Gay Houston Houston City Guide

Ah, Houston. The awe-inspiring capital of space exploration and NASA. The most ethnically and racially diverse city in the U.S. An exhilarating conglomeration of world-class restaurants, theatres and museums. This thrumming city in the heart of Texas is many things—predictable is never one of them. And while Houston continues to grow in population and popularity, Houstonians retain a tangible pride in their old-school Texan roots. The result is a fascinating, all-inclusive city that celebrates Texas cliches without ever feeling bound by them. Houston’s diverse population also means you can expect an exciting culinary scene that fuses global flavours with local ingredients. Don’t worry about over-indulging; boot-scootin’ gay clubs will have you dancing all those calories away. The epicentre of Houston gay nightlife and culture is Montrose, an all-embracing neighbourhood where vintage shops and gay bars lie alongside cantinas and cottages. Discover the best of the gaybourhood (and all of Space City) with this ultimate Houston gay scene guide.

The neoclassical building makes full use of charming original design elements like steel and brass vault doors, while details like cow print upholstered bar stools add a modern twist

Where to stay in Houston

The award-winning Hotel ICON is regularly regarded as Houston’s best luxury boutique hotel, where swanky contemporary design and traditional Texas hospitality effortlessly combine to create an experience that is entirely befitting of Houston. A former Union National Bank, the neoclassical building makes full use of charming original design elements like steel and brass vault doors, while details like cow print upholstered bar stools add a modern twist. Rooms are particularly spacious and extravagantly appointed with upscale amenities like rainfall showers and clawfoot tubs. The Post Oak Hotel brings lavish urban refinement to the Houston accommodation scene. The only hotel in Houston to boast AAA Five-Diamond award status, this commanding 38-story building is as enthralling as it is luxurious. Expect next-level details like a grand Swarovski crystal chandelier, cascading fountains and even a two-story Rolls-Royce showroom. With four excellent on-site restaurants, two chic cocktail lounges and panoramic Houston skyline views from every room, you’d be forgiven for never leaving the sleek complex.