We will only have a day and a morning in Houston ( without a car). Is the Space Centre worth the day it would take up or should I use the time in seeing more of Houston? I would welcome any tips.

Houston really requires a car. Don't rely upon our mass transit to get you around too easily! I just checked on www.enterprise.com and a rental car can be had for less than $20 at the airport tomorrow. It is a bargain for the time savings, in my opinion.

The Space Center is south of Houston in Webster. If you opted to do that, I would suggest that you stop in Kemah (just a few minutes further south on 45) for dinner. Anytime we have out of town company, Kemah Boardwalk is on the "must visit" list. I love the Aquarium restaurant and will invent occasions to go! http://www.kemahboardwalk.com/flash_...h_content.html

If you are interested in museums, there are several lumped together in one area. I personally am exhausted after doing all that the Science museum has to offer. It is certainly my favorite Houston museum. http://www.hmns.org/

When is your trip?

This is a link to a restaurant thread for Houston. There are some definite goodies and lots of conversation about them. I hope it helps.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...hotelsaregross

oops - I'm an idiot...
This is the link you need for the restaurants.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=34713815

thanks! We don't go till next Easter. we are going back to NO and have to fly into Houston from Gatwick so thought we should spend some time there.
Are there any tour companies anybody would recommend? This may be our best bet in so short a time.

fiona
We have been to Houston often as we have family there. I don't think they have tours from the airport but I could be wrong. My suggestion would be to do a car rental. Houston is spread out and it can take you an hour to go around the block. (just joking)

I think you would enjoy the Space Centre and Kemah Boardwalk. Two of my Houston favorites. I also love Galveston.

thanks again. I will have to look into all the options. The links are very useful.

It is not impossible to visit Houston and Space Center without a car, as long as you stay Downtown.

There are hourly buses - routes #244/246/247 - during the day from Downtown to Space Center. ($3.50 adult each-way, 75 minutes)

You can also ride the bus from IAH airport to downtown ($1.50 adult each-way, also 75 minutes).

Staying in downtown, you can also take the lightrail to the Museum District, or buses elsewhere.

Not saying it's a good way to travel, just that it's possible.

I thought I'd give you another bump to the top.

I second the idea of renting a car and heading for Johnson Space Center and the Kemah Boardwalk.

You have all been very helpful! Just one more question- where would be the BEST area to stay? Somewhere near to siteseeing and great restaurants.With only one evening I would really like a pick a hotel that will make things easier.