Houston is the most populous city in Texas and the fourth-most populous in the United States, with a population of 2.3 million as of 2020. Located in Southeast Texas near Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it serves as the seat of Harris County. The Greater Houston metropolitan area is home to 7.8 million residents, making it the fifth-most populous metropolitan area in the nation. Known as the "Bayou City," "Space City," "H-Town," and "the 713", Houston is recognized as a global city with strengths in culture, medicine, and research.
Houston's diverse economy spans various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, aeronautics, and transportation. The city is a leading center for the oil and petrochemical industries. Key attractions include Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city also boasts a vibrant Theater District and numerous parks, such as Hermann Park and Discovery Green. Recent developments include the expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center, which is designed to double in size and connect downtown with new green spaces. Additionally, the Houston Texans, Harris County, and Howard Hughes announced plans for Toro District, a new sports and entertainment destination in Bridgeland, featuring a state-of-the-art global headquarters and training complex for the Texans.