvenirs. This custom candle-making boutique is a great activity for small groups.
This adventure-filled scavenger hunt is a dynamic excursion through different locations in Houston. It’s a great excursion for families, corporate teams, and solo travelers looking to solve clues and embrace fun challenges.
The popular Space Center Houston has over 400 space artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the world's largest moon rock collection. The center generates significant economic impact, inspires STEM careers, and hosts NASA tours.