Houston City Guide

Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Gulf Coast seafood are local staples. The city has diverse international cuisines and good vegetarian and vegan options. Many places serve food late, especially in Montrose and Midtown.

Vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs in Midtown and Washington Avenue, plus relaxed pubs and live music in Montrose and Downtown.

Strong coffee scene with many specialty roasters and quality-focused shops.

Tipping is expected for most services in the US, usually 15-20%. This applies to restaurants, taxis, delivery, and personal services.

Buy SIM cards or eSIMs from carrier stores like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, or electronics stores like Best Buy. Prepaid plans are easiest to activate.

Cleanliness varies by neighborhood but generally good in central areas with regular waste services.

Many late-night pharmacies, convenience stores, and some clinics open 24/7. Food options also available late in entertainment areas.

Supermarkets include H-E-B, Kroger, Randall's, and Fiesta Mart. International foods are easy to find, especially in diverse neighborhoods. Stores mostly open 7 AM to 10 PM, with some open on Sundays and holidays.

Most places accept major credit and debit cards. Cash is usually not needed for daily expenses.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience shops. Out-of-network ATM fees range from $2.50 to $5 per use, plus your bank's charges.

Includes Houston Independent School District and international schools like British International School and Awty International School. Mostly English instruction with some bilingual options.

Growing remote worker community with meetups and nomad-friendly cafes, mostly in Montrose and The Heights.

Several large parks like Memorial and Hermann Park offer good green space and walking trails.

Popular running spots in parks and along bayou trails. Good safety in busy areas; running clubs active.

Several gym chains and boutique studios available throughout the city.

Many public and private tennis courts with coaching available. Hard court surfaces dominate.

Padel courts are limited but growing in popularity.

Wide range of yoga studios and styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms for BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, and other arts. English-speaking instructors common.

No local skiing; nearest resorts are in other states requiring travel.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on Buffalo Bayou and nearby lakes; sailing and windsurfing at Galveston Bay.

Small, inconsistent surf spots near Galveston suitable for beginners and longboarders. Seasonal conditions apply.

Diving available in Gulf of Mexico on artificial reefs and oil rigs. Water visibility varies; suitable for all levels.

High-quality healthcare with English-speaking staff at top hospitals like Houston Methodist and Texas Children's. Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens are widespread with extended hours.

Tap water meets federal and state safety standards.

Many parks and playgrounds like Hermann and Memorial Park. Attractions include Houston Zoo and Children's Museum. Baby supplies widely available.

One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Texas, centered around Montrose. Active communities and events.

City is pet-friendly with dedicated dog parks and many pet services.