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Aerial view of Memorial Park Hines Lake in Houston, Texas

In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to Uptown Houston

Once a mostly rural area, Houston’s Uptown neighborhood has evolved into the city’s hot spot for top-notch shopping and dining.

By Jessica Poitevien | January 11, 2024

Uptown Houston may be one of the largest business districts in the U.S., but that doesn’t mean it’s all work and no play. This ever-changing neighborhood is the city’s top destination for shopping, complemented by an impeccable dining scene and plenty of green spaces perfect for working out or relaxing.

EAT

Whether you’re looking for laid-back American cuisine or gourmet international dishes, Uptown Houston has it all. Try:

- Musaafer: Enjoy a feast for the senses in this ornately designed, upscale restaurant. Inspired by the two head chefs’ voyages through India, the menu features flavorful dishes that represent the diversity of the country’s cuisine.

- Étoile Cuisine et Bar: Take your taste buds to France at this sophisticated yet casual eatery known for its onion soup, beef filet au poivre and other French classics. Grab a seat on the patio to feel like you’re at one of Paris' famed sidewalk cafes. 

- Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen: Generous portions are the name of the game at this Big Apple-style deli. Munch on overly stuffed sandwiches — pastrami and corned beef are specialties here — plus matzo ball soup, lox bagels and more.

SEE

Some of Uptown Houston's best attractions can be found outdoors. Explore: 

- Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown: Catch the latest blockbuster hits, plus cinema classics, while surrounded by Houston’s skyline. This rooftop theater has all your favorite concessions — think popcorn, hot dogs and candy — plus a bar for adult beverages.

- Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: This 3-acre (1-hectare) park is home to a semi-circular fountain with water running down both sides, one of Houston’s most iconic landmarks. Snap a photo with the 64-foot (20-meter) tall sculpture then lounge in the shade of the park’s oak trees.

- Memorial Park: Measuring almost twice the size of New York’s Central Park, these 1,500 acres (607 hectares) offer a peaceful urban oasis. Walk along the popular Seymour Lieberman Exer-Trail, tee off at the 18-hole golf course or watch for wildlife.

Photo credit: Houston First Corporation

SHOP

If there’s one thing that Uptown is known for, it’s shopping. With more than 700 retailers spread throughout the neighborhood, there’s no shortage of places to shop ‘til you drop. Browse: 

- The Galleria: Uptown is often referred to as Galleria thanks to this mega shopping complex that calls the neighborhood home. As Texas’ largest shopping mall, there are more than 300 stores, including several luxury brands. Don’t miss the indoor ice skating rink here, too.

- Uptown Park: For an upscale, European-inspired experience, stroll the open-air walkways of this shopping center, where you’ll find plenty of high-end boutiques, plus an impressive list of culinary offerings.

- Highland Village: Another premier shopping destination, this outdoor center is home to some of the most recognized national brands. Wander the palm-lined sidewalks as you shop for everything from apparel to electronics. 

Photo credit: Houston First Corporation

Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, treat your taste buds to a fancy meal or find a slice of tranquility in the middle of this bustling city, Uptown Houston is the place to go. Don’t miss out on the offerings of this ever-evolving neighborhood.

Hero photo credit: Houston First Corporation

Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries (and counting!), including several solo trips, and also considers herself an expert in destination weddings and unique honeymoons — her own was two months long. When she's not traveling, she enjoys making social media content, trying new food and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.