1. Houston, We've Got a Problem
On July 20th, 1969, Neil Armstrong made history when he uttered the famous words, "Houston, Tranquility base here. The Eagle has landed," as the Apollo 11 lunar module touched down on the moon's surface. This marked the first time a human had ever spoken from the moon, and the first word of this momentous occasion was "Houston," the city from which the mission was controlled. This event has since become a symbol of the city's pioneering spirit and its commitment to exploration and discovery.
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Advertisement2. Big & Diverse in the South!
Houston is an impressive city, boasting a population of over 2.3 million people - larger than the entire state of Maryland! This makes it the fourth most populous city in the United States, and the largest city in the state of Texas. With a total area of 627 square miles, Houston is also the largest city in the Southern United States. It is home to a diverse population, with over 145 languages spoken in the city. Houston is a vibrant and exciting city, and its size is a testament to its success.
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3. Houston - the Big Apple
Houston is an expansive city, with a total area of 627 square miles - so large, in fact, that it could fit the cities of New York, Boston, and San Francisco combined! With a combined area of just over 300 square miles, these three cities could easily fit within Houston's boundaries. This is a testament to the sheer size of Houston, and its ability to accommodate a large population.
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4. Houston's Strange Laws
Houston is a city with some truly unique laws, one of which is that it is illegal to sell Limburger cheese on Sundays. This pungent cheese, made from a combination of cow's milk and bacteria, is a delicacy in some parts of the world, but it is not allowed to be sold in Houston on Sundays. This law is just one of the many strange laws that Houston has in place.
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Advertisement5. Houston, the Foodie's Paradise
If you're a foodie, Houston is the place to be! With more restaurant visits per week than any other city in the US, Houston is a paradise for those who love to eat out. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, you'll find it in Houston. With its diverse range of cuisines, you'll never be short of options. So if you're looking for a city that offers plenty of delicious dining opportunities, Houston is the place for you!
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6. Houston, named after Sam Houston
The city of Houston was not founded by Sam Houston, the famous statesman and general who won popularity after the Battle of San Jacinto. Instead, the city was named in his honor by its founders, Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen. The two brothers had purchased the land in 1836, and decided to name the city after the popular figure in recognition of his accomplishments. Sam Houston was never directly involved in the founding of the city, but his legacy lives on in the name of the city.
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7. The Intersection that Changed Houston
In the heart of Houston, the Allen brothers, the city's founders, chose the spot where Interstates 45 and 10 intersect as their settlement. This strategic location has been a major factor in Houston's growth and success, as it provides easy access to the rest of the state and beyond. The Allen brothers' decision to settle here has had a lasting impact on the city, and the intersection of Interstates 45 and 10 remains a major hub of activity in Houston today.
Advertisement8. The Astrodome: A Symbol of Houston's Pioneering Spirit
Houston is home to the world's first domed stadium, the Astrodome, which opened in 1965. The Astrodome was revolutionary for its time, featuring a roof made of steel and plastic that allowed for air-conditioned comfort and protection from the elements. It was the first stadium of its kind, and it set the standard for modern stadiums around the world. The Astrodome was the home of the Houston Astros baseball team for over 30 years, and it hosted a variety of other events, including concerts, rodeos, and even the 1992 Republican National Convention. Today, the Astrodome is a symbol of Houston's pioneering spirit and its commitment to innovation.
9. Houston's Space-Themed Sports Teams
Houston is a city that takes its sports seriously, and its teams' names reflect that. The Astros, Aeros, and Comets all draw their names from features of space, while the city's football team, the Texans, stands out as the only one to take its name from the city itself. This is a fitting tribute to the city's strong connection to the space industry, and its proud history of being the home of the Johnson Space Center.
10. Houston Welcomes New Orleans Refugees
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Houston opened its doors to more than 150,000 displaced New Orleans residents, providing them with much-needed shelter and support. This act of kindness and generosity was a testament to the city's character, and it was a reminder of the power of community in times of crisis. Houston's response to the disaster was a shining example of how people can come together to help those in need.
