Houston is a large city with many distinct neighborhoods. We've created neighborhood guides for some of Houston's most iconic areas to help you get a feel for the city.
Houston's most affluent and prestigious shopping district is centered on Post Oak Blvd and Westheimer Road. Within a two-square-mile radius, the Galleria/Uptown area has over 700 retailers, fine dining, and hotels. The Galleria shopping mall, Texas' largest, is also located in this area. The Galleria is the ultimate shopping destination for locals and visitors from all over the world, with over 375 stores (luxury included), two hotels, an ice rink, and an endless food selection.
River Oaks is one of Houston’s nicest neighborhoods. This area has some of the most expensive homes in Houston. River oaks is luxury shoppers’ paradise with both Highland Village and the River Oaks District close by. In addition to shopping, River Oaks also has several fantastic restaurants from a variety of cuisines so no matter what your tastebuds are feeling, you’ll be satisfied.
Just south of River Oaks, Upper Kirby is home to Greenway Plaza, which is a major Houston business district. Upper Kirby is a great choice if you want to be centrally located. This area is just a short drive from the most popular neighborhoods in Houston.
Located just West of downtown, Montrose is a culturally diverseneighborhood with wonderful restaurants and night life.Montrose is popular with the gay community as there are several popular LBGTQ bars. There is something for everyone in Montrose. Right along Westheimer rd. (the main road that cuts through Montrose), there are several unique coffee shops, vintage clothing boutiques, bars, and award-winning restaurants.Montrose is also very close to the museum district which has the world-famous Museum of Fine Arts Houston, as well as several other museums for both adults and families.
Midtown is the place to be if you want to enjoy some of Houston's best nightlife. This neighborhood is one of the most walkable in the city, situated between Downtown and the Museum District. There are more than 140 restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to visit as you explore. The area is also rich in historical relics, such as single-family Victorian homes built around the turn of the century. Midtown, on the other hand, is great for families as well as the young and young at heart looking for a fun night out! Midtown Park is three acres of urban space with a lawn, pavilion, wetland stream, trail, playground, public art, game courts, and market area.
If there's something exciting going on, it's most likely in The Heights. The Heights neighborhood has exploded in recent years, with some of the city's most vibrant restaurant, bar, coffee, antique, and shopping scenes. Yes, The Heights has it all. The architecture along Heights Blvd is unquestionably one of the best aspects of The Heights. Large Victorian manors and quirky craftsman-style houses are plentiful as you walk, drive, or bike into the neighborhood via this iconic street. If you walk down the area's numbered streets, such as 19th St., you'll find cute boutiques and antique shops nestled into shopping centers with 1920s facades. This area is ideal for families, thanks to ice cream shops, fun outdoor dining, and Donovan Park.
This area just East of Memorial Park is mainly a residential neighborhood consisting mostly of townhomes. The area is very close to both the I-10 and 610 freeways so most of Houston will be easily accessible. The main attraction of this area is Memorial Park. Memorial Park has tennis courts, playing fields, a fitness facility, a swimming pool, and six miles of mountain and recreational bike routes. There is also a roughly 3 mile running loop around the park, which is a favorite for local runners.
Downtown Houston, the country's fourth-largest city, has something for everyone. Pro sports teams such as the Astros and Rockets call this part of town home, while the nationally acclaimed Houston Theater District, which includes Alley Theatre, Houston Ballet, Houston Grand Opera, Houston Symphony, Society for the Performing Arts, and Theater Under the Stars, brings shows to life.
This healthcare power-house employs more than 72,600 employees and treats more than 5 million patients each year. NRG Park, the vast, multi-venue events site that is home to the Houston Texans, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, and much more, lies directly adjacent to the Medical Center.