Houston is the nation's fourth largest city, Houston's leaders are also focusing their attention on making their city not only a great place to live, but a great place to visit as well. Houston has become a legendary travel destination that can be summed up in one word - more.

As an urban vacation spot, we have more places to go, more people to see and more fun to be had than any other city in the south. Relaxing is easy, with great golf courses, beautiful parks, sumptuous spas, inspiring museums and spectacular shopping. And great family fun.

You could spend 365 days in Houston and still not experience everything this city has to offer. From world-class museums and theaters to family-friendly destinations, you'll find what you're looking for in Houston.

The city of Houston was founded in August of 1836 by brothers Augustus and John Allen. The city is named after General Sam Houston, who led the Texas Army to its victory over General Santa Anna's Mexican forces at the 1836 Battle of San Jacinto. In 1837, the city of Houston was incorporated into the Republic of Texas and served as its capital from 1837 to 1840.

Today the city of Houston has a population of over 4.3 million inside it's city and Harris county metropolitan borders. Houston is one the few cities with permanent ballet, opera, symphony and theater companies. There are more than 30 museums, 500 parks, 100+ golf courses, 60 movie theaters and over 8,000 restaurants.

Houston is located in the Central Time Zone and has a mild year-round climate. The sales tax is 8.25 percent, no state income tax and property taxes are $3.20+ per one hundred dollars of appraised value. The legal drinking age in Texas is 21 and all drivers and passengers in Texas are required by law to use safety belts when riding in a car or truck.