Houston Area

At 8,778 square miles, the Greater Houston Area covers more ground than any other major city in America. In fact, we’re as big as the entire countries of Israel and El Salvador. That’s a lot of space filled with a vast number of business opportunities, but a closer look offers a better view.

Most of the communities here spotlight the beauty of Houston, made possible by its proximity to several waterways. Called the Bayou City, Houston is home to more than 10 of these winding waterways that not only irrigate the lush landscape, but serve as green spaces for fitness and nature enthusiasts. Several lakes and bays also provide pleasant scenes of fun in the sun as well as a feast for the eyes.

Beyond beauty, it’s the business opportunities provided by Houston’s waterways that are the primary reasons for the city’s existence. The Port of Houston still thrives today, thanks to the dredging of Buffalo Bayou to form the famous Houston Ship Channel. The port area is just one of the many business districts that have branched out from the inner city. Other areas such as the Uptown/Galleria area, Greenway Plaza, Interstate 10’s Energy Corridor and, of course, the Texas Medical Center, are booming with business development and shortening the commute for many Houston residents. But public transportation and Houston’s excellent freeway system can still connect Houston’s 3 million-plus people to our revitalized downtown business district.

Houston’s strong economy has brought with it a diverse population, which has worked to enhance our high standards of excellence in two critical areas — education and worship. The Houston area consistently leads all of Texas in the number of exemplary schools, and because of our cultural diversity, the Houston Independent School District — just one of the many districts in the area — serves students who speak dozens of languages.

The international city is also home to 45 religions, from African Methodist to Zoroastrian. For all the far-reaching influences brought together in Houston, our neighbors still share a common goal — the quality of life found in close-knit communities located within one metropolitan melting pot.

Houston Attractions:

• Children's Museum
• Downtown Aquarium
• Houston Zoo
• Houston Museum of Natural Science (including the Cockrell Butterfly Garden)
• Six Flags Astroworld & Water Park
• Johnson Space Center
• Katy Mills Outlet Mall (Rainforest Restaurant)
• Moody Gardens (Galveston)  
• Houston Attractions Listing