Exploring Houston

Discover the many attractions

As the 4th largest city in the nation, the greater Houston area offers all the expected educational, cultural, and commercial advantages of a large urban center, and more. Houston is one of the few U.S. cities with resident companies in all four major performing arts-drama, ballet, opera, and symphony as well as major league sports teams including football, baseball, and basketball. The city also boasts a museum district and zoo that feature exhibits of national and international prominence.

Shopping opportunities abound in the Rice University area. Rice Village is a lively neighborhood shopping district adjacent to the campus. Within the Galleria Mall and Uptown Houston area is a concentration of upscale, modern hotels, fine restaurants, and sophisticated shopping venues.

Also central to Rice University is the Downtown Houston area, which offers visitors entertainment and numerous shopping, and dining options. The city's METRORail links the Downtown Houston area, Midtown, the Museum District, Rice University, the Texas Medical Center, and Reliant Park.