

DISCOVER HOUSTON & BEYOND | STAY LONGER, EXPLORE DEEPER


















![]()




















Houston is a city with endless layers, a place where world-class museums sit beside groundbreaking space innovation, where global flavours meet Southern hospitality, and where vibrant urban streets open into leafy parks and waterfront escapes. With 19 outstanding museums in the walkable Museum District, the cutting-edge wonders of Space Centre Houston, and neighbourhoods bursting with culture, creativity, and cuisine, every moment in Houston brings something new to discover.
But the adventure doesn’t end at the city limits — it’s only just beginning.
Just a short drive in any direction leads to communities full of character, charm, and fresh experiences. Relax into coastal life on Galveston Island or along Texas City’s waterfront, uncover rich history and bayou traditions in Beaumont and Port Arthur, and enjoy the family-friendly energy of Sugar Land and Pearland. Spend time exploring Bay Area Houston’s scenic marinas and waterfront dining, shop and dine among the trees in The Woodlands, discover Shenandoah’s easygoing suburban style, or soak up small-town warmth at Tomball’s lively festivals. For nature lovers, Huntsville’s towering pines and tranquil lakes offer the perfect escape into East Texas wilderness.
Beyond the city, even more outdoor and coastal adventures await. Discover Surfside Beach’s sandy


shores and spot migratory birds at the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge in Brazosport, hike or bike the waterfront trails at Baytown Nature Centre, and explore local history at the Baytown Historical Museum.
In Houston, food alone is worth extending your stay. With influences from more than 140 countries, the city boasts one of America’s most exciting dining scenes — from Michelin-recognised fine dining to sizzling barbecue, tacos on the go, and the bold flavours of Southeast Texas. Pair this with legendary sports, live music, nightlife, designer shopping, and the iconic Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, and you’ve got a reason to celebrate every day.
Whether it’s a city break or a longer adventure, Houston and its neighbouring destinations make it easy to slow down, look closer, and truly experience the heart of Texas. Drive just a little further — and discover so much more.
Stay longer. Explore deeper.
Make Houston your gateway to a region worth savouring.


Houston and the surrounding “Around Houston” destinations offer far more than a traditional city break. They provide a dynamic mix of culture, coastline, adventure, and authentic Texas charm. Whether you’re an urban explorer, an outdoor adventurer, a family traveller, or a culture seeker, this region delivers a perfectly balanced holiday designed around you.
World-class museums, headline exhibitions, thriving theatre districts and street-art filled neighbourhoods mean there’s always something new to discover. From Bay Area’s Space Centre Houston to Montrose’s creative scene, the city inspires curiosity at every turn.
With major league baseball, basketball, and football — plus rodeo, motorsport and big seasonal celebrations — Houston delivers the electric energy of true American sporting culture.
Wildlife encounters, aquarium fun, and coastal escapes ensure full days of discovery for every age. Add beach time in Galveston Island or Brazosport, take a dip in Texas City’s Lagoonfest, or stroll along The Woodlands Waterway. For more family fun, explore creative murals in Pearland and try some indoor gaming in Shenandoah.
Beyond the skyline lies an outdoor playground — paddle bayous, hike shaded forest trails near Huntsville, enjoy birdwatching along the Gulf Coast, or relax on sandy shores in Brazosport and Baytown.

Just an hour from Houston, Galveston is one of the leading cruise homeports in the U.S. — a perfect opportunity to pair a stay in Houston with a Caribbean or Gulf cruise for the ultimate city-andsea escape.
One of America’s most diverse dining destinations, Houston serves global cuisine, legendary BBQ, and fresh Gulf seafood. Nearby towns add even more authenticity with Cajun spice in Beaumont and Port Arthur, craft beer in Tomball, and sweet treats in Sugar Land.
Short, scenic drives connect vibrant Houston neighbourhoods with charming coastal towns and forest-filled escapes — making it easy to turn a city break into a week-long adventure.


Houston is a year-round destination where every season offers something special, from lively festivals and cultural celebrations to outdoor adventures and coastal escapes. Thanks to its mild climate and endless things to see and do, it’s always a good time to discover Houston and the vibrant destinations that surround it.
Spring (March – May)
Blooming azaleas, bluebonnets, and bayou landscapes set the scene for one of Houston’s most colourful seasons. Highlights include the worldfamous Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, perfect temperatures for parks and kayaking, and day trips to Brazosport, Beaumont, or The Woodlands as wildlife and outdoor concerts return.
Summer (June – August)
Hot, lively, and full of energy, summer brings beach days in Galveston and Texas City, dolphin cruises from Baytown, and boating on Clear Lake. Indoors, travellers cool off in the Museum District or The Galleria, while evenings fill with rooftop bars, outdoor films, and live music.
Autumn (September – November)
Warm days and cooler evenings make autumn ideal for sightseeing, festivals, and dining outdoors. Enjoy the Bayou City Art Festival, Houston Restaurant Weeks, and the Texas Renaissance Festival, plus fall colours in Huntsville and The Woodlands or harvest celebrations in Sugar Land and Pearland.
Winter (December – February)
With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, winter offers festive lights, cultural performances, and peaceful outdoor escapes. Wander holiday markets, explore Discovery Green’s installations, or enjoy birdwatching in Beaumont and Brazosport — and don’t miss Galveston’s quiet winter sunsets over the Gulf.
No matter when you visit, Houston and its surrounding destinations offer an ever-changing blend of urban excitement, cultural discovery, and outdoor adventure — making every season the right season to explore.



Bold, diverse, and full of life, Houston isn’t a city you simply pass through. It’s a place that rewards curious travellers who slow down, look around, and discover its many personalities. Each neighbourhood offers something uniquely “Houston”: Downtown delivers skyscrapers, sports, and skyline views, Montrose buzzes with creativity and colour, and The Heights charms with history, markets, and local flavour. Together, they create a city that’s best explored deeper, one district at a time.
Whether you’re here for culture, cuisine, nightlife, shopping, family fun or outdoor adventure, there’s a neighbourhood that fits your style… and another just around the corner waiting to surprise you.
The beating heart of the city, Downtown blends iconic attractions with buzzing nightlife, rooftop bars, and exciting sports action. Visit Discovery Green for year-round events, explore the Theatre District — one of the largest in the U.S. — or cheer on the Astros or Rockets nearby. With top hotels and walkability, it’s the ultimate base for first timers.
Home to 19 impressive museums set within a leafy and walkable area, the Museum District is a cultural playground for curious minds. Explore world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, then step into nearby Hermann Park — a serene urban oasis with lakes, gardens, and the much-loved Houston Zoo. It’s culture, nature, and relaxation all in one perfectly connected neighbourhood.

Artistic, eclectic, and full of soul. Expect murals, vintage shops, indie cafés, and the world-class (and free) Menil Collection. A local favourite for dining, bar hopping, and street-style exploring.
With its tree-lined streets, independent shops, quirky markets, and relaxed eateries, this welcoming district blends historic charm with true local character. Spend time browsing antique stores, cycling scenic neighbourhood trails, or sampling small-batch brews at local breweries. It’s the perfect place to slow down, unwind, and experience Houston’s warm community spirit.


Short for East of Downtown, EaDo is vibrant and bold. Home to street murals, live-music venues, and major league soccer at Shell Energy Stadium, the district offers both daytime creativity and lively nights out. Global dining, craft drinks, and entertainment — all packed into one energetic corner of the city.
Perfectly positioned between Downtown and the Museum District, Midtown is a hotspot for dining terraces, nightlife, and green spaces like Midtown Park. With METRORail access, it’s easy to get anywhere in the city — making it ideal for those who want a lively base without needing a car.
Shop, dine, and relax in Houston’s upscale playground. Browse The Galleria’s designer boutiques, unwind at stylish restaurants, or visit the iconic Waterwall Park — a favourite photo spot. High-end hotels and pampering experiences make this district perfect for travellers craving comfort and indulgence.
A go-to for foodies and night owls, this corridor is packed with award-winning breweries, Texasstyle BBQ, and live-music venues. Whether you’re discovering barrel-aged beers or enjoying local bands, every night promises something new.
Houston’s personality doesn’t end with its headline districts — venture a little further and you’ll uncover even more neighbourhood gems brimming with charm and local life. In River Oaks, grand estates and palm-lined avenues set the scene for refined dining, luxury boutiques, and some of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Nearby, West University offers a relaxed, leafy atmosphere ideal for slow exploration — think cosy cafés, independent bakeries, and peaceful residential streets that feel a world away from downtown’s energy. Just beyond, Rice Village buzzes with style thanks to its blend of chic fashion stores, unique gift shops, rooftop patios, and the youthful influence of Rice University.
Houston isn’t just one destination - it’s many extraordinary experiences in one city. Stay longer, explore deeper… and discover the Houston locals love.



Houston is a city of innovation, imagination, and big Texas spirit, where world-changing science meets world-class culture and adventure awaits at every turn. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or as a group of curious explorers, Houston delivers experiences that are out of this world. From iconic NASA history to immersive museums, wildlife encounters, waterfront fun, and cutting-edge art, every visit invites you to uncover more and stay longer to explore deeper.
No trip to Houston is complete without visiting its most celebrated attraction. Space Centre Houston — the official visitor centre for NASA’s Johnson Space Centre — offers a thrilling journey into space exploration. Stand beneath towering rockets, see real spacecraft including the Apollo 17 Command Module, touch a moon rock, and embark on the NASA Tram Tour to Mission Control, where astronauts have been guided since the Apollo era. With astronaut encounters and interactive exhibits, this is an inspiring experience for dreamers of all ages.
Located in the heart of the Museum District, this legendary museum takes guests from prehistoric dinosaurs to distant galaxies. Admire glittering gems, Egyptian treasures, and the remarkable Morian Hall of Palaeontology. Complete your visit with a show at Burke Baker Planetarium or wander through the lush Cockrell Butterfly Centre — a tropical escape that delights all ages.
SSet within beautiful Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo is home to more than 6,000 animals. From African elephants and gorillas to the immersive Galápagos Islands exhibit, the zoo offers unforgettable encounters and a strong message of conservation, making it a perfect day out for families and animal lovers.
Dive into an aquatic world featuring over 200 marine species. Explore rainforest and swamp habitats, enjoy amusement rides, and board the Shark Voyage — a thrilling train ride through a 200,000-gallon shark tunnel. Family-fun entertainment and waterfront dining make it an essential stop for younger travellers.



As the largest shopping destination in Texas and one of the biggest in the U.S., The Galleria delivers designer boutiques, trend-setting brands, and fine dining all under one roof — plus an indoor ice rink! And for international visitors, shopping comes with extra perks: qualifying purchases are tax-free, making it even easier to treat yourself. Pair with nearby luxury hotels and glamorous nightlife for the perfect retail-therapy day in Houston.
One of the largest museums in the U.S., the MFAH spans thousands of years of global creativity — from ancient civilisations to contemporary icons. Its stunning buildings, sculpture gardens, and blockbuster exhibitions make it a cultural highlight not to be missed.
Voted one of America’s top children’s museums, this interactive space turns learning into an adventure. Young explorers can build, test, play, and create — from engineering challenges to imaginative role-play zones. A must for families looking to spark creativity and curiosity.
Just a short drive from Houston, Kemah Boardwalk is a lively waterfront escape on Galveston Bay. With classic rides, live entertainment, and fresh seafood dining, it’s the perfect place for fun-filled afternoons and breezy nights by the coast.
To make the most of your visit, the Houston CityPASS® combines Houston’s top attractions into one convenient ticket — including Space Centre Houston plus your choice of four additional highlights such as the Houston Zoo, Downtown Aquarium, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Kemah Boardwalk, Children’s Museum Houston, or the Museum of Fine Arts. Valid for nine days from activation, the pass offers excellent value and the flexibility to stay longer and explore deeper, ensuring you enjoy the very best of Houston at your own pace. Speak to your Discover North America Travel Specialist to add a Houston CityPASS® to your itinerary.



Houston isn’t just a gateway, it’s a destination that rewards time, curiosity, and a love for great experiences. Bursting with world-class museums, championship sports, diverse and delicious cuisine, and sun-soaked green spaces, this is a city where every day brings something new to discover. From cutting-edge innovation to authentic Texan culture, Houston invites you to slow down, look around, and feel its rhythm that is warm, bold, and endlessly exciting.
In Houston, sports aren’t just games — they’re part of the city’s heartbeat. Cheer with 40,000 devoted fans as the Houston Astros hit a home run at Daikin Park or feel the electric energy of the Houston Rockets inside the iconic Toyota Centre. American football fans can experience the passion of Houston Texans game day at NRG Stadium, while soccer lovers can join supporters at Shell Energy Stadium to watch the Houston Dynamo or Dash take the field. Not visiting during a game? Stadium tours offer behindthe-scenes access to locker rooms, tunnels and epic field-level photo moments — the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s sporting spirit.
Houston’s cultural scene is nothing short of worldclass. Discover masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts or towering dinosaurs and glittering gems at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. In the nearby Theatre District — one of America’s largest performing arts centres — Broadway tours, ballet, opera, and live concerts light up the night with
style and sparkle. Creativity spills outdoors too: colourful street art splashes across EaDo, musicians fill parks and rooftops with live music, and eclectic neighbourhoods buzz with galleries, theatres and indie performances. Culture is everywhere — and always worth lingering for.
Houston is one of America’s tastiest cities, a culinary melting pot where more than 70 cultures serve bold and beautiful flavours. The city’s food scene has earned Michelin recognition, placing Houston firmly on the map as a must-visit destination for food lovers. Dine in award-winning restaurants Downtown, discover global fusion and creative cocktail bars in Montrose, and enjoy relaxed bites with the locals in The Heights. From Tex-Mex feasts and smoky barbecue to Gulf Coast seafood and inventive fine dining, every meal tells a new story and gives you another reason to stay hungry. Whether it’s brunch, food markets, or late-night eats, Houston satisfies every craving.



With warm weather and wide-open green spaces, Houston makes it easy to step outside and explore. Cycle through forested trails in Memorial Park, picnic under leafy trees in Hermann Park, or kayak along Buffalo Bayou with the downtown skyline as your backdrop. Botanical gardens bloom with colour, wildlife thrives in nearby nature preserves, and sunset strolls along the waterfront are the perfect end to a day of discovery. In Houston — adventure is never far away.
Whether you’re searching for luxury labels or oneof-a-kind finds, Houston is a shopper’s paradise with something for every style. Uptown’s iconic The Galleria remains a landmark, home to hundreds of stores and dining options, but it’s just the beginning of what the city offers. For high-end fashion and refined dining, River Oaks District delivers a polished luxury shopping experience, while Montrose offers a more eclectic vibe with independent boutiques, vintage stores, art-led shopping, and creative local brands. Those looking for great-value finds can head to Houston’s outlet centres, where major brands offer excellent savings. Add in charming shopping areas such as Rice Village and The Heights, filled with local makers and speciality stores, and it’s easy to see why retail therapy is such a big part of the Houston experience. International visitors can also enjoy tax-free shopping on qualifying purchases with a passport, making it even more tempting to indulge.

Space Centre Houston. Rooftop bars under the stars. Major-league sports. River paddles and rollercoasters. Art festivals and rodeo nights. Big flavours and bigger hospitality. Houston isn’t just a stop — it’s a full-scale adventure made for those who want to experience more.
Once you’ve explored the heart of the city, extend your stay into the Around Houston region — from Gulf Coast beach days in Galveston Island to outdoor escapes in The Woodlands and heritage tours in Beaumont — each destination adds another layer of excitement to your trip.
Ready
to start planning your perfect Houston getaway?
Scan to view our suggested 5 NIGHT ITINERARY — fully customisable to your interests.



Houston’s story doesn’t end at the city limits; it expands into a collection of welcoming destinations, each offering its own blend of charm, history, and adventure. From coastal escapes and heritage towns to nature-filled trails and family-friendly retreats, the “Around Houston” region invites travellers to experience more of Texas at their own pace.
All just a short drive from downtown, these destinations are perfect for day trips, weekend getaways, or extended stays that combine big-city excitement with small-town hospitality. Whether you’re chasing sea breezes in Galveston Island, kayaking through Bay Area Houston, exploring the heritage of Huntsville, or enjoying live music under The Woodlands’ Forest canopy, this is your invitation to stay longer, explore deeper, and discover more around Houston.

















Set along the waterways of the Texas Gulf Coast, Baytown is an easy-going stop just east of Houston and north of Galveston. Enjoy waterfront trails, geocaching, local dining, and evening theatre, while experiencing the city’s welcoming community spirit
Stretching along Galveston Bay, Bay Area Houston - home to Clear Lake Shores, League City, Nassau Bay, Seabrook, and Texas City - combines laid-back coastal living with the thrill of space exploration. With a wide choice of waterfront accommodations and easy access to Space Centre Houston, it’s an ideal place to extend your trip.
Where historic charm meets modern energy, Beaumont is a vibrant cultural destination with museums, arts venues, local boutiques, and great dining. Families can enjoy outdoor adventures and hands-on attractions, including the popular Gator Country Adventure Park, making Beaumont a rewarding stop for all ages.
Brazosport combines coastal beauty with a strong creative spirit, anchored by the Centre for the Arts & Sciences with galleries, museums, a planetarium, and theatre. Nearby beaches, fishing piers,


kayaking, and dolphin watching — plus historic Fort Velasco and the laid-back shores of Quintana — offer an easy blend of culture, nature, and seaside relaxation.
Just an hour from Houston, Galveston Island promises sea breezes, history, and fun-filled days by the water. Stroll the historic Strand District, visit Moody Gardens, or enjoy the rides and sea views from the Pleasure Pier. Galveston is also one of the Gulf Coast’s premier cruise homeports, offering year-round sailings to the Caribbean and beyond — the perfect beginning or end to your Houston cruise & stay adventure.
North of Houston, Huntsville combines small-town warmth with outdoor beauty. Discover Texas pride at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, hike through Sam Houston National Forest, or relax by the water at Lake Raven. Antique shops, murals, and a welcoming downtown make this a rewarding country escape.
Located just south of Houston, Pearland is a familyfriendly destination known for its parks, golf courses, and locally owned restaurants. A strong shopping scene and lively annual events like Pearland Arts & Eats add to its welcoming character. It is an ideal stop for visitors seeking community charm with easy access to downtown Houston.


Port Arthur – the official Cajun Capital of Texasblends Gulf Coast scenery with rich Cajun heritage. Explore the Museum of the Gulf Coast, enjoy paddling and wildlife at Sea Rim State Park, fish or beachcomb along McFaddin Beach, and savour some of Texas’s best Cajun seafood for a true taste of coastal culture.
Positioned between Conroe, Spring, and The Woodlands, Shenandoah offers exceptional convenience just north of Houston. With 13 hotels, a diverse range of great restaurants, shopping centres, and indoor entertainment venues, the city delivers comfort and value in a compact, easy-to-navigate setting.
Sugar Land offers an inviting gateway to Greater Houston with depth and character. Just 22 minutes southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land stands out for its global culture, welcoming neighbourhoods, and vibrant community life. Visitors discover a mix of international cuisine, green spaces, museums, concerts, and family-friendly attractions in a relaxed setting.
Texas City — Coastal Heritage & Waterfront
Texas City invites families to gather at the 6th Street Community Plaza, where entertainment, green space, and community life come together. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, splash pads, dog parks, and nearby downtown shopping and dining. Just blocks from the Dike, it is also the perfect spot to fish or watch the sunset after a day of fun.
Tomball captures the heart of small-town Texas with its historic downtown, antique shops, BBQ joints, and lively festivals. From music events to craft markets, there’s always something happening — and always with a genuine Texas welcome.
Refined, relaxing, and surrounded by forest, The Woodlands offers a sophisticated retreat just north of Houston. Explore trails and waterways by bike or kayak, shop and dine at Market Street, or catch a concert at the open-air Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion — one of the country’s premier outdoor music venues.
Scan QR Code to discover more about the destinations Around Houston — with inspirational itineraries to help plan your adventure.




Houston isn’t just a city you visit; it’s a destination you experience. And when you include the vibrant “Around Houston” partners, the possibilities grow even bigger. Together, this region offers the perfect balance of cosmopolitan energy, coastal charm, outdoor adventure, world-class culture, thrilling sports, and authentic Texas hospitality.
Maybe your perfect holiday begins with exploring Houston’s iconic attractions — standing beneath historic spacecraft at Space Centre Houston, museum-hopping through the world-renowned Museum District, sampling bold flavours from across the globe, or cheering alongside passionate fans at a major league game. Add a day discovering colourful neighbourhoods, drifting along bayous beneath the skyline, or relaxing in 65,000 acres of green spaces that wrap around the city like an “Emerald Necklace.”
Then, when you’re ready to venture beyond the city buzz, the surrounding destinations add even more flavour to your adventure, with sandy beach days on Galveston Island, small-town hospitality in Tomball and Sugar Land, forest trails and outdoor escapes in Huntsville, and coastal wildlife encounters in Brazosport and Baytown. Bay Area Houston adds its own appeal too, offering waterfront dining, marina life, and relaxed coastal experiences along the Gulf Coast. Short drives lead to big discoveries, and every stop reveals another memorable layer of your holiday.
Whether you want a culture-packed city break, a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a flydrive journey that connects Texas with other states

across the USA, Houston fits beautifully. It’s the perfect place to start your trip, end on a high, or enjoy an exciting midpoint within a longer itinerary. And with Galveston as one of America’s leading cruise ports, it’s also an incredible launchpad for a Caribbean cruise-and-stay escape.
There is no single way to do Houston — which is exactly why travellers fall in love with it.
Scan the QR code below to dive deeper into our Houston content — including neighbourhood guides, must-see experiences and a collection of flexible itineraries featuring Houston and the Around Houston region. From short stays to extended road trips, our Discover North America Travel Specialists can help you tailor the perfect journey.

Stay longer. Explore deeper. Your Houston adventure starts here.


Discover North America is an independent UK tour operator specialising in tailor-made holidays and escorted tours to the USA and Canada. When you book with Discover North America, you can be assured of top-quality travel arrangements. We work closely with the state tourism offices and the industry’s top suppliers to bring you a wide choice of options to enhance your holiday experience, including rail, cruise lines, car-hire, airlines, escorted tours, motorhomes (RV’s), accommodation and experiences.
The travel specialists at Discover North America are 100% dedicated to their profession and have been selected for their strong passion for the USA and Canada. They all have first-hand knowledge of the destinations that you’ll be visiting, which have been gained from personal holidays, Industry training and familiarisation visits.
After your first interaction with us, you’ll be assigned your very own dedicated North American travel specialist who will remain your sole-point of contact throughout and is available 7 days a week (including evenings) to provide you with information and/ or answer any questions you may have. Trust us when we say that they’ll make you feel like you’re their only client!

The Discover North America travel specialists are here to take the stress out of the holiday planning process. You can be as involved as you want, and you’re always in control. All of our holidays are tailor-made to your exact needs and tastes, and we will keep tweaking and adapting the itinerary until it exceeds your expectations.
Book with confidence and security. As members of ABTA and ATOL, you will have complete peace of mind that all Discover North America holidays carry full financial protection and that every last detail is taken care of - allowing you to see the sights in style and comfort.
Call 0800 246 1241
Email booking@discovernorthamerica.co.uk
Website www.discovernorthamerica.co.uk
Discover North America is operated under licence from Fred Olsen Travel Limited. Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd. Company Reg No. 2287241. Fred. Olsen House, 42 White House Road, Ipswich, IP1 5LL


