From humble beginnings as a newspaper ad touting the potential of its desolate mudflats, the city of Houston has grown in leaps and bounds over the last century, but has retained the enterprising, cultured spirit of its founders. The fourth largest metropolitan area in the US boasts a slick, albeit sprawling, urban center with Texas-sized portions of shopping, dining and entertainment. The 17-block theater district is second only to New York City with eight performing arts companies and 12000 seats. Visit one of the more than 500 cultural and visual arts attractions, including NASA and the Livestock show, the largest rodeo in the world. Mild climes in the winter and early spring are best for visiting Bayou Place dowtown, the Zoo or one of the other city parks. On hotter days, cool off at the world-class Galleria, the Fine Arts Museum or any one of the 11000+ trendy restaurants and clubs.

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