Houston in a Hurry

Whether you have a long layover or a long weekend, make the most of your visit to The Big Heart. But where do you start? Here are some locally loved eats, activities, and accommodations for the whirlwind traveler — that’s you!

Where can I eat like a local in Houston?

If you leave Houston hungry, something ain’t right. From breakfast with a view of the runway to whiskey flights under gilded crown molding, we’ve found three places to wine and dine like a regular.

• It’s always time for breakfast, especially after a long flight. The locally loved Breakfast Klub has a location inside the Houston airport, and it’s open every day, 4:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Not sure whether to enjoy a refined chef’s tasting menu or casual a la carte cuisine? The Pass & Provisions is one establishment split into two eateries, featuring an elevated experience at the Pass, and elegant but simpler fare at Provisions.
• For romantic, artisanal cocktails and small plates, pull up a plush 19th-century seat at Public Services Wine & Whiskey, located downtown in the historic Houston Cotton Exchange Building.

What should be on my Houston bucket list?

 Houston has it all. Get a new perspective on the galaxy, experience world-class performing arts, and savor the stunning city landscape.

• Crazy about the cosmos? Take off at the Space Center Houston, NASA’s educational outpost with exciting exhibitions, like Mission Mars, that reflect current advances in aerospace science and technology. It’s never too late to make your childhood dreams come true.
• Houston boasts one of the most prolific performing arts communities in the country. Weather permitting (it usually is), see a concert, play, or musical at the Miller Outdoor Theatre at dusk.
• Hike or bike the trails at Terry Hershey Park. The Buffalo Bayou runs through much of the park and it’s followed by a bike path. There are dirt and paved walking trails. 

If you’ve got just one night to spare, you’ll want to stay close to top attractions, award-winning dining options, or — let’s be practical — the airport. Consider these three areas and the Houston hotel rooms visitors rave about.

• Montrose, a neighborhood overlapping downtown, boasts impressive dining options, antique shopping, and colorful historical homes. Stay at nearby Hotel Alessandra, a contemporary spa hotel with excellent guest ratings. If you’re wondering where to stay in downtown Houston, check out this happening ’hood.
• Near the airport, stay at Holiday Inn Houston NE – Bush Airport Area for an easy commute to your terminal after a whirlwind visit. Amenities include complimentary airport transportation, an outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi, just to name a few.
• On the south side of the city, play at the Space Center and Clear Lake, and stay at guest-loved Homewood Suites by Hilton Houston Clear Lake NASA. This is also a convenient option if you’re looking for hotels in Houston near Hobby Airport. Happy flying!

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