Houston isn’t just about oil and gas anymore. It’s a dynamic hub for innovation, advancements in medicine and space exploration. The city offers a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan flair, making it an ideal destination for both work and leisure.
At Inspired Corporate Travel, we believe that every business trip is an opportunity to expand your horizons. While your primary focus might be on closing deals or attending conferences, there’s no reason you can’t squeeze in some local experiences.Â
After all, a well-rounded trip can lead to better business outcomes and personal growth. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of your visit to Space City.
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Getting Around Houston
First things first: how do you navigate this sprawling city? Houston’s layout can be intimidating, but with the right information, you’ll be zipping around like a local in no time.
From the Airport
Houston is served by two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
Here are your options for getting to the city:
- Taxi: Available at both airports, with flat rates to downtown.
- Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft operate at both airports.
- Airport Shuttle: SuperShuttle offers shared rides to various destinations.
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Public Transportation: The METRO bus system connects both airports to the city center.
Around the City
Once you’re in Houston, you have several options:
- Public Transit: The METRO system includes buses and light rail. It’s affordable but may not reach all areas efficiently.
- Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available and often the most convenient option.
- Car Rental: If you’re planning to explore beyond the city center or have multiple meetings in different areas, renting a car might be your best bet.
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Pro Tip: Houston’s notorious traffic can throw a wrench in your plans. Always factor in extra time for travel, especially during rush hours (typically 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM).
Top Business Districts in Houston
Knowing where you’ll be spending most of your time can help you plan your trip more effectively. Here are the key business districts in Houston:
- Downtown Houston: The heart of the city’s business scene, home to major corporations and the convention center.
- Energy Corridor: As the name suggests, this is where you’ll find many energy company headquarters.
- Galleria/Uptown: A mix of big business and high-end shopping, perfect for entertaining clients.
- Texas Medical Center: The world’s largest medical complex, crucial for healthcare professionals.
Where to Stay: Business-Friendly Hotels
After a long day of meetings, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your head. Houston offers a wide range of business-friendly hotels to suit every need and budget. Here are some top picks in each district:
Houston Downtown
- Marriott Marquis Houston: With its iconic Texas-shaped lazy river, it’s perfect for mixing business with pleasure.
- Four Seasons Hotel Houston: Luxury accommodations with top-notch business facilities.
Energy Corridor
- Hotel ZaZa Memorial City: Boutique hotel with a unique flair and excellent meeting spaces.
- The Westin Houston, Memorial City: Connected to Memorial City Mall, offering convenience and comfort.
Galleria/Uptown
- The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston: A five-star hotel with impeccable service and amenities.
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- JW Marriott Houston by the Galleria: Perfect location for shopping enthusiasts and business travelers alike.
Texas Medical Center
- InterContinental Houston Medical Center: Modern accommodations with easy access to medical facilities.
- Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center: Reliable comfort in the heart of the medical district.
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For a comprehensive guide on the best places to stay, check out our blog post on “Best Hotels for Business Travelers in Houston”. We’ve curated a list of the best options in each of the key business districts, ensuring you’ll find the perfect base for your time in Houston.
Houston After Hours: Making the Most of Your Downtime
All work and no play? Not in Houston! Here’s how to make the most of your free time: Must-visit restaurants for business dinners:
- Xochi (Downtown): Upscale Oaxacan cuisine that’s sure to impress clients.
- Mastro’s Steakhouse (Galleria): High-end steakhouse perfect for sealing the deal.
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Quick bites between meetings:
- Phoenicia Specialty Foods (Downtown): Gourmet market with ready-to-eat options for the busy traveler.
- Mendocino Farms (Multiple Locations): Fresh sandwiches and salads for a healthy, quick meal.
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Cultural attractions for free evenings:
- Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: World-class art collections to feed your soul.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science: Fascinating exhibits that’ll make you feel like a kid again.
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Outdoor spaces for a breath of fresh air:
- Discovery Green (Downtown): Urban park perfect for a quick stroll or outdoor event.
Memorial Park (Near Galleria): Vast green space for jogging or cycling enthusiasts.
Houston Dos & Don'ts
Navigate Houston like a pro with these quick tips:
- Do: Dress for the weather (hot and humid) – lightweight, breathable clothing is your friend.
- Don’t: Underestimate travel times – Houston traffic can be unpredictable.
- Do: Try the local cuisine – BBQ and Tex-Mex are must-haves!
- Don’t: Forget to explore beyond downtown – each neighborhood has its own unique charm.
Things to Know Before Coming to Houston
Prepare for your trip with these insider tips:
- Weather: Houston is hot and humid most of the year. The best times to visit are spring and fall.
- Business Etiquette: Texans are known for their friendliness. Don’t be surprised by small talk before getting down to business.
- Shopping: Take advantage of tax-free shopping on clothing and footwear under $100.
- Culinary Scene: Houston’s diverse population means you can find authentic cuisine from all around the globe.
Extending Your Stay: Weekend Activities
If you can swing it, why not extend your stay and explore more of what Houston has to offer?
- Space Center Houston: A must-visit for space enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
- Museum District: Home to 19 museums within walking distance of each other – a cultural paradise!
- Sporting Events: Catch an Astros game at Minute Maid Park or a Rockets game at Toyota Center.
- Day Trips: Consid
Business Traveler Tips
Stay productive and connected with these handy tips:
- Co-working Spaces: Check out WeWork or Spaces for productive environments outside your hotel room.
- Networking: Look for events on platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite to connect with local professionals.
- Time Management: Use apps like Waze to navigate traffic and plan your routes efficiently.
- Staying Productive: Most hotels offer business centers, and many cafes have reliable Wi-Fi for when you need a change of scenery.
Conclusion
Houston isn’t just a pit stop on your business journey – it’s a destination that can energize your work and spark your creativity. From the moment you land to your final meeting, this city offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and personal experiences.
Remember, a successful business trip isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about broadening your horizons, making new connections and returning home with fresh perspectives. Houston gives you all that and more.
Ready to make your next business trip a resounding success? Let Inspired Corporate Travel take care of the details. As an expert travel agency specializing in business travel, we’ll handle everything from booking your flights and accommodations to recommending the best spots for client dinners.
