Houston Hustle: A 3-Day Budget-Friendly Guide

Discover Houston's charm without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Houston, Texas is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers, offering affordable accommodations, dining, and attractions. Get a taste of local culture at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, explore the city's many museums, or take a scenic stroll through nearby parks such as Memorial Park or Buffalo Bayou. And be sure to check out the city's lively nightlife scene!

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Houston, We Have Arrived

  • Check into the Red Roof Inn Houston Brookhollow
  • Begin your day with some southern comfort food at the Breakfast Klub
  • Get a dose of culture and visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
  • Take a stroll through the tranquil Hermann Park and visit the Houston Zoo
  • Head to Montrose and explore the quirky shops and restaurants on Westheimer Road
  • End the day with a craft beer and good vibes at Axelrad Beer Garden
Day 2

Houston, We Don't Have a Problem

  • Fuel up at Empire Cafe, a local favorite
  • Discover the history of NASA at the Space Center Houston
  • Take a leisurely boat ride along Buffalo Bayou with Bayou City Adventures
  • Visit the 19th Street Shopping District in the Heights for unique vintage finds
  • Catch a live music show at one of Houston's popular venues like White Oak Music Hall or House of Blues
  • Grab a late night snack at Tacos A Go Go for delicious, affordable tacos
Day 3

Houston, Don't Mess with Texas

  • Start the day off right with a decadent breakfast from Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
  • Learn about the big-hearted Texan spirit at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo exhibit in NRG Park
  • Visit the Art Car Museum and see Houston's famous decorated cars
  • Get your authentic Texas BBQ fix at Goode Company BBQ
  • Take a stroll through the bustling Houston Farmers Market
  • Finish off your time in Houston with a fun and interactive experience at the Downtown Aquarium

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Houston by plane is to fly into William P. Hobby Airport or George Bush Intercontinental Airport. There are numerous direct flights from major cities in the United States and international destinations.

Car

Driving is a great option for getting to Houston, especially if you're coming from nearby cities such as Austin, San Antonio or New Orleans. The major highways that connect Houston to other cities include I-10, I-610, and I-45.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Houston. However, Amtrak's Sunset Limited route stops in San Antonio, about four hours away from Houston by car, where you can then take a bus or rent a car to get to Houston.

Boat

Houston has a major port which is frequently used by cruise lines that sail to the Caribbean and Mexico. If you're planning to arrive by boat, you can dock at the Bayport Cruise Terminal or the Port of Galveston, both of which are within easy driving distance of Houston.

Bus

Several bus companies operate frequent trips to Houston from major cities across the United States, including Greyhound and MegaBus. Houston's main bus station is at 2121 Main Street, downtown Houston.

More travel plans

Houston's Hidden Gems: The Best 2-Day Family Adventure!

Houston, United States offers an exciting and diverse range of family-friendly attractions. Start your trip by exploring the Houston Museum District, home to the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Children's Museum of Houston. Don't miss a visit to Space Center Houston, where you can experience interactive exhibits and learn about the fascinating world of space exploration. Finally, unwind at the beautiful Hermann Park, featuring lush green spaces, pedal boats, a zoo, and even a miniature train ride.

Houston Happenings: 3 Days of Fun-filled Family Adventures

A family friendly trip to Houston, United States offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. From exploring the Space Center Houston and witnessing the wonders of space, to visiting the Houston Zoo and discovering the amazing animal kingdom, families will have plenty to do and learn in this vibrant city. Additionally, a visit to the Museum of Natural Science, with its fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, guarantees an enriching educational experience for the entire family.

Houston Hustle: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

Houston offers a variety of free and low-cost options for budget travelers, including the Houston Zoo and Museum of Fine Arts. Public transportation, such as the METRORail and bus system, is affordable and convenient for exploring the city. Budget-friendly dining options can be found in diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and Montrose.

4-Day Romantic Escape to Houston

A romantic trip to Houston would include visits to the iconic Space Center Houston, the picturesque Buffalo Bayou Park and the vibrant Theater District. Couples can also indulge in the city's culinary delights such as Tex-Mex cuisine and seafood specialties. Lastly, a stroll through the charming Montrose neighborhood and a visit to the Houston Zoo would add a perfect touch to the trip.