Houston
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth most populous city in the United States. Known for its space industry, energy sector, and diverse culture, Houston is a major American metropolis located in Southeast Texas.
Overview
- Population: Over 2.3 million (metro area ~7 million)
- Founded: 1836, incorporated in 1837
- Nicknames: Space City, H-Town, Bayou City
- Geography: Located near the Gulf of Mexico, prone to hurricanes and flooding
Landmarks and Attractions
- NASA Johnson Space Center
- Houston Museum District
- Buffalo Bayou Park
- Hermann Park & Houston Zoo
- Downtown Aquarium
- Minute Maid Park (home of the Houston Astros)
Economy
Houston has a strong economy built on:
- Energy (especially oil and gas)
- Aerospace and space technology
- Healthcare and biomedical research
- Port of Houston — one of the busiest in the U.S.
Culture and Diversity
- Among the most diverse cities in the United States
- Large Hispanic, African American, and Asian communities
- Major events: Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade
- Rich in Tex-Mex, BBQ, and Southern cuisine
Transportation
- METRORail and bus transit system
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Sprawling freeway network — car-dominant city
- Bike lanes and trails growing across neighborhoods
Fun Facts
- Named after General Sam Houston, hero of the Texas Revolution
- Home to Mission Control for U.S. space flights — hence "Houston, we have a problem"
- Larger in land area than many entire U.S. cities