Region: Gulf Coast
Named after Sam Houston, general of the Texas army that won independence from
Mexico and president of the Republic of Texas. The city—largest in Texas and
fourth largest in the nation—has experienced phenomenal growth since a small
riverboat landing was established on Buffalo Bayou by the Allen brothers in
August 1836. Today, it is an industrial and financial hub for much of the state.
Houston lies on I-10, a segment of the Ports-to-Plains Highway connecting the
state's heartland to coastal ports.
Institutions of higher learning include Baylor College of Medicine, Houston
Baptist University, Rice University, South Texas College of Law, South Texas
Junior College, Texas Southern University, University of Houston, University of
St. Thomas and University of Texas Health Science Center.
The Texas Medical Center, organized in 1945, is an immense complex of
hospitals, medical and nursing schools and research institutions. Free tours.
Assistance Center is at 1155 Holcombe. Information and reservations:
713/790-1136.
Houston has the world's largest indoor air-conditioned pedestrian tunnel
system, a seven-mile system of underground tunnels and skywalks, includes a
variety of shops and restaurants. Usually open 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Fri. and is
wheelchair accessible. Tours available. Maps at Visitor Information Center.
Major annual events include Freedom Over Texas in July, the Houston Livestock
Show and Rodeo in March and the Houston International Festival each April.
Professional sports are presented throughout the year. Teams include the
Houston Astros, baseball; Houston Rockets, basketball; Houston Texans, football;
Houston Dynamo, soccer; and the Houston Aeros, hockey.