The Ultimate Guide to Inspire Your Next Houston Vacation
As one of America’s largest cities -the fourth largest to be exact – Houston is a buzzing area full of eclectic dining, abundant history and exciting adventures. Want to get away from city life? There’s plenty of things to do and see on the outskirts of this famous Southern city, from camping near Lake Livingston to exploring Sam Houston National Forest. So why not mosey on down to the good ‘ole destination of Houston, Texas?
10 Interesting Facts About Houston
- There are more than 10,000 restaurants in Houston and the surrounding areas. It’s no wonder Houston has been recognized as the city whose residents eat out the most.
- You can find our nation’s astronauts training at Houston’s Johnson Space Center, the international leader in space flight operations for NASA.
- Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the entire world. More than 145 languages are spoken by Houstonians.
- “Houston” was the first word spoken when man landed on the moon.
- Searching for the best camping around Houston? You’ll find two KOAs in the Houston area.
- Houston proudly boasts the nation’s first traditional Hindu temple, impeccably constructed with over 33,000 pieces of hand-crafted Italian marble and limestone from Turkey.
- The Texas Medical Center is the largest health center in the world, seeing over 7.2 million patients each year.
- There are 198 golf courses within a 50-mile radius of downtown Houston.
- Houston’s most common nicknames are “The Bayou City,” “Space City,” “H-Town” and “The 713.”
- Houston’s motto is “The City With No Limits,” enticing travelers to find adventure both in and out of the downtown area.
Best Attractions in Houston
Houston has become a hub of interesting things to do. There’s a little something for everyone in the city, so when it comes to planning a fun-filled day, it really is The City With No Limits.
1. Space Center Houston
If you’re interested in the history of human space exploration, come visit one of the places where this new frontier got its start. Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where you can view space artifacts, watch shuttle launches and explore displays that pay tribute to the human spaceflight program.
2. Houston Museum District
Houston’s jam-packed Museum District features 19 unique museums, including the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Have children tagging along on the trip? Check out the Houston Children’s Museum – voted the top children’s museum in the U.S. – or the Houston Zoo.
3. Buffalo Bayou Park
Flowing through the heart of Houston is the slow-moving waters of Buffalo Bayou. Get active and explore the 160-acre green space surrounding one of the city’s most prevalent features. Take the whole family to enjoy views of the Houston skyline and take advantage of a fountain and skate park.
4. The Beaches of Galveston
Just a short drive from Houston are the beautiful beaches of Galveston, TX. Soak up the sun and explore miles of endless beaches as well as the shallow, turquoise water of the Gulf Coast. The water stays warm from spring through October, so there’s almost always a good time to enjoy the beach. Better yet? There’s a nearby KOA for a relaxing place to put your feet up at the end of the day.
5. Check Out a Sporting Event
Sports fans have tons of options when it comes to seeing a sports game in Houston. From Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros to the NFL’s Houston Texans, you have your pick of baseball, football, basketball and even soccer games during your stay.
6. Houston’s Unique Dining Scene
There are far too many restaurants in the city to name individually, which is why Houston’s dining scene is becoming an attraction all its own. You have your pick of endless culinary trends, from classic Americana, southern-inspired, Tex-Mex, Asian and countless other ethnic fares.
7. Sam Houston National Forest & Camping
Take a day trip outside of the city center and venture into the beautiful wonders on Sam Houston National Park. At this don’t-want-to-miss stop, you’ll find hiking, picnicking areas and a swimming area. Searching for camping outside of Houston? You’re in luck. It’s just a hop, skip and a jump from the Lake Conroe / Houston North KOA Holiday.
Places to Camp Near Houston, Texas
Wondering if Houston is a good vacation spot for camping? It is! Southeastern Texas is not just home to one of the largest cities in the United States. It also offers endless natural wonders up and down the Gulf Coast. This region boasts incredible vistas, beautiful locales and awe-inspiring wildlife not far from downtown Houston. All you need to figure out is whether you want to rough it a little or prefer camping with all the comforts of home. These Houston, TX campgrounds have a little something for every kind of camper.
1. Lake Conroe / Houston North KOA Holiday
Just north of Houston is a gorgeous little spot tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the 21,000-acre sparkling lake, and take part in all types of water activities and outdoor fun when you stay at the Lake Conroe / Houston North KOA Holiday. This campground is ideal for the avid RV’ers exploring the open roads of Texas or if you’re looking for tent camping near Houston. Some of the features you’ll love at this location include:
- Deluxe Cabins with a kitchen, bathroom and all the comforts of home
- Fully stocked fishing lakes
- Kid-friendly activities such as a playground, horseshoes, pickleball and more
- Relaxing heated pool and hot tub
- Nearby numerous lakes, including Lake Livingston, making it the perfect spot for Lake Livingston camping as well
2. Galveston Island KOA Holiday
Travel further south from Houston and you’ll find Galveston Island KOA Holiday. Nestled near the ocean, it is the ideal retreat after spending your days in downtown Houston. Check off another Texas city and venture into Galveston, home to a variety of indoor and outdoor attractions. Whether you’re looking for beaches, gardens or museums, Galveston truly has something for everyone in your pack. If you’re searching for camping cabins near Houston and rv camping near Houston, this KOA Holiday is the perfect place to lay your head. It features:
- A serene lazy river that allows you to float and relax without being swept away by the ocean
- KampK9 to ensure your furry friends have the best time on your family vacation in Texas
- A variety of RV Sites with Pull-Thru options & spacious Deluxe Cabins
Plan Your Stay at a KOA Campground
If you’re planning a trip to Houston, Texas, make it memorable by reserving a spot at a KOA campground where you’ll find the best camping near Houston. KOA’s campgrounds near Houston are the perfect way to enjoy all the attractions of the city while getting all the benefits of nature. Make your reservation today to get started.
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
