Is it better to stay in downtown Houston or Galleria?
- Visiting as a Tourist: Downtown Houston or Galleria
- Transportation and Accessibility
- Hotel and Accomodation Cost
- Food and Dining
- Recommended Restaurants in Downtown Houston
- The Grove
- Xochi
- Osso & Kristalla
- Recommended Restaurants in Galleria
- Truluck's Seafood, Steak & Crab House
- Capital Grille
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- Attractions and Activities
- Recommended Attractions in Galleria
- The Galleria Mall
- Gerald D. Hines WaterWall Park
- Recommended Attractions in Downtown Houston
- Sports Centers
- Theaters and Art Shows
- Nature Parks
- Should I move to downtown Houston or Galleria?
- Cost of Living
- Employment Opportunities
- Education
- Safety and Security
- Overall Feel
Whether it’s for relaxation or relocation, Texas is becoming one of the most sought after destinations for people.
Houston is arguably one of the best spots to go to within the state, occupying over 640.4 square miles.
So which area in this vast city is the best option for you? Two areas always arise as stand-out choices.
It’s better to stay in downtown Houston than Galleria for tourists, especially first-time visitors because it’s near other must-go attractions. Additionally, sites that are a bit farther away are still easily accessible from the area.
Downtown Houston is also more advisable for long-term and permanent residence, largely due to its central location, access to public transportation, and its vicinity to key places for both work and pleasure.
Having second thoughts? Keep reading as we’ve broken down the necessary information and data for you to make the best decision for yourself.
Visiting as a Tourist: Downtown Houston or Galleria
So where should you stay in Houston for a holiday?
It’s better to stay in Downtown Houston, especially for first-time visitors because it offers the convenience of public transportation, perfect location, and a wide array of choices for food and entertainment.
Transportation and Accessibility
When it comes to transportation and getting around, downtown Houston is more accessible, cheaper, and more convenient than Galleria.
Transport around downtown Houston is a breeze with or without your own car. There are car rentals dotted around the area with affordable rates that usually start at $5 a day. Listed below are the top-rated rentals.
| Avis Car Rental | Corner of Fannin &, 1010 Webster St, Houston, TX 77002, United States | +1 713-571-8572 |
| Budget Car Rental | 1010 Webster St, Houston, TX 77002, United States | +1 713-659-2513 |
| Hertz Car Rental – Houston – Louisiana Street HLE | 2120 Louisiana St, Houston, TX 77002, United States | +1 713-652-0436 |
If you would rather get around through public means of transportation, the MetroRail has over 22.9 miles of trail that goes through the entire city. It runs 7 days a week from around 5 a.m. to after midnight.
For easy access, here is the link to the city’s official public transportation. https://www.ridemetro.org/riding-metro/transit-services/metrorail
Costs are listed at $1.25 for a single-journey or $3 for an all-day pass.
Metro also offers bus rides within the area, with rates ranging from $2 to $4.5.
https://www.ridemetro.org/fares/all-about-fares
Because it is a shopping district, the Galleria gets a lot of foot traffic, especially at the weekends. The area can become very crowded, thus making it difficult to drive your car to get around places.
Moreover, there are less points of access for public transportation in the area, which means that you may have to rely on Uber or other such services to get around. There are taxi services that you can avail of.
| Houston VIP Taxi | 1530 Candytuft St, Houston, TX 77038, United States | +1 281-616-5838 |
| Houston Taxis Service | 1550 Leona St, Houston, TX 77026, United States | +1 832-464-4190 |
| A Reliable Taxi Cab Service of Houston | 5455 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77056, United States | +1 832-409-7292 |
For those who prefer to get around town on two wheels. Houston also has a biking program where you can rent and return bikes in stations scattered throughout the city.
You can rent the bicycles at $3 for every 30 minutes or you can sign up as a member and get the first hour of every ride for free!
Hotel and Accomodation Cost
Overall, accommodations in downtown Houston are more diversified, which gives you options to fit your budget. However, if you’re looking for a more upscale, private, and high-end area, then Galleria would be a great option for you as well.
Galleria is set up to be Houston’s most exclusive shopping district. It’s dotted with fine dining hotels and highly-rated hotels, and 700 retail stores.
The cost of accommodations are higher, but the quality of your stay is reflected in the prices you pay for.
Downtown Houston, on the other hand, has a larger selection of hotels ranging from affordable, to mid-range, and all the way to luxury. Guests can have their pick within their own budget constraints. Stays can vary from $100 dollars a night to $300 a night.
The table below compares the rates of hotels in both areas. The budget-friendly option refers to a single room for 2 adults, while the high-end refers to a luxury suite that can fit 4 guests.
| Downtown Houston | Galleria (Uptown) | |||
| Mid-Range | Holiday Inn | $120 / night | Hotel Indigo At The Galleria | $220 / night |
| High-end | The Westin Houston Downtown | $310 / night | Hotel Granduca | $405 / night |
Food and Dining
Due to its larger area, downtown offers more options. It also has cheaper options for food whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience.
The Galleria is a hub for gastro pubs and restaurants all teed up in one area. The difference is that Galleria offers more luxury and high-end meals as opposed to downtown’s lower-budget options.
On average, a family would need $150 – $300 for weekly groceries in downtown Houston, while the same family would need to spend $200 – $400 for the same amount of food in the Galleria area.
The table below shows the average costs for dining out in both areas depending on the kind of food you’re looking for. The amounts are for a single adult.
| Downtown Houston | Galleria | |
| Casual Dining | $15-$30 | $20 – $40 |
| Fine Dining | $40 – $80 | $50 – $100 |
| Fast Food | $5 – $10 | $5 – $10 |
| Coffee Shop | $3 – $5 | $4 – $7 |
| Pubs | $8 – $20 | $10 – $30 |
Downtown Houston is a vibrant hub of activity, and it’s no surprise that it is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants.
Here are our highly recommended restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings:
Recommended Restaurants in Downtown Houston
The Grove
The Grove is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a unique dining experience in the heart of downtown Houston. With its focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonally inspired menu, The Grove offers dishes that are both fresh and flavorful.
The restaurant’s spacious patio is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal al fresco, while the stylish interior provides a chic and sophisticated atmosphere for diners.
| Address | 1611 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010, United States |
| Website | https://www.thegrovehouston.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-337-7321 |
| Menu | Mains, Sides, Dessert, Meats, Cheese |
| Average Price Per Person | $40-$50 |
Xochi
For those who are looking for a truly elevated dining experience, Xochi is a must-visit restaurant in downtown Houston. Xochi offers a menu inspired by the cuisine of Oaxaca, Mexico, and features dishes that are both complex and delicious.
The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Be sure to try the mole negro, a rich and flavorful sauce made from over 20 different ingredients, and the tacos de trompo, which feature juicy, slow-roasted pork.
| Address | 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010, United States |
| Website | https://www.xochihouston.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-400-3330 |
| Menu | Soups, Starters, Mains, Drinks |
| Average Price Per Person | $30-$40 |
Osso & Kristalla
Osso & Kristalla is a charming Italian restaurant that offers a menu filled with classic Italian dishes. With its cozy atmosphere and rustic charm, Osso & Kristalla is a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Be sure to try the house-made pasta dishes, which are made fresh daily and are always a hit. The wine list at Osso & Kristalla is also excellent, and features a selection of Italian and Californian wines to complement your meal.
| Address | 1515 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002, United States |
| Website | https://www.ossoandkristalla.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-221-6666 |
| Menu | Starters, Pizza, Mains, Sides |
| Average Price Per Person | $25-$40 |
Recommended Restaurants in Galleria
Uptown Galleria is a bustling neighborhood in Houston, Texas, known for its shopping and dining destinations. With so many great restaurants to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. Here are three highly recommended restaurants:
Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House
Truluck’s is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. The menu features fresh, sustainable seafood as well as prime steaks, making it a great choice for both seafood and steak enthusiasts.
The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and helpful staff make it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Be sure to try the crab cakes, which are made with jumbo lump crab meat and are a house specialty.
| Address | 5350 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056, United States |
| Website | https://trulucks.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-783-7270 |
| Menu | Appetizers, Soups, Salads, Mains |
| Average Price Per Person | $50-$60 |
Capital Grille
Capital Grille is a sophisticated steakhouse that offers a menu of prime steaks, fresh seafood, and signature sides.
The restaurant’s warm, upscale atmosphere and expertly prepared dishes make it a popular choice for business meetings and special occasions. The wine list at Capital Grille is also excellent, featuring a wide variety of premium wines from around the world.
| Address | 5365 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056, United States |
| Website | https://www.thecapitalgrille.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-623-4600 |
| Menu | Starters, Steak, Sides, Champagne |
| Average Price Per Person | $70-$80 |
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is a Cajun-style seafood restaurant that offers a menu filled with fresh seafood dishes and classic Cajun flavors.
With its lively atmosphere and delicious food, Pappadeaux is a great place to enjoy a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Be sure to try the gumbo, a hearty stew made with seafood, sausage, and vegetables, and the jambalaya, a classic Cajun dish made with rice, seafood, and sausage.
| Address | 11051 N Black Cyn Hwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85029, United States |
| Website | https://pappadeaux.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 602-331-3434 |
| Menu | Appetizers, Soups, Salads, Seafood |
| Average Price Per Person | $65-$75 |
Attractions and Activities
Both Downtown Houston and the Galleria area offer attractions and activities that can accommodate just about anybody. Below are some of the best ones in both areas for your convenience.
Recommended Attractions in Galleria
The Galleria Mall
Known as the one stop shop for shopping, Galleria offers a medley of activities centered around retail therapy.
Texas’s largest mall and its namesake, The Galleria, as well as the outdoor shopping areas in Uptown Park and Highland Village have over 700 stores to choose from.
Aside from shopping, visitors can also enjoy a trip to the food courts, the skating rink, and salons in the compound.
| Address | 5085 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056, United States |
| Website | https://www.simon.com/mall/the-galleria |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram |
| Contact Information | +1 713-622-0663 |
Gerald D. Hines WaterWall Park
The Water Wall in the Gerald D. Hines WaterWall Park is a must-see for visitors. The raging waters offer a unique backing soundtrack as visitors spend their time gazing at the water and how it shimmers in the sunlight.
| Address | 2800 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056, United States |
| Website | https://uptown-houston.com/experience/parks/waterwall-park/ |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-850-8841 |
Recommended Attractions in Downtown Houston
Sports Centers
Home to the Houston Rockets, the Toyota Center in downtown Houston offers behind-the-scenes tours for loyal fans. Be part of the crowd as you cheer for the home team inside one of the biggest arenas in Houston.
| Address | 1510 Polk St, Houston, TX 77002, United States |
| Website | https://www.toyotacenter.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-758-7200 |
The Minute Maid Park and the PNC Stadium are also accessible for baseball and soccer fans alike.
Theaters and Art Shows
Ballet shows, operas, orchestra performances all call the many theaters in the downtown area home. Shows are on almost every day in the Alley Theatre. Gaze in awe as the dancers and performers grace the stage alongside live music.
| Address | 615 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002, United States |
| Website | www.alleytheatre.org |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-220-5700 |
We also recommend Wortham Theatre and the Hobby Center for Performing Arts for the performance and arts fanatics.
Nature Parks
Discovery Green, or Houston’s own Central Park comprises a 12-acre greenspace filled with various activities for the whole family. There are playgrounds, art installations, ponds for canoes, and even a skating rink for its visitors.
| Address | 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010, United States |
| Website | https://www.discoverygreen.com |
| Social Media | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter |
| Contact Information | +1 713-400-7336 |
Should I move to downtown Houston or Galleria?
Cost of Living
It will cost less to live in downtown Houston with all expenses considered than in the Galleria area. The table below shows the average expenditure of a family of 4 in both areas.
| Downtown | Galleria | |
| Housing | $2000 – $3000 | $3000 – $4000 |
| Utilities | $200 – $300 | $300 – $400 |
| Groceries | $800 – $1200 | $800 – $1200 |
| Transportation | $500 – $800 | $500 – $800 |
| Dining and Entertainment | $500 – $800 | $800 – $1200 |
Since the Galleria area is more concentrated on the high-end spectrum, so are the goods and services available there. The downtown area has luxury options equal to the ones in Galleria, although the former has more budget-friendly options to average a lower cost of living.
Employment Opportunities
Average salaries in downtown Houston and the Galleria area are almost the same. However, the Galleria area has higher employment opportunities compared to downtown.
Below is a table that shows the industries with the most employment opportunities alongside average annual salaries and the rate of probable job openings.
| Industry | Downtown | Galleria | Ave. Salary |
| Oil and Gas | High | High | $75,000- $150,000 |
| Healthcare | High | High | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Finance and Banking | High | High | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| Technology | Moderate | High | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Retail | Moderate | High | $30,000 – $60,000 |
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, both the downtown and Galleria are steadily developing into commerce and business areas that offer more and more job opportunities for its residents.
Downtown Houston has evolved into an area where a huge number of major corporations are building subsidiaries in. JP Morgan built the tallest building in Texas here, among other huge companies like Bank of America, United Airlines, and Wells Fargo.
This means that there are plenty of employment opportunities not only in the corporate world, but also in the commercial stores open all around the area.
According to Oliver Care, a premier real estate agency, The Galleria area is also considered a primary business district. It is named the 17th largest business district in the entire USA.
Containing over 2000 companies of various sizes and industries, it would be an absolute dream for those looking to make a name in the corporate world.
Education
According to the Texas Education Agency, in general, the schools in the Galleria area are highly rated. Although the schools in downtown Houston are also above average, their public schools are not the best.
The schools near the Galleria area are more highly-rated. The Cornerstone Academy which is rated number 17 in the metro is only one amongst the lengthy list of good schools in the area.
Below is a table that shows the average tuition fees for schools in both areas and the average ratings out of 10.
| Downtown | Galleria | |||
| Public | $5,000 – $15,000 | 6/10 | $15,000 – $25,000 | 8/10 |
| Private | $10,000 – $20,000 | 8/10 | $25,000 – $35,000 | 9/10 |
According to a study done by the HCDE. The residents of Texas choose the following schools as the best in their respective areas.
The top public school in downtown Houston is High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. It’s known for its rigorous academic curriculum. Tuition for this school is free. The school has a rating of 9/10, with a strong emphasis on music, theater, dance, and visual arts.
The top private school in downtown Houston is the St. John’s School. The tuition for this school ranges from $15,000 to $20,000 per year. The school has a rating of 9/10, with a focus on academics, athletics, and arts programs.
Here are 3 of the best schools in downtown Houston as ranked by Niche, a reputable website which bases ranking on real life comments from attendees and parents of said schools.
| School | Carnegie Vanguard High School | Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts | Debakey H.wS. for Health Prof |
| Rating | A+ | The Best in Texas | A+ |
| Tuition | Free Tuition Minimal Fees | $12,000 | Free TuitionMinimal Fees |
| Contact Information | +1 713-732-3690 | +1 713-942-1960 | +1 713-741-2410 |
| Address | 1501 TAFTHOUSTON, TX 77019 | 790 AUSTIN STHOUSTON, TX 77002 | 2545 PRESSLERHOUSTON, TX 77030 |
From the same study with the HCDE, the schools below were chosen as the best by the takers of the survey.
The top public school in uptown Galleria is the T.H. Rogers School. It is a public K-12 school that is known for its focus on STEM education. Tuition for this school is free. The school has a rating of 9/10, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and a supportive learning environment.
The top private school in uptown Galleria is the St. Francis Episcopal Day School. The tuition for this school ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year. The school has a rating of 9/10, with a focus on providing a supportive and nurturing environment for students.
Here are 3 of the best schools in downtown Houston as ranked by Niche, a reputable website which bases ranking on real life comments from attendees and parents of said schools.
| School | The Awty International School | The Village School | The Kinkaid School |
| Rating | A+ | A+ | A+ |
| Tuition | $32,230 | $30,700 | $25,000 |
| Contact Information | +1 713- 686-4850 | +1 281-496-7900 | +1 713- 782-1640 |
| Address | 7455 AWTY SCHOOL LANEHOUSTON, TX 77055 | 13051 WHITTINGTON DR.HOUSTON, TX 77077 | 201 KINKAID SCHOOL DRHOUSTON, TX 77024 |
Safety and Security
Galleria is relatively safer compared to downtown Houston as most establishments are more high end, therefore attracting a crowd of the same level. The busy shops and restaurants also keep a steady throng of people, making walking even at night less daunting.
The Galleria area has a low crime rate and a high safety rating. On the other hand, downtown Houston has earned itself a high crime rating and a moderate safety rating.
Downtown is more vast and therefore more varied in the kinds of people that call this area home. The area sees a certain amount of crime in theft and robbery. According to ESTA, the crime rate is up to 29% higher than the national average.
Although peace and order is implemented by police officers, officials still advise visitors to any of the areas to remain vigilant in order to secure their own safety.
Overall Feel
In general, the Galleria is made out to be a business hub, filled with luxurious accommodations and stores. So, if you are looking to live a fast-paced urban lifestyle supplemented by a corporate job, then the Galleria area is the place for you.
However, if you are looking for a more affordable place with more options and more activities to stimulate mind, body, and soul, then the downtown area would suit you better.
Whether you’re looking to just visit Houston or you’re looking to call it home, choosing between its downtown and Galleria really depends on what you’re looking for. Where should you stay — in Galleria or downtown?
Shop until you drop in Galleria or explore to your heart’s content in downtown Houston. Either way, in the end you can safely say that “Houston, we don’t have a problem!”
