American Airlines Terminal At Iah

American Airlines Terminal At Iah

If you’re traveling to Houston, Texas, and flying with American Airlines, you’ll likely arrive at Terminal A at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). This terminal offers a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges, making it easy to pass the time before your flight. But if you have some extra time, why not explore the area around the terminal and discover all that Houston has to offer?

Top Attractions

If you have a few hours to spare, head to the Houston Space Center, located just 20 minutes from the airport. Here, you can learn about space history, see real spacecraft, and even touch a moon rock! Another popular attraction is the Museum of Fine Arts, which has an impressive collection of art from around the world.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. This 155-acre nature reserve is located just a few miles from the airport and offers hiking trails, bird watching, and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Another hidden gem is the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, an underground reservoir that has been turned into an art installation.

Food Scene

Houston is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of options near the airport. If you’re looking for Tex-Mex, head to Pappasito’s Cantina or Lupe Tortilla. For something a little more upscale, try Triniti or Tony’s. And if you’re in the mood for barbecue, don’t miss Gatlin’s BBQ!

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of things to do near the airport. Check out the free exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, or take a stroll through Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks in the area.

Outdoor Adventures

Houston may be a big city, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature. Head to the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center for hiking and bird watching, or rent a kayak and paddle down Buffalo Bayou. You can also take a bike ride through Memorial Park or visit the Houston Zoo.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Check out the Children’s Museum of Houston, where they can learn through play. The Houston Zoo is also a great option, as is the Downtown Aquarium. And if your kids love trains, don’t miss the Houston Railroad Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, try visiting the Beer Can House, a quirky art installation made entirely out of beer cans. Or take a tour of the Orange Show, a folk art monument that took more than 20 years to build. You can also explore the Houston underground tunnels, which connect many of the buildings in downtown Houston.

Natural Wonders

One of the most beautiful natural wonders near the airport is the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center. This 155-acre nature reserve is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, as well as hiking trails and bird watching opportunities. You can also visit the Houston Botanic Garden, which is set to open in 2020.

Vibrant Nightlife

Houston has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. If you’re looking for a classic Texas honky-tonk experience, head to the Firehouse Saloon. For a more upscale experience, try the bar at Triniti or the speakeasy-style Anvil Bar & Refuge.

Local Markets

For a taste of local flavor, visit the Urban Harvest Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday in downtown Houston. You can also check out the Houston Flea Market, which offers a wide variety of goods from around the world.

Beaches and Mountains

If you have a little more time to spare, consider taking a day trip to the beach or mountains near Houston. Galveston Island, located about an hour from the airport, offers sandy beaches and a historic downtown area. The Hill Country, located a few hours from Houston, offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

Houston is a diverse city, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in different cultures. Visit the Houston Museum of African American Culture, the Asia Society Texas Center, or the Holocaust Museum Houston to learn about different parts of the world and their history.

Art and Music Scene

Houston has a thriving arts scene, with plenty of galleries and museums to explore. Visit the Menil Collection, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, or the Museum of Fine Arts to see some of the best art in the city. And if you’re a music lover, don’t miss the House of Blues or the Revention Music Center.

Walking Tours

If you want to explore the city on foot, consider taking a walking tour. You can join a group tour or create your own using a self-guided tour app like Visit Houston. Some popular tours include the Houston Downtown Tunnel System Tour and the Houston Graffiti Art Tour.

Architectural Marvels

Houston is home to a wide variety of architectural marvels, from the Art Deco-style City Hall to the futuristic-looking Williams Tower. Don’t miss the James Turrell Skyspace at Rice University, which offers stunning views of the sky, or the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, which features a 64-foot-tall water wall.

Historical Sites

For a taste of Houston’s history, visit the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, where the Battle of San Jacinto took place in 1836. You can also visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which has a wide variety of exhibits about Houston’s past.

Biking Routes

If you’re a biking enthusiast, there are plenty of bike-friendly routes near the airport. Try the Buffalo Bayou Park Trail, which offers stunning views of the city skyline, or the Terry Hershey Park Trail, which offers a challenging ride through a wooded area.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a little relaxation, consider visiting one of Houston’s many wellness retreats. Try the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, which offers a wide variety of spa services, or the Urban Float, which offers float therapy to help you unwind.

Adventure Sports

For the adrenaline junkies out there, Houston offers plenty of adventure sports opportunities. Try skydiving with Skydive Spaceland or indoor rock climbing at Momentum Indoor Climbing. You can also go zip lining at the Houston Zoo or try wakeboarding at Wake Nation Houston.

With so much to see and do near American Airlines Terminal at IAH, you’re sure to have a great time exploring Houston. Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.