Houston is the country’s fourth-largest city and the population is growing each day. The expansive footprint of the city could be overwhelming to many – the city spans 665 square miles! However, here is a quick recap of the local neighborhoods you may explore during your conference visit to Houston.

Downtown

Home to the corporate headquarters of many of the country’s oil and gas companies, Downtown Houston is also home to Minute Maid Park, Toyota Center, Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, Houston Symphony, George R. Brown Convention Center, among other city landmarks. As the
most Metro accessible part of the city, you can go up and down Main Street and take in street art and architecture. At night this thoroughfare comes alive with pubs, bars, and nightclubs.

East Downtown

Commonly referred to as “EaDo” by locals, the neighborhood was formerly the city’s Chinatown district until it relocated to Bellaire. Now you can find some of the city’s best bars, restaurants and breweries and a short distance to most of Houston’s main sports venues.

Third Ward

Houston’s Third Ward is home to the city’s historic African American population, with a rich cultural significance during the Civil Rights movement. Home to Emancipation Park, founded by Reverend Jack Yates, a Baptist minister, and former slave, and a local group that collected $1000 to purchase the land in honor of their freedom. Third Ward is also the musical roots of Sugar Hill Recording Studios and Beyoncé.

Midtown

The bustling Midtown neighborhood has restaurants, bars, and parks that appeal to residents and visitors alike. The city’s cultural hub, the Museum District can also be found here, with priceless collections and rotating exhibitions at each museum.

West University

A residential neighborhood adjacent to Rice University and Houston’s Medical Center. You can find shopping and dining hot spots in the Rice Village area.

The Galleria

Home to the city’s largest shopping mall, The Galleria area has a plethora of restaurants, hotels and dining options that range from every day to upscale.