Clustered in the heart of Houston, Downtown Houston has been the main business district since the city was founded in 1836. It’s home to soaring skyscrapers, modern architectural landmarks, many of Houston’s top museums and attractions and a lively dining and theatre scene.

If you’re travelling with kids, visit the Downtown Aquarium, home to a variety of aquatic life from around the globe. Get hands-on with rays at Stingray Reef and see colourful fish species from the Gulf of Mexico, then admire the red-bellied piranhas and emerald tree boa at the lush Rainforest exhibit.

Want to catch a sporting match? Head to the train-inspired Minute Maid Park to watch the Houston Astros play in the Major League Baseball tournament or see the Houston Rockets in action on Toyota Center’s basketball court. Downtown Houston is also home to the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts and the mid-20th-century Alley Theatre.

Getting there

Downtown Houston is around 25 minutes’ drive from George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Trams and buses travel throughout the Downtown area and connect it with surrounding neighbourhoods.