Houston, we have a problem. And that problem is, we’re confused about when exactly is the best time to visit your beautiful city…
The most populous city in Texas and the fourth most populous city in the US, Houston is sometimes overlooked when Brits are planning a sojourn across the pond, drawn instead to the bright lights of the Big Apple, the immaculate vibes of San Francisco or the food scene in LA.
But Houston has so much to offer the intrepid traveller beyond the sometimes cliched experiences of the most famous cities in the States.
Indeed, Houston is a fantastic choice for a stop on a tour of the US’ most iconic urban centres, as part of a route 66 road trip, or as a city break all in itself. That said, with a subtropical climate and temperatures remaining resolutely in the mid-thirties (°C) during summer, it pays to time your visit carefully if you’re to get the most out of Space City.
We’re here to help with that; here’s our tips on when you should visit Houston and what you should see while you’re there.
Firstly, What Do I Need To Travel To Houston?
Traveling to Houston means entering the US, and that requires a few different travel authorizations depending on which country you come from. These authorizations include a US visa or an ESTA and have different criteria to fulfill.
An ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is an electronic travel document that allows entry into the US for countries that are part of the visa-waiver program. This includes the UK. Always use the official government ESTA site when applying for an ESTA and be aware that the fee is $14 per person.
This ESTA allows you to travel for up to 90 days in the US, which is more than enough time to see Houston. This will be valid for up to two years, or until your passport runs out.
Along with travel authorization, you will need a biometric passport (for your ESTA), and travel insurance. Though not an absolute necessity for travel to the US, travel insurance is strongly recommended because of the incredibly high medical fees in the country.
If you are not eligible or are denied an ESTA, you will need to apply for a visa for entry into the US.
What Should I See In Houston While I’m There?
Visit the Space Center
The first place we always recommend to visit in Houston is the Space Center. As the official NASA visitor centre, it’s perhaps the best place on earth to learn all about space exploration. Find out about current and upcoming missions, and even see a real-life rocket at Rocket Park when you visit. This is a great choice for letting your children’s imagination go stratospheric.
Check out the Museum District
The next place we think is worth a visit is the Houston Museum District. This area of the city – the clue’s in the name! – has loads of museums to choose from. You can find both the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Arts here if you’re keen to get your fill of the Houston art scene, or you could learn something new at the Museum of Natural Science. We also recommend the Children’s Museum for any little ones on the trip.
Picnic at Buffalo Bayou Park
If you’re looking for some expansive green spaces during your trip, then you should head to Buffalo Bayou Park. Surrounding Buffalo Bayou, a famously slow moving body of water in the center of the park, this 160-acre green area is great for a walk in the sun or a picnic. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards and get out on the water while you’re there.
Visit Houston Zoo
If you love animals, there’s nowhere better than Houston Zoo. With 6000 different species of animals, both exotic and indigenous, it is one of Houston’s star attractions. The Malayan Tiger is a real highlight!
Take a Trip to Galveston
Finally, we’d also recommend a trip out to Galveston (a fifty mile drive southeast or a one and half hour shuttle ride) where you’ll find peaceful beaches and the Pleasure Pier, ideal for a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Finally, What Is The Best Time To Visit Houston?
Houston, lying close to the Gulf of Mexico, has pretty warm weather all year round, and things remain resolutely humid whichever month you visit. During the summer (from late May until early September), things can get pretty toasty, and many Houston locals choose to leave the city altogether during the summer months to avoid the stifling heat.
Accordingly, visiting Houston between February and April or September and November represents the absolute best time. These months will offer warm, pleasant weather and fewer tourists, but with all the key attractions still remaining open.
Houston also has plenty of festivals to enjoy during these ‘shoulder’ seasons, such as the Bayou City Art Festival in March, the WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival and the Japanese Festival of Houstin, both in April, the Houston Greek Festival and the Houston Italian Festival, both in October, and the Houston Cinema Arts Festival in November.
Well, we certainly told you Houston had plenty going on!