Are you headed to Houston for a business trip? If so, you’re in for a treat! Houston is known for its bustling business scene, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine. But with so much to do and see, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and miss out on some of the city’s best offerings. That’s where the Houston Hustle comes in. As a seasoned traveler and business professional, I’ve discovered the top tips and tricks for maximizing your business trip experience in Houston. From the best restaurants to visit for a quick lunch to the top networking events to attend, I’ll guide you through the city like a pro. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, get ready to hustle your way through Houston and make the most of your business trip.
Let’s dive in!
Preparing for your trip to Houston
Before you even arrive in Houston, it’s important to do some research and preparation to make the most of your trip. One of the biggest things you need to plan first is how will you be getting to Houston. Booking a Houston private jet charter company is always a great idea. Here are some tips to get you started:
Research the city
Houston is a huge city with a lot to offer, so it’s important to do some research before you arrive. Look up the top attractions, restaurants, and networking events in the city to get an idea of what you want to see and do while you’re there.
Plan your itinerary
Once you have an idea of what you want to do in Houston, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Make a list of the top places you want to visit and events you want to attend, and then organize them by day and time. This will help you make the most of your time in the city and ensure that you don’t miss anything important.
Pack the right clothes
Houston is known for its hot and humid weather, so it’s important to pack the right clothes for your trip. Lightweight and breathable clothing is a must, as well as comfortable shoes for walking around the city. You may also want to pack a light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned buildings.
Accommodations in Houston
Finding the right accommodations in Houston is key to having a successful business trip. Here are some tips for finding the perfect place to stay:
Choose a hotel near your business meetings
If you have business meetings scheduled in Houston, it’s a good idea to choose a hotel that’s located near your meetings. This will save you time and money on transportation, and allow you to focus on your work instead of navigating the city.
Look for hotels with business amenities
Many hotels in Houston offer business amenities like meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and printing services. If you need to work while you’re in the city, look for hotels that offer these amenities to make your stay more productive.
Consider Airbnb or other short-term rentals
If you’re looking for a more affordable or unique accommodation option, consider Airbnb or other short-term rentals. These options can offer more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room, and allow you to experience the city like a local.
Top places to visit in Houston
Houston is home to a variety of attractions and landmarks that are worth visiting during your business trip. Here are some of the top places to check out:
Space Center Houston
If you’re a fan of space exploration, you won’t want to miss Space Center Houston. This museum and educational center offers a glimpse into NASA’s space program, with exhibits on everything from the first moon landing to the latest Mars missions.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is another must-visit attraction in the city. With exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations, this museum is a great place to learn about the natural world and its history.
The Menil Collection
For art lovers, the Menil Collection is a must-see. This museum houses an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol.
Best restaurants in Houston
Houston is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with options ranging from classic Texas barbecue to international cuisine. Here are some of the top restaurants to visit during your business trip:
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
If you’re in the mood for a classic steakhouse experience, Pappas Bros. is the place to go. This restaurant offers a wide selection of high-quality steaks and seafood, as well as an extensive wine list.
The Breakfast Klub
For a more casual dining experience, check out The Breakfast Klub. This popular spot serves up Southern-style breakfast favorites like chicken and waffles and grits, as well as lunch options like burgers and sandwiches.
Nancy’s Hustle
If you’re looking for something a little more trendy, Nancy’s Hustle is a great option. This restaurant offers a creative menu of modern American cuisine, with dishes like roasted chicken and mushroom toast.
Nightlife in Houston
After a long day of business meetings and sightseeing, it’s important to unwind and enjoy some of Houston’s nightlife. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
Anvil Bar & Refuge
For craft cocktails and an intimate atmosphere, head to Anvil Bar & Refuge. This bar offers a wide selection of creative cocktails, as well as small bites to share.
The Rustic
If you’re in the mood for live music and a lively atmosphere, The Rustic is the place to be. This bar and restaurant offers a large outdoor space with live music and games like cornhole and giant Jenga.
Axelrad Beer Garden
For a more laid-back vibe, check out Axelrad Beer Garden. This outdoor space offers a wide selection of local and craft beers, as well as food trucks and live music.
Networking and business events in Houston
Houston is home to a thriving business community, with plenty of networking and professional development events throughout the year. Here are some of the top events to check out during your business trip:
Houston Business Journal’s Bizwomen Mentoring Monday
This annual event brings together successful women in business for a morning of networking and mentorship. Attendees have the opportunity to meet with multiple mentors in 10-minute intervals, allowing for some valuable one-on-one time.
Houston Young Professionals Networking Mixer
This monthly networking event is a great way to meet other young professionals in the city. The event is open to all industries and offers a casual and laid-back atmosphere.
Houston Startup Week
If you’re interested in entrepreneurship and startups, Houston Startup Week is a must-attend event. This week-long series of events offers workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and startup enthusiasts.
Transportation in Houston
Getting around Houston can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the city. Here are some tips for navigating the city:
Rent a car
If you plan on exploring the city on your own, renting a car is a good option. Houston is a large city with many attractions and neighborhoods to visit, and having your own car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Use public transportation
Houston also has a public transportation system that includes buses and light rail. While it may not be as convenient as renting a car, it can be a more affordable option for getting around.
Take a ride-sharing service
If you’re not comfortable driving in the city or don’t want to deal with parking, a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is a good option. These services are widely available in Houston and can be a convenient way to get around.
Houston Hustle packing list
Before you head to Houston, make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your business trip. Here’s a packing list to get you started:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket or sweater
- Business attire for meetings and networking events
- Business cards
- Mobile phone and charger
- Laptop or tablet and charger
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities
Conclusion
Houston is a dynamic city with a lot to offer business travelers. With the right preparation and some insider tips, you can make the most of your trip and experience all that Houston has to offer. From the top restaurants to the best networking events, use these tips to hustle your way through Houston and make your business trip a success.
