Let’s state the obvious – Houston IS better than Dallas. And what better time to regroup and share a top 10 list of why our great city outshines that city about four hours north?
I’ve been in Houston since the age of four and only left to attend college a mere 90 minutes away. We have so much to offer this great state of Texas – and no, I don’t JUST mean those World Series Champions. We have the good eats, the spirit, and the arts to make H-Town THE town over any other major city. But, let’s just focus on Dallas and get to those top 10 reasons why Houston is just that much better, ESPECIALLY if you have kids.
The Food
As seen on our blog here, food is always a hot topic. You can find anything in our great city from barbecue and burgers to pho and pizza. And don’t forget all the tacos. We are so close to the coast as well so seafood is a popular choice in our area. I know Dallas has yummy eats as well, but you can’t beat hot spots like Irma’s, Eli Tiempo, and anything Goode Company.
The Spirit
During one of our hardest seasons in 2017, this town banded together to help our own. We asked for help across the world (and let’s not forget who said no – ahem, Dallas). The devastation was heart-breaking, but these hard seasons are often what we do best. Despite the differences, we thrive together as one. Our local heroes stepped in and set the examples then allowed Houstonians to continue to help because the spirit of our city is powerful.
The Melting Pot
We have plenty of backgrounds here in Houston. A Houstonian shared about an Anthony Bourdain episode that encompasses what makes our city unique. In the episode of his “Part Unknown,” he stated that he liked the diversity of Houston, and throughout his time here, he repeated often how Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. One can spend days driving around our city and see how this melting pot showcases all the cultures that make Houston so beautiful.
The Scenes
We are a city of color. We have murals to photograph, a museum district and art scene that are vast and beautiful. We have NASA where new triumphs and discoveries are made every single day. We have the world’s largest rodeo that easily trumps that state fair thing up north. Where else can you get all the fried goodness and support scholarships for bright Houston youth? We are unique, and the sights and sounds around us contribute to our richness.
The Celebrities
Oh yes. We are going to claim them all for the love they show our city. We have our beloved JJ Watt who came home after his retirement. We have Mattress Mac who will fight for the city he loves. Don’t forget that the Queen B, Beyonce, hails from Houston. Even Drake has now decided to call Houston home. I guarantee this fantastic bunch of H-town celebs can take down anyone who claims Dallas is the place to be.
The Hospitality
Youβd never know that Houston is the fourth largest city in the country because of our genuine southern hospitality.Β Thatβs why we are continually picked as the host city for some of the biggest events every year, including the 2024 College Football National Championship! When anyone needs us, we are there.Β Heck β we are even mentioned in one of the most famous lines in history :: βHouston, we have a problem.β
The Medical Care
Houstonβs very ownΒ Texas Medical CenterΒ is the largest medical complex in the world with 21 hospitals including the number 1 cancer hospital in the country,Β M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Β And as a mom, it is so comforting knowing we have some of the best medical care right in the heart of where we live.
The Soccer
Both Houston and Dallas are scoring big in the sports department.Β For our Houston Astros, they have the Texas Rangers. Β Weβve got our Rockets, and theyβve got the Mavericks.Β Houston Dynamo and FC Dallas.Β And of course, you canβt forget about the Texan/Cowboy rivalry.Β But the one sport where Dallas falls short is major league womenβs soccer.Β Not only do we have the Houston Dash womenβs team to cheer on alongside our Dynamo, but with that brings our wonderfulΒ BBVA Compass StadiumΒ to not only support these teams, but to also host shows and festivals!
The Beach
Whether you want to get out of the city for aΒ family vacationΒ or aΒ quick day-trip, it is absolutely amazing that Galveston Beach is so close you can have your toes in the sand in around an hour.Β Not only do we have quick access to the beach, but Houstonians have the advantage of saving on airfare and travel time when taking a cruise right out of our own backyard! That kind of access isn’t going to be found up 45 North.
The Baseball
Saved the best for last. In a roller-coaster ride of a season, we find our beloved Astros in their seventh consecutive post season run. Care to count how many seasons it’s been for that “Dallas” team? Don’t worry – it won’t take you long. We are fired up, as we get to be in all the Octobers, for our boys to continue the fight for another pennant. Houstonians will agree that THIS team has the grit, and there is no other fanbase more committed that our Astros-faithful. Through thick and thin, we are fueled by the “love” other teams have for us. But, currently, we are focusing on one thing – reigning once again. In a season of injuries and heartbreak, the Astros persevered and made it. Nothing can take away that pride – not even some team from Arlington.
Let’s celebrate big, y’all. Our city, our food, our hospitality, and THE TEAM that makes us better.
Houston, we love you.
Ok, why did this post almost make me CRY?! I love Houston so much! We lived here from 2011 thru 2019, spent the last 4 years in Orlando, FL and just moved back in August. I am SO HAPPY TO BE BACK HOME! <3 <3 <3 All of the reasons in the post & more are so true — I guess we can say Houston is better than Dallas AND Orlando! π