Houston is the largest city in Texas, the fourth largest city in the United States, and the largest economic center on the Gulf Coast. It covers an area of 1,440 square kilometers and is named after Sam Houston,the president of the Republic of Texas. Houston is the capital of Harris County. Houston is located east of Missouri City, with its southwest part extending into Fort Bend County and a small part extending into Montgomery County in the northeast. Houston was founded in 1836 and incorporated in 1837. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and the largest city in the United States without planning laws.

　　Main attractions:

　　1. Market Square Park

　　Hang out with Houston locals and fellow visitors at this vibrant public park in the city's historical district. Though it's compact, Market Square Park is filled with flower gardens and decorative art, and holds a variety of community events throughout the year. Watch a live music concert or late night film, or join in the open-air fitness classes.

　　2. Houston Space Center

　　Perhaps the most famous of all the Houston attractions is the Space Center, which also happens to be NASA’s official visitor center for its Johnson Space Center. This huge complex is open to tourists, where they can stroll through a life-size replica of the shuttle along with the shuttle carrier. Have mind-boggling experiences like touching a rock from the moon, and simultaneously learn about NASA’s upcoming projects.

　　3. The Houston Museum of Natural Science

　　This outstanding science museum has a spectacular collection of mineral specimens, a dinosaur skeleton, space-station models, a planetarium, IMAX theater and a six-story butterfly center in which these beautiful creatures land delicately on outstretched arms.

　　4. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

　　With more than 65,000 pieces of art spread out over multiple campuses, the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums in the country. The permanent collection features pieces from six continents spanning thousands of years and myriad genres, and temporary exhibitions always offer something new and interesting to see. Be sure to swing by on Thursdays for free admission all day and a happy hour that starts at 5 p.m. Visitors can grab a drink or exhibition-themed cocktail at the bar and a bite from a visiting food truck before taking in the museum’s collections.

　　5. Hermann Park

　　The first public park in Houston provides a wooded site with picnic areas, running trails, lots of on-leash dog walking areas, the Houston Zoological Gardens, a public golf course and an outdoor theater featuring plays and live music.

　　6. Houston Zoo

　　The Houston Zoo is one of the star attractions of the city, responsible for luring thousands of visitors annually. Home to more than 6000 exotic species of animals, this zoo also contains an education and information center for those who want to learn more about zoology and the zoo in more detail. Experience hand feeding the giraffes, gazing upon sea lions, and observing the marine life up close and personal.

　　7. National Museum of Funeral History

　　This museum, owned by a funeral company, houses the largest collection of funereal artifacts in the U.S., traces the history of funeral services, displays historic hearses and provides memorabilia from funerals of the famous, such as Dwight Eisenhower, Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy and Elvis Presley.

　　8. San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield

　　The San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield witnessed a key battle in the Texas War of Independence. This towering monument is not only a commemoration of the brave soldiers, but also a legacy of the Texas spirit. Standing under the monument, you can almost hear the sound of artillery fire and feel the bravery of the soldiers.

　　9. Children's Museum Houston

　　A great way to beat the heat in summer and one of the best places to visit in Houston for families is the Houston Children's Museum. This colorful, noisy place is guaranteed to plaster a smile on everyone's face. Let the kids run wild and have a fun time getting busy will all the hands-on and interactive displays.

　　10. The Menil Collection

　　The building that houses the Menil Collection is almost in itself as much of a work of art as the pieces housed within it. Designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano, the building is light-filled, owing to the massive glass windows that look out onto the immaculate grounds. Unlike many art museums, the art in many rooms (but not all) is showcased using natural light.