Are you thinking of going to travel to Houston soon? Take a moment to research the area and best seasons. The weather in Houston is warm as it is close to the Gulf of Mexico. However, Houston is lovely in nearly any season of the year. But still, there is the best time to visit Houston.
Fortunately, Continue Today is here to help you find the best seasons to visit in Houston and the cheapest and quietest times to visit. The best seasons to visit in Houston are spring and fall. Houston’s weather is warm most of the year, but heat and humidity can make your trip uncomfortable in the peak summer months. Winters can be chilly, and most locals choose to escape the city heat in the summer.
While visiting Houston, don’t forget to visit the best restaurants in Houston. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to book an unforgettable trip to Houston! So let’s dive into it!
Weather in Houston
Houston has very warm weather. The heat of summer and humidity can make your trip exhausting and uncomfortable. So it’s better to choose the best time to visit Houston. The best time to visit in Houston is from February to April or September to November.
The summer lasts 3.6 months, from June 2 to September 22. The average daily high temperature of 89 degrees in summer. The hottest month in Houston is August an average high of 94°F and a low of 77°F.
Houston’s climate is classified as a humid subtropical climate with tropical influences. August is the hottest month at 84.6 °F (29.2 °C), while January is the coldest month at 53.1 °F (11.7 °C).
Winter Weather in Houston, United States. Daily high temperatures are around 67°F, rarely falling below 48°F or exceeding 80°F. The lowest daily average temperature is 63°F on January 7. Daily low temperature is 50°F, rarely falling below 35°F or exceeding 66°F.
Severe weather in Houston takes the form of flooding, which occurs most commonly from May to October is the city’s monsoon season. Thunderstorms sometimes bring tornadoes to the area. It happens most commonly during spring.
Best Time to Visit Houston
The best time to visit Houston is late October or early November, March and April, and late May/early June. It will avoid, for the most part, Houston’s hot and cold temperatures and heaviest rainfall. You’ll get every month’s update in detail for visiting Houston.
This Best time to Visit Houston guide will let you know by month by month the timing of visiting:
January in Houston
January is the coldest month in Houston and the average temperature of 62°F. By US standards, these temperatures are pleasant and welcome from Texas humidity.
Since the days are shorter, you can enjoy cozy evenings at Houston’s various restaurants and bars. One exciting event to participate in is the annual Sky Lantern Festival, where thousands of colorful lanterns are lit, creating a beautiful illumination in the night sky.
The end of the month marks the Lunar New Year. Watch cultural dances and feast on Asian foods.
February in Houston
Houston’s February temperature rises in February. It’s also the month with the lowest rainfall, an average of 3.7 inches. February is an ideal time to explore the city with a lower risk of rain. There’s also a chance of some warm days; pack many layers to adapt to all weather conditions.
Aside from the Lunar New Year, there aren’t many events in February. Fortunately, it also means fewer crowds and cheaper hotel deals.
March in Houston
March sees a big rise in Houston temperatures, with the average jumping to 72°F. Showers are common, so you’ll want to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella to protect yourself from downpours.
Spring arrives in March, with a lively atmosphere returning to the patios and parks. The bluebonnets are blooming, and you’ll see migrating birds. You’ll see the crowds ramp up towards March. So visit early in the month for lovely days and low humidity.
March is lively, with the Holi Festival, Mardi Gras, and St Patrick’s Day filling the streets with life. The month’s highlight is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a must-see event to soak up southern culture.
April in Houston
April is the cheapest spring month for deals at the best hotels in Houston. Temperatures are climbing, with an average of 72°F, but the average rainfall remains around 3.4 inches.
The outdoor events season is in full bloom, with art parades and food festivals filling the city. You can enjoy some of Houston’s best food at the Houston BBQ Festival or stroll among the attractive stalls at the Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival.
May in Houston
May makes Houston one of the warmest spring seasons in the US. The average temperature is 84°F, and humidity levels rise from 53% to 85% by the end of the month. It also increases rainfall, with the average rising to 4.5 inches. Expect more families as the school holidays begin. Hotels will also be more expensive during Memorial Day celebrations.
Visit the strawberry capital of the South for the Pasadena Strawberry Festival. You’ll be in food heaven with a cook-off and the world’s largest strawberry cheesecake!
June in Houston
June is hurricane season in Houston, so it’s hot and humid. Expect it to hit the low 90s and humidity to fluctuate to 90%. You’ll enjoy the cooling showers despite the rain and afternoon thunderstorms.
June is the month of start summer, and despite the heat, there is still plenty of fun to be had. Beaches and waterparks are popular destinations, attracting many visitors. Summer evenings are lively, with late-night parties and barbecues adding to the festive atmosphere.
June is a great month to celebrate Houston’s diversity with vibrant Pride and Juneteenth celebrations.
July in Houston
Temperatures climb in July, reaching 92°F. Days are long and humid, with rainfall reaching 5.2 inches. Sunscreen, mosquito spray, and breathable clothing are essential.
Fourth of July parties are in full swing at the beginning of the month. You’ll fight to find the best spots in the city to watch fireworks.
Embrace the hot weather at the Houston Caribbean Festival. With 16 countries showing off their cuisine, music, and culture, you can travel to paradise islands without leaving the US.
August in Houston
August is the hottest month of the year in Houston, with temperatures averaging 93°F. Hurricanes are likely, so a backup for outdoor plans may be a wise idea.
Luckily, you can sample Houston’s top cuisine during Restaurant Week. The Houston Food Bank fundraiser gives you deals at restaurants across the city.
Make sure to pack your favorite linen shirt, not just to keep you cool but so you have an outfit for White Linen Night. Houston Heights hosts parties and pop-up events for small local businesses.
September in Houston
The average temperature drops to 88°F in September, but humidity remains high, peaking at 93% in the mornings. It’s the hurricane season. Being flexible with your plans or booking last minute may be the best option. Schools are back, so the crowds have thinned, and you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere at the water parks and Houston’s most popular beaches.
At this time of year, Houston’s energy is higher than in other US cities. Instead of wrapping up for the fall, most locals are celebrating the end of the sweltering summer and getting ready for a busy shoulder season. Join in the colorful celebrations of Fiestas Patrias, a celebration of Mexico’s independence from Spain.
October in Houston
October and November are the most expensive times to visit Houston. The rest of the country will stretch out summer and make the most of Houston’s fall. Average temperatures are 88°F, and you’ll get 229 hours of sunshine.
Attend classic fall events like Oktoberfest and Dia de Muertos in a comfortably warm setting. Foran unforgettable experience, attend the annual Renaissance Festival. The themed weekends take you back to a 16th-century English village with period costumes and performances.
November in Houston
November drops to a comfortable 71°F, making Houston a pleasant destination to enjoy the last vestiges of warm weather. Hurricane season is officially over, and the city buzzes with tourists. Hotels are busy at this time, so book early to avoid disappointment.
The month of November is a melting pot of cultural events. Dia de Muertos continues into November, dance competitions begin for the Native American Pow Wow, and the annual Puerto Rican and Cuban Festival occurs.
December in Houston
December gets cooler in Houston but still pleasant. Temperatures average 63°F, so it’s an excellent place to enjoy twinkling festivities if you’re opposed to frost. Spend your days exploring wineries in nearby Hill County or wander the free Christmas markets.
Alongside classic holiday festivities, enjoy quirky seasonal events throughout the city. Sink into the Texan and Latino culture at Tamale Festival Houston. Or, watch the beautiful boats on the Clear Lake Channel at the Annual Christmas Boat Lane Parade.
Houston Travel Seasons
Houston has 4 seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Each season has many attractions and charms, but the weather can be unpredictable.
This best season to visit in Houston guide will let you know which season is best for what:
- Spring Season for Travel in Houston
- Summer Season for Travel in Houston
- Fall Season for Travel in Houston
- Winter Season for Travel in Houston
Spring Season for Travel in Houston
Houston is rated among the best springtime cities in the US. Some of Houston’s most famous festivals, like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, happen in spring. It is the best seasons to visit in Houston.
Temperatures are comfortable, making spring ideal for Houston’s great outdoor activities. Humidity levels remain bearable until summer, so you’ll want to be outside as much as possible.
Houston’s food scene thrives in spring. You can do shopping for fresh produce at the farmer’s market, or pick your fruit.
Spring is also crawfish season on the Texas Gulf Coast, so expect endless Southern crawfish boils. With pleasant evening temperatures, you’ll likely eat most of your meals al fresco.
Key Events for the spring season:
- World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
- WorldFest: Houston International Independent Film Festival
- San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle Reenactment
- Houston Art Car Parade
Summer Season for Travel in Houston
Summer is hurricane season in Houston, bringing rainy days and storms. So, be prepared to be flexible with travel plans at this time of year.
In summer, humidity and temperatures are high. Concentrate your Houston itinerary around waterside locations so you’ll have plenty of time to cool off. Houston has easy access to beaches, pools, and lakes. Waterparks and museums in the Houston Museum District are great ways to cool off.
Assess how many strenuous activities you can handle and drink enough water. Temperatures peak between 10 am and 3 pm, so plan your outdoor adventures earlier or later.
Key Events for the summer season:
- Pasadena Strawberry Festival
- Pride Houston
- Shell Freedom Over Texas
- Houston Summer Jazz
Fall Season for Travel in Houston
It’s still hot in Houston in the early fall, with the heat gradually decreasing to pleasant temperatures by the end of the season. If you’re looking to stretch the life of your summer clothes, you’ll be pleased to know you can wear them comfortably for most of the fall. With warm nighttime temperatures, you can spend your evenings relaxing on a patio in EaDo or a rooftop terrace in Downtown Houston.
Fall is an ideal time to attend signature fall festivals and marks the start of football season without the cold temperatures of other US cities. Most tourists head to New England for fall colors, but Houston’s rain keeps the foliage lush. Stroll through the large parks and gardens to admire the trees’ golds and browns.
Be aware that hurricane season stretches into early fall, and rainfall will be likely if you visit Houston during this time of year.
Key Events for the fall season:
- Fiestas Patrias
- The Original Greek Festival
- Dia de los Muertos Festival
- Texas Renaissance Festival
- HUE Mural Festival
- Texas Championship Native American Pow Wow
Winter Season for Travel in Houston
Locals rejoice as the Texas heat fades. Houston winters are cold but dry, and temperatures are rarely below freezing.
Suppose the heat isn’t an attraction for you. In that case, winter is the ideal time for walking around the city and seeing all the top tourist attractions in Houston. You can stroll between destinations without suffocating heat or wrap up in layers and enjoy a crisp winter hike.
While unlikely you’ll get a white Christmas, Houston sees a rare snowstorm or severe frost from time to time. Most winter events focus on the festive season, with Christmas markets, outdoor ice rinks, and lights adorning the Houston Zoo.
After the peak of festivities, the actual low season hits. Still, you can enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper hotel prices.
Key Events for the winter season:
- Zoo Lights
- Martin Luther King Jr. Grande Parade
When is the Best Time to Visit Houston?
March is the best time to visit Houston. The weather is usually around 70 F, and there are, on average, five days of rain annually.
However, between February and April or in the fall will also be pleasant. Houston’s temperatures during both periods range between 64 and 80 degrees F.
School is typically in session, so fewer families will travel, lowering crowd levels. Couples and solo travelers are more likely to visit when they can avoid the hot summer temperatures.
You can find good deals on hotels. The flights are also in the late winter (December-March) and fall months. Multiple holidays make Houston an excellent weekend getaway spot.
Take advantage of the San Jacinto anniversary in April, which celebrates Texas’ independence with a reenactment at the local museum. The ideal climate makes March to June an ideal time for outdoor activities.
You might think of Houston as a city destination, but there are many ways to experience the natural environment. These include the Bayou Bend Gardens and the Discovery Green. If it’s too hot outside, spend the afternoon inside at the Cockrell Butterfly Center.
When is the Cheapest Time to go to Houston?
If you’re looking to visit Houston on a budget, consider planning your trip during the winter season. While Houston doesn’t typically experience snow, temperatures can drop to around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This cooler weather tends to discourage many travelers until the warmer months arrive.
Downtown Houston and the Museum District are excellent choices for accommodation in Houston because they are close to popular attractions. These neighborhoods have a wide selection of hotels, which often results in more affordable prices. This is because the hotels compete with each other to attract guests, offering competitive rates.
Since crowd levels are lower in winter, you can find cheap flights and hotels. Booking reservations as soon as possible is recommended. You’re more likely to find last-minute deals.
Traveling in December can be unpredictable. The first half of the month is usually less busy, which means you might find better deals. However, prices tend to increase after the 15th and during the holiday season. Flights around Christmas are in high demand and sell out quickly because many people across the country are traveling at this time.
When is the Affordable Time to Fly to Houston?
If you’re planning to fly, January is the ideal time to visit Houston. After the holiday season (Christmas and New Year’s Day), travel throughout the country slows down for the winter months (December to March). With fewer travelers, there’s a higher chance of finding last-minute flights if you enjoy spontaneous travel.
In January, you will come across only a few visitors from outside of Houston. Since there is less demand for services, the cost of air travel decreases, and hotels lower their room rates for the entire month.
January is the coldest month in Houston. Although there is no snow, it can still be chilly. The average daytime temperature is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nighttime temperatures drop to around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, there is an average of half an inch of rainfall per week during this month.
Best Time to Visit NASA Space Center Houston
The NASA Space Center is a highly popular attraction in Houston. The great thing about visiting the center is that it is indoors, so you can explore and enjoy it throughout the year without any concerns about weather conditions.
To minimize crowds, it’s best to avoid visiting the NASA Space Center on weekends, holidays, and during the summer months (June to September). These times are when families with school-aged children are more likely to visit, leading to longer lines and potentially overwhelming your visit.
It is recommended to arrive at the NASA Space Center close to its opening time. Visitors are admitted at 10 am, which is typically the least busy period of the day. It’s a good idea to allocate around 3 hours to visit, so arriving shortly before closing time is not recommended.
For guaranteed admission, you have the option to book a tour of the NASA Space Center. If you have limited time in the city, there are also combination tours available that include both city attractions and the Space Center. This allows you to make the most of your visit, even with a tight schedule.
Worst Time to Visit Houston
The least favorable time to visit Houston is from July to September. During this period, the tourist season is at its peak, and the temperatures are high. Additionally, the humidity can be very uncomfortable, making it less enjoyable to explore the city.
Prices are high in Houston’s peak months. Hotels and airlines inflate their prices to capitalize on the busy season. It’s crucial to save money and not overpay for your trip.
Consider trying free activities to compensate for the extra cost, like the Miller Outdoor Theater, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, or the Art Car Museum. The weather is at peak heat and humidity at this time.
Temperatures ranges are also high from the mid-70s to the upper 90s, and you’ll have a few clouds or rain. The humidity reaches 98% in July, and there are around 22 to 30 muggy days each month during the worst season.
We recommend traveling during a different season due to high heat, humidity, prices, and tourism. However, you can still enjoy your trip if you plan to visit from July to September.
Increased tourism brings more events, so take advantage of all the activities and check out the Shakespeare Festival, Restaurant Week, or the Freedom Over Texas Festival on July 4th.
Final Thought
In conclusion, the best seasons to visit in Houston are subjective and dependent on personal preferences. However, certain seasons may be more favorable for tourists based on various factors, such as weather, events, and crowds.
Spring, from March to May, is considered one of the best seasons to visit in Houston. Another recommended season to visit Houston is fall, specifically September to November.
Ultimately, the best seasons to visit in Houston depend on individual preferences and priorities. Houston has something to offer throughout the year, whether it’s enjoying the mild weather and blooming flowers of spring, the pleasant temperatures and cultural events of fall, the festive winter, or the vibrant summer activities.
