The Excitement of Living Downtown

Downtown Houston has always had a reputation for world-class
architecture. In the last few years, it has also developed a world-
class entertainment scene to go with the buildings. It all began
with the new Convention Center and now the whole downtown is
in the midst of a transformation. More than $318 million in
development has been completed. An amazing $1.3 billion in
projects is under construction with an additional $1.2 billion in the
pre-construction phase. Additionally, $62 million is committed to
the Cotswold project to beautify streets and sidewalks.

The revitalized downtown is clearly the cultural and entertainment
center for the Houston metropolitan area. Sports fans can soon
attend Astros, Rockets and Comets games while using the same
parking spot. Arts patrons can choose from eight resident
performing arts organizations. The new Hobby Center for the
Performing Arts houses the Broadway caliber shows of Theater
Under The Stars. Bayou Place is a complex of restaurants, clubs
and movie theaters occupying two city blocks. In total, there are
more than 80 clubs and restaurants in the center of the city.

If you like your pastimes at a slower pace, you can stroll through
53 acres of public parks and plazas. Take a class at the
University of Houston Downtown. Visit the many art galleries
featuring international, national and local artists. Or attend some
of the festivals and events scheduled each year downtown—there
are more than 100 to choose from.