Quick Guide

Late February – April, September – November

Houston’s weather is generally warm with less humidity during spring and fall; these are also popular seasons for festivals.

May – August

Summer’s heat and humidity can be oppressive in Houston, but with most locals traveling elsewhere for their summer vacation, it’s also possible to score good hotel deals.

Visas

Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.

Money

Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available.

Getting Here

Houston is served by two airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and the smaller William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

Getting Around

Houston is best explored via car (rental, taxi or ride share), as public transportation is spotty. The city’s Metrorail, however, does connect downtown to the Museum District.

Local Lingo

H-Town: Locals’ nickname for Houston. Inside/outside the loop: Refers to being inside or outside the boundaries of Interstate 610. EaDo: East Downtown. Space City: Another nickname for Houston, thanks to the presence of NASA. Dome: Houston’s NRG Astrodome sports stadium.

Must-Have Apps

Uber; Google Maps; RideMETRO

Insider Tips

When summer temps and humidity rise, join local Texans with an escape to nearby Galveston Island, a laid-back Gulf Coast beach town.

Late February – April, September – November

Houston’s weather is generally warm with less humidity during spring and fall; these are also popular seasons for festivals.

May – August

Summer’s heat and humidity can be oppressive in Houston, but with most locals traveling elsewhere for their summer vacation, it’s also possible to score good hotel deals.

Visas

Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.

Money

Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available.

Getting Here

Houston is served by two airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and the smaller William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

Getting Around

Houston is best explored via car (rental, taxi or ride share), as public transportation is spotty. The city’s Metrorail, however, does connect downtown to the Museum District.

Local Lingo

H-Town: Locals’ nickname for Houston. Inside/outside the loop: Refers to being inside or outside the boundaries of Interstate 610. EaDo: East Downtown. Space City: Another nickname for Houston, thanks to the presence of NASA. Dome: Houston’s NRG Astrodome sports stadium.

Must-Have Apps

Uber; Google Maps; RideMETRO

Insider Tips

When summer temps and humidity rise, join local Texans with an escape to nearby Galveston Island, a laid-back Gulf Coast beach town.