Getting Around Houston: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Houston is a large, sprawling city with a predominance of car-oriented infrastructure. In some neighborhoods, especially Midtown and Downtown, travelers can find a more pedestrian-friendly environment with numerous dining and shopping options. However, the majority of the city lacks consistent sidewalk networks and pedestrian-friendly crossings, making it challenging to get around on foot without a vehicle. As a result, travelers relying on walking will find it limiting in exploring diverse areas of the city.

Houston's METRO system offers a combination of buses and light rail, with the rail primarily serving key areas in the central city like Downtown, the Museum District, and the Texas Medical Center. Buses cover a broader area but can be inconsistent in terms of timing and frequency. For a traveler focusing on the city center or specific attractions, public transit can be a viable option. However, it might not meet all their needs for exploring less well-served outer regions, where ride-sharing might be more practical.

Although efforts have been made to enhance bicycling infrastructure, Houston remains behind more bike-friendly cities. Some parts, like the downtown area and bayou trails, provide dedicated bike paths and scenic routes. However, outside these zones, bikers face challenges sharing roads with vehicular traffic, which can be risky. The city's flat terrain helps, but the warm and humid weather can be off-putting. The Houston BCycle bike-sharing program adds convenience for short, urban trips.