Houston

Firmly rooted in characteristic Southern culture, yet driven by a dizzying ambition that fits the imagery of what is Texas' largest city, Houston is a thrilling mix of old and new. Founded by entrepreneurs Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen, the city became a major hub of cotton export in the late 19th Century. After a major hurricane devastated the port city of Galveston, Houston began its efforts to construct a deep water bay to facilitate its own shipping industry, receiving one million dollars from Teddy Roosevelt to speed the process along. The city was also responsible for the proliferation of the Texas oil industry after a well struck in the nearby Spindletop oil field. Riddled with a barrage of historic accounts such as these since its inception, Houston now sweeps up visitors with its multicultural charm and keen artistic disciplines. With a stronghold on scientific development, the city has earned the moniker of 'Space City' with NASA's presence through the Johnson Space Center. Known for a booming entertainment scene, Houston balances its quintessential Southern spirit with the world's largest annual livestock and rodeo show. With spectacular global culinary establishments dotted in its famed districts like Chinatown, the city maintains its cultural diversity and high octane urban energy.