Transportation Options in and Around Houston
Getting Around in Houston
Welcome to 1stHoustonGuide.com! Let me take you through the various transportation options in our amazing city of Houston. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of convenient ways to explore and get around.
Enhancements and Accessibility
METRORail
The METRORail is one of the most popular choices for getting around Houston. With three lines—Red, Green, and Purple—it connects key areas like downtown, midtown, and the Medical Center.
Red Line: The longest line, running 13 miles from Northline Transit Center to Fannin South Station.
Green and Purple Lines: These lines provide easy access to spots like BBVA Stadium and the Toyota Center. Cost: $1.25 per ride.
Tip: Download the METRO Q Ticketing app for easy ticket purchases.
Website: METRO Houston
Stations are conveniently located near major attractions. For example, the Museum District station is perfect for visiting the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts.
METRO Bus
Houston’s METRO bus system is very impressive, covering the entire city and its suburbs with over 80 routes. The bus network includes frequent service on major routes, express buses for longer commutes, and Park & Ride services for those who prefer to drive part of the way and take the bus into the city.
Cost: $1.25 per ride, with discounts for students and seniors.
Website: METRO Houston
Tip: Use the METRO Trip Planner tool to plan your route.
Ridesharing and Taxis
Uber and Lyft
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are incredibly popular for their convenience. Using these services can be particularly helpful during large events, such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where parking can be a challenge.
Cost: Varies based on distance and demand.
Tip: Look for promo codes to save on your rides.
Yellow Cab
For those who prefer traditional taxis, Yellow Cab is a reliable option. You can hail a cab on the street, call for a pickup, or book online.
Phone: (713) 236-1111
Website: Yellow Cab Houston
Biking and Bike-Sharing
Houston BCycle
Houston BCycle is a bike-sharing program that allows you to rent bikes for short trips. Stations are conveniently located near popular spots like Buffalo Bayou, Discovery Green, and Hermann Park.
Cost: $3 per 30 minutes, with memberships available.
Website: Houston BCycle
Tip: Annual memberships offer unlimited 60-minute rides.
Car Rentals and Sharing
Zipcar
Zipcar offers a flexible car-sharing service, perfect for those who need a car for a few hours or a day. Zipcar vehicles are available throughout the city, including near universities and business districts.
Cost: Membership fee plus hourly or daily rates.
Website: Zipcar Houston
Tip: Use Zipcar for short trips or errands.
Air Travel
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
IAH is Houston’s primary international airport, handling numerous domestic and international flights.
Address: 2800 N Terminal Rd, Houston, TX 77032
Phone: (281) 230-3100
Website: IAH
Tip: Arrive early for international flights to allow time for security and customs.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
Hobby Airport primarily handles domestic flights and is known for its convenience and efficiency.
Address: 7800 Airport Blvd, Houston, TX 77061
Phone: (713) 640-3000
Website: HOU
Tip: Enjoy Hobby’s short security lines for a stress-free travel experience.
Additional Transportation Options
Park & Ride
METRO’s Park & Ride services are perfect for commuters.
Cost: Varies by location and distance.
Website: METRO Park & Ride
Tip: Use Park & Ride to avoid downtown parking hassles.
Amtrak
For long-distance travel, Amtrak offers train services from Houston to various destinations.
Address: 902 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 1-800-872-7245
Website: Amtrak Houston
Tip: Book tickets in advance for the best fares.