Average Weather
January is the coolest month with average highs in the low 60s and
average lows in the 20s. Spring warms up quickly, topping out in the 70s. June,
July, and August are sweltering with daytime highs usually in the 90s.
May is the rainiest month, receiving an annual average of over five inches.
Downtown Houston has a huge underground pedestrian tunnel system so you can
escape the heat while shopping.
Transportation
The George Bush-Houston Intercontinental Airport is about an hour away from
downtown. This shoots the cost way up to roughly $30 for a ride into downtown Houston. The WB Hobby Airport is closer
and fares to downtown cost close to $20. On weekdays, a city-run
express bus serves both airports to downtown. You can reach the city bus
service for information about express and regular routes at (713)635-4000.
Shuttles to several locations serve the airports; you can find out about them
at (713) 523-8888. Amtrak also serves Houston.
You will enjoy your stay much more if you rent a car upon arrival. Most
major rental firms have airport outlets.
In-Season Costs
Houston is an important business destination, so there is no particular
season. Downtown hotels and those near the Galleria tend to be somewhat
expensive. Expect to pay around $120 per room for a moderate double.
Houston has a huge collection of locally owned and operated restaurants in
the expensive range. If you are a budget traveler, you'll find it easy to
have a meal for fewer than $7. For a blow-out dinner at the other
end of the spectrum, Houston is well served with a range of seafood, steak,
and European cuisine extravaganzas.
Day Trips
Houston is close enough to the Gulf Coast for a day trip; visit the Padre
Island National Seashore for some unspoiled stretches of beach. It's also
possible to visit Mexican border towns. The closest towns are not
particularly scenic but they are good inexpensive shopping destinations.
