Best Time to Go
In mid-February, you'll be treated to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the largest event of this kind in the world. The famed Bayou Bend Gardens are best viewed in the spring. In late April, the Houston International Festival spans 20 city blocks and includes over 1,800 performers from around the globe. If your visit isn't event-based, fall through spring is the best time to see Houston comfortably.

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.